Oahu: Waikiki Private Surf Lesson For Groups (2 or more)

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave in Hawaii, a private group surf lesson in Waikiki might just be your best bet. This experience is designed for those wanting a more tailored, intimate introduction to surfing, with professional instructors guiding you every step of the way. Whether you’re traveling as a family, with friends, or just a couple eager to learn together, this lesson promises a safe, fun, and personalized way to enjoy the ocean.

What we love about this experience is the personalized attention—with a 4:1 guest-to-instructor ratio, you won’t feel lost in a crowd. Plus, it’s run by instructors trained by Jamie OBrien, a well-known Pipe Master, which speaks to the quality of teaching. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the age requirement—children under 11 need a private lesson, which might be less convenient if you’re a family with younger kids. Still, this experience is best suited for groups of two or more who want to learn in a supportive environment, making it ideal for beginners or those looking for a relaxed, social vibe.

Key Points

• Personalized instruction with a 4:1 guest-to-instructor ratio for maximum attention
• All equipment provided, including rashguards, reef shoes, and surfboards
• Photos and videos available for capturing your surfing milestones
• Ideal for groups, families, and couples, especially those wanting a private lesson
• Location convenience in Waikiki, with secure lockers and nearby parking options
• Age restrictions apply: children 11+ can join group lessons, younger kids need private sessions

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Waikiki Private Surf Lesson

Starting Point: The Location and Check-In

The adventure begins at the Jamie OBrien School of Surf, conveniently located on the ground floor of the Twin Fin Hotel on Kalakaua Avenue, directly across from Waikiki Beach. This prime spot is easy to find, and the proximity to the beach means you’re ready to hit the water quickly. The check-in process is smooth—arrive 15 minutes early, and you’ll find secure lockers to stash your belongings safely, so you don’t have to worry about your stuff while you’re paddling out.

Parking can be either valet at the hotel (the recommended choice for convenience) or self-parking at the nearby Honolulu Zoo. If you opt for the zoo, just make sure to pay at the automated machines for at least 2.5 hours, since that aligns with your lesson duration. The walk from the zoo is about five minutes, so plan accordingly.

The Lesson Breakdown: Land and Water

The lesson spans about 1.5 hours, starting with a land-based introduction lasting 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, your instructor will cover ocean safety, basic surfing techniques, and how to properly use your equipment. This is where you learn the fundamentals—paddle position, stance, and wave selection—key skills that will give you confidence in the water.

Once on the sand, the instructor will tailor the session to your skill level. Whether you’re a total newbie or have some experience, you’ll get personalized tips on paddling, stance, and when to pop up. This land instruction phase isn’t just filler; it’s the foundation upon which your success in the water depends.

In the Ocean: Catching Waves

After the land lesson, it’s time to hit the surf. Thanks to the 4:1 instructor-to-guest ratio, you’ll receive plenty of one-on-one attention as you paddle out and try to catch your first waves. The instructors are deeply passionate about surfing and the ocean, often sharing stories and tips that go beyond the technical, making the whole experience more memorable.

Many reviews highlight the personalized coaching—one guest said, “I appreciated how the instructor really focused on my individual needs,” which made the entire experience less intimidating. The ocean session is designed to be encouraging and fun, especially for beginners. Expect a mix of waiting your turn and catching waves, with your instructor nearby to guide you through each step.

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Photos, Videos, and Memory-Making

After your water session, you can return to the shop to view photos displayed on digital screens—a great way to relive your accomplishments. For those wanting to keep a memento, the shop offers the option to purchase a personal video, capturing your moments of glory and perhaps some hilarious wipeouts.

What’s Included and How It’s Worth It

All the necessary equipment—surfboards, rashguards, reef shoes, and surf leashes—is provided, so you don’t need to bring much beyond swimwear, a towel, and reef-safe sunscreen. The cost covers personalized instruction, equipment, photos, and the instructor’s expertise, offering good value for those wanting a quality, small-group lesson.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This private, group lesson is perfect for families with kids 11 and older, couples, or friends looking for a shared adventure. Its intimate setup means you’ll get more attention than a typical group class, making it great for first-time surfers or anyone who appreciates a more relaxed, personalized approach. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or non-swimmers, and children under 11 must take a private lesson—a factor to consider if traveling with younger kids.

Practical Tips for Your Surf Day

• Arrive early to check in and store your belongings
• Bring swimwear, towel, and reef-friendly sunscreen
• Wear loose clothing before your lesson—no alcohol or drugs, please!
• Consider parking at the hotel or zoo; the walk from the zoo takes about five minutes
• Book in advance, and remember: you can cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This lesson really shines for groups or families who want to learn together without the chaos of large classes. It’s an excellent introduction to surfing for beginners, offering a perfect balance of guidance and independence. If you’re looking for a fun, safe, and memorable way to experience Waikiki’s legendary waves, this private lesson ticks all those boxes.

However, if you’re traveling with younger children under 11, you’ll need a private lesson instead. Pregnant women and non-swimmers should probably look for alternative activities, as safety is prioritized for those capable of paddling and standing.

This experience delivers a value-packed, professionally guided surf lesson that emphasizes fun, safety, and memorable moments. It’s a superb choice for those who prefer a more personalized touch and want to learn from instructors trained by a pro surfer.

FAQs

What do I need to bring for the lesson?
You only need swimwear, a towel, and reef-safe sunscreen. The shop provides all the equipment, including rashguards, reef shoes, surfboards, and leashes.

Can children under 11 join this group lesson?
No, children under 11 are required to take a private lesson for safety reasons, but kids 11 and older can join the group.

Where is the meeting point?
The lesson starts and ends at the Jamie OBrien School of Surf on the ground floor of the Twin Fin Hotel, located on Kalakaua Avenue, across from Waikiki Beach.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, you can valet at the Twin Fin Hotel (recommended) or self-park at the Honolulu Zoo. If parking at the zoo, make sure to pay for at least 2.5 hours.

How long is the lesson?
The total experience lasts about 1.5 hours—roughly 15-20 minutes on land and the rest in the water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

This Waikiki private surf lesson offers a fantastic way to learn surfing in a relaxed, personalized environment. Perfect for groups, families, and couples eager to hang ten for the first time or improve their skills, it balances expert instruction with fun, making it one of the most worthwhile activities in Waikiki.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby