What Are the Check-In Details, Departure Times, and Duration of Waves Hawaii Surf School Lessons?
Meeting location: Kalama Park
1900 South Kihei Road
Kihei, HI 96753
Check-in time: Arrive at your scheduled lesson start time. Your booking confirmation will specify your exact time.
Lesson durations by type:
- Group Surf Lessons: 2 hours
- Semi-Private Surf Lessons: 2 hours
- Private Surf Lessons: 2 hours
- Baby Surf Experience: 1 hour maximum
- Surf with a Local: 2 hours
- 3 Day Private Surf Progression / Surf Camp: 3 consecutive days
- Stand Up Paddle Turtle Tour: 1.5 hours
Availability: Daily. Specific lesson times are confirmed at booking. Call or text Auntie Snorkel at (808) 298-3021 with questions about your Waves Hawaii booking.
What is the Location and Directions for Waves Hawaii Surf School?
Kalama Park, Kihei
Kalama Park sits right on the Kihei coast in South Maui. It offers a gentle, shallow beginner wave that makes it ideal for first-time surfers of all ages.
Approximate driving times:
- 5-10 minutes from central Kihei accommodations
- 15-20 minutes from Wailea area resorts
- 20-30 minutes from Kahului Airport (OGG)
- 50-60 minutes from Kaanapali area resorts
- Free parking available at Kalama Park
Your discounted rate has been activated for Waves Hawaii Surf School!
Kihei, South Maui • Kalama Park • Exclusively Featured in the Four Seasons Concierge Guide 26/27 • South Maui’s Smallest and Most Private Surf School • All Ages Welcome • All Equipment Included
Questions about this or any other Maui activity? Text or call us at (808) 298-3021 daily. We are fun specialists and island experts, and we can help you pick the perfect surf experience for your crew. We are Maui family-owned and operated, and we’re Maui’s highest-rated activity and rental shop!
It’s easy to book your Waves Hawaii Surf School lesson right here online.
Auntie Snorkel offers the lowest prices guaranteed!
We will email you an E-Ticket once we complete your reservation.
Free cancellation up to 72 hours prior.
Text or Call (808) 298-3021 Daily!
Auntie Snorkel’s Reviews
Why You’ll Love Waves Hawaii Surf School
⭐ Exclusively Featured in the Four Seasons Concierge Guide 26/27
Waves Hawaii Surf School is the only surf school in South Maui featured in the Four Seasons Resort Concierge Guide for 2026/2027. This recognition reflects the world-class quality of their instructors, their commitment to safety, and the consistently exceptional experience they deliver to guests of every age and skill level. When the Four Seasons recommends a surf school, you know it is exceptional.
⭐ South Maui’s Smallest and Most Private Surf School
Waves Hawaii deliberately keeps group sizes small. Smaller groups mean more personalized instruction, shorter wait times in the water, and a more connected experience between instructors and guests. This is what separates Waves Hawaii from the large-volume surf schools that fill Maui’s beaches with crowds.
⭐ World-Class Instructors Who Grew Up on Maui’s Waves
Every Waves Hawaii instructor undergoes rigorous training in surf instruction, ocean safety, CPR, and First Aid. The instructors are not just skilled teachers — they are passionate locals who grew up surfing these waters and genuinely love sharing that experience. Their aloha spirit is something guests mention consistently in reviews.
⭐ Surfing for Every Age — Including Babies
Waves Hawaii is the only surf school in South Maui to offer a dedicated Baby Surf Experience — a one-hour lesson designed specifically for toddlers and young children. At the other end of the spectrum, experienced adult surfers can book the Surf with a Local coaching experience to explore Maui’s best surf breaks. There is a Waves Hawaii experience for every person in your group.
⭐ The Perfect Beginner Wave at Kalama Park
All beginner lessons take place at Kalama Park in Kihei, where a gentle, shallow break creates ideal conditions for first-time surfers. The wave here is forgiving and consistent, which means guests spend more time riding waves and less time struggling with conditions. Most first-timers stand up on their very first lesson.
