Many people think that surfing is just for kids… I beg to differ.

At 35, I figure I am not old, but not 20, but surfing sounded like fun and I figure what do I have to lose (other than a limb)? Just kidding…

Living in a surfing town, I can tell you that not everyone surfs. But, I always hear my associates in the office talk about their surfing stories… “I caught this wave… the waves are pumping”. You know, all that surf speak that I know so little about.

My associate Jarrod is in Indonesia catching 8-10 foot waves as we speak… So, I had to find out what all the craze is about!

I had only taken one lesson prior to my stint that started about 1 month ago today. I took my surfing buddy Natasha (from Canada) with me for the adventure, because, after all, it’s more fun with a friend. You can wipe out together!

Our surf instructor Cairo is the best. He does the lessons for most of our clients, so I know that he has an immense amount of patience. Cairo was the chosen one. Lucky him!

Because surf lesson times change (because the best time to surf is up to 2 hours before high tide) you have to be a little flexible. We’re in low season now, so it’s a great time to get out into the water and not have to compete with a million people for the same wave.

Since I am a beginner, that’s a great thing. Learning out in Tamarindo beach is great for beginners because the waves are typically smaller and the currents are not bad. There are also not a lot of rocks or other potential things to get hurt on.

Surfing doesn’t require much — just a surf board, a rash guard and a good sense of humor.

Longboards are easier to learn on, then you can move onto a short board if you want. Of course, I am on a long board now, but hoping to move to a shorter board as I become one with the waves… maybe in a few months.

I can say that even after my first official lesson with Cairo, I could get up on the wave. Natasha had a few lessons before me, so she was an advanced beginner as I call her. I am proud of how we did.

The second lesson we had some serious waves. So, our surf experience was not fabulous… plus it was pouring rain, but I guess that added to the fun. The photos you see in this article are effectively after the 5th lesson. Not bad. My plan: To surf 2x per week.

It’s a great workout and de-stresses the mind. What two things could be better? I am not a gym person, so ocean here I come!

The biggest accomplishment for me was not only getting up on the board, but getting up consistently and being able to actually ‘ride the wave’. Was I sore afterwards? 110%. A full body workout… and no joke. But above all, it’s fun if you know what you are doing.

Thank God for our instructor Cairo, for teaching us all the basics and having the patience to see it through! Remember, you are never too old to start surfing! The waves in Costa Rica are calling you.

[custom_script adID=186]

Andrew Makarik

to@welovecostarica.com

Andrew Makarik is the main editor of WeLoveCostaRica, a fan of this sunny country. He is also a loving husband and a has a lovely daughter. By being a devoted family man and the biggest Costa Rica fan, he wants to make more people feel at home there. WeLoveCostaRica unites people and helps them find new home or a new travel destination. This website is a friendly community where everyone can find not only information, but also new friends and travel pals. Andrew is also passionate about IT and programming, so he himself maintains a friendly atmosphere in this cozy environment of WeLoveCostaRica.com.