Where to Take Surf Lessons in Maui
Have you ever dreamed of skimming across the edge of a frothing white wave? Well, to make that dream a reality, first you’ll actually have to learn how to surf. You’ll get no better opportunity than on your trip to Maui. Our waters are warm, clear, and perfect for catching waves and trying out this exciting ocean sport. …Oh, and Hawaii invented surfing, so we know what we’re talking about.
To make sure you learn the right technique and stay safe as you fight your first waves, consider signing up for a surfing lesson with a pro. It’s no surprise that on our ocean-loving island, we’ve got plenty of experts to choose from. Here are some of our recommended surf lesson shops in Maui:
Goofy Foot Surf School – Group Lessons
If you want the best price and the least amount of pressure (in case you don’t turn out to be a surfing savant), consider signing up for a group lesson at Goofy Foot Surf School. Founded by Tim Sherer, Goofy Foot has been around for over 20 years, teaching generations of travelers to soar across the water from its location in Lahaina. Goofy Foot offers everything from semi-private lessons, to private lessons and even an all-day surf camp, but if you’re just getting started, the group lesson might be best for you. Goofy Foot guarantees that every member of its two-hour group lesson will surf a wave, or you’ll get your money back.
Cost*: $65 per person for a group lesson
Hawaiian Ocean Sports – Semi-Private Lesson
This small outfit in Kalama Park in Kihei will pair you with an elite surfer to teach you the ropes of surfing. Hawaiian Ocean Sports can teach children as young as five and as old as…well, if you can paddle out into the ocean and climb on a surfboard, they can probably help you catch some waves!
Hawaiian Ocean Sports can help every level of surfer, from absolute beginners to even advanced surfers looking to fine-tune their techniques and learn new tricks. The shop offers both two hour private and semi-private lessons. The semi-private lessons are a good option if you’re looking to save money and just have fun, and if you don’t mind sharing your instructor with up to three other people.
Cost: $99 per person for a group of 2 – 4 people.
Hawaiian Paddle Sports – Private Lesson
You know you’ve come to the right place when a shop describes its surf instructors as people “for whom surfing isn’t a sport but a way of life.” Hawaiian Paddle Sports only offers two-hour private surf lessons in Kihei and Lahaina. No group lessons here. You’ll have to pay a higher cost, but you’ll also get the instructor’s full attention and customized training. Hawaiian Paddle Sports also guarantees that you’ll actually stand up on your board and surf by the end of the lesson or you’ll get your money back. That’s rad!
Cost: $199 for one guest
$139 per person for 2 – 4 guests
$119 per person for 5+ guests
* All costs are subject to change.
Maui Surfer Girls – Couples & Honeymoon Surf Package
Want to spice up your romantic Maui getaway? Then check out Maui Surfer Girls. Don’t worry, this company loves teaching both men and women to surf. The name relates to the fact that the company is female owned and employs a majority of female surf instructors. They offer group surf lessons, as well as semi-private and private lessons at Ukumehame Beach Park between Kihei and Lahaina, but their special couples package is perfect for your anniversary or honeymoon adventure. This lesson includes a photographer and even if you eat it on the waves, you’ll get to cheer yourself up with a bottle of champagne at the end!
Cost: $350 per couple