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You can also check out professional reviews and articles about LISC at www.costaricajourneys.com, www.costaricasurfing.org and www.costaricaecolodges.net
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visit these other local businesses in Tamarindo for more information about LISC: Tamarindo Fitness Center, First Choice Realty and Hotel Mar Rey!
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visit these other local businesses in Tamarindo for more information about LISC: Tamarindo Fitness Center, First Choice Realty and Hotel Mar Rey!
"Outstanding instructor! Unparalleled local knowledge!-Edgar absolutley took our 2 week trip to Tamarindo up another notch. As one of three semi-retired guys in their fifties who had never surfed, I had some concerns about being able to actually get up and ride waves-his combination of expertise and just being a great guy made the whole surfing experience unforgettable-and yes I was up and riding! But, It was much more than a surfing experience- he was extremley helpful for other things to do in the local area as well. The kicker is he is actually a pretty good Chef and on one of our last nights cooked us a complete authentic "Tico" dinner! I My highest recommendation! from Norris-Newport News VA."
-Norris "Chip" Domangue
"Surf & Sun Vacation--Edgar was the most amazing surf instructor! He totally bonded with our daughter and her surfing improved dramatically throughout the week. I would highly recommend Edgar Sanchez to anyone visiting Costa Rica and who wants to try surfing. His patience, kindness and surf instruction skills are fantastic! Thanks again Edgar!" |
"Great local guide--Edgar was great and took us to different breaks around the Tamarindo area. He was always punctual and even picked me up at 5am with a smile. He was professional, fun and enthusiastic. I would highly recommend him as a surf instructor or guide." |
"Best Tico Surf Instructor--Edgar has been instructing our kids for 8 years. He is very patient, kind, and professional. Our girls, and our friends' boys, always look forward to a lesson with him when we return to Tamarindo. Edgar is a very hard working person and is punctual (we affectionately refer to him as the German Tico). He recently purchased a truck so that he would not be limited to the Tamarindo area. The past few days we were able to go to Avellanas and Playa Grande. At each break, he knew where to put us in the water based on our individual experience. It's people like Edgar that makes our decision to return to the area an easy one. We wish you much success amigo!!" |
"Great surf teacher and local guide--I went to Costa Rica a few years ago with my husband to try out surfing. We took lessons from Edgar and he really helped me over come my fear of being far out in the ocean and gave me the confidence to surf. We have taken lessons with him every time we have gone back since. His on shore lessons are great because they help give you a good game plan for when you are in the water. In the water, he is patient and gives really good advice to tweak your form and help you improve. He also grew up in the Tamarindo area, so he knows the beaches and towns very well and has good advice on places to eat and things to see. Make sure you ask him the best place to get dessert (coconut cream pie) in Tamarindo :)" |
"Edgar will bring out the best in you!--Edgar is an incredibly talented and highly recommended surf instructor in Tamarindo. My wife and I have been visiting Costa Rica once or twice a year for the past 6 years and we never fail to take lessons with Edgar. He's amazing with kids, teens, adults, beginners and advanced surfers. Edgar is excellent in the water and I always make at least one major improvement in each session. He's also great with students who are excited about surfing, but are nervous or need a little extra encouragement out in the water. Another trait that stands out for me is that Edgar takes time on shore to explain not just the fundamentals but really plan your next focus area. Last year a friend joined us on our final outing with Edgar. I had not spoken to him in about 6 months and out of the blue he recently said about the trip: "The afternoon that we surfed with Edgar is one of my favorite memories." So true! |
"Amazing instructor and awesome tour guide--I still can't believe I got up on a surf board and made it to shore! Never did I dream I could do it and it wasn't impossible to do! Edgar was a wonderful instructor! His love of surfing was evident in his teaching and he made you really want to succeed. Edgar took his time with the instructions and the steps to get up on the board. Safety was one of his top priorities and was careful to explain each step thoroughly before we even got into the water. Edgar is very patient and encouraging which is wonderful when you are trying to learn something new. Edgar not only taught us to surf, but was a wonderful tour guide. He has extensive knowledge of his country's history which made our trip all the more interesting. We spent a few days on Tamarindo and then we went to the Arenal volcano. We didn't have to worry about finding all the fun spots because Edgar planned everything out for us in advance and took us to some really nice places. Edgar is fun to be with and has a terrific sense of humor. Thank you Edgar for making this one of the best vacations we've ever had!" |
