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Maui Tours
Group Surf Lesson: Two Hours of Beginners Instruction in Kihei
5

Group Surf Lesson: Two Hours of Beginners Instruction in Kihei

By Surf Shack
Recommended by 98% of travelers
98% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 5-99, max of 6 per group
Duration: 2h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More


  • Accommodation as per itinerary
  • Surf Board
  • Rash Guard
  • Water Booties
  • Professional instruction
  • $1 Dollar State Ocean Stewardship Fee and Taxes
What's not included
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Gratuities


Start:
  • 1976 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, USA
    Departure Point: Surf Shack - 1976 South Kihei Road, South end of KALAMA PARK parking lot If you are looking towards the ocean, we will be on the FAR LEFT side of the parking lot. We are parked directly across from Kihei MarketPlace-1975 Kihei Road, Kalama Park
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 19583P1

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • Minimum age is 5 years
    • Not recommended for travelers with back problems
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Most travelers can participate
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers

    • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 19583P1

    From
    $90.00
    per adult
    Select date and travelers

    Similar experiences

    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • Surf Shack
      431
      Kihei, Hawaii
      Joined in November 2012
    • melanierT3786NH
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Surf Shack Kihei is #1 school to learn
      Surf Shack Kihei is the best!!! It has been there almost 20 years and the instructors can get everyone up on the board. It looks like a hole in the wall compared to the place across the street, but it is #1. Sophia made it easy for us and also covered ways to stay safe. Even though just the two of us signed up for the 8am slot, they didn’t cancel. The groups are small, so more time catching waves than larger surf schools. We were staying in Kapalua, but had used Surf Shack before. Drive still 30-45 min, but worth every mile. The beach is the best for learning. Thanks Sophia and thanks Surf Shack!!!! Also, please don’t confuse with Surf Shack by Lahaina. It is a different company.
      Written February 3, 2024
    • Shesculpt
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fantastic Family Surfing Experience
      Nine of our family members ages 9-40 wanted to try surfing. I read through several surf lesson choices and choose Surf Shack in Kihei. I contacted Mark to figure out how to book since a group of 9 wasn't a choice. He was present when we arrived and we were greeted warmly. Two instructors were assigned (and another family of 3 joined us with our consent). Both instructors, Sophia and Segundo were friendly, energetic, and supportive. They provided on land instruction first and got everyone surfing in a really short amount of time. Our two little guys struggled with getting back out to surf again and the instructors were great about providing extra aid. There was a photographer that was assigned and took great pictures--of course they were for sale at the end of our experience and we happily purchased these action photos. We wouldn't hesitate to do this activity again! Thanks Mark and team.
      Written June 18, 2023
    • cjr472
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Over the top fun!
      J J was our instructor and he was awesome. Newly arrived from Argentina, he was confident, friendly and a GREAT instructor. We all were able to get up and SURF! He would not let anyone fail - gave step-by-step instructions so we would be successful. A wonderful trip.
      Written January 7, 2023
    • GlobeTrotting784500
      0 contributions
      3.0 of 5 bubbles
      Better breaks South end of Kalama park
      Our instructor wasn't much of instructing. More of pushing the board to get you going. At least kids had fun, but if you really want to learn, maybe start with the beginning lesson; however, considering their so-so attitude, I suppose, maybe not the best choice either. We went August 2019. Maybe things are better now? Schools to the south of Kalama park have better water real estate with better breaks so I would consider them instead.
      Written January 3, 2021
    • 160jj
      0 contributions
      4.0 of 5 bubbles
      Paddleboarding
      Overall it was a good experience, but it took most of the first hour before we even got into the water. We understand learning the basics on land but the other stuff became frustrating. After we got on the board we learn and enjoyed our selves.
      Written March 4, 2020
    • Tony D
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      AWESOME DAY
      Moved to Maui recently and decided, at the ripe young age of 50, to learn SUP surfing. Went out today with James and had a blast!!!!!! Actually caught 5 waves, yes I was counting. He's very knowledgeable and super fun to hang with. I'll definitely be doing some more surfing with him.
      Written February 12, 2020
    • kevinsanrafael
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      great price and service on surfboard rental
      rented a long board and a paddle board from this surf shack @ 1993 S Kihei Rd Ste 12, Kihei, HI 96753 prices were great , service and surfing advice from Dan was excellent . will definately return to this shop on my next maui vacation .
      Written January 2, 2020
    • karlar333
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      SUP lesson
      Ashley was my SUP instructor and she was amazing and very encouraging. I had an amazing time. Shane was in the shop and booked my lesson and very helpful and I had a great experience I highly recommend the team at the Surf Shack at the Mona Kai resort. Mahalo
      Written November 5, 2019
    • Taylor S
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Alex p
      Alex was an excellent instructor. I didn’t think I’d get the hang of it so fast. He made it super easy to learn.
      Written October 5, 2019
    • Seema K
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Surfing in two hours
      Having never surfed before at the age of 57 i was quite a nervous mum. Our instructor Andrew was so patient an encouraging that by the end of a beginners lesson we were up riding the Waves. Would highly recommend.
      Written August 16, 2019
    • amyneu02
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Best surf experience around !
      A must do in Maui ! James, Church and the rest of the crew were amazing. My teens (17 and 14) had surfed before in Cali so James just did a quick review and off they went. Surfing with Church was a first for them and an amazing adventure. And Kylee’s in water photos were incredible ! If I could give 6 stars I would 👍🏻🙌
      Written July 25, 2019
    • sara l
      0 contributions
      1.0 of 5 bubbles
      The guy running the desk is the worst
      We stopped in to rent SUP at the Mana Kai location last week. 4 families, looking to rent 7 boards in total. The guy at the counter of this location was so incredibly dismissive and rude. He had no interest in making a sale, even though we were the only customers around. He said it was an inconvenience as he would have to shut down his shop to get the boards for us. Wha?? Sorry...that’s your job. We had asked about renting boards the day before and the fellow at the counter was really pleasant...didn’t say a word about making a reservation. Not sure what this guys problem was. Literally not one word of instruction or advice. I would not rent from this location again.
      Written March 31, 2019
    • Andrea V
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fantastic surf lessons
      My two teens took surf lessons from James at the Surf Shack last week and had a fabulous time. First time ever surfing and they were up on their boards looking like pros in no time! I highly recommend the Surf Shack for anyone looking for lessons while in Maui!
      Written March 31, 2019
    • Harry_Dumptruck
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Surfing with Turtles
      For those in south Maui looking for the surfing experience, this is the place to go - no need to drive to Lahaina! I and my 15 & 13 year old boys enjoyed a semi private lesson with Jae (Jay?) this morning and it was exactly what we were looking for. Great beginning surfing area and Jae navigated us through the other groups with ease. She had an energetic mix of coaching, guiding and teaching that helped each of us pick things up at our own pace and take that step from beginner to riding the wave all the way in. Oh, and did I mention the turtles? Constant companions in the surfing area. Great place, great guide, great experience!
      Written March 30, 2019
    • Pappa831
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Surfn with church
      My granddaughters had a great time with church , and james.church is the best instructor james was so great with my girls . Cant wait to go back and surf with church (Bailey, jade, pappa )
      Written March 28, 2019
    See all 431 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

    Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

    Popular mentions

    5.0
    5.0 of 5 bubbles282 reviews
    Excellent
    262
    Very good
    15
    Average
    4
    Poor
    1
    Terrible
    0

    Kristiana Z
    4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    May 2021 • Couples
    Awesome surf lesson w/ Kyle! First time surfing and got to ride a bunch of waves. Class started with brief instruction on the beach and we spent 90 min or so in the water. Beach was a bit rocky with lots of coral (think: battle scars!). Pics were $70 for both me and my husband but worth it as evidence that we stood up on first waves!
    Written May 27, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Wendy J
    9 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Apr 2022
    My husband and 2 teen daughters took lessons here with Nico? Nick? (they couldn't agree on the instructors name!), one morning while we were in Maui. They LOVED it! And all three of them were surfing by the middle of the lesson. It was super smooth check in, instructions, and help while they were out in the water. They have photos for sale at the end, it was around $90 and we got a couple hundred pictures. To me it was worth it because the videos I took were from the beach, but these pictures were taken in the water, up close and personal. They had such a fun time, they went back the next two mornings and rented boards and surfed!
    Written April 17, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    goneabroad4ever
    San Francisco, CA11 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Aug 2021
    I didn't surf but my teen did. I can speak about the booking and atmosphere. The on water experience is from my teen. The instructors were helpful and encouraging. There were 4 people to 1 instructor. He was helpful with finding the right spot to get started.