⭐ All Equipment Provided — Nothing to Rent or Bring
Every lesson includes a surfboard, reef shoes, and a rash guard. Guests simply show up at Kalama Park ready to surf. No rental shop stops, no gear hauling, and no uncertainty about what to bring.
⭐ A 3-Day Surf Progression Camp for Rapid Improvement
For guests who want to make real progress during their Maui trip, the 3 Day Private Surf Progression and Surf Camp is the most effective option on the island. Guests progress through skill levels over three consecutive lessons, with instructors adapting the teaching approach each day based on what was learned the day before. Participants consistently describe dramatic improvement by day three.
⭐ Surf Coaching for Experienced Surfers
Beyond beginner lessons, Waves Hawaii offers advanced surf coaching and the Surf with a Local experience — a private two-hour session exploring Maui’s most well-known surf spots. Local guides who grew up on these breaks lead the session, choosing locations based on conditions and the surfer’s skill level. For experienced surfers who want uncrowded, off-the-beaten-path waves, this is the definitive Maui surf experience.
⭐ Stand Up Paddle Turtle Tour — A Different Kind of Maui Adventure
For guests who want to explore the ocean without surfing, Waves Hawaii offers a Stand Up Paddle Turtle Tour from Kalama Park. Over 1.5 hours, guests paddle through clear South Maui water with a guide, encountering Hawaiian green sea turtles and vibrant coral formations. It is one of the most relaxed and rewarding ocean experiences available in Kihei.
Waves Hawaii Surf School Lesson and Tour Options
🏄 Group Surf Lessons — 2 Hours
The most affordable way to learn to surf at Waves Hawaii. Small group sizes keep instruction personal and attentive. Lessons begin with a land safety briefing, then move into the water at Kalama Park’s gentle beginner break. All equipment is included.
🏄 Semi-Private Surf Lessons — 2 Hours (Most Popular)
The most popular Waves Hawaii option. Semi-private lessons offer a middle ground between the group lesson and the fully private experience — more personalized attention than a group, at a more accessible price than a private. The lesson begins at Kalama Park with ocean safety instruction on the beach, then guests hit the water with their instructor.
🏄 Private Surf Lessons — 2 Hours
A one-on-one lesson with a world-class Waves Hawaii instructor. Private lessons allow the instructor to focus entirely on the individual guest’s technique, comfort level, and progression. This is the best option for guests who want maximum improvement in a single session.
👶 Baby Surf Experience — 1 Hour Maximum
Waves Hawaii is the only surf school in South Maui to offer a dedicated surf lesson for toddlers and young children. The Baby Surf Experience gives the smallest surfers their first ocean adventure in a safe, gentle, fully supported environment. This is a genuinely unique experience and one that Maui families treasure.
🌊 Surf with a Local — 2 Hours
A private coaching session designed for intermediate and experienced surfers. Guides take guests to Maui’s best-known surf spots — chosen based on conditions and skill level on the day. For surfers who want to explore waves beyond the beginner beach and experience Maui’s ocean the way locals do, this is the right choice.
📅 3 Day Private Surf Progression / Surf Camp — 3 Days
Three consecutive private lessons designed to produce measurable skill progression over the course of a Maui trip. Instructors track guest development across all three sessions and adjust the curriculum daily. Guests consistently report dramatic improvement by day three, with many progressing from standing up to riding smaller, more challenging boards.
🏝️ Stand Up Paddle Turtle Tour — 1.5 Hours
A guided stand up paddle experience from Kalama Park, exploring South Maui’s clear coastal waters with Hawaiian green sea turtles and coral below. The gentle, accessible format suits guests of all fitness levels. Waves and surf coaching are optional add-ons for guests who want to try both disciplines in one session.
What’s Included in Every Waves Hawaii Surf School Lesson?