"Authentic surfing--My friends, family and I have been going to Tamarindo for 5 years now and surfing with Edgar every time. He continues to be the patient teacher in the water for all levels. He always surprises us with new places to explore. This year, we were blown away as we ventured with Edgar to see the Arenal Volcano. We were in awe of the beauty of the region. The lake there is pristine. Imagine an upstate NY Finger Lake with NO homes on the water's edge. He brought us to the waterfalls in the region there as well. We comfortably traversed the country side with his guidance. So Edgar is not just for surfing anymore! Learn the authentic Costa Rica with one it's finest." |
"Wonderful Avellanas surf experience with Edgar!--Learning to surf with Edgar was one of the highlights of me and my friend's trip to Costa Rica. He took us out to Avellanas...it was a beautiful location especially going later with the sun setting towards the end of the lesson. Edgar was very thorough with his lesson before we got into the water. He gave a nice explanation of how the water behaves and how we should control the board to stay safe. Once in the water, he was very good with keeping us aware of breathing techniques and how to stay calm and relax waiting for a good wave to ride in. The overall experience was informative and fun. I am definitely going to surf again!" |
"By far the best instructor in the business--Edgar is the best! He runs a simply fantastic program. For beginners, lessons with the fundamentals of safety, orientation for the objectives of the day, and then into the water. During our long sessions, I felt entirely comfortable and safe. Edgar's instructions were perfectly clear and he worked closely with each of us to tailor his advice. He was absolutely fabulous to work with and also a really fun, interesting guy. It was great to be able to experience so much surfing in such a beautiful place under such safe conditions. We had a wonderful time, and I can't wait to get back to Tamarindo to learn and improve more!" |
"Great time learning to surf--I would highly recommend Edgar to give your family surfing lessons. Our 7 year old was pretty nervous and not a good swimmer. Within minutes of being in the water he was up on the surf board with a huge smile on his face. Edgar made everyone feel very comfortable and we all ended up riding the waves on top of the surf board several times during our two hour lesson. It was really one of the highlights of our trip to Costa Rica." |
"The best surfing experience we had!--After taking lessons from 2 different instructors we got lesson with Edgar and he was far and away the best! His explanations were clear, he emphasized safety, and he was super focused. Definitely a natural teacher, and very professional yet fun and chill. We definitely surfed better and when we go back we'll book lessons with him again!!" |
"Tamarindo Beach Surf Lessons 2.22.15 A++++++--Edgar comes highly recommended from this 46 yr old 80's guy. |
"Excellent Company--My wife and I had never surfed before and we were very pleased that we called Edgar. He's very patient and is very good at providing instruction and assistance when in the water. When in Tamarindo, there are many options to choose for lessons. Don't waste your time, call Edgar!" |
“Edgar exceeds all expectations!!--I had the most wonderful experience surfing with Edgar. He is extremely knowledgable and has a wonderful teaching method. He is extremely patient and has the incredible ability to notice small details that make all the difference. His instruction and pointers are so clear and easy to follow. I felt like a totally different surfer after a few lessons. He is also a lot of fun in the water and is super encouraging. He takes you to all the local spots so you can experience the beautiful beaches that Tamarindo has to offer. I highly recommend surfing with Edgar. Whether you are a beginner or looking to advance he will go above and beyond to make sure you get what you want and that you have a blast doing it." |
“Edgar is an Exceptional Teacher--It was my first time surfing and I could not have had a better experience! Edgar was knowledgeable and patient and his calm demeanor and love of surfing definitely translated into his teachings! I rode waves into the beach by the end of the lesson and had a huge smile on my face. It was a highlight of the trip. Can't wait to see Edgar again!" |
“Edgar is amazing--Edgar is an incredibly knowledgeable and patient instructor. He can help all levels improve their surfing skills. The surfing trips to beaches outside Tamarindo were remarkable with amazing sunsets (sunset surfing is a definite must during your travels to Costa Rica). Edgar's friendly disposition and new truck help make surfing trips even more enjoyable." |
“Best vacation ever and the surfing was awesome with Edgar.--I went surfing with Edgar while in Costa Rica and it was great. He knows all the good surf spots and when to go. It was like surfing with a good friend. Most of the locals knew him well and he was well liked by everyone. He was also very focused on his students and takes pride in their improvements and gave valuable feedback to help you become a better surfer. Advanced or beginner he's the person I will always refer people to. Thanks for making my trip so memorable!" |
