Planning a trip to Oahu with your family and interested in learning to surf? You’re in for an unforgettable adventure. Known as the birthplace of modern surfing, Oahu offers beginner-friendly waves, warm water year-round, and experienced instructors who specialize in teaching all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a first-timer looking to ride your first wave or helping your kids find their sea legs, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about surfing lessons for beginners on Oahu.
Best Spots for Beginner Surf Lessons on Oahu
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is undoubtedly the most popular place for beginner surf lessons on Oahu. Its long, rolling waves are ideal for learning the basics of balance and paddling. With soft sand underfoot and plenty of surf schools lining the beach, it’s perfect for families and first-timers.
Canoes
Located at the eastern end of Waikiki, Canoes is a favorite spot for surfing lessons due to its consistent, gentle waves. This break is ideal for kids and adults alike, offering a safe and fun introduction to surfing without strong currents or big drops.
Tonggs Beach
For those staying in the Diamond Head area, Tonggs Beach provides smaller crowds and beginner-friendly waves. It’s a more relaxed learning environment but still close to Waikiki’s surf shops and instructors.
What to Expect During Your Lesson
Most beginner surf lessons last between 1.5 to 2 hours, starting with a beachside briefing where your instructor will go over safety, surf etiquette, and basic techniques. You’ll learn how to paddle, pop up, and balance before hitting the water. Group lessons are great for families or those wanting to learn together, while private lessons offer more personalized attention.
What to Bring
- Sunscreen: Choose a reef-safe sunscreen like our mineral-based sunscreen from Coco Botanicals, which protects your skin without harming Hawaii’s delicate coral reefs.
- Swimsuit or rash guard: Comfort and sun protection are key.
- Towel and change of clothes
- Water and snacks to stay energized
Top-Rated Surf Schools for Beginners
- Ohana Surf Project: Offers personalized attention and small group lessons tailored to all ages. Located in Waikiki.
- Hawaii Surf Guru: Private lessons available for kids and families with a strong emphasis on water safety.
- Kahu Surf School: A locally owned school with family-friendly instructors and excellent beginner packages.
- Hans Hedemann Surf School: One of the most established surf schools on Oahu, with multiple locations and top-notch instructors.
Best Time of Year for Surf Lessons
Oahu offers year-round surfing opportunities, but the South Shore (including Waikiki) sees its calmest and most consistent beginner waves from May through September. These summer months bring warm water, sunny skies, and ideal small wave conditions perfect for learning. That said, winter days can also be great for beginners, particularly on the south and west shores when the north swells shift elsewhere.
Safety Tips for Beginner Surfers
- Always surf with a certified instructor for your first few sessions.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen like Coco Botanicals to protect both your skin and the marine ecosystem.
- Listen to your instructor and follow surf etiquette—share waves, respect locals, and be patient.
- Make sure you’re using the right equipment: a soft-top longboard is best for stability and safety.
- Stay hydrated and take breaks if you get tired. Surfing is a full-body workout!
Making Surfing Part of Your Oahu Adventure
Adding surfing lessons to your Oahu itinerary creates fun, enriching memories that the whole family can enjoy together. Surfing not only provides a great physical activity but also connects you to Hawaiian culture and the natural beauty of the island’s coastline. Local instructors often share traditional Hawaiian surf history during lessons, creating an experience that’s both educational and exciting.
No matter where you choose to learn, remember to respect the ocean and preserve its beauty for future generations. Start by using ocean-safe products like Coco Botanicals’ reef-safe mineral sunscreen. It’s good for your skin, and even better for the planet.
Surf’s up—now go catch that first wave!