Group vs. Private Surf Lessons
How Do You Want To Learn How To Surf?
So, you’ve finally booked that dream trip to Kima Surf Bali or Sri Lanka to start your surfing journey. You’ve got sunscreen, your outfits and surf books packed, and you feel ready. But now comes the next big question: how exactly do you want to learn how to surf?
One of the most common things our beginner surfers ask us is: "Should I join a group lesson or go for a private session?" Both options are great ways to start your surfing journey, but the "right" choice depends on your personality, your goals, and how you like to learn. So, let's have a look at what makes each option unique, what you can expect and how to make the best choice.
The Magic of Group Surf Lessons
For most beginner surfers, joining a group lesson is the most popular choice. There is a specific kind of energy that comes with being in a group of beginner surfers who are all in the same boat. Group lessons are definitely the best option if you learn best in a dynamic environment and if you enjoy being around people.
Why you’ll love it:
High and contagious energy: the whole group is in it together, supporting one another. And you can’t help but laugh at those first (funny) tries to ride a wave, lose balance on the surfboard or wipeout.
The social connection: group lessons are the easiest way to make new friends from all over the world who are also ready to learn how to surf in Bali or Sri Lanka. Besides, learning something new together is a great way to get to know each other and find someone to paddle out with and celebrate when you stand up on your board.
Affordability: group lessons are generally more budget-friendly, making them perfect for those staying for a week or more.
Learn from others: by observing the others in the group surfing, pop-up or seeing the line they take on a wave can help you understand the surf theory even better. The experience of learning how to surf that you share with others also creates that extra motivation.
The Power of Private Surf Lessons
A private surf lesson is another kind of experience. If you are a bit more focused on learning a certain surf technique, or feel a little nervous about the ocean, a private surf lesson might be your best bet. This is where you get 100% of your professional surf guide's attention.
Why private session are great:
Personalized coaching: in a private session, it’s all about you. Do you want to spend the whole time perfecting your paddling? Or maybe you want to practice your turning? Your guide moves at your exact pace.
Building confidence: if the ocean or the lineup feels intimidating, having a guide right by your side to handle the timing and wave selection can take the stress out of your first sessions. With just you and your surf guide, you will feel less rushed or distracted.
Schedule flexibility: private lessons are easier to move around if you have a tight schedule or have a specific island tour planned.
Specific skill targets: if you have already caught a few waves before but are struggling with turning, wave selection or reading the swell, private attention helps fix those things right away.
The Kima Way: The Best of Both Worlds
At Kima Surf, we’ve been teaching people how to surf in Bali and Sri Lanka for over 25 years. In that time, we’ve realized that for all surfers, there’s no one size fits all formula. The perfect way to learn really depends on what you’re looking for. That’s exactly why we offer both group lessons and 1:1 private sessions.
The majority of our guests choose to join our group lessons to fully surround themselves with that high-energy, dynamic Kima Surf camp vibe. There’s nothing like the shared joy of a group session. However, we also see many surfers go for 1:1 private sessions. Especially those on a tighter schedule, those wanting to crush a specific skill, or anyone needing that extra bit of 1:1 attention to overcome their fears.
If you are looking for a safe, fun and proven way to learn how to surf, our 5-Day Learn-To-Surf (LTS) Program is the way to go. This is where you’ll learn how to surf in a social group setting. You’ll dive into surf theory, learn the safety etiquette, and all the basics in a supportive environment. As the week progresses and you start to find your flow, you can always choose to add a private session to fine tune your technique before the end of your trip.
Why Kima Surf is the ultimate place to learn:
Professional local guides: our team knows the local breaks in Bali and Sri Lanka like the back of their hands and they know exactly where to take you to find the best waves for your level.
Theory & video analysis: we don’t just push you into waves, we teach you the why behind the how. Our video analysis, theory- and pool sessions are the quickest way to see your progress in real time.
The full eat-sleep-surf experience: no matter which lesson style you choose, your day doesn't end in the water. You can finish your session with a recovery ice bath, a yoga class, a surf skate session or a relaxing dip in one of the pools.
What Will You Choose?
Table with group vs. private at glance
Group Lessons
Vibe: Social, high-energy & shared
Best for: Complete beginners who want to meet people & share the surf stoke
Pace: Set by the group's general level
Costs: Most budget-friendly option
Private (1:1) Lessons
Vibe: Focused & personalized
Best for: Quick progress & overcoming specific fears
Pace: Completely personalized to your speed
Costs: Premium investment in your skills
Ultimately, there’s no “best” way to learn how to surf, there is just a way that suits you. If you work well in a social, high-energy environment and want to share the surfing journey with others, group lessons are for you. But if you’re looking for faster progress, more personal guidance, or a confidence boost in the water, private lessons are best.
At Kima Surf, you don’t have to choose just one path. You can start with the energy and community of group lessons and complement your progress with private coaching whenever you feel ready.
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