“Edgar Rocks--It was exactly what I was hoping for. A fruitful lesson with a friendly, experienced local. Edgar was such a joy to work with. I was never overwhelmed with information. He was very patient, professional, intuitive, encouraging and made safety a priority. I also loved supporting a locally owned small business. Top quality whether you are just getting out there for the first time or if you are hoping to take it to the next level. Many thanks Edgar!!!!" |
“Even if you are afraid of the ocean, Edgar is the instructor for you.--I have been afraid of water for most of my life. When I turned 40, I decided to confront this fear and learn to surf. Edgar is the only surf instructor that has the commitment and patience to help a person like me overcome this fear and enjoy the water. I will never be a great surfer, but now I love the ocean and the sport. I can enjoy the water with my family, I can cross the river mouth, and I can be with my family in the water every day. Thank you to Edgar who took on this challenging project of 14 years and helped me greatly. I recommend Edgar who has patience and the right strategies for older groms like me (and everyone else)." |
“Amazing Surfing Instruction and Fabulous Results--Edgar is a top notch surfing instructor who customizes his lessons so that everyone has a safe and wonderful time. We hired him to teach our 10 year old and were amazed at how our son was riding the waves after an hour with Edgar. It was easy to completely trust this terrific instructor who put so much care and attention into the two hours that he spent with our family. We highly recommend surfing lessons with Learn Improve Surf Company." |
"The Costa Rican "Wave Whisperer"--Edgar is a patient instructor, easy to work with, with a great way of explaining surfing methodologies. He drove us to Playa Avellanas and Playa Grande and we had a great time learning a few of the popular breaks on those beaches." |
"The best surf lessons in Tamarindo--Edgar is the simply the best. He is an amazing guy and surf instructor and if you are looking to learn or continue to progress in your surfing Edgar is the only option. He will customize a lesson specifically for you and he even does group lessons." |
"Learn to surf--When I arrived for the first time in Costa Rica I knew that I wanted to learn how to surf. The big question was, where would I go to get lessons? I was visually swamped with a plethora of surf shops offering surf lessons. After taking a few lessons from random shops, it didn't seem like they took much interest in me learning how to surf. So from a friend I was recommended to Learn Improve Surf Company. Edgar really did take a personal interest in my surf education, from advice in/out of the water, to his ability to make me feel completely comfortable and safe out in the surf. I took my first lesson from Edgar 4 or 5 years ago and I would always and forever recommend LISC. Thank you Edgar!!" |
"Exceeded Expectations--I recently took a few self-selected group lessons over the course of one week in November with Edgar. My friends and I were at slightly different fitness and skill levels and he was able to cater the lessons to fit all of our needs. I suspect this skill would translate well for families wanting to learn to surf together. I appreciate that he followed a lesson plan that included vocabulary, safety an intended goals. During our lessons, he was fully capable of modifying the plan to account for water conditions or anything else that popped up. We also surfed at several different locations, adding variety to our experience. After the lessons, I was comfortable heading out on my own in to the surf, ultimately fulfilling my goal for this trip." |
"Goal Accomplished--I had been trying for close to 2 years to change how I "popped up" on my board. The way I had been doing it was slowing me down and preventing me from progressing. Edgar and I worked on ways to change how I approached the pop up and to fix it. After 2 days I was using the new method 60% by the end of my time 100%. I was able to bottom turn, catch the wave at a higher point and get longer rides up and down a greater part of the face of the wave. Additionally, my timing improved as did my ability to "read" the water. Best of all? I had such a good time. Fabulous." |
"Edgar was patient & safety-minded--I was brand new to surfing and Edgar was perfect to have as my instructor. He explained on the shore all the things we'd be doing in the water and what to avoid (and why). Once in the water, he was patient and encouraging. I would absolutely use him again." |
“Great Instructor For All Ages--Having recently moved from the Canadian Prairies to Tamarindo, learning to surf was a top priority for me even at my, umm, advanced age of 59. With Edgar's high level of expertise to guide me, I am well on my way to checking it off my "bucket list"! His ability to quickly assess his students capabilities and adjust the lesson to accommodate them is second to none. And his technique of breaking down the elements of surfing into easy to understand and execute steps and then nudging you along at a pace you can handle allows you to build confidence and muscle memory that had me up on the board in a very short time. I still have a long way to go, but I know with Edgar's professional instruction it won't be long before I can call myself a "surfer"! I would highly recommend him as an instructor for anyone, of any age!! Many thanks Edgar!" |
