A private surf lesson in Dakar means a coach all to yourself: a 1 h or 1 h 30 session, packs of 5, 10 or 12 sessions or a three-sessions-a-week subscription, with a qualified instructor, and a board and wetsuit provided. The content adapts to your level, from the first take-off to fine-tuning.

One coach, one student, one spot

In a group lesson, you follow the group. Here, everything is arranged around you: the level, the spot, the time, the corrections. The session starts with a personal assessment to frame expectations, then alternates advice on posture, targeted exercises and practice in real conditions, taking into account the chosen spot and the day’s swell. Corrections are made on the spot, with constant dialogue with the coach, and each session ends with a debrief and tips for improving on your own.

The one-to-one format lets you choose the spot with the coach, according to your level and the conditions, and set the session for the morning, the afternoon or sunset. On request you can add specialised modules such as video analysis or competition preparation.

Single sessions, packs, children

Nine options exist, priced per person: the lesson by the session in 1 h or 1 h 30, packs of 5, 10 or 12 sessions, a subscription of three sessions a week, and packs of 5 or 10 sessions at the child rate in 1 h 30. The 12-session pack is valid for three months, and packs are named. Lessons are supervised by a qualified instructor, and the board and wetsuit are provided. Children are accepted, with close supervision, and packs at the child rate exist.

If you live in Dakar, a pack is a reasonable commitment: a regular slot, after work or at the weekend, to improve without spreading yourself thin. If you are visiting, a single session settles the questions of level, spot and equipment in an hour.

Where the lessons take place

On the peninsula, spots vary with the swell. Ngor, the Almadies and Yoff are the beaches most often mentioned; Ngor beach gives an idea of the setting. The Dakar page brings together its activities.

To extend your day

The coach can suggest cross-training exercises, such as skateboarding, paddleboarding or beach volleyball. To stay on the water, paddle and kayak give another view of the coast, and group lessons and courses are also available if you want to surf with others.