Kauai’s beautiful coastlines and natural beauty make it one of Hawaii’s most popular tourist destinations. The island is also a top surfing destination, popular with locals, top surfing professional surfers and beginners discovering the thrill of the sport.
Surf lessons give you the flexibility so you can learn the basics of surfing and see if you enjoy it, without committing to a surf camp. Below, we’ve selected five of the best schools and lessons from across Kaui, taking into account past reviews, experience level, and price.
Kauai: Small Group Surf Lesson on Poipu Beach
FROM: $98/per person
This 75-minute lesson packs in learning, practising and world-class coaching by Kauai’s popular Poipu beach. Surfers can expect mild waves here, making it the perfect location for beginners. This group experience will introduce participants to the basics of surfing, covering information on the ocean’s swell and reefs, and sharing practical surf tips on how to handle your board and build your skills. All instructors are highly trained and experienced. A maximum of two participants make up these classes, and the price includes the rental of surf equipment.
Kauai: Personalised Surf Lessons with World Class Instructor
From $330/ per person
Increase your surf knowledge, confidence, awareness, and technique during this personalised surf class. Lessons can be booked as a private one-to-one session or for groups of a minimum of two. Over one and a half hours, instructors take participants out on the beautiful waters of Poipu beach; this class covers surf technique, ocean awareness and identifies the best surf spots and swells to ride. Instructors are fully qualified, and the price includes rental of all equipment: surfboards, rash guards, and leashes. Whether it’s your first time surfing, or you’ve got a lot of experience and simply want to hone your technique, instructors can adapt classes to suit your needs.
Surf Lesson in Sunny Po’ipu
From $80/ per person
The team at Hoku Water Sports specialise in giving lessons to small groups. They provide personal attention and enthusiasm, which makes them a popular choice amongst travellers. Eight participants make up each group, where instructors take guests through the basics of surfing: paddling, getting up and surfing a wave, before getting out on the water to practise. Participants will receive a safety briefing, and all equipment required is included in the price. The school advises that participants have a moderate fitness level to take part in these lessons, which are roughly one and a half hours long.
Kauai Learn to Surf Lesson – Private & Group Lessons
From $104/ per person
Take surf lessons at Hanalei Bay, whether you want to build your surf knowledge or introduce yourself to the water-sport for the first time. A maximum of four people make up each two-hour class; this ensures participants receive the personalised instruction and attention required to enhance their surf skills. Instructors are local surfing experts and certified professionals able to share their personal experiences and guidance. The price covers surf equipment, and these lessons include some extra time, at the end of the class, to practise further and enjoy the water.
Kauai’s Ultimate Semi-Private Surf Lesson
From $173/ per person
This surf class provides you with everything you need to surf: from surf equipment to instruction and experience on the waves. Ideally suited to beginners, these lessons begin with a short introduction to the sport on the beach. This covers the fundamentals of surfing and key safety protocols, then surfers head out onto the waves on the southern shore of the island. Semi-private surf classes host a maximum of two people, ensuring participants receive personalised attention and guidance. Classes take place every two hours, between 9 am and 3 pm, and the price includes all surf equipment.