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Experience Maui’s waves with a private group surf lesson near Lahaina. Perfect for beginners, personalized instruction, guaranteed to stand up and surf.
If you’re considering dipping your toes into the surf or elevating your beginner skills while in Maui, this private group surf lesson might be just what you’re looking for. Offered by Rivers to the Sea LLC, this 90-minute session is designed for groups of 3 to 5 people, making it ideal for families, friends, or couples who want a personalized, fun, and memorable introduction to surfing.
What we really like about this experience is how it guarantees each participant will stand up on their board—yes, the instructor promises it. Plus, with all the gear included—rash guards, soft-top boards, reef shoes—you won’t have to worry about a thing. However, it’s worth noting that this is a very focused, small-group activity; if you’re seeking a relaxed, less structured experience or want transportation included, you might need to plan ahead.
This lesson suits beginners or intermediate surfers looking for a supportive, private environment where they can learn at their own pace. It’s especially popular with families and small groups wanting a fun bonding activity with professional guidance.
The tour begins at a designated meeting point in Lahaina, where you’ll meet your professional instructor—most likely a seasoned surfer with a knack for teaching beginners. The check-in process is straightforward, and you’ll be handed your gear—a clean, SPF-50 rash guard, a state-of-the-art soft-top board, and reef shoes. These inclusions ensure comfort and protection, letting you focus solely on catching your first waves.
The first part of the lesson involves safety and water awareness. Your instructor will talk about how to stay safe in the surf, emphasizing the importance of respecting the ocean and understanding wave conditions. This is especially reassuring for first-timers who might be nervous about the water.
Next, the instructor guides your group through paddling techniques. They’ll demonstrate how to position yourself on the board, use your arms efficiently, and move with the water. Many reviews highlight the patience and clarity of the teachers, with one guest noting, “Jason was very informative, a very good teacher and helped us learn. He was great and very patient with us.”
The core of the lesson is practicing catching waves. Depending on the conditions, your instructor will help you identify the best waves to ride, and will give you tips on timing and positioning. Expect plenty of hands-on guidance and encouragement. As one reviewer said, “We all learned the techniques from her and kids were doing great on the wave.” The instructor’s goal is not just to teach you technique but to boost confidence—many participants leave with a big smile and a sense of accomplishment.
The highlight? Most guests leave having stood up on a wave. The instructor guarantees it, which is a confidence booster and makes the experience feel very rewarding. As one reviewer put it, “Everyone was able to get up on their boards and surf the waves multiple times during the lesson.”
Post-surf, you’ll likely rinse off and pack your gear. The entire experience lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, balancing enough time to learn and practice without fatigue.
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One of the best features of this tour is its small size. With just five participants, your instructor can provide dedicated, individualized feedback. Several reviews emphasize how this personal attention helped even the most nervous surfers feel comfortable and successful. For example, a guest mentioned, “Kain was super nice, helpful, and patient. My sister even got her own wave without help!”
This intimacy also means less waiting around and more time on the water, which is especially important for beginners eager to catch more waves. The small group setting fosters camaraderie—many guests note how sharing the surf with friends or family adds to the fun.
All necessary gear is provided, removing the hassle of bringing your own equipment. The rash guard keeps you protected from the sun and potential scrapes, while reef shoes offer foot protection when entering or exiting the water. The soft-top surfboards are designed for stability and ease of use, giving you the best chance to stand up early in your surfing journey.
Guests describe the gear as “brand new” and “state-of-the-art,” which adds comfort and confidence. The instructor will also give tips on how to handle the boards, making you feel secure even if you’re new to surfing.
At $123.95 per person, this private lesson offers good value considering the personalized instruction, all gear, and the guarantee of standing up. Compared to larger group lessons, you’re paying a premium for privacy and tailored coaching, but many reviews suggest that the small group size and attention-to-detail make it worth the cost.
The 90-minute duration is sufficient for beginners to grasp basic techniques and enjoy multiple waves, especially with an instructor dedicated to your group. For families or friends wanting a special experience, this is a cost-effective way to make lasting memories and learn a new skill together.
This tour is ideal for beginners or those at an intermediate level who want a private, supportive environment. It’s especially suitable for families with children over seven, or small groups looking for a fun, bonding activity. If you prefer an activity with guaranteed success and minimal hassle, this lesson offers both.
For a more personal experience, these private Maui tours deliver individual attention
In the end, this private Maui surf lesson stands out as a well-organized, friendly, and effective way to learn to surf in a small-group setting. The inclusion of all gear, the guarantee to stand up, and the personalized instruction make it a compelling choice for first-timers and those looking to refine their technique. It’s clear from the numerous positive reviews that participants often leave feeling proud and eager to hit the waves again.
While it might not be ideal for travelers seeking an all-inclusive package with transportation or longer sessions, for those wanting a focused, fun, and educational surf experience, this tour hits the mark. It offers real value, quality instruction, and the chance to connect with Maui’s surf culture in a relaxed setting.
If you’re after a memorable introduction to surfing, want a small-group experience with dedicated teachers, and prefer having all your gear taken care of, this lesson is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suitable for families, friends, or couples who want to share a unique adventure and come away with a story to tell.
Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, it’s designed for beginners and intermediate surfers, with instructors experienced in teaching new surfers.
Are all necessary surf gear included?
Yes, you’ll receive a rash guard, a soft-top surfboard, and reef shoes—everything you need for a safe, comfortable lesson.
How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 3 to 5 participants, allowing for personalized coaching and plenty of wave time.
What is the duration of the lesson?
The lesson lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing ample time to learn, practice, and catch waves.
Do I need to bring anything?
No, all gear is provided, but bringing your own sunscreen is recommended as it’s not included.
Where does the lesson start?
The meeting point is at Hawaii 30HI-30 in Lahaina, a convenient spot near the water.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.
This Maui surf lesson offers a friendly, focused, and fun introduction to the sport, backed by enthusiastic reviews and a guarantee of success. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, it promises a memorable day on the waves with professional guidance and all the gear included.