Surf Lessons

My Khe Beach gives beginners a forgiving place to try surfing, with fine sand and waves that are often manageable rather than intimidating. The two-hour lesson starts on land, then moves into the water where you can practice standing and catching small waves with an instructor nearby.

I like the small groups of no more than six, with a maximum ratio of one instructor to four students. I also like that boards, wax, rash vests or wetsuits, and GoPro photos and videos are included. The main consideration is that wave size depends on the day, and one participant found some equipment a little old.

Key points before you book

• Beginner-friendly My Khe Beach: Fine sand and generally moderate waves make this a sensible place for a first lesson.
• Two hours on the basics: You learn paddling, balancing, standing, and water safety before heading into the surf.
• Small class format: Groups are capped at six, with a one-to-four instructor-to-student ratio.
• Seasonal gear included: Rash vests are available in warm weather, with wetsuits used in cooler conditions.
• Photos and videos included: The instructors use a GoPro and send the footage later by email.
• $44 for a full introductory lesson: The price is reasonable if you value instruction, equipment, and a small group rather than simply renting a board.

Why My Khe Beach works for a first surf lesson

My Khe Beach is the setting for the entire activity. The meeting point is at 35 An Thuong 5, a short walk from the beach, and the lesson finishes back there. You are not spending the morning being driven around. The time goes toward learning and practicing.

For a first attempt, the beach has several useful traits. The sand is fine, so falling is less unpleasant than landing on rocks or a rough shoreline. The waves are often small enough for beginners to work on timing without feeling overwhelmed. Conditions can still change, so you should not expect the same wave size on every visit.

One participant described having few waves and small ones but still found the instruction very good. That is an important point. A beginner lesson is not only about chasing large surf. Small waves give you a chance to focus on getting your feet under you, keeping your weight centered, and learning when to stand.

There is also a practical safety advantage in having an instructor with you. You get an introduction to water safety before entering the waves, and your instructor can help you judge which waves are suitable. The beach has been described as free of jellyfish and other obvious hazards, but no ocean activity is risk-free, so listen closely to the local guidance.

What happens during the two-hour lesson

The lesson begins with a land-based briefing. Your instructor explains how to lie on the board, paddle, push up, and bring your feet into position. You also work on balance and hear the basic safety rules before entering the water.

This part may feel simple, but it is where much of the useful preparation happens. If you try to learn the pop-up while being pushed around by a wave, your arms and legs tend to work against each other. Practicing first gives you a clear movement to repeat.

The instructor then demonstrates how to catch a wave. Seeing the movement before you try it helps you understand the timing. You will learn that standing is not the only goal. Paddling at the right speed, keeping the board straight, and choosing a manageable wave all matter.

After the demonstration, most of the lesson takes place in the water. You practice catching waves while the instructor gives corrections and encouragement. Some people stand on the first lesson, while others need more time. One participant managed to ride waves independently after the first class, while another was delighted simply to stand for a few seconds. Both outcomes are normal for a first attempt.

You should expect plenty of falls. That is part of the lesson, not a sign that you are doing badly. The instructors focus on helping you repeat the movement and build confidence. The small group size matters here, because the instructor has a better chance of seeing what you are doing and giving useful advice.

The instructors and teaching style

Da Nang Outdoor Adventures has been operating as a surf school since 2017, and its instructors are described as having more than 20 years of experience. Owen and Tien are two instructors specifically associated with positive lesson experiences. Their teaching style is friendly, patient, and encouraging, with a strong focus on safety and getting beginners moving.

The best part of a first lesson is not a long technical talk. It is having someone make small corrections at the right moment. You may be told to paddle harder, keep your chest up, move your feet faster, or avoid standing too early. Those short instructions can make the difference between sliding off the board and riding a wave.

The one-to-four ratio is a strong feature. It does not mean you will receive constant one-on-one coaching, since other students are practicing too. It does mean the class is small enough for the instructor to keep track of everyone and offer personal help.

The maximum group size is six. If you are booking with friends, this keeps the activity social without turning it into a large class where you spend long stretches waiting. If you prefer private coaching, the provided information does not list a private option, so you would need to ask the school directly.

Boards, wetsuits, and what is included

The lesson includes a surfboard, wax, and seasonal clothing. In warmer weather, you use a rash vest. In cooler weather, the school provides wetsuits. This saves you from bringing specialist gear or paying extra for the basics.

The boards are intended for learning, which usually means stability takes priority over speed. That is exactly what you want at the start. A stable board gives you more time to find your balance and practice the pop-up.

Equipment condition may vary. One participant described the equipment as old but still praised the instruction and attention. I would not book this expecting polished, high-end boards. The value here comes mainly from access to a suitable beginner board and an experienced instructor.

The school also offers half-day beginner board rental at a separate rate. That could be useful if the lesson gives you an appetite for more practice. The supplied information does not state the rental price, so check before planning a longer session.

GoPro photos and videos are included as part of the lesson. The instructor records some of your time in the water and sends the files later by email. This is a nice extra, especially if you want proof of your first successful ride. Delivery is not necessarily immediate, so do not count on receiving the footage before leaving Da Nang.

How much value do you get for $44?

