Whether you're a seasoned paddler or just wanting to try it, this is an unbeatably lovely way to enjoy SUP. John is a delight to learn from, and very candid with answers when I queried him about what sort of board I should consider buying. The lagoon is simply beautiful. You would never know there could be a place so peaceful and quiet so close to the business of Cabarete. Lunch is delightful - fresh fruits, local almonds, coconut milk, organic herbal tea and hot cocoa like you've never tasted.

I emailed John on the last day of my trip to see if he would be able to squeeze me in for a tour, which he did with no problem at all. He was a patient and encouraging instructor, and interesting person to talk to. He shared some local produce, including fresh almonds which I'd never had before. I was later told by someone else who knows him that he probably knows more about the plants around the lagoon than anyone else. Highly recommend!

Our family of four did a SUP lagoon tour on Christmas eve morning and had a great time. John is an interesting guy and a solid instructor. He sensed that we had some SUP experience and adjusted his teaching accordingly (we need to come back to try ocean SUPing!). After the lagoon tour we came back to the lodge for a delicious meal of organic foods grown on the property - sea almonds, bananas, sugar cane, coconuts, mangos, moringa, noni tea and delicious hot cocoa. John employs local kids to help out with the food prep (almond cracking, coconut gathering) which is great. Overall, our experience was a lovely peaceful contrast to the craziness of kite beach. Thanks for a memorable morning, John!