Step-by-Step Guide for Booking Your First Surf Lesson in Maui

Maui, Hawaii, is a special place filled with sunshine, palm trees, and amazing beaches. It’s one of the most popular islands in Hawaii, and for good reason. The ocean is warm, the waves are gentle, and the views are beautiful. People from all over the world come to Maui to relax, have fun, and try new things—like surfing!

In Maui, Hawaii, various surfing schools are there, and many experienced surf instructors will patiently teach you everything you need to know to get on the board and start catching waves in the vibrant beaches and rivers.

If you’ve never surfed before, don’t worry. There are lots of schools that offer personalized surfing experiences with surf lessons in Maui, Hawaii, and they’re perfect for beginners. In this blog, we’ll walk you through each step so you know exactly how to book your first surf lesson.

Step 1: Do a Little Research

The first thing to do is look up some surf schools online. Type in something like “beginner surf lessons in Maui” or “surf schools near me in Maui.” You’ll see many options. Visit their websites to learn more. Check for:

What beaches do they teach at?
Lesson prices
Class sizes
What’s included (like boards and shirts)
Age limits

Tip: Look for schools that teach about ocean safety at beginner-friendly beaches like Lahaina or Kihei.

Step 2: Read the Reviews

Once you find a few surf schools you like, read what other people say about them. Look at reviews on Google, Yelp, or TripAdvisor. Did people feel safe? Did they have fun? Were the instructors nice and helpful? Good reviews are a great sign that you’re picking the right school.

Step 3: Pick the Right Lesson Type

Most surf schools in Maui offer different types of lessons. You’ll usually see:

Group lessons (cheaper and fun with others)
Semi-private lessons (smaller group)
Private lessons (one-on-one with an instructor)

If it’s your very first time, a small group or private lesson is a good idea. You’ll get more help and learn faster.

Step 4: Book Your Lesson

Now it’s time to book! Most schools let you sign up online or by phone. When booking, you’ll need to:

Choose a day and time
Pick your lesson type
Give your name and age.
Pay with a credit card

Make sure to check the cancellation policy just in case your plans change. Some schools give refunds if you cancel early.

Step 5: Get Ready for the Big Day

Now that your lesson is booked, it’s time to get excited! Here’s what you’ll need to bring:

A swimsuit or swim trunks
A towel
Sunscreen (reef-safe is best)
A water bottle
A smile

The surf school will usually give you a board and a rash guard (surf shirt). Some schools even take photos of you surfing—how cool is that?

Step 6: Have Fun and Don’t Be Nervous

On the day of your lesson, try to arrive 15–20 minutes early. You’ll meet your instructor, get your gear, and go over safety rules. You’ll practice on the sand first before heading into the water.

Remember: It’s okay to fall off your board. Everyone does at first! Just try again and have fun. The most important thing is to enjoy the moment and be proud that you’re learning something new.

Key Takeaways