A private surf lesson offers the perfect balance of personalized coaching and plenty of time on the board, whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced surfer looking to level up. With one-on-one attention from an expert instructor, you’ll learn everything from ocean safety and paddling technique to popping up, balancing, and riding waves with confidence.

Lessons are fully tailored to your skill level, making them ideal for first-timers wanting a smooth introduction, intermediates eager to refine their fundamentals, or advanced surfers ready to push their limits. Beyond the technical tips, you’ll gain a deeper connection with the ocean and its rhythm—a signature part of the surfing lifestyle in Hawaii. All equipment, including surfboard, rash guard, and reef shoes, is provided, so you can focus on soaking in the iconic Waikiki views and the thrill of gliding across the water.

Any restrictions to participate?

• Age: Suitable for ages 2–90.
• Health limitations: Not recommended for pregnant travelers or travelers with back problems.
• Physical limitations: Participants should be able to swim; if not, a private lesson may be required (advise staff in advance).
• Experience level: All levels are welcome; instruction is customized to skill and goals.

Who can you accommodate for?

• Children: Children under 12 must be accompanied to check-in and check-out by a parent/guardian (guardian does not need to participate).
• Individuals with disabilities: Stroller and wheelchair accessible with notice; lessons can be adapted and private lessons are recommended for specialized support.
• Languages: Waiver/registration available in English, Japanese, Korean, and Mandarin.

What to expect on the day of the experience?

• Duration: Up to 2 hours; the experience may go slightly longer based on participant engagement.
• What’s included: Surfboard, long-sleeve rashguard, reef shoes, safe storage for belongings, and transportation to/from designated Waikiki pickup points.
• Who will be present: Professional instructors (CPR/lifeguard/first aid trained). Your private group only
• Spectators: Friends and family are welcome to watch from the beach.
• Photo/ video: Souvenir photos and videos available for purchase (prepay discounts may apply).
• Specific rules to follow: Follow instructor guidance and ocean safety instructions at all times.

How to prepare?

• Weather dependency: Runs rain or shine; in rare unsafe ocean conditions, sessions may be rescheduled or refunded.
• Arrival: Check in 20 minutes before lesson start at the Ohana Surf Center inside the Waikiki Beach Marriott Hotel (2552 Kalākaua Ave p159/p160).
• Parking: Parking available at/near the Waikiki Beach Marriott Hotel (availability and fees may vary).
• What to wear: Swimwear; reef-safe sunscreen is required in Hawaiʻi.
• What to bring: Towel; optional change of clothes; cash/credit card for gratuities, photo packages, or wetsuit rentals; seasickness remedy if prone.
• Restrooms/ lockers/ changing rooms: Secure storage for personal items is provided at the shop.

Anything else I should know before going on this experience?

• Courtesy shuttle pickups are offered from four Waikiki locations (Ilikai Hotel, Romer Waikiki at the Ambassador, Don Ho Lane Van Depot, Hyatt Regency).
• Please complete the online waiver before arrival (one per adult; minors included on a parent/guardian’s form).
• Wetsuits available to rent; tips are appreciated but not required.
• Marine life may be present (sea turtles, fish, etc.); jellyfish encounters are rare.

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 14 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds are allowed once the experience is booked, but you can reschedule up to 48 hours before your experience, for a date within a year of the original booking. To reschedule, contact the experience provider directly. No-shows or rescheduling less than 48 hours in advance means losing the value of your experience.