What Does “Beginner Surfer” Actually Mean?
In surfing, the word “beginner” is very broad. It includes people who:
Have never surfed before
Have never been in the ocean
Have touched a surfboard but never stood up
Tried surfing a few times on holiday
Surfed years ago and want to start again
Are still working on consistency, confidence, or ocean understanding
Being a beginner has nothing to do with age or fitness level. It simply means you’re in the early stages of learning how the ocean works and how your body moves with the board. There is no wrong place to start. There’s only showing up.
In our weekend we always start with clear instructions from our coach
Observing the ocean, learn about currents, practice your pop up. This way you feel at peace before we go in.
What You’ll Learn as a First-Time Surfer
Your first surf experience sets the foundation for your whole journey ahead. And trust me, it’s more than just "stand up on a board." Here’s what you’ll learn in your first sessions:
1. Understanding the Ocean
Before anything else, you learn:
How waves form
Why currents exist
How to read safe and unsafe zones
Where to enter and exit the water
This knowledge alone builds confidence, and helps you avoid common fears.
2. How to Be Comfortable in the Water
For many, the ocean is new. So we help you get used to:
Falling safely
Holding the board
Breathing calmly
Relaxing while waiting for waves
You can’t rush this stage, but it comes faster than people expect.
3. How to Use the Board
You’ll learn:
How to lie correctly
How to paddle efficiently
How to position yourself for a wave
How to push up, pop up, and find stability
This is where everything starts to click.
4. Your First Stand-Up Moments
This is the magic moment. Both feet on the board, gliding for a few seconds, feeling alive. Some get it in the first hour. Some need more time. Both are perfectly normal, and equally celebrated.
What We Focus On During Our Mirleft Unwind Weekends (for Total Beginners)
Our Unwind Weekends are designed to help beginners feel safe, supported, and empowered from the first moment you step on the sand. Here’s what our certified surf coach will guide you through:
✓ Ocean Safety FirstWe teach you how to read conditions, understand rips, and choose safe spots. This is the foundation of everything.
✓ Pop-Up Technique
We break it down step by step until it feels natural (yes, everyone gets there).
✓ Board Control
How to hold it, turn it, lie correctly, paddle with power, and feel stable.
✓ Understanding Your Limits (With Kindness)
You learn what your body can do, not by pushing too hard, but by allowing yourself to grow.
✓ Confidence & Fun
Because surfing isn’t just a sport. It’s a feeling. And we want that feeling to stay with you long after the weekend is over.
Why Learning to Surf in Mirleft Makes You Progress Faster
Mirleft is known for its powerful, clean, and consistent waves. Even on small days, the ocean carries strength, which makes learning here incredibly rewarding. You don’t just learn to surf. You learn to trust yourself in real ocean energy.
The coastline around Mirleft has 6 different beaches, each offering something unique. From soft beginner-friendly waves to slightly more powerful lines that help you grow step by step, the variety here makes progress happen naturally. It’s challenging in the best way. And it shapes confident surfers.
How We Support Beginners at Mirleft Unwind
We take care of everything so you can fully focus on your progress:
Certified surf coach
Small group sessions
Theory + practice
Warm-ups, corrections, feedback
Photo analysis
Transport to the best beach of the day
A safe, encouraging, judgment-free atmosphere
From the very first step in the sand, to standing up, to catching your first unbroken wave, we’re right next to you.
Ready to Start Your Surf Journey in Mirleft?
If you’ve been dreaming of learning to surf, or getting a fresh new start, our Unwind Weekends are created exactly for you.
Warm villa, good meals, the Atlantic ocean, a supportive group, and coaching that meets you where you are. Your surf journey can start anywhere. But beginning in Mirleft? That’s something special. ❤️🌞
👉 Explore our next retreat dates and join the Unwind community.