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Private & Semi-Private Surfing Lessons in Kihei, Maui

Lesson ·

4.9

(2382)

Maui• Kihei

Kid Friendly

Locally Owned

Beginner Friendly

Free Cancellation

Private

On the Water

Instant Book

Duration: 2 hours

Pricing

Private Surf Lesson

1 student per instructor/ Price per person

$150

Semi-Private Surf Lesson

2 or more students in closed party/ Price per person

$105

Description

Learn to Surf in Kihei’s Beginner-Friendly Waves!

Learn to surf on the warm, beginner-friendly waters of Kihei on Maui's sunny south shore. Whether you've never set foot on a board or you're looking to sharpen your technique, your instructors tailor every lesson to your skill level — from hesitant first-timers and young keiki to experienced surfers chasing improvement. This family-owned surf school has been teaching locals and visitors alike to catch waves right at The Cove in Kihei, one of South Maui's most popular and sheltered spots for learning to surf.

Every lesson starts on the sand with approximately 15 minutes of instruction covering surfing fundamentals and water safety before heading into the ocean. From there, your instructor joins you in the water, guiding you through paddling, popping up, and — most importantly — actually riding waves. The mellow, consistent conditions at The Cove give beginners the confidence they need, and reviewers consistently note that most students are standing on their boards within the first few minutes in the water.

Choose from two lesson formats: a Private Lesson (1 student per instructor) for maximum one-on-one attention, perfect for young children, those who want to work on advanced technique, or anyone who prefers a fully personalized, at-your-own-pace experience; or a Semi-Private Lesson (2–6 students from your closed group with one instructor) ideal for couples, families, and friend groups who want to share the experience together without giving up personalized guidance. In either format, your instructor is exclusively yours — you will not be grouped with guests outside your party.

All equipment is provided — soft-top boards, rash guards, and surf shoes — so you show up and your guides handle the rest. After your lesson wraps, guests are welcome to continue using their boards until the shop closes (around 3:30 PM), giving you extra time in the water to practice what you've learned.

Duration

Total Experience: 2 Hours (including land instruction and check-in)
Active Lesson Time: Approximately 1.5 Hours
After your lesson, boards and gear are available to continue using until shop close (~3:30 PM) at no extra charge!

Location / Where to Meet

Check in/Departure Address: 2021 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
The shop is located on South Kihei Road across the street from Kalama Park, on the corner of Auhana Road and Kihei Road, next to HiTec Surf Shop.
SUP lessons take place at The Cove in Kihei, directly in front of the shop.
Street parking is available along South Kihei Road and in the Kalama Park lot across the street.
Restrooms are available at Kalama Park.

Ages & Requirements

Minimum age: 4 years old
Kid-friendly — children as young as 4 are welcome; Private Lessons are strongly recommended for young children!
No prior surfing experience required — your guides work with all skill levels from complete beginners to returning surfers!
Participants should be comfortable in the water
Guests must be able to participate without requiring physical assistance beyond normal instruction
Beginner soft-top surfboards are designed to be wide and stable for learning, and larger boards commonly accommodate guests up to approximately 250–300 lbs (113–136 kg) depending on conditions and experience level.

What's Included

Professional surf instruction — approximately 15-minute land lesson plus in-water coaching!
Soft-Top Surfboard
Private lessons offer advanced techniques and personalized attention, making them perfect for skill enhancement or for those catching their first waves, including young children.
Semi-Private SUP Lessons for an intimate experience, accommodating 2-6 students from your party with a private instructor.
Rash guard
Surf shoes
Safety fins
Use of gear and boards for the remainder of the day after your lesson (until ~3:30 PM)

Not Included

Gratuity — Never expected, but if you had a great experience, please consider gifting 10–25% to your instructor!

What to Bring / Wear

Swimsuit & Towel
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Reusable Water Bottle
Dry Bag for valuables
Snacks
Extra layers — mornings can be cool on the water
Required paperwork — signed waivers and any forms required at check-in
Please remove any jewelry, watches, or anything that could get damaged by the water or lost in the surf!

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Maui Wave Riders- Kihei

FAQs

Do I need prior experience to take a surf lesson?

No prior experience is needed at all. Your instructor will walk you through everything you need to know — starting with a land lesson covering the basics before you ever touch the water. The Cove in Kihei is an excellent spot for beginners thanks to its consistent, gentle waves.

What is the difference between a Private and a Semi-Private surf lesson?

A Private Lesson is 1 student per instructor, giving you the most focused, individualized attention possible — ideal for young children, nervous beginners, or anyone who wants to work on specific technique. A Semi-Private Lesson includes 2–6 students from your own closed group with one dedicated instructor. You will not be paired with guests outside your party, making it a great option for couples, families, or small groups of friends.

What should I wear for my surf lesson?

Wear a swimsuit — a rash guard and surf shoes are provided with your lesson. Reef-safe sunscreen is strongly encouraged to protect both yourself and the reef. Avoid cotton clothing. You may want a light layer for the drive over, as mornings can be cool, but you'll warm up quickly once you're in the water.

What sunscreen can I use and why does it matter?

Common sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs, as the particles are small enough to be absorbed by corals, causing toxicity and coral bleaching. Reef-friendly sunscreens are formulated without these harmful chemicals. Reef-SAFE sunscreens go a step further by using non-nano particles, which are too large for corals to ingest, helping to preserve marine ecosystems. Please avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Consider wearing sun-protective clothing, like long-sleeve rash guards, as an alternative to sunscreen. If you choose a mineral-based sunscreen, ensure it is labeled 'non-nano.'

How big are the lesson groups?

Semi-Private Lessons include 2–6 students from your own closed party with one instructor — you will not be paired with strangers. Private Lessons are 1 student per instructor. Your instructor is dedicated exclusively to your group.

What fitness level is required for a surf lesson?

Basic swimming comfort and a reasonable level of physical activity are recommended. You'll be paddling, popping up, and balancing — nothing extreme, but it does require some upper body and core strength. If you have any specific physical concerns, contact the outfitter ahead of time.

Cancellation Policy

Please notify Maui Waveriders immediately of any changes or cancellations to your reservation. Reservations not cancelled within 24 hours of the scheduled lesson time will be subject to payment. The credit card used to guarantee your reservation will be charged 100% of the total price.

To change or cancel a confirmed reservation and obtain a cancellation confirmation, please call us.

Should you be delayed due to travel you must inform us before 3pm local time the date before your lesson so your reservation is not considered a “no-show.” The lesson may possibly be rescheduled for another time or date with a rescheduling fee if you call the day before the lesson. Should you cancel the lesson without rescheduling, a 100% charge of the total will occur.