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Lahaina Semi-Private Surf Lesson
Pricing
Age 8 years and older only
Age 8 years and older only
Description
Semi-Private Surf Lesson in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii
A semi-private surf lesson offers the best of both worlds — the shared energy of learning with a friend, partner, or family member, and the focused attention of your own dedicated instructor. Whether you're a couple celebrating a honeymoon, a pair of friends on vacation, or a parent and teenager looking to learn together, this format keeps your group together while giving each person meaningful one-on-one coaching time in the water.
Each two-hour session begins on shore with your guide walking you through ocean safety, paddling form, and pop-up technique before heading into the waves. Once in the water, your instructor is dedicated solely to your group — reading waves for you, providing real-time feedback, and adjusting coaching to match each person's ability. The goal is for everyone in your group to stand up and ride a wave on their own before the session ends.
Duration
- 2 Hours
Location / Where to Meet
- Lessons take place along the Lahaina coastline at beginner-friendly locations selected based on daily conditions!
- We frequently teach at the popular Guardrails surf break near Launiupoko but exact meeting instructions are provided after booking!
Ages & Requirements
- Minimum age: 9 years old
- Our policies state that any student that is 8 or under or an adult who isn’t confident in their swimming skills must book a private lesson for their safety. A private lesson does not ‘separate’ your child from the rest of the family. This option gives your child their own instructor who will stay with them in the water the entire time while you surf as a group.
- Being a strong swimmer is not a must to take classes, but being able to tread water and feel confident in the ocean is important.
- Prior surfing experience is not required.
- If you have one or two other people you would like to surf with, then this is the best option! There are 3 people maximum for this lesson and a 2 person minimum.
What's Included
- 2-hour surf lesson with a certified instructor
- Surfboard for the duration of the lesson
- Instruction on land before entering the water (safety, paddling technique, pop-up mechanics)
Not Included
- Gratuity - Never expected but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10-25% to your instructors!
What to Bring / Wear
- Swimsuit & Towel
- Reusable Water Bottle Filled w/ Water & Snacks for After the Lesson
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen
- Extra Layers of Clothing - Sweatshirts and Warm Hats
- Required Paperwork - Signed medical form if required, waivers, etc.
- Please remove any jewelry, watches, or anything that can get lost or damaged by the water.
ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Lahaina Surf Shack
FAQs
Do I need to know how to swim to take a lesson?
You don't need to be a strong swimmer, but you should be able to tread water and feel comfortable in the ocean. Anyone who isn't confident in the water — regardless of age — is required to book a private lesson for safety.
What sunscreen should I use?
Common sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate that harm coral reefs. Please use a reef-safe, mineral-based, non-nano sunscreen. Consider wearing a long-sleeve rash guard as an alternative or complement to sunscreen.
Will I actually be able to stand up on the board during my first lesson?
Many first-time surfers do manage to stand up during their very first session—especially with soft-top boards and step-by-step guidance. However, everyone learns differently and at their own pace. Some guests pop up right away, while others spend their first lesson getting comfortable with paddling, balance, and timing. The goal is progress, not perfection. Even if you don’t fully stand on your first wave, most people experience noticeable improvement throughout the lesson and enjoy the thrill of riding a wave in some form, whether kneeling, crouching, or standing.
What is a semi-private lesson and who is it for?
A semi-private lesson is for 2–3 people who want to learn together with their own dedicated instructor. It's a great option for couples, close friends, siblings, or a parent and child who want to share the experience while still receiving focused, personalized coaching.
Do I need prior surfing experience?
No. Semi-private lessons are tailored to the skill level of your group, whether you're complete beginners or have some experience on a board.
Will we each get individualized feedback?
Yes. Because your instructor is dedicated solely to your group, they can give each person specific coaching tips, help you read the waves, and adjust based on how each student is progressing.
Cancellation Policy
Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price.
Availability
Reviews
Location
Address
117 Prison Street
Maui, HI, 96761
US
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