Kihei, Maui: 2-Hour Beginner Surfing Class

If you’ve ever dreamed of catching your first wave in Hawaii, this Kihei beginner surfing class might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally tried it, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a relaxed, informative, and genuinely enjoyable experience suitable for newbies and those wanting a taste of surf life.

What makes this class stand out? First, the friendly and knowledgeable guides who tailor the pace to your needs, second, the warm Maui waters that make learning more comfortable, and third, the emphasis on small group instruction which ensures plenty of individual attention. The only potential downside? The class is designed for those able to swim and confident in the ocean—so if you’re not comfortable with water or have health restrictions, this might not be the best fit.

This experience would suit beginners, families with older children, or anyone looking for a fun intro to surfing that balances safety with a good dose of adventure. If you’re after a relaxed, welcoming environment with professional guidance, you’ll likely find this class a worthwhile investment.

Good To Know

• Safety and Comfort: Provided equipment and a thorough safety briefing make it beginner-friendly.
• Personalized Instruction: The class is paced to each student’s ability, ensuring no one feels rushed.
• All Equipment Included: Surfboard, water shoes, and SPF 50 lycra shirt are provided, taking the hassle out of planning.
• Ideal for First-Timers: Designed for ages 11 and up, requiring swimming ability and ocean comfort.
• Value for Money: Small group lessons and dedicated guides make this a good deal.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel easily within 24 hours for a full refund.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience Breakdown

Meeting and Preparation

Your adventure begins at Kalama Beach Park in Kihei, a well-known spot with mellow waves perfect for beginners. The check-in process is straightforward—look for the SURF CLUB MAUI van parked in the main lot, across from the Aloha Gas station. Once you arrive, you’ll meet your instructor and be fitted with all necessary gear, including your surfboard, water shoes, and SPF 50 lycra shirt.

The guides, who speak clear English and are praised for their friendliness, give a quick safety briefing and introduce you to the basics of surfing. This includes fundamental safety tips and a simple rundown of how to paddle, pop up on the board, and ride the gentle waves.

The Beach Lesson

After the initial intro, you’ll move to the sandy shoreline for a safety demonstration and a short lesson on the beach. The instructors emphasize pacing and comfort, making sure no one feels overwhelmed right from the start. The focus here is on understanding ocean rules, safety signals, and how to balance on your board.

Heading to the Water

Once on the water, you’ll be surrounded by Maui’s warm, inviting waves, which average about 78°F (25.5°C)—perfect for staying in the water longer without feeling cold. The surfboards offered are described as stability-focused and easy to ride, ideal for beginners still mastering their balance.

The instructors, including some reviews mentioning “great guidance,” help you get comfortable with paddling, catching your first wave, and standing up. They’re patient and attentive, ensuring each person gets enough practice, even if you’re slow to get that perfect pop-up. Several reviews mention the small group sizes—typically around four people—which allow for personalized feedback and encouragement.

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Learning in a Fun Environment

Participants often highlight the relaxed, friendly atmosphere and how the instructors foster a non-intimidating space. One reviewer called it “super awesome,” mentioning that surfing “worked out super fast” thanks to the great guidance from their instructor, Pedro. Others appreciated how the class was paced for each student’s needs, making it accessible whether you’re athletic or just starting out.

Post-Session and Additional Options

The session wraps up after about two hours, leaving you with a sense of achievement and some basic skills to build on. Photos of your surfing are available for purchase if you want to remember the moment, although they aren’t included in the standard package.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Small Group Size and Personalized Attention

With a maximum of four students per instructor, the class receives high-level attention. Reviewers consistently praise the kind and patient guides, like Pedro, who make the learning process smoother. This small group format ensures you get detailed feedback and individual coaching, which can be the difference between struggling and catching your wave.

Equipment and Safety

The inclusion of quality equipment—stability-focused surfboards, water shoes, and SPF shirts—ensures you’re comfortable and protected. Maui’s warm waters mean you won’t need wetsuits, and the provided gear helps keep things simple for visitors who might not own their own.

Flexibility and Convenience

Multiple start times (8 am, 10 am, 12 pm) make it easy to fit into your Maui itinerary. The ability to reserve your spot without upfront payment and cancel within 24 hours for a full refund adds flexibility—a huge plus for travelers with changing plans.

Authentic, Fun Learning Environment

The reviews reflect a genuine sense of fun and accomplishment. Many guests mention how the instructors’ kindness and patience help first-timers feel confident. Plus, the class setting encourages a relaxed, social vibe, making it more than just a lesson—it’s an enjoyable introduction to Maui’s surf culture.

Analyzing Value and Price

At $104 per person, this class offers solid value for a professionally guided, small-group experience. When you consider the included gear, the expert instruction, and the beautiful Maui backdrop, it becomes clear that it’s an investment in a memorable, beginner-friendly adventure.

Compared to private lessons, this group class balances individual attention with affordability. Reviewers called it “the best value for small-group instruction,” highlighting that you’re getting quality guidance at a reasonable price.

Who Should Consider This?

This class is best suited for ages 11 and up who are comfortable swimming and in the ocean. It’s perfect if you’re a first-timer, traveling with older kids, or simply want a relaxed way to try surfing without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a fun, safe, and professional introduction to the sport, this course hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Kihei beginner surfing class offers an excellent way to get your feet wet in Maui’s legendary waves, especially if you’re new to the sport. The small group size and experienced guides create a supportive environment where first-timers can learn quickly and confidently. The included gear and flexible scheduling make it a hassle-free choice, and the warm waters ensure comfort throughout.

Travelers seeking a value-packed, fun, and authentic introduction to surfing in a beautiful setting will find this experience rewarding. It’s suitable for those who want a safe, guided start with plenty of opportunities for photos and memories.

What really sets this course apart is the emphasis on personalized instruction and a friendly atmosphere—you’ll leave with more than just some surfing skills, but also a great story to tell.

FAQ

Is this surf lesson suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age for the group class is 11 years old. Children under 11 should reserve private or semi-private lessons.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, all necessary equipment including a surfboard, water shoes, and SPF 50 lycra shirt are provided.

What’s the best time to take this class?
Classes are generally available in the morning, with start times at 8 am, 10 am, and 12 pm, fitting nicely into most Maui itineraries.

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

What should I wear and bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water. The water is warm, so no wetsuit is necessary.

Are the lessons suitable for non-swimmers?
Participants must be able to swim and be comfortable in the ocean; non-swimmers or those with water safety concerns should consider other options.

Will I get a lot of personal attention?
Absolutely. With small group sizes and guides praised for their patience, you’ll receive plenty of individual coaching to help you succeed.

In a nutshell, this beginner surf class in Kihei is an ideal choice for travelers looking to dip their toes into the sport in a relaxed, supportive environment. With friendly guides, inclusive gear, and Maui’s warm waters, you’ll find yourself riding waves and making memories in no time.

You can check if your dates are available here: