How we rank: Google rating, weighted so a 5.0 from six reviews doesn't outrank a 4.9 from a thousand. Schools can't pay to move up this list; a paid placement is labelled as one. Listings that share a phone number or website are marked as the same team.
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Waikiki · 2 hours
Beginner-friendly Waikiki Beach surfing lesson
Small group
Check prices →Check prices & dates →Waikiki · 2 hours
Waikiki 2-hour beginner group surf lesson
Small group
Check prices →Check prices & dates →Booked and paid on GetYourGuide
// Packing list
Most schools provide the board and wetsuit, so you can arrive with very little. These are the small things worth packing.
We may earn a small commission if you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We only recommend gear we'd ride ourselves.
Rash guard (UV surf shirt)
Stops the wetsuit and board rubbing your chest raw, and covers your shoulders if the water is warm enough to skip the wetsuit.
See options on Amazon →Mineral (zinc) sunscreen
You will spend a couple of hours on open water. Zinc stays on your face better than spray and is easier on the reef.
See options on Amazon →Changing poncho or hooded towel
Gets you out of a wet wetsuit in a beach parking lot without the towel dance.
See options on Amazon →Waterproof phone pouch or dry bag
Keeps your phone, keys and car fob dry and sand-free while you are in the water.
See options on Amazon →Reef booties or water shoes
Only where the entry is rocky or reefy. Sandy beaches rarely need them, so ask the school first.
See options on Amazon →Surf hat with a chin strap
Shades your face during the beach briefing and in the water; the strap keeps it on when you fall off.
See options on Amazon →Full checklist, including what to leave at home: What to bring to surf lessons
Seasonal averages for Hawaii — not a live surf report for this beach. Hawaii surf seasons in full · Today’s water temperature
// 41 Surf schools listed
Local instructors, real reviews, and how to reach each school direct.
Highest rated
Stoke Drift Surf School5.0 from 2,185 reviews
Lowest published group price
Moku Hawaiifrom $72 per person
Kids-friendly
Stoke Drift Surf SchoolTagged kid-friendly from student reviews
// The Lineup
Ranked by rating confidence — review volume counts, not just the score.
// Free Surf Guide
The Beginner's Surf Guide
Wave basics, gear checklist, lesson tips — all free, delivered instantly.
41 schools on the map
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// The price check
Based on prices published by 29 of 41 schools · checked October 2026
The other 12 don't list prices on their websites, so they are not in these figures. Rates change with season, group size and what's included. Confirm with the school before you book.
What the schools say about their lessons
From each school's own website. Schools that don't say aren't counted as a no; confirm when you book.
// Side by side
| School | Rating | Group | Private | Kids | Lesson | Phone | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stoke Drift Surf School | 5.0 (2,185) | $107/person | $197/lesson | Price not published, ask the school | 1.5 hours · 1-4 students per instructorBoard + wetsuit included | +1 808-517-5010 | — |
| Kahu Surfing School, Best Surfing School and Water Sports in Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Honolulu, Hawaii | 4.9 (1,507) | $90/person | $110–$170/lesson | Price not published, ask the school | small group · ages 6+Board + wetsuit included | +1 808-277-4555 | Book Kahu Surfing School, Best Surfing School and Water Sports in Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Honolulu, Hawaii on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Hans Hedemann Surf School Waikiki | 4.8 (1,018) | $100/person | $180–$200/lesson | Price not published, ask the school | 2 hours · ages 5+Board + wetsuit included | +1 808-924-7778 | Book Hans Hedemann Surf School Waikiki on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Star Beachboys | 4.7 (788) | $75/person | $125/lesson | Price not published, ask the school | Board + wetsuit included | +1 808-699-3750 | Book Star Beachboys on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Moku Hawaii | 4.5 (682) | $72–$108/person | $120–$180/lesson | Price not published, ask the school | ages 12+ | +1 808-926-6658 | Book Moku Hawaii on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Jamie O’Brien School of Surf Waikiki | 5.0 (661) | $119/person | $209/lesson | $149–$209/lesson | standard lesson · 4:1 guest-to-instructor ratio · ages 10+Board + wetsuit included | +1 808-583-0178 | Book Jamie O’Brien School of Surf Waikiki on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee | 4.4 (489) | $129/person | $179/lesson | Price not published, ask the school | 1.5 hours · 3-5 student surfers · ages 4+Board + wetsuit included | +1 808-386-4872 | Book Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Hawaii Surf Guru | 5.0 (479) | Price not published, ask the school | $175/lesson | $175/lesson | 1.5 hours · about 1 instructor per 4 students · ages 14+Board + wetsuit included | +1 808-283-0088 | Book Hawaii Surf Guru on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Sparky's Surf School | 5.0 (468) | $100/person | $120–$150/lesson | Price not published, ask the school | 1 hour · ages 4+Board + wetsuit included | +1 808-724-4208 | Book Sparky's Surf School on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| E Foil Waikiki | 5.0 (342) | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | —Not stated | +1 808-400-6449 | — |
Ask = not published on the school's website, so call or message to get a quote. Prices are the lowest each school lists. Lesson details are what each school states on its own website; a dash means not stated.