"Amazing surf instructor--I had tried surfing several years ago without success and after one lesson with Edgar I was standing consistently on the board and catching waves - yip yar! Unlike other instructors Edgar gives a very personalised lesson and breaks surfing down into easy to understand and apply sections before building on that knowledge. He is always conscious of other surfers and swimmers in the water to avoid potential interactions which helps when your a beginner and stayed focused on his students without getting distracted by chatting or surfing like some of the other instructors I saw. He was very encouraging and positive while giving constructive feedback about how to improve for the next wave and showed a genuine interest in ensuring I had a positive experience. I would highly recommend Edgar as a surf instructor - you wont be disappointed." |
"My Favorite Surf Instructor--I stayed in Tamarindo for 3 weeks so I've had plenty of time to experience different styles of surf instruction. Hands down, my lesson with Edgar was the best. Here are some specific aspects of his lesson that made him stand out: |
"I was in Costa Rica for 3 weeks and had only surfed for about two weeks previously. I was able to only do a basic pop up and catch the occasional wave. Edgar did a total of 6 lessons with me while I was in Costa Rica, and had a clear plan and objectives in mind when he started working with me. By the end of my time in Costa Rica, I was consistently paddling into waves, able to tell which waves were left and right, and consistently turning and riding down the line. Edgar's recipe for successful teaching is clear and simple and he executes it beautifully. Before each lesson he discussed the theory behind the objectives for the lesson each, giving clear explanations and drawings. He was then able to refer back to this during the time in the water, which helped me clearly visualize what I needed to do in the water. He offers complete one-on-one attention during the lesson (not like many other instructors in Tamarindo who frequently surf while they are meant to be teaching), is patient, and engages with his students. He helps you read the waves to determine which waves are good to paddle for, unlike some other instructors who simply push you into waves. One of the best things about having Edgar as an instructor is that he cares and has a genuine desire to make everyone a better surfer. His love for surfing and teaching really shines through in everything he does. He is dedicated and will not let you down." |
"Got up and rode a wave within three tries. The lesson was informative and straight to the point. Simply put, Edgar is the man." |
"Awesome surfing in Playa Tamarindo with Edgar!! Edgar is a fabulous teacher, instructor, and coach. He really encourages you and walks you through the lesson so that even beginners can experience success and fun. He really shows an interest in his students and demonstrates his love of surfing through his instruction and positive demeanor. I highly recommend Edgar!" |
"We've been working with Edgar for years. He taught my son how to surf when he was 5 years old and he's helping him improve so much today, at age 11. He is wonderful with children. Very patient and very encouraging. Very professional!" |
"I am so impressed with the quality of teaching at Learn Improve Surf Company. I have been an advanced beginning surfer for a number of years and was just not making any progress on my own. After a few recent lessons with Edgar, I feel like I have regained my confidence and have been able to feel what it is like to turn and set the line. He is a gem of a teacher." |
"Edgar has a very natural ability to teach the art of surfing. He is patient, which is a huge plus. I showed up to my private lesson with him scared out of my wits, and I'll be damned if he didn't get me up on that board on the second wave! I was hooked. I'm thrilled to have found him. He is the best!!!!" |
"It's clear that Edgar is passionate about teaching people to surf. He is very much a person who only speaks words of importance. By listening to Edgar, I feel like I was on the fast-track through the learning process of surfing. Having snowboarded and skateboarded, I was glad to move quickly to more nimble boards that challenged my confidence. Edgar thinks a lot about your experience, and it made the varied abilities of myself and my friends and breeze, with smiles and laughs all around." |
"Had such a great time learning to surf with Edgar. Always felt safe, he offered very constructive feedback breaking down each wave you took in terms of what could have been better or what went wrong. He's very supportive and encouraging esp. for someone who has never surfed before. Already scheduling my lessons when I return in November! Highly highly recommend!" |
"Awesome surfing instructor! Edgar took two twelve year old girls and their dad, with no prior surfing experience, and had them riding waves in about 2 hours! He is kind, patient, fun, and really great at teaching the theory of surfing before getting out in the water. The girls repeatedly added if they could take another lesson! We highly recommend Edgar!" |
"Edgar was more than a surf instructor. A better description would be an enthusiastic, patient, entertaining, expert surfing partner. He was with me for every wave, constantly teaching. I soaked up enough knowledge and improved my skill to take me to the next two levels, with photos and video to prove it. I look forward to my next visit." |
"Edgar was amazing - very professional, knowledgable, and patient with a first time surfer. He taught me the basics and I was able to ride a wave to shore by the end of our first lesson! Check him out when you're in Tamarindo!!" |
