How much do surf lessons cost in Honolulu?

Surf lessons in Honolulu typically range from $60-$150 for a group lesson and $100-$250 for private instruction. Prices vary based on the instructor's experience, lesson duration (usually 1.5-2 hours), and whether equipment is included. Most schools include board and wetsuit rental in their rates.

What's the best time of year for surf lessons in Honolulu?

Honolulu offers great surfing conditions year-round, but the best time for beginners is typically during the warmer months (May-October) when waves are smaller and more consistent. Summer months have warmer water temperatures, making lessons more comfortable. However, experienced surfers might prefer fall and winter swells.

Do I need to know how to swim to take surf lessons?

Yes, basic swimming ability is required for surf lessons. You should be comfortable in the ocean and able to swim at least 50 meters unassisted. All reputable surf schools in Honolulu will ask about your swimming ability before lessons. If you're not a strong swimmer, consider taking swim lessons first.

What should I bring to my first surf lesson in Honolulu?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen (reef-safe preferred), and a positive attitude! Most surf schools provide wetsuits and surfboards. You might also want to bring water, a change of clothes, and flip-flops. Leave valuables at home or in your car, and arrive 15-20 minutes early to get fitted for equipment.

Are group or private lessons better for beginners?

For complete beginners, group lessons are often the best value. You'll learn the basics, have fun with others, and the cost is lower. Private lessons are better if you want personalized attention, learn faster, or have specific goals. Many people start with a group lesson, then switch to private lessons to progress faster.

How long does it take to learn to surf?

Most people can stand up on a board and ride a whitewash wave within their first lesson! However, becoming comfortable surfing independently takes 10-20 hours of practice. Factors that affect learning speed include athletic background, ocean comfort, and how frequently you practice. The key is consistency - surfing weekly will help you progress much faster.

What type of surfboard is best for beginners?

Beginners should use soft-top foam boards (also called foamies) that are 8-9 feet long. These boards are stable, buoyant, and safer if you fall. All quality surf schools in Honolulu provide appropriate beginner boards. As you progress, you'll gradually move to shorter, harder boards.

Are surf lessons safe for kids in Honolulu?

Yes! Surf lessons can be very safe for kids when taught by qualified instructors. Most Honolulu surf schools offer kids' lessons for ages 5 and up. Look for schools with experienced youth instructors, low student-to-instructor ratios (ideally 3:1 or less for young kids), and good safety records. Always verify the school's credentials.

41 Best Surf Lessons in Honolulu, HI (2026 Guide)

				Action
1Stoke Drift Surf School	Contact for pricing	5.0	2185 reviews	View
2Jamie O’Brien School of Surf Waikiki	Contact for pricing	5.0	661 reviews	View
3Hawaii Surf Guru	Contact for pricing	5.0	479 reviews	View
4Sparky's Surf School	Contact for pricing	5.0	468 reviews	View
5E Foil Waikiki	Contact for pricing	5.0	342 reviews	View
6Gone Surfing Hawaii	Contact for pricing	5.0	289 reviews	View
7Adventures In Paradise Oahu	Contact for pricing	5.0	265 reviews	View
8Shaka Surfing Academy of Waikiki	Contact for pricing	5.0	244 reviews	View
9Manifesting Aloha Surf School	Contact for pricing	5.0	235 reviews	View
10Oahu Surf School	Contact for pricing	5.0	224 reviews	View

				Action
1Stoke Drift Surf School	Contact for pricing	5.0	2185 reviews	View
2Jamie O’Brien School of Surf Waikiki	Contact for pricing	5.0	661 reviews	View
3Hawaii Surf Guru	Contact for pricing	5.0	479 reviews	View
4Sparky's Surf School	Contact for pricing	5.0	468 reviews	View
5E Foil Waikiki	Contact for pricing	5.0	342 reviews	View
6Gone Surfing Hawaii	Contact for pricing	5.0	289 reviews	View
7Adventures In Paradise Oahu	Contact for pricing	5.0	265 reviews	View
8Shaka Surfing Academy of Waikiki	Contact for pricing	5.0	244 reviews	View
9Manifesting Aloha Surf School	Contact for pricing	5.0	235 reviews	View
10Oahu Surf School	Contact for pricing	5.0	224 reviews	View

Top Pick

Stoke Drift Surf School

Honolulu, HI

5.0(2185)

Stoke Drift Surf School offers premier surfing lessons against the stunning backdrop of Waikiki, Hawaii. Customers consistently praise their friendly and professional instructors who provide clear ins...

Beginner FriendlyKid FriendlyPrivate LessonsGroup Lessons

Closed • Opens at 8:00 AM

26 Best Surf Lessonsin Honolulu

Quick Price Comparison

26 Best Surf Lessonsin Honolulu

Quick Price Comparison

School Locations in Honolulu

Top 26 Surf Schools in Honolulu

Stoke Drift Surf School

Jamie O’Brien School of Surf Waikiki

Hawaii Surf Guru

Sparky's Surf School

E Foil Waikiki

Gone Surfing Hawaii

Adventures In Paradise Oahu

Shaka Surfing Academy of Waikiki

Manifesting Aloha Surf School

Oahu Surf School

Duke's Lagoon

Foil Surfing Hawaii

Oahu Surf and Skim School

Island Fiel Surf

Hawaiian Boy Surf School

E Oahu Surf Tours

Surf Waikiki

Hawaii Adventours

Honolulu surf school

Surf HNL Ala Moana

Coconut Coast Surf School

Pacific Soul Surfing

Nā Papa Surf

Hawaii Surf Adventures

Aequor Surf School

Kahu Surfing School, Best Surfing School and Water Sports in Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Honolulu, Hawaii

How to Choose the Right Surf School

1.Check Reviews & Ratings

2.Verify Credentials

3.Consider Class Size

4.Compare Value, Not Just Price

5.Location & Waves

Pro Tip

What to Bring Checklist

Essential

Recommended

Optional

Best Time to Surf in Honolulu

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

💡Recommendation for Beginners

Frequently Asked Questions

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