// Know before you book
Group lessons are the usual starting point: they cost less per person, and you share an instructor with typically 4 to 8 other students. Private lessons give you one-on-one attention and a faster start, which suits nervous beginners, anyone short on time, or surfers working on a specific skill, at a higher price per person. Semi-private sits in between, for two to three people who want to learn together. Class size and what is included vary by school, so confirm when you book.
You share an instructor with other students, typically 4 to 8 per instructor, for around 90 minutes to 2 hours.
Best for: First-timers on a budget and anyone who likes learning alongside others.
Published by Stoke Drift Surf School: “Group lessons are for parties of 2 or more. If there are more than 4 people in your party, you will have 2 instructors. All surfers must be 13 or older.”
A small group of two to three people with one instructor, often friends or family booking together.
Best for: Couples, friends and families who want more attention than a group without the private price.
Published by Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee: “1.5-hour lesson. All equipment is provided including: surfboard, leash, and instructor.”
One instructor, one student (or one family). The pace and focus are yours to set.
Best for: Nervous beginners, short trips, and surfers working on a specific skill.
Published by Stoke Drift Surf School: “One-on-one lessons are for people who want individual attention or are surfing solo. Children under 13 MUST take one-on-one lessons.”
Lessons run for younger surfers, usually in smaller groups with a lower instructor-to-student ratio. Minimum ages vary by school.
Best for: Children and teens. Ask the school about age limits and whether parents can stay on the beach.
Published by Hawaii Surf Guru: “Private Kids Lesson for Ages 13 & Under, 90 Min Lesson”
Multi-day programs, from a few days to a week or more, mixing lessons, practice sessions and surf theory.
Best for: Visitors staying a while and anyone who wants to progress past the first stand-up.
Board and wetsuit are usually included in a lesson price. Confirm when booking, because policies differ between schools. In Waikiki & Honolulu, 25 of 41 schools say board and wetsuit are included on their own websites.
// The Local Report
Most of the schools listed on this page are based in Waikiki, on Oahu's south shore. A lesson with one of them is the safest way to start: an instructor chooses the break based on that day's swell, tide and wind.
We don't name beginner breaks for Waikiki and Honolulu. Whether a spot is safe for a first lesson changes with swell, tide and wind, and Hawaii Ocean Safety warns of sharp rocks and coral on the ocean floor, so don't assume a sandy bottom anywhere. Let your school choose the spot on the day, and ask them what's under the water before you paddle out.
Summer is not the easy season here. Hawaii Ocean Safety says large swells can arrive frequently on south shores in summer (May to October), while winter is typically flat to small on this side. Conditions still change day to day. Check the National Weather Service Honolulu surf forecast (weather.gov/hfo), and ask the lifeguard on duty or your school before going in.
Hawaii Ocean Safety's advice applies to every session: swim near a lifeguard and check with them about conditions first; watch for sharp rocks, coral and sea creatures on the ocean floor; remember that even gentle, shallow water can quickly become powerful; and don't dive in headfirst where you haven't checked the depth. Tell your instructor honestly how well you swim.
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Stoke Drift's friendly and professional instructors, like Joey, Alex, Nate, and Kalei, for providing excellent…
Group lessons from
$107/person
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the excellent and fun surfing lessons with helpful instructors, leading to a great overall experience.
Group lessons from
$119/person
Gear included · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Kimo and his team for providing fun, safe, and successful surfing lessons, even for beginners, with personalized attention and quality equipment.
Private lessons from
$175/lesson
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Sparky and his team for their exceptional instruction, patience, and ability to create a fun, engaging, and successful surfing experience for all ages and skill levels.
Group lessons from
$100/person
Private lessons · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the excellent and fun instruction, often highlighting quick learning and success in efoiling, making it a highly recommended experience for all ages.
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly instructors who provide excellent guidance, ensuring a fun, safe, and memorable surfing experience for all ages and skill levels.
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers rave about the exceptional surfing instruction from Shane and Neil, who create fun, personalized experiences that quickly get people riding waves and encountering marine life.
Private lessons from
$175/lesson
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Matt for his exceptional, patient, and confidence-building instruction, enabling even first-time surfers to successfully ride waves and enjoy an unforgettable experience.
Private lessons from
$160/lesson
Group lessons · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers rave about the fun, clear, and safe surf lessons, highlighting friendly and patient instructors who help them successfully ride waves, regardless of experience level.
Private lessons from
$160/lesson
Group lessons · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Isaiah for his encouraging, patient, and helpful instruction, leading to a great and memorable surfing experience, especially for beginners.
