When I think about learning to surf, Oahu always comes to mind.
With its warm water and steady waves, it’s one of the best places for beginners and families to try surfing for the first time.
Oahu has many spots that are perfect for safe, fun, and memorable surfing lessons.
I’m excited to share what makes this island special for surfing so you can find the right beach for your lesson and start enjoying the ocean.
Kahu Surfing School, Best Surfing School and Water Sports in Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Honolulu, Hawaii
When I arrived at Kahu Surfing School, I immediately saw why so many first-time surfers choose it.
The instructors welcomed me and explained the basics in a way that made sense.
I liked that lessons moved at my pace, and no one pressured me if I needed more time to learn.
The instructors have over 30 years of teaching experience.
They could tell when I needed help, often before I even asked.
My instructor cheered me on and caught the moment I stood up for the first time.
I got to choose from high-quality boards that fit my size.
Families and people of all ages were out on the water, which helped me relax and enjoy learning.
Booking my lesson online was quick, and the video option let me look back at my progress.
Kahu Surfing School made the whole experience feel safe, supportive, and fun.
Rating: 4.9 (1507 reviews)
Location: 2450 Prince Edward St, Honolulu, HI 96815
Contact: (808) 277-4555
Website: Visit Website
Oahu Surf School
I recently took a lesson at Oahu Surf School and had a great experience.
The instructors explained everything clearly and focused on safety from the start.
They began with a quick land lesson so I knew what to do in the water.
Isaiah Moniz, the owner and a native Hawaiian surfer, taught my group.
He shared a lot about local surf culture and made the lesson feel personal.
Even though I was nervous, I felt supported the whole time.
Lessons work for beginners and for those who want to improve their skills.
The instructors focus on respecting the ocean and local traditions.
I left feeling more confident in surfing and in my understanding of surf etiquette.
Rating: 5 (224 reviews)
Location: 101 Uluniu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
Contact: (808) 259-1879
Website: Visit Website
Hawaii Surf Guru
I recently took a surf lesson with Hawaii Surf Guru, and it really stood out.
My instructor, Kimo, is a professional waterman, artist, and designer who cares about every step of your learning experience.
He explained where the best surf breaks are and showed me how to paddle with less effort.
The lessons meet in the morning when the waves are best and the beach is less crowded.
I felt safe because my instructor is lifeguard certified and has all the needed licenses.
The lesson was private and matched to my skill level, which helped me relax and have more fun.
Finding the spot was easy—it’s at the Ala Moana Bowls Parking Lot, near Kimo’s white Toyota Rav4 by the palm trees and showers.
There’s free parking, so I didn’t have to worry about that.
Communication was great, and I could reach out by WhatsApp for quick questions.
Rating: 5 (479 reviews)
Location: 1888 Kalākaua Ave #C-312, Honolulu, HI 96815
Contact: (808) 283-0088
Website: Visit Website
808 Surf School
I took a private surf lesson at 808 Surf School on Oahu’s North Shore.
Booking online was simple, and meeting my instructor on the beach was easy.
The staff welcomed me and made me feel comfortable right away.
The lesson was truly one-on-one and matched my skill level.
My instructor explained the basics clearly and gave tips that helped me catch waves, even as a first-timer.
They made sure I was safe the whole time.
I liked how patient and encouraging everyone was.
The positive energy and relaxed vibe made learning fun, even when I wiped out.
Some instructors took photos, which helped me remember my first lesson.
Rating: 5 (184 reviews)
Location: 62-594 Kamehameha Hwy Unit 200, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Contact: (808) 341-5996
Website: Visit Website
North Shore Surf Girls
When I visited North Shore Surf Girls, I felt right at home.
The instructors were friendly and supportive, making sure everyone felt comfortable.
They offer surfing and stand-up paddleboarding lessons for all ages.
Lessons are available three times a day, which made it easy to fit into my plans.
During my lesson, the instructor started on land, explained the basics, and answered my questions.
Once we got in the water, she stayed close by and gave helpful tips and encouragement.
I managed to stand up on my board and catch a wave in my first lesson, which felt amazing.