"My first surf lesson with Edgar from LearnImproveSurfCompany was back in 2009, when I had never stepped on a board before. His patience since that first lesson hasn't wavered. Edgar is an incredibly calming presence in the water and has an innate ability to describe what you need to improve/fix/shift in a way you need to hear. As I've slowly improved on repeat trips down to CR and been able to tackle bigger/more complex waves, Edgar has done a great job teaching me what I need to know to be an independent surfer - reading the water, adjusting position, encouraging me to challenge myself on shorter boards. He also really cares about his students' success - his enthusiasm is genuine and he really cares about what he does. He's brought me to different surf spots, both to accommodate conditions but also to make sure I surf different breaks, whether paddling across the river to la casita, or doing SUP to different spots around Tamarindo. You couldn't ask for a better instructor!!!" |
"Thank you Edgar for the surf lessons you have given me and my family. At age fifty, I didn't know if I were going to be able to learn to surf or to enjoy it. With your expert, kind help, however, I was able to do both. I can't wait to come again and have you teach me more. I have taken great pride in introducing you to many more of my family, from age twelve on up, and you have taught them each in turn. Thank you for teaching us a way to enjoy the power and beauty of the ocean through learning a new skill; thank you for your patience and gentleness with beginners; thank you for sharing your passion and letting us enjoy Costa Rica and the mighty Pacific in a whole new way. I'm looking forward to my next lesson!" |
"Just a note of thanks for the great surfing week we had with you in January and March of this year...Your surfing skill and knowledge made each day exciting and worthwhile. We appreciate the time, patience and expertise which has provided a wonderful start to our new passion. Especially noticeable is your attention to safety while having fun. We are anxious to visit again soon when our schedules allow it. Thank you again." |
"My surfing improved so much this time, and big thanks to Edgar for that. He’s such a patient and excellent teacher. He made me feel confident and safe in the water. Something clicked during the lesson in the 2nd day, and I was able to catch most of waves since then. See you guys next time!" |
"Please pass along my sincere gratitude...The instructors were AWESOME!!! Edgar was great – so patient and very knowledgable. I learned so much from his lessons and his seminars were very very helpful. Putting practice and theory together made a huge difference in my surfing. Gracias Edgar!!! Pura vida!!!" |
"Hi there...We would like to point out one staff member who really made a difference to us – Edgar – my boyfriend Ben had him as an instructor almost the whole week and really felt that Edgar cared about teaching him how to surf and it wasn’t “just a job” to him. I also had Edgar for a couple of lessons – he was the best teacher I thought – especially since I am a bit nervous of water – he was really good in not making me feel embarrassed or too wimpy – I really appreciated that. As well, his seminars were excellent and helped us during our water lessons. Thank you so much for a wonderful time!! -Best trip of our lives!" |
"I had a great time with the surf school. My surfing improvement far exceeded my expectations. I owe a lot of that to Edgar in particular – he was a great teacher in all aspects. Edgar was a calm and intelligent voice in a very different environment for me and he worked hard to make sure that I improved and enjoyed myself. Thanks again!" |
"You know you’ve truly lost yourself in paradise when you completely lose track of the days! What a gift..to be so relaxed and comfortable in a new environment...Thanks also to Edgar for the amazing seminars, they really helped to fill in the blanks for me and explained so much." |
"Edgar...is the intellect, he will break it down, talk you through the seminars and is incredibly patient." |
"We learned a ton about surfing and Costa Rican culture and politics from our instructor, Edgar, who we were really lucky to be paired with. Edgar was patient and fun, and a great teacher. He really explained surfing well, and was focused on us during the entire lesson time. I know there must be a lot of temptation for the instructors to chat with each other and other locals while we are in the water during lessons, but Edgar was always paying attention to trying to help us learn. He was very diligent. Also, his seminars were great to help solidify what we were learning in the water. He is a great asset to your team. Thanks again!" |
"I just got home from a week at your camp and felt that I needed to write and let you know how great of a time I had. The surfing was great...Edgar specifically impressed us. He was clear and deliberate in his instruction and extremely patient. Edgar waited with us at least 40 minutes after the lesson ended so we could catch that perfect wave. It was dark when we all finally went in." |
"Last week a few of us from the states took surfing lessons on multiple days with Edgar. He was fabulous, patient and very friendly. My compliments to him who helped us make our own experience a pleasant one. So much so we are planning our next trip back in January! We send our praise and thanks." |
