First-wave nerves turn into quick smiles here. You’ll get Hugo Gonzalez Chalela’s private coaching from a certified surf instructor, with simple, constructive technique talk that comes right after each wave. I also like the way they set you up with an 8-foot longboard for stability so you can stand sooner. The main catch: if you’re hoping to hop onto a shorter board immediately, you may stay on the longboard longer until your confidence is solid.

This is a true private session (only your group) that runs about 1 hour 30 minutes, starting at 8:00 am at Restaurante Punta las Velas in El Laguito. At $60 per person and a 5.0 rating from 36 reviews, it’s the kind of lesson where you leave with more than memories, you leave with a plan for your next steps. One practical consideration: the class requires good weather, so you’ll want a flexible morning.

Key highlights of Ohana Surf Experience in Cartagena

• Private coaching that targets your exact level, not generic “stand up and hope” advice
• Longboard first for safety and speed to your first ride, then progress as you stabilize
• Clear feedback after each wave, so corrections stick fast
• Surf/life coaching energy, with safety and therapeutic-style mindfulness in the mix
• Surf culture resources after your session, including photos and learning materials
• Social enterprise approach, with lesson proceeds supporting local kids learning to surf

Cartagena surf lessons feel personal fast

Cartagena isn’t the first place people think of for surfing, which is exactly why a good lesson here feels special. You’re not getting thrown into a crowded group line. You’re getting guided time in the water, paced to your comfort level, and taught in a way that makes the ocean feel less intimidating.

The tone is upbeat but not fluffy. Hugo’s approach leans on practical ocean skills: how to position yourself, how to read what the water is doing, and how to build confidence step by step. The goal is simple: fewer wasted attempts and more real progress during your 90-minute window.

And yes, it’s still fun. You’ll be out there learning and laughing at the same time, which is harder to find than you’d think.

Meet Hugo Gonzalez Chalela and the coaching style you’ll feel immediately

Hugo Gonzalez Chalela is the kind of instructor who treats surfing like a craft and a relationship. In plain terms, he’s focused on technique, but he also talks about what surfing gives people beyond the board: confidence, joy, and a closer connection to the ocean.

What stands out is how supportive the instruction is. Multiple first-timers describe getting over fear quickly because the coaching is patient, direct, and encouraging. The feedback isn’t just “good job.” It’s tied to what you just did on the wave, which makes it easier to correct the next attempt.

Another thing I like about this setup is the way they manage your progression. They don’t rush equipment changes. If you’re brand new, you’ll likely start with a longboard because it’s more stable. One lesson detail that matters: they used an 8-foot midsize board and explained that moving to a shorter board takes longboard confidence first. That is smart teaching. It keeps you actually riding, instead of struggling on a board that fights you.

How the 90 minutes usually run: from basics to actual rides

You should expect a “learn-by-doing” class. The session is designed so you spend most of your time working on skills, not just listening on shore. The pacing matters because surfing skills build in tiny loops: try, get feedback, try again, and repeat.

Here’s a realistic flow for what you’ll do during the 1 hour 30 minutes:

Getting set: safety and fundamentals first

Before you’re out there, you’ll cover the basics that keep you calmer and safer. That includes how to handle yourself around waves, how to think about timing, and how to approach your first paddling attempts with the right mindset.

They also emphasize safety in a way that feels reassuring rather than scary. If you’re nervous, this matters. Nerves can make your movements stiff, and stiff movements sink your progress.

Board choice: why the longboard comes first

If you’re a beginner, you’ll likely start on a longboard. It gives you stability so you can stand up sooner. One specific detail from the coaching approach: longboards give you the balance you need before stepping down to a shorter board.

So even if you see “shortboard” surfing online, your lesson starts with the board that helps you win your first battles: balance, positioning, and timing.

In the water: coaching after each wave

This is where the private format pays off. Hugo can see your stance, your paddling rhythm, and your timing in real time. Then you get quick, clear feedback after each wave attempt.

A common theme from the experience: learners describe standing up fast and catching multiple waves, especially in the early stages. That’s not luck. It’s the combination of stability from the longboard and frequent corrections from the instructor.

Progression and energy check at the end

Your session ends back at the meeting point. Still, the coaching team may offer extra tries if you’re feeling good and you still want to ride. If you’re tired, you won’t feel pressured. Surfing rewards calm effort, not stubborn exhaustion.

Where you meet at 8:00 am in El Laguito

Logistics in Cartagena can be easier than you expect if you plan around the neighborhood. You’ll meet at Restaurante Punta las Velas, Club de Playa, at CRA 1 DIAGO 1 A 80, El Laguito. Start time is 8:00 am, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.

Why this matters: an early start helps you settle in before the day builds momentum, and it gives the instructor enough time to coach you through the full progression. Also, having pickup and drop-off in the same place keeps your morning stress low.

If you’re using public transportation, the meeting area is listed as near public transit, which is helpful if you’re not rolling in with a private car.

Why $60 for a private surf class is good value here

Surf instruction can get expensive fast, especially when you’re paying for a private coach. Here’s the value angle that makes sense for real travelers: you’re paying for time in the water plus targeted instruction that helps you improve immediately.

At $60 per person, you get:

• Private coaching for your group only
• A full session of about 90 minutes
• A progression approach that aims for quick wins (especially on a stable longboard)
• Post-session learning support, like resources and photos

You’re not just buying a “try surfing once” experience. You’re buying coaching that gives you something to practice after you leave. That helps if you’re the type who wants to return later in your trip (or revisit the sport at home).

One more value point: Ohana Surf Experience operates as a social enterprise. Lesson proceeds support teaching local kids how to surf. That means your money isn’t only paying for your own session; it’s also helping build surfing access in the community.

The most praised part: confidence that grows wave by wave

If you scan the patterns of what people get excited about, a few themes show up again and again.

You get coached through fear, not around it

New surfers often think they’ll feel awkward or scared the entire time. Here, the instruction style aims to make you feel safe quickly. Hugo’s patience and encouragement are a big reason many beginners report getting on their first wave soon.

Feedback is clear, frequent, and tied to what happened

A strong coaching move is offering specific adjustments after each attempt. That keeps learning active. Instead of waiting for a lecture, you get course-correcting advice while the wave action is still fresh.

The vibe is positive without ignoring technique

You don’t have to choose between fun and skill-building. The teaching energy is friendly, but it’s also grounded in basics: stance, timing, and how to manage your turns and attempts as you gain control.

You leave with more tools than just a memory

A nice touch is the follow-up. You may receive photos from your session and learning resources like surf documentary material and reading to keep your momentum going. It’s a small thing that turns a single lesson into a mini learning program.

One realistic drawback to plan for

This lesson is built around progression, and that can mean you stay on the same board longer than you expected.

If you’re hoping for a quick move to a shorter board, you might be surprised. The instruction approach prioritizes stability first. One explained reason: moving to a shorter board requires confidence on a longboard. That’s not a flaw, it’s good training. Just know your “fastest possible equipment change” may not be the lesson’s priority.

Also, like any surf session, time can feel limited. You’ll spend time learning and resetting between waves. It’s still worth it, but the nature of surfing means you won’t be standing on the board nonstop.

Weather matters more than you think in Cartagena

This experience requires good weather. That sounds obvious, but it affects your plan in a practical way. If conditions aren’t right, you’ll be offered a different date or you can request a full refund.

My advice: treat the 8:00 am start as part of a flexible morning plan. If you’re also juggling other Cartagena activities, keep one slot light so you can shift without stress.

Who should book this surf class (and who might want to rethink it)

This is a great fit for:

• First-timers who want structured coaching and fast confidence
• Couples or friends who want a private session instead of sharing coaching time
• Anyone who likes a supportive, constructive learning style
• Travelers who want both fun and a clear path to improve

You might think twice if:

• You expect to ride a shorter board right away
• You want a lesson that feels like constant standing without resets
• You have no flexibility for weather-related changes

Tips to get the most out of your first surfing morning

You’ll learn best if you show up ready to focus and repeat. Surf improves through practice loops, not through “one big try.”

A few ways to make your session smoother:

• Arrive a little early so you’re not rushing into gear and mindset
• Listen for the specific corrections after each wave attempt, then try to repeat that exact change
• If you feel tired, stop chasing maximum waves. Surfing is about timing and balance, and fatigue can wreck both

Also, bring a good attitude about progression. Staying longer on a longboard is often what gets you your first real success, and success fuels faster learning.

Should you book this private Cartagena surf class?

I think you should book it if you want a beginner-friendly, confidence-building surf lesson with coaching that stays personal. The private format, the emphasis on getting you riding quickly, and Hugo’s supportive teaching style add up to a session that feels like real progress, not a casual taster.

Book it especially if you care about learning the fundamentals and leaving with resources to keep practicing. At $60 per person, it’s a strong value when the goal is “I want to stand up and improve during one visit,” not “I want to watch others surf.”

If you’re not flexible on weather, or you’re set on getting onto a shorter board immediately, adjust your expectations. Otherwise, this is a very worthwhile way to experience Cartagena from the water.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point for the class?

You meet at Restaurante Punta las Velas, Club de playa, CRA 1 DIAGO 1 A 80, El Laguito, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia.

What time does the private surf class start?

The start time is 8:00 am.

How long is the private surf lesson?

The duration is about 1 hour 30 minutes.

Is this a private tour or will I share with other people?

It is private. Only your group participates.

How much does the surf class cost?

The price is $60.00 per person.

Can beginners participate?

Yes. Most travelers can participate, and the instruction is designed to help beginners build confidence quickly.

What happens if weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellation less than 24 hours before the start time isn’t refunded.