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Private lessons · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Duke's Lagoon for its excellent instruction, friendly and helpful staff, quality equipment, and affordable beach rentals, creating memorable and enjoyable experiences for all skill levels.
Group lessons from
$130/person
Gear included · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers rave about the thorough instruction, excellent equipment, and fun experience, particularly highlighting Ben's ability to make eFoiling approachable and enjoyable for all skill levels.
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Max for his thorough, precise, and selfless instruction, which significantly improves their surfing skills and confidence, regardless of their experience level.
Private lessons from
$100/lesson
Gear included · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Eddie for his knowledgeable, fun, and patient instruction, creating unforgettable surfing experiences and inspiring confidence in students of all ages.
Group lessons from
$75/person
Gear included · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Edrick for his exceptional knowledge, personalized instruction, and positive attitude, making for unforgettable surfing experiences tailored to all skill levels.
Private lessons from
$200/lesson
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers highly recommend Hawaiian Boy Surf School, praising the attentive and effective instructors who quickly get students of all ages riding waves and ensure a fun, positive experience.
Private lessons from
$110/lesson
Same team also listed as Pacific Soul Surfing
Private lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers highly recommend this shop for its convenient location, excellent surfboard selection, knowledgeable and accommodating owner (Vin), and overall great surfing experience, including lessons.
Group lessons from
$125/person
Gear included · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Ali for her kindness, professionalism, and excellent instruction in both surfing and rock climbing, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and successful experience for beginners and experienced individuals alike.
Private lessons from
$135/lesson
Group lessons · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Micah for his patient, informative, and safety-conscious instruction, enabling beginners of all ages to quickly learn and enjoy surfing.
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Gear included · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Liane, Reaves, and Duece for their patient, fun, and positive instruction, creating safe and enjoyable surfing experiences, especially for first-timers and non-swimmers at Ala Moana Beach.
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Group lessons · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers highly recommend Shayden for his skilled, patient, and personalized instruction, which builds confidence and improves surfing skills while fostering a deeper understanding and respect for the ocean.
Private lessons from
$225/lesson
Group lessons · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the surf school's friendly and attentive instructors who provide fun, effective, and personalized lessons, leading to enjoyable and successful surfing experiences.
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers praise the instructors' ability to help beginners quickly learn to surf and enjoy the experience, though some logistical issues were mentioned.
Group lessons from
$90/person
Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Nyle for her exceptional guidance, knowledge, patience, and ability to ensure a safe, comfortable, and memorable snorkeling experience, especially for first-timers.
Group lessons from
$79/person
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the friendly and helpful instructors who create a fun, safe, and confidence-boosting surfing experience for all skill levels, especially families with young children.
Group lessons from
$99/person
Private lessons · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Coach Frank for his exceptional instruction, safety focus, and encouraging attitude, resulting in fun and successful surfing experiences for all ages and skill levels.
Group lessons from
$80/person
Private lessons · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the instructors' knowledge, patience, and passion, highlighting the positive and successful surfing experiences provided by this family-owned business.
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Surfer Girl Academy for its patient, helpful, and fun instructors who provide great instruction and maximize the surfing experience for all skill levels.
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Gear included
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Same team as Surf Waikiki
Gear included · Beginner friendly
Group lessons from
$125/person
Same team also listed as Kaimana Beach Surf Shop
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the fun, well-organized surf lessons, friendly staff, and effective instruction, enabling even beginners to quickly ride waves and enjoy the experience.
Group lessons from
$100/person
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers highly recommend AMP Surf Hawaii for its patient, tailored instruction, supportive environment, and ability to quickly get even first-time…
Group lessons from
$85/person
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Private lessons · Beginner friendly
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Group lessons from
$110/person
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable instructors who are great with kids, while some express concerns regarding group instruction and refund policies.
Group lessons from
$95/person
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers generally have positive experiences with instructors like Dany, Karen, Khalani, and Todd, who are praised for their clear instructions, patience, and ability to help beginners catch waves, though some reviewers report unprofessional behavior from unnamed instructors.
Group lessons from
$75/person
Same team as Hans Hedemann Surf School Waikiki
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers report significant issues with punctuality, communication, and adherence to booking instructions, leading to accusations of scam-like behavior.
Group lessons from
$95/person
Gear included · Private lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the excellent and tailored surfing instruction, particularly highlighting instructors like Turner, for their positive, effective coaching and ability to create a fun and successful learning environment.
Group lessons from
$75/person
Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Moku for its friendly staff, excellent service, convenient beach access, diverse surfboard selection, and affordable prices, resulting in an awesome and memorable surfing experience.
Group lessons from
$72/person
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers rave about the fun and memorable experiences, particularly highlighting the friendly and helpful staff who ensure everyone catches waves and enjoys their time, whether surfing or riding outrigger canoes.
Group lessons from
$129/person
