Discover the thrill of surf lessons in Honolulu with our comprehensive guide, featuring top surf schools, essential tips, and why Hotala guarantees an unforgettable Hawaiian vacation experience.

Honolulu: A Wonderland for Catching Waves
The sun rises over the Pacific Ocean as a gentle breeze rustles through the palm trees, setting the stage for another perfect day of surf lessons in beautiful Honolulu. As you paddle out on your board, you’re greeted by the rhythmic sound of waves crashing onto the shore. The words of legendary surfer Richard “Frosty” Hesson echo in your mind: “If you’re having a bad day, catch a wave.”
In this blog post, we’ll help you discover the best surf lessons in Honolulu. We offer more adventures and tips while introducing you to Hotala – your go-to travel platform for the best accommodations and vacation rental experiences in this famous paradise.
Why Honolulu and Waikiki Beach?
Honolulu, Hawaii’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of modern city life, rich cultural heritage, and world-class surfing opportunities. Its crown jewel is Waikiki Beach – a true surfer’s paradise with its warm waters, pristine white sands, and gentle waves that cater to beginners and seasoned surfers alike.
Fun fact: Did you know that Honolulu is the birthplace of Duke Kahanamoku, the Father of Modern Surfing? His legacy continues to inspire surfers worldwide. Most importantly, it makes Honolulu a top destination for those seeking the ultimate giant wave experience. A statue in his honor welcomes visitors in Waikiki.

So, where to surf in Honolulu, you ask?
The answer is simple: Waikiki Beach, of course! Located on the South Shore, Waikiki Beach is a world-famous beach that attracts over four million visitors annually. With breathtaking views of Diamond Head, it’s ideal for swimming, bodyboarding, surfing, and outrigger canoeing.
Spanning two miles, Waikiki consists of interconnected beaches. Various activities, amenities, and picturesque spots abound here, making it a perfect destination for memorable tropical experiences.
Now, let’s dive into the world of surf lessons Honolulu has to offer.
Where to Book Surf Lessons at Waikiki Beach
Begin your exciting surf lessons in Honolulu by exploring our top five surf schools, where you’ll find the perfect fit for your surfing adventure. Master the art of surfing with dedicated instructors, catering to all skill levels, and discover where to surf in Honolulu while creating lasting memories and riding the excellent waves of Waikiki Beach.
Ty Gurney Surf School
Ty Gurney Surf School is known for its personalized approach and experienced instructors. Offering private lessons, semi-private lessons, surfari adventures, SUP lessons, and more, they ensure a memorable surfing experience. Instructors hold CPR, Ocean Lifeguard, and First Aid certifications.
Partnered with 83 East, they provide custom surf videos as a unique keepsake. The 83 East team’s official mascot is an English bulldog named Gracie, so you know they love pets too!
Mickey’s Surf School
Mickey’s Surf School offers affordable, top-quality surf lessons for beginners, adults, and children. The preferred choice for Japanese and Korean surfers, the school features a fluent Japanese-speaking instructor — the only one in Waikiki Beach. With options for private, group, and children’s lessons, Mickey’s Surf School ensures a fun, engaging, and memorable surfing experience for all.
Ohana Surf Project
Ohana Surf Project professionalizes the surfing experience, catering to all skill levels and backgrounds. Emphasizing family and aloha, they offer more than just lessons, sharing their passion for surfing and ocean knowledge. OSP aims to improve the surfing community and industry while providing free pickup from Waikiki locations. Enjoy a personalized, unforgettable surfing journey with Ohana Surf Project.
Gone Surfing Hawaii
Experience unforgettable adventures with Gone Surfing Hawaii, with lessons tailored to your skill level. Enjoy private or semi-private surfing and paddleboard lessons, or savor breathtaking sunsets while riding the waves. Their licensed instructors teach ocean awareness, safety, and wave-riding etiquette. Beyond the beach, embark on thrilling island tours to explore remote shores, hike historic valleys, and savor local flavors.
Hans Hedemann Surf School
With over two decades of experience, Hans Hedemann Surf School is a top choice for surfers of all levels. Offering private, semi-private, and group lessons in a fun, safe environment, their professional instructors help surfers improve and gain confidence. Enjoy free rashguard, reef shoes, and surfboard rentals during the 2-hour sessions. You can also capture your surfing moments with optional drone footage and land photos!
Each surf school offers a unique experience, but they all share a common goal: to help you unleash your inner surfer while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Waikiki Beach. Be sure to book in advance to secure your spot in the surf lessons of your choice.
Other Activities in Honolulu

