Group Surf Lesson: Two Hours of Beginners Instruction in Kihei

Start Your Maui Surfing Adventure: An In-Depth Look at the Two-Hour Group Lesson in Kihei

Imagine standing on Maui’s Kihei beach, holding a surfboard, your heart pounding with excitement—and maybe a little nervousness. That’s exactly what you get with the 2-hour beginner surf lesson offered by Surf Shack Maui. For $96 per person, you join no more than five other eager learners under the guidance of a professional instructor who promises that everyone will be riding waves by the end of the session. The class includes all the essentials: a surfboard, rash guard, water booties, and expert coaching. It’s a small-group experience designed to give beginners a real shot at catching their first wave in a safe, fun environment.

What we love about this experience is the personalized attention you receive in such a small group—maximum six students. This means more direct feedback, fewer distractions, and a better shot at standing up early on. Another highlight is the guarantee: surf in your first lesson or your next one is free. That’s a no-brainer for those who really want a shot at learning this iconic Hawaiian activity. The location on Kihei’s beaches also offers great beginner-friendly surf conditions, with gentle waves perfect for first-timers.

A potential consideration is the lack of hotel pickup and drop-off—you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at 1976 S Kihei Rd. Still, for many, the value of a well-guided, small-group lesson outweighs this minor inconvenience. This experience suits travelers who value personalized instruction, a relaxed setting, and the chance to gauge their first success in a safe, welcoming environment.

Key Points

• Small group size limits to six students for better attention
• All equipment included—surfboard, rash guard, water booties
• Guaranteed first surf or next lesson free, ensuring value
• Ideal for first-time surfers with beginner-friendly conditions
• Highly rated with over 840 reviews and a perfect 5-star average
• No hotel pickup required, just arrive at the meeting point

The Authentic Maui Surf Experience: What You Can Expect

When we first considered this surf lesson, what stood out was the focus on beginners. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by friendly staff who are clearly passionate about sharing surfing with newcomers. The location on Kihei’s shoreline is perfect—long, sandy beaches with gentle waves, making it an excellent place for your first attempts to stand on a surfboard.

Timing is straightforward: two hours, which packs enough time for instruction, practice, and some fun in the water. Most travelers book this about 22 days in advance, which shows how popular and well-regarded it is. You’ll meet your instructor—often someone named Mike or Sofia, as many reviews mention—and start with some quick land explanations about water safety, ocean awareness, and surfing etiquette. These are not just rules but vital tips that will help keep you safe and respectful of the ocean and other surfers.

Once in the water, the instructor will give step-by-step guidance on paddling, popping up, and positioning on your board. The small class size ensures you get plenty of personalized coaching, which is crucial for beginners. We loved the way instructors like Sofia and Mike are described as “super kind and patient”—they take their time, making sure everyone feels comfortable and confident. Reviews mention that even kids as young as five and older adults have no trouble, with some children being “amazing” at catching waves quickly.

The true thrill comes when you get your first ride. Many reviewers quote that they were up and riding in no time, with some saying “everyone caught waves and had a great time.” Photographers are often on hand to capture these moments, so you can focus on the fun while someone else takes the photos—an added bonus that many find worth every penny.

The guarantee is a real confidence booster—if you don’t surf in your first lesson, your next is free. This policy underscores the commitment of the instructors to help every participant succeed. It’s evident from reviews that many leave with a sense of accomplishment, some even planning to surf on their own after just one lesson.

Equipment and Logistics: What’s Included and What You Need to Know

The lesson includes all necessary gear: a surfboard suited for beginners, a rash guard to protect your skin from chafing, and water booties for comfort and safety. The inclusion of these items ensures you won’t need to rent or buy anything extra unless you want souvenir photos. There are no hotel pickups; you need to arrive at the designated meeting point on Kihei Road. The group size is limited to six, which many reviews say creates a friendly and less intimidating environment for first-timers.

The activity lasts about two hours, making it perfect for a morning or afternoon slot. The cost of $96 is competitive when you consider the personal instruction, all equipment, and the fact that most reviews describe this as “great value.” With hundreds of positive reviews praising the instructors’ patience and the fun atmosphere, many feel they received more than their money’s worth.

Why This Lesson Stands Out

What makes this surf lesson special is the combination of small-group attention and a focus on ensuring everyone gets to surf. Several reviews mention that even nervous beginners or children were able to get up on their boards quickly and enjoy their time in the water. One parent said, “My kids loved it,” emphasizing how it’s a family-friendly activity that’s accessible for all ages.

Another aspect that resonates is the professionalism and friendliness of the staff. Many reviews highlight instructors like Mike and Sofia as “amazing,” “kind,” and “super patient.” Their approach aims to make beginners comfortable while also pushing them to succeed. The presence of a photographer capturing authentic moments adds a memorable touch, helping you relive the excitement long after the lesson.

The location on Kihei is a big plus—its gentle surf conditions make for a safe, encouraging environment, which is crucial for first-timers. The beach’s calm waves mean you won’t feel overwhelmed or frustrated, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to catch a wave.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This lesson is ideal for first-time surfers of all ages, especially those looking for personalized attention and a small-group atmosphere. If you’re traveling with children, you’ll appreciate the kid-friendly environment and the patience of the instructors. Solo travelers or couples who want a low-pressure, fun introduction to surfing will find this perfect. It also suits those who value good value for money and want an activity with a high success rate for standing up on their board.

The Sum Up: Is This Surf Lesson Right for You?

If you’re dreaming of riding your first wave in Maui, this small-group beginner lesson offers an excellent mix of instruction, encouragement, and fun in a relaxed setting. The personalized coaching ensures you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed, and the guarantee gives peace of mind that you’ll have a chance to succeed. The all-included equipment and friendly instructors make it easy to focus on the thrill of learning instead of logistics.

While it doesn’t include hotel pickup, the location is easily accessible, and the two-hour format is perfect for fitting into a busy Maui itinerary. The consistently high reviews mean you can trust that you’ll be in capable hands, and many past participants have found it to be a highlight of their Maui trip. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, this lesson is a fantastic way to connect with the ocean and add an authentic Maui experience to your travels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any surfing experience to join?
No, this lesson is designed specifically for beginners, making it perfect if you’ve never surfed before.

What should I wear?
A rash guard and water booties are included, so just bring your swimsuit underneath and plan to wear comfortable, water-friendly clothing.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 5 and up are welcome. Kids aged 5-8 need to be accompanied by an adult in the water.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, transportation is not included. You need to arrive at the meeting point on Kihei Road.

How long is the lesson?
The lesson lasts approximately 2 hours, including instruction and time in the water.

What if I don’t surf in my first lesson?
The guarantee states if you don’t surf during your initial lesson, your next lesson is free.

Are photos included?
Photos are not included but are available for purchase, taken by a professional photographer capturing your moments in the water.

Is this activity suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be at least 5 years old, and those under 8 should be supervised in the water.

If you’re after an authentic, fun introduction to surfing in Maui, this small-group lesson checks all the boxes—excellent instruction, friendly staff, and a beautiful setting that ensures you’ll leave with a smile and some waves under your belt.