✔ Ocean safety briefing and land lesson before entering the water
✔ In-water instruction from a world-class certified surf instructor
✔ Surfboard (appropriate to skill level)
✔ Reef shoes
✔ Rash guard
✔ CPR and First Aid certified instructors
✔ Small group sizes for maximum individual attention
✔ E-Ticket emailed from Auntie Snorkel after booking
✔ Free cancellation up to 72 hours prior
Who Should Book Waves Hawaii Surf School?
Waves Hawaii is a great fit for:
- Complete beginners who have never surfed before and want a supportive, safe, and fun first lesson at a gentle beginner break
- Families with children of all ages — Waves Hawaii sets no age limits, offers the Baby Surf Experience for toddlers, and has instructor-to-student ratios that work for kids at every level
- Couples and honeymooners who want a shared South Maui surf experience with a private or semi-private feel
- Experienced surfers who want to explore Maui’s best breaks with a local guide through the Surf with a Local coaching experience
- Guests staying in Kihei or Wailea who want a world-class surf lesson just minutes from their hotel
- Anyone who wants a multi-day surf progression and real measurable improvement over the course of their Maui trip
- Guests who want a non-surfing ocean experience through the Stand Up Paddle Turtle Tour
For guests who prefer a West Maui surf lesson in Lahaina, check out the West Maui Surf Lessons with Maui WaveRiders.
Browse the full selection of Maui Ocean Adventures available from Auntie Snorkel.
Are There Special Restrictions for Waves Hawaii Surf School Lessons?
⚠️ Children must be accompanied by an adult. Parental or guardian consent is required for minors.
⚠️ The Baby Surf Experience is a maximum of 1 hour and operates in calm, shallow conditions specifically chosen for toddlers and young children.
⚠️ Surf conditions vary daily. Waves Hawaii instructors choose the safest and most appropriate location based on ocean conditions on the day of your lesson.
⚠️ Guests should be comfortable in shallow ocean water. Strong swimming ability is not required for beginner lessons, but comfort in the water is helpful.
⚠️ Guests with serious back, neck, or shoulder injuries should consult a physician before booking a surf lesson.
⚠️ Pregnant guests should consult a physician before booking.
⚠️ Do not eat a large meal immediately before your lesson. A light snack 1-2 hours before is fine.
Pro Tips from Your Fun Specialists
- Arrive at Kalama Park on time and look for the Waves Hawaii instructors on the beach. They will be easy to spot and will greet you warmly.
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen before you leave your hotel. Hawaii law requires it and the instructors appreciate guests who come prepared.
- Wear or bring a swimsuit you are comfortable moving and falling in. The rash guard covers your upper body, but your swimwear is your base layer for the session.
- Listen carefully during the beach safety briefing. The time on the sand pays off significantly once you are in the water.
- Tell your instructor your experience level honestly. They customize every lesson to the guest, and the more they know, the better the session becomes.
- Bring a towel, a change of clothes, and water. The lesson itself is invigorating, and having what you need for after makes the whole experience more comfortable.
- Consider the semi-private lesson if you are deciding between group and private. It consistently gets the highest ratings from guests for the balance of instruction and value.
- If you are booking the 3 Day Surf Camp, book it early in your trip so the sessions are spread across multiple days with rest in between.
- Free parking is available at Kalama Park. Arrive a few minutes early to park and walk to the meeting point on the beach.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Waves Hawaii Surf School
What is the minimum age for surf lessons at Waves Hawaii?
Waves Hawaii sets no minimum age for surf lessons. They are the only surf school in South Maui to offer a dedicated Baby Surf Experience for toddlers. For very young children, the Baby Surf Experience is a one-hour session in calm, shallow conditions with full instructor support.
What is included in the lesson?
Every lesson includes a surfboard, reef shoes, a rash guard, a beach safety and ocean briefing, and in-water instruction from a certified instructor. Guests do not need to bring or rent any equipment.
Do I need to know how to swim to take a surf lesson?
Strong swimming ability is not required for beginner lessons. Kalama Park’s beginner break is shallow and gentle. However, guests should be reasonably comfortable swimming in the water.
What is the difference between the group, semi-private, and private lessons?
