Surf with purpose.
Connect with the ocean.
Welcome to Marea Surf Club
Where your surf journey begins
Based in the vibrant surf town of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, Marea is more than just a surf school, it’s a space to grow, tune in and feel at home in the ocean.
We believe in creating a space where everyone feels welcome. Whether you're catching your first wave or refining your technique, we’re here to help you grow with purpose. Our coaching blends personal attention, local knowledge and thoughtful structure, so you can grow with confidence and surf with intention - all within a welcoming & encouraging community.
our different packages
one day group or private lesson
A meaningful introduction to the waves.
Whether you’re catching your very first wave or revisiting the basics after some time away, this single session offers a thoughtful, personalized approach to surfing without needing to commit to a full program.
three day surf coaching package
For curious souls ready to dive a little deeper.
This three-day experience is designed for those who want to go beyond the basics and start building a stronger foundation. Whether you're brand new to surfing or already riding and looking to refine your technique, this is your chance to get thoughtful, structured coaching in and out of the water.
five day surf coaching package
For committed surfers ready to level up.
This immersive program is designed for those who want to go all in. With a balance of structured coaching, in-water time and detailed feedback, you’ll not only improve faster, you’ll walk away with a whole new connection to your surfing. Whether you're building a solid foundation or leveling up your technique, this five-day journey is where it all clicks.
“Marea” means “tide” in Spanish and just like the tide, surfing is all about flow, timing and learning to move with the ocean. The tide is a secret key to unlocking great waves and here in San Juan del Sur, we plan our sessions around its rhythm. At Marea, we help you tune in to the ocean, read the conditions and make every surf session count.
Marea
About marea
Our purpose is simple: to help you unlock your surfing potential while building a deeper connection to the ocean. Through personalized, high-quality coaching that goes beyond the basics, we create an environment that’s supportive, thoughtful and shares good vibes - the kind of space where you can feel confident, joyful and free in the water.
At Marea, we offer everything from private coaching and small group lessons to multi-day surf coaching packages that include theory and video analysis as well as surf retreats in Nicaragua for those looking to dive all the way in. Every session is designed to meet you where you’re at - no pressure, no egos, just real progress and good energy.
meet John
Founder & Head Coach
John’s connection to surfing runs deep. Growing up in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, he discovered surfing as a teenager, often walking long distances with friends just to catch waves on a single shared board. Those early days sparked a lifelong passion for surfing and taught him the value of patience, persistence and community.
For John, surfing is a form of freedom and a way to connect with the ocean. Every wave offers a unique challenge and opportunity to be present, pushing both physical and mental limits while also providing space to simply enjoy the moment. Whether it’s seeking out those uncrowded waves hoping for the perfect barrels or sharing relaxed sunset lineups with friends at their local break.
A few kind words from past guests
„I really enjoyed surfing with John! He is super friendly and fun and also an amazing surfer. Me and my boyfriend took some classes with him together. He is such a great instructor and guides you really well through the water. Even when it looked tough outside he made me feel really safe. I learned so much in these surfing lessons and would definitely recommend booking a class with him.“
– Linda
„My partner and I took surf lessons with John on our visit to Nicaragua and we highly recommend him! He is a great surf coach with strong English and a genuine personality. John provided useful feedback, tips and assisted us in getting on some great waves which made for a memorable surf trip to Nicaragua.“
– Lauren
„John is a great surf instructor. He does an excellent job of identifying your skill level and then focusing on the core one or two changes that will make a major difference in your surfing. He helped me position myself better for take offs by coaching me to angle my board diagonally down the line instead of down the face of the wave. Now I have more control and more speed - boosting my confidence, advancing my progress, catching more waves and having more fun!“
– Perry