While surf lessons in Honolulu are a must-try, Waikiki Beach offers a myriad of other exhilarating water-based activities.
Now that you’ve discovered Waikiki Beach is the top surf spot in Honolulu, go and indulge your aloha spirit in exciting experiences beyond surfing:
- Stand-up Paddleboarding: Enjoy a full-body workout while marveling at Waikiki’s picturesque views as you glide across the ocean surface.
- Parasailing: Soar high above the turquoise waters and take in the stunning panoramic vistas of Waikiki Beach with this thrilling activity.
- Outrigger Canoeing: Embrace Hawaiian culture and tradition with this exhilarating sport, paddling through the waves in a canoe built for speed and stability.
- Sunset Catamaran Cruise: Witness the breathtaking beauty of a Hawaiian sunset from the comfort of a luxurious catamaran.
- Submarine Scooter Adventure: Explore the ocean’s depths on an underwater scooter, encountering diverse marine life up close. Even non-swimmers can do this!
Tips for an Unforgettable Surf Experience in Honolulu
To make the most of your surf lessons in Honolulu, follow these practical tips:
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays and preserve the delicate coral reefs by choosing a sunscreen that’s also safe for marine life.
- Stay hydrated: Surfing can be physically demanding, so drink plenty of water to stay energized and hydrated.
- Observe surf etiquette: Respect fellow surfers and follow unwritten surfing rules, such as not “dropping in” on someone else’s wave.
- Start with a lesson: Even if you have some experience, a surf lesson can help you improve your technique and boost your confidence in the water.
- Capture the memories: Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro to document your surfing adventures and share them with friends and family.
Discover Surf Lessons and Great Stays in Honolulu with Hotala
Get ready to ride the waves and immerse yourself in the world of surf lessons in Honolulu. To make your trip hassle-free and enjoyable, Hotala is the ultimate choice for arranging your itineraries and accommodations in the city.
By choosing Hotala, you’ll enjoy the following benefits:
- Diverse Accommodation Options: From luxurious villas to homey rentals and catering to every budget and preference, Hotala ensures you find the ideal place to stay during your surf lessons in Honolulu.
- Easy Holiday Planning: Our user-friendly platform makes securing your ideal lodging in Honolulu a breeze.
- Exclusive Offers: Take advantage of our special deals and discounts, helping you save on your dream surfing vacation.

As an UpNext travel brand, Hotala ensures you can focus on discovering where to surf in Honolulu and unlocking your inner surfer while we handle the accommodation details. Say aloha to your surfboard, pack your bags, and let Hotala be your trusted partner for an unforgettable surfing adventure in Honolulu.
Plan your next Honolulu holiday with us and experience the ultimate vacation rental experience while exploring the exciting world of surfing in Honolulu.
TLDR
Discover the thrill of surf lessons in Honolulu at Waikiki Beach with our guide to top surf schools, essential tips, and the benefits of planning your next tropical holiday with Hotala. As the go-to travel platform, Hotala offers diverse hotel and lodging options, extensive galleries, and exclusive deals for your ultimate Hawaiian vacation.
Immerse yourself in the rich surfing culture of Honolulu, the birthplace of the Father of Modern Surfing, and learn from experienced instructors at renowned surf schools. Beyond surfing, indulge in other exhilarating activities like stand-up paddleboarding, parasailing, and outrigger canoeing. Embrace the aloha spirit and let Hotala handle your accommodation details for an unforgettable surfing adventure in this wave-riding wonderland.
Featured Image Credit: Ariana Kaminski on Unsplash