Surf Kāʻanapali: Private & Semi-Private Lessons

Yes — semi-private lessons are a popular option for couples, siblings, or a parent and child who want to share the experience, and your guide will tailor coaching to each person's level within the group.

Yes. Both private and semi-private lessons are designed to accommodate first-time surfers, with a full ocean safety and technique briefing on the sand before you ever paddle out.

We recommend using a reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreen that contains non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients. These formulas provide excellent sun protection while helping reduce the amount of potentially harmful chemicals entering the ocean.

Many traditional sunscreens contain ingredients that can contribute to coral reef stress and impact marine ecosystems when washed off into the water. Because you'll be spending time in Maui's ocean, choosing a reef-safe sunscreen is a simple way to help protect the reefs, fish, sea turtles, and other wildlife that make Hawaii's waters so special.

For the best protection, apply sunscreen 20–30 minutes before your lesson, and consider wearing the provided rash guard for additional sun protection while you're in the water.

Many first-time surfers are able to stand up and ride a wave during their very first lesson. Beginner boards are wide, stable, and designed to make learning easier, while your instructor helps position you on the best waves and provides guidance throughout the session.

Everyone learns at a different pace, so standing up isn't guaranteed, but the lesson is specifically designed to give you the best possible chance of success. Even if you don't stand on your very first attempt, you'll leave with a solid understanding of paddling, wave timing, ocean safety, and the techniques needed to continue improving. For most guests, catching that first wave becomes the moment they're hooked on surfing.

Private surf lessons offer the fastest and most personalized way to improve your surfing. With an instructor dedicated entirely to you, every part of the lesson is tailored to your experience level, learning style, and goals. Instead of sharing attention with a larger group, you'll receive continuous coaching, immediate feedback, and more opportunities to practice throughout the session.

For first-time surfers, this one-on-one approach helps build confidence quickly. Your instructor can focus on everything from paddling technique and board positioning to timing your pop-up and choosing the right waves. Small adjustments made in real time often lead to faster progress and a more enjoyable experience.

Private lessons are also ideal for surfers with previous experience who want to refine specific skills. Whether you're working on wave selection, improving your stance, making smoother turns, or simply becoming more comfortable in the ocean, your instructor can customize the lesson around exactly what you want to achieve. The result is a relaxed, highly personalized experience that helps you make the most of your time on the water.