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

A Personalized Surfing Experience in Waikiki: Jamie OBrien’s Private Group Lessons

Imagine gliding onto your first wave in Waikiki, surrounded by the energy of Hawaii’s most iconic beach. For those craving a tailored surfing experience, the Jamie OBrien School of Surf offers a 1.5-hour private group lesson that’s perfect for couples, families, or friends. Led by instructors trained by Pipe Master Jamie OBrien, this lesson promises personalized attention, safety, and the chance to make some unforgettable memories.

What sets this apart? First, the small 4:1 guest-to-instructor ratio ensures you get plenty of guidance without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd. Second, the bonus of professional photos and videos helps you relive the thrill long after you’ve left Waikiki. That said, if you’re traveling with young children under 11, note that they need a private lesson for safety reasons—so this experience is best suited for guests 11 and older.

A minor consideration is the parking options—valet is recommended at the Twin Fin Hotel, or you could self-park at the nearby Honolulu Zoo, which requires pre-payment and a short walk. This activity works best for those who want a relaxed, focused, and fun introduction to surfing, especially if you’re eager for personalized coaching in a safe and well-equipped environment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Personalized Instruction: Small 4:1 guest-to-instructor ratio ensures tailored coaching.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Rashguard, reef shoes, surfboard, and leash provided.
• Memories Preserved: Photos and videos captured by a personal videographer.
• Convenient Location: Starts and ends at the flagship shop across from Waikiki Beach.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with full cancellation up to 24 hours ahead.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for those 11 and older; private lessons for younger children.

The Location and Setup: Starting Point for Waikiki Surfing

The Jamie OBrien School of Surf is conveniently situated on the ground floor of the Twin Fin Hotel, right on Kalakaua Avenue. This prime spot puts you directly across from the famous Waikiki Beach, making it easy to access and highly visible. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at the shop, where staff will provide secure lockers—a simple but crucial feature for stashing your clothes, wallets, and keys safely while you surf.

The location’s centrality also means that you’re close to parking options. While valet parking at the Twin Fin Hotel is recommended for convenience, you can also choose to self-park at the nearby Honolulu Zoo. Keep in mind that if using the zoo lot, you’ll need to pay for parking at the machine, and the walk to the shop is about five minutes down Kalakaua Avenue, which can be a charming stretch of your Hawaiian adventure.

The Itinerary: From Land to Wave

Once checked in, the lesson begins with a 15-20 minute land session. This part is all about setting the foundation: ocean safety, basic surfing techniques, and how to use your gear. The instructor, likely someone with a passion for surfing and a knack for teaching, will personally tailor this intro to your comfort and skill level. Expect to learn how to paddle, find your stance, select the right wave, and practice the all-important pop-up.

Following the land instruction, it’s time for the real fun—in the water. The instructor will help you catch your first waves, with the 4:1 guest-to-instructor ratio making sure you get plenty of hands-on guidance. The personalized coaching means you won’t feel rushed, and you’re encouraged to ask questions and enjoy the learning process.

Throughout the water session, instructors will focus on paddling techniques, wave selection, and pop-up timing—skills that, once acquired, can help you enjoy surfing long after the lesson. Many reviews mention how supportive and encouraging the instructors are, helping even total beginners feel confident. One guest noted, “The instructor’s patience and tips really made all the difference.”

Photos and Videos: Reliving the Highlights

After your wave-riding adventure, you’ll return to the shop where digital screens display photos of your session. You can select the shots you like best, perfect for sharing with friends or keeping as souvenirs. Plus, a personal videographer captures clips of your surfing, allowing you to relive the excitement again and again.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Appreciate This Experience?

This private lesson is ideal for groups of 2 or more, especially if you’re looking for a personalized, focused introduction to surfing. It’s perfect for families with children over 11, couples seeking a shared adventure, or groups of friends eager to try something new with expert guidance. Keep in mind that children under 11 will need a private lesson for safety reasons, making this a good choice for those with older kids or teenagers.

Travelers who value quality instruction, safety, and memorable photos will find this a worthwhile activity. However, if you’re traveling with very young children or pregnant women, this activity might not be suitable. Also, those who prefer a self-guided or less structured experience might find the focus on structured lessons a bit too tight.

Breaking Down the Cost and Value

At approximately 1.5 hours, this lesson offers a great balance of time and instruction. The price, which includes all equipment, professional coaching, lockers, and photo/video keepsakes, provides a strong value—especially when compared to the cost of renting gear and taking a group lesson on your own. The personalized attention makes it worth considering if you want to maximize your chances of standing up on your first wave.

The opportunity to capture memories in photos and video adds a fun, tangible element to your experience. Many reviews highlight how these keepsakes become treasured souvenirs, bringing the thrill of Waikiki back to life long after your trip.

What the Experience Feels Like

Imagine standing on your board with the crisp ocean breeze in your face, feeling the wave lift you as your instructor encourages you with a nod and a smile. The first time you catch a wave, the rush of excitement is unmistakable. The instructor’s support ensures that even when you fall, it’s all part of the fun and learning.

In the water, you become part of a small community of learners, each sharing in the joy of discovering how to surf. The personalized coaching means you’ll get specific tips on how to improve your stance or paddle more efficiently, making future surf sessions more confident and enjoyable.

The photos and videos serve as tangible proof of your achievement—your first wave, your stance, your smile. These little moments, captured professionally, turn a simple lesson into a lifetime memory.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Surf Lesson for You?

For travelers looking for a semi-private, beginner-friendly introduction to surfing in Waikiki, this experience ticks many boxes. It’s well-suited for those who want personalized coaching, photos to remember, and a safe, supportive environment. The location’s convenience and the professional equipment provided make it straightforward and hassle-free.

If you’re traveling with older children or teenagers, or if you’re part of a group that appreciates small-group attention, this lesson offers good value. Those seeking a fun, educational, and memorable introduction to the waves will likely come away with both skills and stories to tell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this activity suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the lesson is designed for beginners, with instructors providing step-by-step guidance to help you get up on your first wave.

Can children under 11 participate in this group lesson?
No, children under 11 need to take a private lesson for safety reasons. This group lesson is best suited for guests aged 11 and older.

What do we need to bring?
Just bring your swimwear, reef-friendly sunscreen, and a towel. Equipment like rashguards, reef shoes, and surfboards are provided.

Where does the lesson start and end?
All sessions begin and conclude at the flagship shop located on the ground floor of the Twin Fin Hotel, directly across from Waikiki Beach.

Is parking easy?
Parking options include valet at the hotel or self-parking at the Honolulu Zoo, which requires pre-payment and is about a five-minute walk away.

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

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all equipment, personal coaching, secure lockers, and photos/videos of your session.

Is this experience suitable for pregnant women or non-swimmers?
No, pregnant women and non-swimmers are advised not to participate for safety reasons.

Final Words

If you’re after a personalized, fun, and memorable way to start your surfing journey in Waikiki, this private group lesson offers excellent value. It combines professional instruction, safety, and a friendly environment, making it especially attractive for those who want to learn in a relaxed yet supportive setting. Whether you’re traveling as a family, with friends, or as a couple, this experience provides a perfect blend of adventure and education—plus, a few great photos to prove it.

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