Group surf lessons in Dakar mean learning on the capital’s beaches in a small group, by level, with a surf instructor. Board and wetsuit are provided, the session lasts 1 h or 1 h 30, and children have their own option.

How a group lesson works

Learning starts on the sand before moving into the water: welcome and preparation on the beach, participants split by level, a group warm-up and technical instructions. Then comes the supervised practice session, with individual advice, followed by a break and a group debrief. You work on posture, the take-off, safety and reading the waves.

Groups are formed by level, for safety as well as progress. If you already have some basics, a chat with the instructor lets you join the group that suits you. The spot is chosen each day according to the swell and the weather, to combine safety, wave quality and a good atmosphere.

Equipment is included: a suitable board and a wetsuit, with the instructor’s supervision. Bring sun cream, a hat for the breaks, water and a snack. Repatriation insurance is compulsory for all participants.

Adults, children, single sessions or pack

The lesson comes in an adult and a child version, of 1 h or 1 h 30, with adapted sessions and junior equipment for the youngest. To progress regularly, a pack of 10 sessions is available: it is valid for one year and is named to one person.

It is an option designed for people who live in Dakar and for visitors alike. The first find a session that fits into a weekend or after work, on the beach of their own city; the second get a supervised introduction that needs no equipment and no knowledge of the sea.

Surfing in Dakar: where and why

Dakar is one of the few capitals where you can surf at the foot of the neighbourhoods. Sessions take place on the city’s beaches, around Ngor, the Almadies or Yoff, depending on the state of the sea. Between sets, the peninsula and the pirogues leaving the beaches are part of the scenery; Ngor beach and its island, a few minutes away, give an idea of the setting.

After the lesson

To extend the day on the water, paddleboarding and kayaking offer another view of the coast, and the surf lessons and courses cover other options, from individual introductions to full courses. For recovery, a massage works wonders.