Hawaii · SURF LESSONS IN KAUAI
The 11 best surf lessons in Kauai you can book today, with what each costs, how long it runs and who it suits. Number one is top for a reason; start there.
Meet at Koʻa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach for a 90-minute beginner surf lesson with Hoku Water Sports. You’ll practice paddling and popping up on land, then work on real waves with an instructor such as Kele, David, Dave, or Ikeake. Boards, booties, and rash guards are included.
“The surf lessons were fun and for all levels. The instructor was patient and kind and made us feel welcomed. Would recommend 10/10”
Spend about 90 minutes learning to surf in Hanalei Bay with a private Hawaiian Surfing Adventures instructor such as Nick, Luca, Patrick, or Tapu. You will receive a safety briefing, rash vest, leash, and surfboard, then practice reading waves and standing up. Check in 30 minutes before your lesson.
“Our surf instructor, Luca, did an amazing job. He was very patient with my two daughter and me. His instructions were clear and on point which allowed us to “catch” waves with each set. The front office and shuttle drive were also kind and helpful. Would highly recommend to anyone looking to learn how to surf.”
Meet Hawaiian Style Surfing at 2440 Hoonani Road in Koloa for a 90-minute beginner lesson near Poipu Beach. You’ll get a board, rash guard, and water shoes, then learn ocean safety and basic technique on land before heading into the water. Instructors including Adam, Austin, Tom, Kai, and Hudson are praised for patient, upbeat coaching.
“Instructor was very, very good and friendly thank u!!! Will definitely do it again, and look forward to it!”
At Kalapaki Beach, you paddle a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe with a trained steersman, then ride several ocean waves back toward shore. Guides including Kristian, Krishawn, Kashawn, and Krishna have led this one-hour outing. You need at least two paddling adults, and groups are limited to four people.
“Really fun! Our guide was great and did a nice job of reading the sea and catching us some great waves.”
Meet Hawaiian Style Surfing at 2440 Hoonani Road for a 90-minute beginner lesson limited to two people. Your instructor covers ocean safety and surf basics on land, then helps you catch waves in the water. A board, rash guard, and water shoes are included, but bring your own towel.
“Fabulous! The instructor spent plenty of time on land giving instructions and practicing then when I to the water to help each person catch each wave. We had semi private lessons ( two people with one instructor). I highly recommend doing this exclusions. Well worth the money!”
You’ll learn surfing basics at Kalapaki Bay with an English-speaking instructor from Kauai Beach Boys. In a small group of up to six, you’ll practice paddling and balance on land, then head into the water with a board, leash, and rash guard. Instructors such as Christian and Nelson focus on calm, clear tips for beginners.
“great, laid-back, and thorough. I had a great time and got lots of good tips to help me with my surfing adventures going forward”
At Poipu Surf School, two or three surfers share a 90-minute lesson with an instructor such as Travis, Kelly, Chris, or Jimmy. You get a safety briefing, board, leash, and about 60 minutes in the water. Every surfer must swim independently. Children ages 6 to 9 are better suited to a private lesson.
“It was a great experience with a 7 and 10 year old first timers. Travis was great. The rides were a little short, but it was a good beginner experience.”
Spend about 90 minutes learning to surf at Kalapaki Beach with Kauai Beach Boys. Your instructor may include Chris, Krishon, Kishan, Krishna, Nelson, or Pa’a. Expect a small class of no more than six, quality equipment, water coaching, and waves suited to beginners who can swim and paddle independently.
“Great teacher. Very patient and knowledgeable! Plenty of time to make sure everyone got some waves! Thank you, Krisna!”
Meet Hawaiian Style Surfing at 2440 Hoonani Road for a 90-minute private lesson. You’ll begin with ocean safety and basic technique on land, then practice in the water with an instructor focused on your group. Boards, rash guards, and water shoes are included. Matt is one instructor praised for clear, upbeat coaching.
“My daughter’s private lesson was awesome! She shook the dust off and was catching all her waves in minutes. She wanted to book another lesson immediately!”
Pick up a surfboard at Tamba Surf Company in Kapaʻa, choose from more than 50 boards, and get free wax, rack pads, straps, and advice on current conditions. Staff members such as Saa, Devin, and Devon can help match your board to your ability. Swap boards during your rental at no extra charge.
“What a great place to rent boards! We got four surfboards and 4 boogie boards for a week. Saa, the owner, helped us out and gave me simple instructions for strapping the boards onto our rental minivan. (SUPER easy and the boards did great up there.)”
Spend two hours learning to surf at Wailua Beach with certified instructors from Waterworld Surfing School. You’ll practice paddling, board position, wave reading, standing, and ocean safety in small groups of up to 10. If conditions change, your instructor may move the lesson to nearby Hanamaulu Beach.
“The instructors were knowledgeable and friendly. Directed wonderfully and we saw the results! My daughter and husband had a fantastic time- about an hour and a half of direct surfing!”
Pick a reef, a crater or a coast road.
