Best Surf Schools in Hawaii for Beginners & Visitors
Share
The Best Places and Companies to Learn How to Surf in Hawaii
Hawaiʻi is the birthplace of modern surfing, and there’s no better place to stand up on your first wave than in the islands where the sport was perfected. Whether you’re dreaming of cruising Waikīkī’s mellow rollers, feeling the rush in Lahaina, or learning in a quiet Big Island bay, Hawaiʻi offers surf schools that blend world-class instruction, local knowledge, and Hawaiian hospitality.
Here’s your guide to the best places and companies to learn how to surf in Hawaiʻi, from Oʻahu to Kauaʻi.
Why Learn to Surf in Hawaiʻi?
Surfing isn’t just a sport in Hawaiʻi—it’s a cultural tradition with roots stretching back hundreds of years. Known as heʻe nalu in Hawaiian, surfing was once practiced by aliʻi (chiefs) and commoners alike, with special boards, ceremonies, and skills passed down through generations.
Today, Hawaiʻi’s surf schools carry on that tradition by offering safe, supportive lessons for beginners. These companies know the local swells, read the tides, and often have instructors with deep family ties to the sport.
Oʻahu – Waikīkī and Beyond
Oʻahu is often the first stop for beginner surfers thanks to its warm water, consistent waves, and famous Waikīkī breaks.
Hans Hedemann Surf School – Waikīkī & North Shore
Founded by former pro surfer Hans Hedemann, this school offers private and group lessons at Waikīkī and Oʻahu’s North Shore. Known for friendly, safety-first instruction, it’s ideal for families and first-timers.
Website: hhsurf.com
Faith Surf School – Waikīkī
Run by brothers Tony and Brian Moniz, Faith Surf School blends professional-level coaching with genuine aloha spirit. Lessons take place at popular Waikīkī spots, making it a perfect choice for those wanting to surf where Duke Kahanamoku once rode the waves.
Website: faithsurfschool.com
Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee – Waikīkī
A local favorite, Big Wave Dave offers surfing and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) lessons right from Waikīkī Beach. Their approachable team makes every session fun and relaxed.
Website: bigwavedave.com
Maui – Lahaina and Kīhei
Maui’s south and west shores offer gentle, long rides—perfect for beginners.
Goofy Foot Surf School – Lahaina
Operating since 1994, Goofy Foot focuses exclusively on beginner instruction in Lahaina Harbor’s calm waters. They keep class sizes small, ensuring personal attention.
Website: goofyfootsurfschool.com
Maui Wave Riders – Kīhei & Lahaina
A family-owned surf school, Maui Wave Riders offers lessons for all ages and skill levels. Their Kīhei location is especially good for beginners thanks to its forgiving waves.
Website: mauiwaveriders.com
Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy – Lahaina
Founded by local surf pros, this academy emphasizes both technique and Hawaiian surf culture, creating a richer experience beyond just catching waves.
Website: rhsa.com
Kauaʻi – Poʻipū and Hanalei
Kauaʻi’s coastline offers scenic, less crowded surf spots for learners.
Kauai Surf School – Poʻipū
Operating year-round, Kauai Surf School has patient instructors and calm Poʻipū waters, making it a great place for your first surf session.
Website: kauaisurfschool.com
Hanalei Surf School – Hanalei Bay
Set in one of Hawaiʻi’s most beautiful bays, this school offers personalized instruction in gentle summer swells or mellow winter days. Owner Titus Kinimaka is a legendary Hawaiian waterman.
Website: hanaleisurfschool.com
Hoku Water Sports – Poʻipū
Known for small group sizes and a fun, family-oriented approach, Hoku Water Sports offers both surfing and SUP lessons.
Website: hokuwatersports.com
Big Island – Kona Coast
The Big Island is better known for diving and snorkeling, but it still has a few excellent beginner surf breaks.
Kona Surf Company – Kailua-Kona
Offering surfboard rentals and lessons, Kona Surf Company teaches beginners at Kahaluʻu Bay, a sandy-bottomed, mellow wave spot.
Website: konasurfco.com
Kona Boys – Kealakekua Bay & Kona
Known for their relaxed, community vibe, Kona Boys offers surfing alongside outrigger canoeing and other ocean activities.
Website: konaboys.com
Tips for Choosing a Surf School in Hawaiʻi
- Check Instructor Credentials – Look for certified lifeguards or instructors with extensive local experience.
- Pick the Right Spot – Beginner-friendly breaks are essential; avoid famous big-wave spots unless you’re advanced.
- Ask About Group Size – Smaller groups mean more personal attention.
- Look for Cultural Integration – The best schools weave Hawaiian surf history and values into their lessons.
- Book in Advance – Popular schools fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons (summer and winter holidays).
What to Expect at Your First Lesson
Most surf lessons in Hawaiʻi last between 1.5–2 hours and begin with:
- Beach Instruction – Safety tips, paddling technique, and how to pop up on your board.
- Ocean Practice – Instructors guide you to the right spot and help you catch your first waves.
- Wrap-Up – Feedback on your technique and tips for your next session.
You’ll need reef-safe sunscreen, a rash guard, and a positive attitude. Be ready to laugh, fall, and try again—it’s all part of the experience.
Riding Your First Hawaiian Wave
Learning to surf in Hawaiʻi isn’t just about standing up on a board—it’s about connecting with the ocean in a place where surfing’s roots run deep. Whether you choose the bustling beaches of Waikīkī, the serene waters of Hanalei, or the sunny shores of Lahaina, you’ll leave with new skills, a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian culture, and memories that will last a lifetime.
So grab your board, find the right instructor, and join the centuries-old tradition of heʻe nalu—surfing—in the islands where it all began.