Reserve the day, not a guaranteed wave
Choose a provider with a clear process for confirming conditions and explain that you are visiting for a short time. Read rescheduling terms before paying. Keep a land-based alternative you would enjoy if the water plan does not proceed.
Avoid carrying the city with you
Take only what the lesson and journey require. Ask whether valuables can be stored and what changing arrangements are offered. A full sightseeing bag, laptop and beach equipment are an awkward combination on a busy day.
Place a buffer around the lesson
Do not put a flight, a timed museum ticket or an important dinner immediately after a session that may move location. Leave room to travel, change and eat. A flexible evening makes it easier to accept a sensible adjustment from the instructor.
Take one learning goal into the day
Tell the instructor what you hope to understand and ask for a specific next step afterwards. If this is your first session, focus on feeling comfortable with the equipment and briefing. Let the city break stay a holiday rather than turning one lesson into a performance test.