At Breakthrough Surf School in Nova Praia (Costa da Caparica, just 20 minutes from Lisbon), we offer both private and group surf lessons for all levels. Both types of surf lessons are designed to be fun and safe, with certified coaches and all equipment included. Choosing between them depends on your learning style and goals.
Private Surf Lessons

Private surf lessons mean one-on-one coaching. The surf coach focuses entirely on you, so the session is fully tailored to your skill level and goals. For example, our site notes that a private lesson is “the best option if you prefer an exclusive surf lesson with your coach”. This personalized attention often leads to a faster learning curve because the surf coach can give instant feedback and more practice time on the surf. Private surf lessons also suit people who prefer not to be in a group, perhaps if you’re shy or want a focused learning environment.
- Personal attention: One surf instructor by your side, focusing on your technique and personal progress.
- Faster progress: Tailored feedback and no waiting in line means you learn the surfing skills more quickly.
- More practice: You don’t have to wait for your turn to surf another wave, so you get extra rides in each surf session.
- Flexible pace: Ideal if you want to focus on specific goals (e.g. catching waves alone, improving turns) without the pressure of a group setting.
Despite the higher cost, many students find private surf lessons worth it for the accelerated learning as private surf lessons allow for personalized surf instruction based on your skill level and that can accelerate your progress.
Group Surf Lessons

Group surf lessons are perfect for a social learning experience. You learn alongside other students (often friends or fellow travellers and surfers) under one instructor. This setting is usually more affordable per person and offers a friendly atmosphere. Group surf classes are an affordable way to start surfing with a more social way of learning and are very popular with beginner surfers but are also popular with intermediate surfers.
- Social environment: You catch waves with others, which can be motivating and fun. You’ll meet fellow learners and share the excitement of learning how to surf.
- Affordable: Because you will have your surf lesson in a group setting the price per surf lesson is lower than a private surf lesson.
- Great for beginners: Surf instructors explain fundamentals (pop-up, stance, safety) to the whole group and give individual tips in the water to each person.
- Relaxed pace: You learn at a comfortable speed, watching others and taking turns. This can be less intense than one-on-one focus.
Group surf lessons suit those who prefer company while learning how to surf. You practice in a vibrant beach setting, and our surf coaches keep an eye on everyone. Just remember, because there are multiple students, you won’t be the sole focus; but you will get feedback and plenty of surf time.
Which Surf Lesson is Right for You?
Ultimately, both options lead to an enjoyable surf experience. We ensure every surf lesson is safe and fun no matter the if private or in a group. If you want rapid improvement and don’t mind investing more, a private surf lesson gives you focused one-on-one coaching. If you enjoy a group vibe and want a budget-friendly way to learn (or surf with friends), a group surf class is ideal.
Join our Surf School in Costa da Caparica, Portugal
At Breakthrough Surf School, our surf coaches will teach you these skills step-by-step in every surf lesson, from beginner to intermediate levels. If you’re ready to start riding green waves with style and confidence, book a surf session with us today. We’ll help you learn how to do your turns and to progress faster than ever.
We are located near Lisbon in Nova Praia, Costa da Caparica.
Ready to advance your skills? Book a lesson and join our community of stoked surfers and don’t forget to subscribe to receive more posts like this in your mailbox.
See you at the beach!

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