    My athletic teen was indeed surfing after the 2nd attempt to get up on the board. The waves were small and calm. The water is shallow enough to stand up in it. There were a lot of people out there learning to surf from the different surf shops.

    The cheering section of family and friends hung out at the edge of the park with excellent views. If you have a long telephoto lens, you'll definitely get some good candid shots. If not, there were water photographers out there snapping pics. You can look at them and opt to purchase them for $45 for all of the pics, not just one. My teen had about 48 pics. Not all were Insta-worthy but nonetheless, I was happy to have them.

    There are Venmo options to tip the instructors. Yes, don't forget to tip them!! They're working hard out there. Thank you for a memorable experience!!
    Written August 15, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Stephanie K
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Mar 2022
    Excellent instruction, plenty of time, and so much fun. Our instructor, Bo had all three of our family members (21, 18, and 14-first time surfers) up within minutes of being in the water. Gave hints to make each run better and better. They loved every minute! Our favorite experience in all our island visits.
    Written March 28, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    joshsL9627QU
    Atlanta, United States3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Everyone in the family loves this! I was concerned that I might not be able to get up on the waves but even I was successful :). Our instructor Sean gave us very good instructions and a great demo on land prior to going out and he was very helpful in picking out waves for us to take. He also kept a close eye on my 12 year old who honestly turned out to be the best surfer in the group—she rode every wave all the way in and never fell! My other two teens loved it too and they’re all ready to go back out there. This was a very fun activity that the whole family enjoyed. Thank you Sean for your help, my family are surf lovers now!
    Written May 31, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Naomi B
    New York City, NY4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jul 2021 • Solo
    Good experience. The instructors are knowledgeable and try to ensure each surfer gets up at least once. You will probably get up several times though which is fun. once you get out on the water, the surf community here is encouraging. They cheer for each other and everyone is just having a good time. Be cautious about the rocks but the surf shack provides booties. The photographer Sebastian takes good photos that you can keep as memories
    Written July 12, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    MTManToo
    Stevensville, MT305 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    May 2022
    We booked 2 of our grandsons, who are seven years old and nine years old into a group lesson.

    It turned out to be a wonderful experience for both boys and they had a great time. We were so pleasantly surprised when both of them got up surfing on the board their first try. I so wish I could remember the name of the instructor since he did a wonderful job.

    We actually rented a board after that for a couple hours, and even though the instructor was with the next group, he still took time to give the boys a few more pointers!

    This is great fun for the kids, they had a great experience, and this is where we will come when other grandchildren come out to visit!
    Written May 31, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Brook F
    6 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    May 2023
    Took my 13 & 14 year old for their first surf experience - Mike, Jessica and the team could not have been nicer. The kids caught plenty of waves, Mike was a patient and supportive instructor and I can't say enough nice things about the overall experience. The boys went from being nervous to pestering me to buy them a surfboard in less than 2 hours :) Highly recommended if you're looking for a great value, great quality surfing experience in Kihei.
    Written May 21, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Benjamin C
    Tucson, AZ3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Oct 2021 • Couples
    We were first time surfer, and I laugh because on our way to our two hour lesson we joked that we would have to practice getting up on the board on the grass for an hour before getting into the water. (Watch too many movies) However, that was not the case, of course we did practice that for a max of five minutes. Ashley was great with our group! She offered helpful suggestions to how we could improve in the water; both my husband and I were more than 60% successful paddling and riding out the wave!
    Great time, we would definitely come back to rent boards!
    Written October 12, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Turtle
    6 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Mar 2020 • Family
    We had so much fun learning to surf from James and Church! First time trying out surfing and while I would not say I am near a pro, I can say I did it and would want to go again... in fact we are planning on surfing again this morning. James did and an excellent job making us feel safe and made a fun connection with each of us in our group of four. He gave us our nicknames as he got to know us. He was encouraging and his individual instruction was done in a confidence building manner. I wasn’t so sure at the beginning I would be able to get up let let alone with a dog on my board. Thanks Church! Thank you James for the fun!

    Virginia and Turtle
    Written March 11, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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    *Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

    Group Surf Lesson: Two Hours of Beginners Instruction in Kihei provided by Surf Shack

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