Who We Are?
about us
Manuel Antonio Surf School was founded in 2004 by Luis Gatgens, a passionate local surfer who opened the school with a dream to share the benefits of this ancient sport with surfers from around the world. Luis believes that there is a right way to teach people how to surf and has built his business off of this principal. We teach surf theory and mechanics as well as an understanding of the ocean to all of our students with a focus on safety first.
Our instructors are qualified locals who are equally passionate about surfing and are trained in water safety and first aid. We have a lot of experience with families and children, for whom we provide a practiced and patient lesson. At the same time we love perfecting the skills of intermediate and advanced surfers.
MASS firmly believes that attending this surf school or all-inclusive surf camp should be part of a holistic Costa Rica vacation experience. We offer not only a variety of surf options, including an all-inclusive surf camp, that can appeal to anyone from the beginner to the advanced surfers but also a number of adventure activities such as waterfall tours, nature hikes, SUP and kayak coastal and mangrove tours and hot springs tours.
We can customize any lesson or tour to fit your needs and ensure a personalized experience. And, with us, you will experience the local culture as well. MASS is a family owned and operated business that incorporates these values into everything that we do from our surf lessons and adventure tours to our dedication to our community. Since 2004 we have helped thousands of students fulfill their dreams to surf. We promise to get every student up on a wave by the end of every lesson. We are dedicated to providing unforgettable and safe surf lessons and tours to all of our students. We want our customers to remember their experience with us forever.
We live for this!
how we teach surfing
MASS has a unique way to teach how to surf that was invented by Luis Gatgens 18 years ago.
Learn more about this in our how we teach page
Our experts
lUIS gATGENS
jessica Gatgens
Why Choose Us
Here are just a few reasons why you should choose to surf with us:
-We get everyone, from age 7 to 70, up and surfing before the end of the lesson. You will live your dream to surf with us!
-We have access to several breaks and therefore always have the perfect wave for any level and during any season as the waves are consistent here all year long.
-Even better, we have access to non-crowded and even totally secluded beach breaks like our exclusive Isla Damas surf spot a rare find anywhere.
-We have something for everyone from the beginner to the advanced surfer and eventhose who just want to watch and enjoy refreshments while experiencing the real Costa Rica
-We are willing to provide customized tours to fit any need.
-We are passionate about what we do.
-We don’t just throw you into a wave, we teach you surf mechanics before getting into the ocean.
-Safety is a top priority for us and lessons are taught by experienced instructors with
-You will leave with new skills and knowledge about surfing and wave mechanics
-Lessons are taught by locals who truly know the wave.
-We provide a special and unique touch of an authentic Costa Rica experience with our tours and lessons.
Our Mission
Our mission is to impart our love for surfing, our beautiful country and our culture with people from around the world. We do so by teaching our clients, of all ages and
abilities, how to truly surf, not just stand-up, and by sharing the nature and culture of Costa Rica during our tours.
Our surf school was the first and original surf school of Manuel Antonio and we have been in operation for over 15 years. During this time we have continued to evolve to produce new and unforgettable experiences in surfing and tours to ensure our customers receive the finest that this area has to offer.
MASS Core Values
MASS has a lot of irremovable values that are our priority.
-Safety first
– Respect amongst our team and towards our clients.
– We are an eco-friendly company who places great emphasis on preserving our beautiful nature. We practice this belief on a daily basis and also sponsor and partake in community environmental clean-up efforts.
– Our love for our country and culture means that it is important for us to give back to our community. Visit our Community Events page for more information.
– To inspire others.