Group lessons are the most affordable option with the most students per instructor. Semi-private lessons provide more individual attention at a moderate price point and are the most popular option. Private lessons are one-on-one with an instructor and offer the highest level of personalized instruction and the fastest individual progression.
What is the Surf with a Local experience?
The Surf with a Local is a two-hour private coaching session for intermediate to experienced surfers. Local guides who grew up surfing Maui’s waters take guests to well-known Maui surf spots, chosen based on conditions and skill level. It is designed for surfers who want to go beyond the beginner beach and experience Maui’s ocean from a local perspective.
What is the 3 Day Surf Progression Camp?
The 3 Day Private Surf Progression is three consecutive private lessons designed to produce real skill development over the course of your Maui visit. Instructors track progress daily and adjust the curriculum each session. Most guests advance from beginners to riding smaller, more challenging boards by day three.
Is the Stand Up Paddle Turtle Tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The Stand Up Paddle Turtle Tour is designed to be accessible for all fitness and experience levels. The guide leads a 1.5-hour tour from Kalama Park through clear South Maui water where Hawaiian green sea turtles are commonly encountered.
Where do all lessons take place?
Beginner surf lessons, the Baby Surf Experience, and the Stand Up Paddle Turtle Tour all meet at Kalama Park, 1900 South Kihei Road, Kihei. The Surf with a Local and advanced coaching sessions may visit different Maui surf spots based on conditions and skill level.
Why is Waves Hawaii featured in the Four Seasons Concierge Guide?
Waves Hawaii is the only surf school in South Maui exclusively featured in the Four Seasons Concierge Guide for 2026/2027. This recognition reflects their world-class instructor team, their commitment to safety and personalized instruction, and the quality of experience they consistently deliver to guests of all ages and backgrounds.
What is the cancellation policy?
Auntie Snorkel offers free cancellation up to 72 hours prior to your lesson.
Why Book Waves Hawaii Surf School With Auntie Snorkel?
⭐ Best-Value Tickets for Maui Surf Lessons
⭐ Secure Checkout with Easy Cancellation Up to 72 Hours Prior
⭐ Real Local Support from Our Family-Owned Kihei and Lahaina Shops
⭐ Personalized Help Choosing the Right Maui Activity for You
⭐ Trusted by Thousands of Happy Maui Guests
More About Waves Hawaii Surf School
Why Kalama Park Is the Perfect Place to Learn to Surf
Kalama Park in Kihei sits on one of South Maui’s most consistent and forgiving stretches of coastline. The break here produces gentle, rolling waves that beginners can catch easily. The shallow sandy bottom removes the intimidation factor for first-timers. These are exactly the conditions that allow guests to stand up, ride a wave, and feel the magic of surfing on their very first session.
What Makes Waves Hawaii Different
Waves Hawaii is the smallest and most private surf school in South Maui by design. They hand-pick every instructor based on technical skill, teaching ability, and genuine aloha spirit. The result is a school where guests feel personally cared for rather than processed through a large operation. The Four Seasons Concierge Guide recognition reflects what guests already know: this is the best surf school in South Maui.
Surfing as a Maui Family Memory
Some of the most memorable moments guests describe from their Maui trips involve surfing together as a family. A parent catching their first wave alongside their child, a toddler experiencing the ocean on a surfboard for the first time, a couple sharing the thrill of standing up together — Waves Hawaii’s instructors create these moments.
Surfing Maui’s Best Breaks With a Local
Waves Hawaii’s local guides grew up on local breaks and know which spots work best in which conditions, which crowds to avoid, and how to read Maui’s dynamic ocean environment. For experienced surfers who want to go beyond the tourist trail and surf Maui the way locals do, this is the experience that delivers it.
Location: Kalama Park, 1900 South Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96753
Learn More About Maui Surfing and Ocean Adventures from Auntie Snorkel’s Fun Specialists
Auntie Snorkel’s Maui Guidebook offers all our Island Expert knowledge at your fingertips to help you find the perfect Maui activities for you. Learn more about Maui surf lessons and ocean adventures in the articles below.
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