Hawaii is high up on many surfers’ bucket list. The islands’ perfect location creates some incredible waves that surfers come from all over the world to experience. Considered by many to be the home of surfing, taking a surf class with locals is an experience to remember.
Surf lessons give you the flexibility to learn the basics of surfing and seeing if you enjoy it without committing to a surf camp. We’ve selected five of the best schools and lessons from across the islands, taking into account past reviews, experience level, and price. Check them out below!
Maui Surf School Surfing Lesson in Lahaina
FROM: $52/per person
Over one and a half hours, participants will receive an introduction to everything they need to know about the popular water sport, in the warm waters of Lahaina Harbor. On the relaxed Maui island, certified instructor lead these classes, teaching surf techniques and timing, and sharing tips. Classes cater to both beginner or intermediate surfers, and rental of all required equipment is included in the price. Participants can also take home a memory of their experience, as the surf school also offers photos of the classes. Perfectly located, Lahaina Harbor is a great place to sunbathe and relax before or after the surf class, with facilities including restrooms, lockers, lounge chairs, and showers all nearby.
Surfing Lessons On Waikiki Beach
From $99/ per person
Surfing at Waikiki Beach is a popular activity for many tourists visiting the Hawaiian islands. Whether you already have some experience surfing, or you’ve never been on a board before, the lessons are accessible to everyone. Those new to surfing will learn the basics of water safety, technique, and positioning. These one and half-hour lessons are given in a group, which are kept small with a maximum of 12 people, to ensure all surfers receive personalised tips from your professional instructor. Rental of all surf equipment is included in the price, as well and pick up and drop off at selected locations
Surf Lesson in Sunny Po’ipu
From $80/ per person
Kauai island is known as a top surfing destination, and these lessons allow you to see why! The team at Hoku Water Sports specialises in giving lessons to small groups with personal attention and enthusiasm, which makes them a popular choice amongst travellers. Groups lessons are made up of just eight participants, where instructors take guests through the basics of surfing: paddling, getting up and surfing a wave, before getting out on the water to practise. Participants will receive a safety briefing, and all equipment required is included in the price. A moderate level of fitness is advised to take part in these lessons, which are roughly one and a half hours long.
Big Island: Kona 2-Hour Small Group Surf Lesson
From $104/ per person
The warm, blue waters of Kahaluu Bay are the location of this introduction to surfing! This experience offers two-hour lessons to guests of all age and skill level. Professional instructors create classes that ensure participants learn how to surf safely and effectively. Lessons are taught in small groups with a maximum of eight participants that are tailored to your ability. For beginners, instructors will help learners catch the waves, talking you through all key timings and positions. For more advanced surfers, instructors offer advice on technique such as how to turn and catch larger waves. Multiple instructors also work with each group, with no more than three participants per teacher to ensure maximum attention and a highly personalised experience.
Maui Lahaina Group Surf Lesson
From $80/ per person
The beaches of Lahaina on Hawaii’s Maui island offer the ideal conditions for beginners to learn to surf. By taking one of these two-hour lessons, surfers will have plenty of time to learn from certified instructors, as each class is made up of just five participants. Lessons begin with a 15-minute introduction on the beach that covers safety measures and procedures. From here, participants will head out on the water to learn and perfect their surfing technique. Participants will take it in turn to surf, allowing them to receive personal feedback and learn from one and other. The lesson includes rental of all required surf equipment.