Our Story: Passion, Progress & the Pull of the Tide

At Marea Surf Club, we believe surfing is more than just a sport:

 It's a way to connect, grow & have fun through real progression.

We’re a surf academy based in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, offering high-quality surf coaching through personalized lessons, structured surf packages and video analysis. Whether you're just starting out or refining your skills, we’re here to guide your journey with intention and joy.

Inspired by the ocean’s rhythm

“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.

Our coaching blends hands-on water practice with theory, ground exercises and video feedback. We keep our groups small to ensure personalized attention, so every student has space to ask questions, build confidence and progress faster - all while sharing the stoke.

See our surf packages

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.

John founded Marea Surf Club after years of surfing and coaching across Nicaragua, bringing a thoughtful, holistic approach to surf coaching. He holds ISA Level 1 and ILS certifications - universally recognized as the international standards of quality surf coaching and surfing safety - and combines this expertise with deep local knowledge and a passion for teaching.

John believes in teaching the “why” behind every movement - from ocean awareness and wave reading to surfboard design - empowering students to become confident, independent surfers. At Marea Surf Club, his goal is to share the stoke, build skills and create a supportive community where everyone can grow and feel at home in the water.