Many new surfers think you need to be a strong swimmer or own expensive gear to surf. In reality, the key is the confidence to step on the board the first time, and to step on again after falling off. Another way to learn like the pros is surf lessons in Costa Rica with Kalon […]

Many new surfers think you need to be a strong swimmer or own expensive gear to surf. In reality, the key is the confidence to step on the board the first time, and to step on again after falling off. Another way to learn like the pros is surf lessons in Costa Rica with Kalon Surf. If you are thinking about hitting the waves, here are a few myths you can forget.

Every Pro Is Judging You

New surfers sometimes feel embarrassed falling on easy waves in front of better surfers. But those same surfers were once falling on simple waves too; nobody learns overnight. Manage your expectations, remember why you are here, and let each wave build your confidence.

Every Fall Is Your Fault

A rider is responsible for board control, but the ocean is unpredictable. A wave that looks like it has plenty of time can turn over unexpectedly. Even professionals get humbled by nature, so do not be discouraged; the trick is to notice what happened so you know what to watch for next time.

Surfing Needs Perfect Conditions

Perfect conditions are lovely and rare. The ocean moves with local weather, tides, and seasons, and how weather affects surfing conditions is something you learn with experience. The best most surfers can hope for is decent waves, so learn to enjoy the ride rather than waiting for the perfect day.

Surfing Is Just About Balance

Balance matters, but even professionals have to judge which parts of a wave are worth riding. A poor wave makes balance harder, so the real skill is choosing the right parts of the right waves to minimize the work.

A Good Surfer Never Misses a Wave

Professionals are more likely to catch a wave on the first try, but they also miss waves on purpose. The goal is not to catch every surfable wave; it is to find the one that is right for your level. As your confidence grows and you learn more surfing terminology, your coaches will help you find the waves that suit you.

Let Kalon Demystify Surfing

Local coaches let the Kalon team work with surfers of every ability and unlearn the myths about riding waves; they know where the best waves are and how to catch them. Local staff also means you are immersed in warm Costa Rican culture. From the food to the accommodations, every part of Kalon is built around pura vida.

Kjeld Schigt
Written by

Kjeld Schigt

Founder Kalon Surf | Owner & Managing Director, Kalon Group
Kjeld Schigt is the Founder and CEO of Kalon Surf. After an international corporate career with companies including Unilever and Heineken, he founded Kalon in 2011 to build a business centered on passion, performance, and human impact. Kjeld believes great hospitality is ultimately the business of happiness. His focus is on creating an environment where both guests and team members can thrive—designing experiences that leave people feeling better, more energized, and more connected than when they arrived. He writes about leadership, hospitality, and the discipline required to build teams and experiences that consistently make people happy.
About Kjeld

Treat Yourself

You've earned more than just a vacation.

Check Availability

You've earned more than just a vacation.