They offer private or semi-private lessons and special tours, like a sunset surf and barbecue experience.
The team picks surf spots each day for safety and the best waves.
Their staff includes former pro surfers and stunt doubles, so I knew I was learning from experts.
After my session, I could buy a souvenir t-shirt and get tips about the North Shore from the staff.
Booking was easy by phone or online.
Rating: 5 (411 reviews)
Location: 66-117 Awai Ln, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Contact: (808) 637-2977
Website: Visit Website
Stoke Drift Surf School
When I tried a surfing lesson with Stoke Drift Surf School, I noticed right away how patient the instructors were.
They explained everything clearly and made sure I felt safe before we even got in the water.
There was no rush—they let me take my time as I learned the basics on the sand.
My lesson included all the equipment I needed, including a rashguard.
We spent about 20 minutes learning on land and then a full hour catching waves.
The water near the Waikiki shore is calm, and the waves were gentle, which helped me stand up quickly.
I liked the small, private lesson style.
They only offer private group or one-on-one lessons, so it never felt crowded.
I saw families, couples, and kids learning together, and everyone seemed to have a great time.
The school is close to food spots and right next to public showers and restrooms, which was convenient after my lesson.
Booking was easy, and they were flexible if my plans changed.
Rating: 5 (2200 reviews)
Location: Ocean Patio B Retail, 2161 Kālia Rd Space 107, Honolulu, HI 96815
Contact: (808) 517-5010
Website: Visit Website
Surf Hawaii Surf School
I tried surf lessons at Surf Hawaii Surf School in Haleiwa.
The instructors were patient and friendly, and they knew the area well.
They helped me feel safe and showed me easy ways to stand up on the board.
Lessons here work for everyone, whether you’re just starting or already know a little.
I liked that the groups were small, so teachers could give each of us personal attention.
I practiced with calm waves and tried some more challenging spots nearby.
The school offers more than just surfing.
I spent a morning stand up paddling on the Anahulu River and tried a yoga class at their retreat location.
The place is surrounded by palm trees and river views, giving it a relaxed vibe.
Rating: 4.9 (54 reviews)
Location: 62-186 Emerson Rd, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Contact: (808) 295-1241
Website: Visit Website)
North Shore Beach Boyz
I tried a lesson with North Shore Beach Boyz, and the experience felt welcoming from the start. The instructors made the lesson easy, even though I felt nervous about surfing for the first time.
They patiently explained the basics in simple steps. The school offers private, semi-private, and group lessons, so everyone can find an option that fits.
I joined a small group, and an instructor always stayed nearby to help. The instructors have surfed on the North Shore for years, and they know the area well.
They also teach kids, and I saw younger surfers having fun in the water. The staff made sure everyone felt comfortable and safe, which helped me relax.
When I asked about their background, I learned the instructors hold certifications in CPR, AED, and lifeguard training. I joined a SUP Squatch tour with a few others for a different experience.
Riding the large inflatable board together was fun, and we explored parts of the coast you can’t reach otherwise. The guides pointed out wildlife and shared stories about the North Shore.
Rating: 5 (310 reviews)
Location: 61-529 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Contact: (808) 462-6116
Website: Visit Website
HAWAII WAVES SURF SCHOOL
When I visited Hawaii Waves Surf School in Haleiwa, I noticed the instructors focused on helping everyone feel safe and comfortable, no matter their experience. They took new surfers out to gentle waves and explained everything before we entered the water.
This approach made me feel more confident to get on the board. Each lesson matches different skill levels, so beginners feel welcome.
The teachers patiently explained the steps and made lessons easy to follow. They stayed close and encouraged me, which made the experience enjoyable.
Scheduling a lesson was simple. I used WhatsApp to ask questions before booking.
The school opens every day from early morning to evening, so I easily found a time that worked for me.
Rating: 5 (110 reviews)
Location: Kahalewai Pl, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Contact: (808) 256-7226
Website: Visit Website
Sunset Suzy
When I visited Sunset Suzy’s Surf School on Oahu’s North Shore, I immediately felt welcomed. Suzy and her friendly dog Luna made the group feel more like family than strangers.