At $44 per person, this is more than a basic board rental, but you are paying for instruction and equipment as well as water time. The price includes the two-hour lesson, surfboard, wax, rash vest or wetsuit, and photos and videos. For a first attempt, that package offers better value than renting a board without knowing how to use it.

The small class size also matters when judging the price. A cheap lesson with a large group can leave you waiting on the beach or repeating the same mistake without help. Here, the maximum of six and one-to-four ratio give you a reasonable chance of personal attention.

You should also consider the setting. My Khe Beach is close to the meeting point, so the activity does not require a costly transfer or consume half a day in transport. You meet at 35 An Thuong 5, walk a short distance to the beach, and return to the same point at the end.

The lesson is booked, on average, 12 days ahead. That suggests you should reserve before your Da Nang stay is underway, especially if you want a particular day or are arranging the activity for several people. The schedule is also weather-dependent, so leave some flexibility in your plans if possible.

What the beach conditions mean for beginners

Surfing is controlled by nature, and the beach cannot promise perfect waves. Some days may bring small, gentle surf that is ideal for learning. Other days may offer less action than you hoped for. The school’s own description presents My Khe as suitable for lessons throughout the year, with seasonal clothing to keep you comfortable.

If you are imagining tall, dramatic waves, adjust that picture. This is an introductory lesson, not a serious surf expedition. The goal is to learn the basic movements and catch waves safely. Small waves may feel less exciting to watch, but they are often better for learning.

Sun protection is essential. One participant badly underestimated how strong the sun could be during two hours in the water. Apply water-resistant sunscreen before the lesson and bring more if you have it. You are exposed to the sun while paddling, waiting, and practicing, even when you do not feel hot.

You should also follow the instructor’s advice about conditions. The school may cancel if the weather is poor. In that case, you are offered another date or a full refund. If you cancel yourself, you receive a full refund when you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time. Changes or cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Who will enjoy this surf lesson most?

This lesson suits first-time surfers, couples, friends, and solo visitors who want a physical activity near the beach. You do not need previous surfing experience. The instruction begins with the fundamentals, and the equipment is supplied.

It is also a good choice if you want a clear introduction rather than a full-day commitment. Two hours is long enough to learn, fall, try again, and perhaps stand on a wave, but short enough to fit around sightseeing in Da Nang.

You should be comfortable with a little exertion. Paddling takes work, and repeatedly climbing back onto the board can tire your arms. The lesson is not described as suitable for people with specific medical limitations, so ask the operator if you have concerns about swimming, balance, or physical activity.

This may be less satisfying for an experienced surfer. The lesson focuses on basic balance, paddling, pop-ups, and beginner waves. If you already surf confidently, you may get more from the separate half-day board rental, subject to availability and cost.

Practical details that make the day easier

The meeting point is 35 An Thuong 5 in Da Nang, near public transportation and within a short walk of My Khe Beach. The activity begins and ends at this same point. Confirmation is provided when you book, and the group can have up to six people.

Wear something suitable for water activity and use water-resistant sunscreen. The school supplies the main surf equipment and seasonal clothing, so you do not need to pack a board or wetsuit. Bring enough water for yourself, since the lesson involves physical effort and strong sun.

Give yourself time to arrive without rushing. The land briefing is part of the lesson, not wasted time, and you want to hear the safety instructions clearly. If you are taking the lesson with friends, remember that people progress at different speeds. One person may stand quickly while another needs the full session to feel comfortable on the board.

The GoPro footage is a pleasant bonus, but treat it as an extra rather than the main reason to book. Files are sent later by email, and delivery may take some time. If you need the footage for a same-day social media post, this may not meet your schedule.

Should you book it?

Book this surf lesson if you want a friendly, well-organized first try at surfing in Da Nang. The strongest reasons are the beginner-friendly beach, experienced instruction, small groups, included equipment, and the chance to stand on a wave without committing an entire day.

The main cautions are modest but worth noting. Wave conditions are not guaranteed, the equipment may look used, and two hours can pass quickly if you spend much of the time learning basic movements. Still, those are normal limits for a beginner lesson, not major flaws.

At $44, I think it is a fair choice for someone who values guidance and equipment rather than simply renting a board. Use water-resistant sunscreen, keep your expectations realistic, and book at least a day ahead if your schedule matters. If you want to try surfing while staying close to Da Nang’s beach district, this is a practical place to start.

FAQ

Where does the surf lesson take place?

The lesson takes place at My Khe Beach in Da Nang, with the meeting point at 35 An Thuong 5, Ngũ Hành Sơn, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam.

How long does the activity last?

The surf lesson lasts approximately two hours.

What does the lesson cover?

You learn how to paddle, pop up to your feet, balance on the board, and follow basic water safety. The instructor also demonstrates how to catch a wave.

Is the lesson suitable for beginners?

Yes. The activity is designed as an introductory lesson and begins with basic instruction on land before moving into the water.

How large is the class?

The activity has a maximum of six participants. The stated instructor-to-student ratio is one instructor for every four students.

Is surf equipment included?

Yes. Surfboards, wax, and either rash vests or wetsuits are included, depending on the season.

Are photos and videos included?

Yes. The instructors use a GoPro to take some photos and videos, which are sent to you later by email.

What is the price?

The listed price is $44 per person.

What happens if the weather is poor?

The activity requires good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered another date or a full refund.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not refunded.