She was warm and patient, and she explained every step of the lesson. The beach was not crowded, and the gentle waves made it perfect for beginners.
Suzy helped me stand on the board quickly—within 30 minutes, I felt more confident than I expected. I liked that Suzy offers both private and group lessons.
She adjusts her teaching to fit your needs, whether you come alone or with family. The process from booking to getting in the water was simple and smooth.
Rating: 4.9 (110 reviews)
Location: Kahalewai Pl, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Contact: (808) 780-6963
Website: Visit Website
What To Expect During Your First Surfing Lesson
My first surf lesson on Oahu showed me that surfing is about more than standing up on a board. I learned how to stay safe, respect others, and use the right gear to have fun in the water.
Understanding Surf Etiquette
When I arrived at the beach, my instructor explained the basic rules of surfing. The most important rule is to never “drop in” on someone else’s wave.
If someone is already riding a wave, I wait for my turn. This keeps things fair and prevents accidents.
My instructor told me to always hold onto my board so it doesn’t hit someone behind me. While paddling out, I learned to avoid approaching surfers and to never cut across another person’s path.
Simple things like greeting others and being friendly help a lot, too. My instructor also talked about how local surfers and visitors should respect each other and the ocean.
Safety Tips For Beginners
My first lesson started with safety instructions on the sand. I learned how to spot changing ocean conditions and to always listen for a surf instructor’s whistle.
It’s important to never surf alone and to watch the weather and waves. I learned to fall flat, not dive headfirst, to stay safe if I wipe out.
My instructor told me to always know where my surfboard is. If I need help, I use emergency signals like waving for the lifeguard.
Wearing a leash on my ankle kept my board from floating away. Staying hydrated and using sunscreen are easy ways to avoid sunburn or dehydration.
During my lesson in Waikiki’s gentle waves, these tips kept me comfortable and safe.
Essential Gear You’ll Need
Before getting in the water, my instructor gave me a foam longboard. These boards are perfect for beginners because they’re stable and soft.
The right size board makes it easier to balance. I wore a rash guard to protect my skin from the sun and irritation.
Basic gear checklist:
- Foam longboard (8-10 feet for most beginners)
- Leash (so the board stays attached)
- Rash guard or surf shirt (for sun protection)
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Surfboard wax (for grip)
Some schools, especially in places like Waikiki, provide all this gear. I brought my own towel, water bottle, and a change of clothes so I could be comfortable after my session.
Local Tips For Making The Most Of Your Oahu Surfing Experience
I learned that planning your surf lesson on Oahu is easier if you check the weather, wave conditions, and support local surf instructors. Locals know how to make surfing safe, fun, and respectful of the island’s surf culture.
Best Time Of Year For Surf Lessons
When I want the calmest waves, I choose the summer months, from May through September. The South Shore, especially Waikiki, has smaller, slower waves that are perfect for beginners.
These gentle waves make it safer and easier to learn new skills. In winter, from November to March, North Shore waves get much bigger, which works best for advanced surfers.
As a beginner, I stick to places like Waikiki or Chun’s Reef during winter, since they have friendlier waves. I always check the local surf report before booking a lesson because conditions can change daily.
If you want less crowded beaches, try to have your lesson early in the morning or on weekdays. Surf schools also have more flexible schedules outside of peak tourist seasons.
Even in summer, I pay attention to signs about strong currents or shore breaks before getting in.
Supporting Local Instructors And Surf Culture
I always choose lessons with local surf schools or instructors who have deep roots in the community. They know the safest spots and share the history and spirit of surfing on Oahu.
When I support them, I help the local economy and keep authentic Hawaiian surf traditions alive.
Many families run surf schools at beach-side stands on Kūhiō and Waikīkī beaches. They have taught surfing for generations.
Booking with locals often gives me smaller class sizes and personal attention. I also get inside tips about where to eat or what to see.
You can read more about these instructors and their teaching style at this Oahu Surfing Guide.
Here are some ways I show respect for the island’s surf culture:
- I listen to my instructor and follow local surf etiquette.
- I use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the ocean.
- I avoid standing on coral, which is fragile.
- I thank my instructors and the ocean for the experience.
