Surfing in Maui

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do surfing lessons typically last?

Surf lessons are usually 2 hours long. That's about how long your arms can last from paddling...and that's even pushing it.

How much do surf lessons in Maui cost?

Surfing lessons in Maui usually run about $50- $60 for a 2 hour group lesson. Private lessons may be 1-2 hours in length and cost $75- $100.

How many surf students in a group?

Depending on the school, there are usually 4-6 students per class, per instructor.

Where do you find good waves on Maui?

Maui surf season varies. In the summer, Maui gets a south swell, so there are many spots that break very consistently along the west coast. Lahaina, Launiopoko, along the Pali highway, Maalaea, Cove Park in Kihei are typically good spots. In the winter, Maui's north shore is usually excellent — Honolua Bay and S-turn in the Kahana area, and Hookipa and Paia usually go off providing plenty of waves for Maui surfers.

Where are good beginner waves?

Lahaina breakwall, Launiopoko Park, and Kihei's Cove Park are outstanding for those learning to surf in Maui.

How far in advance is needed to make reservations?

Certain times of the year are very, very busy during Maui surf season, including the winter holidays, spring break and summer. Pre-booking surf lessons in Maui is recommended.

Where can we rent surf boards in Maui?

Most Maui surfing schools have boards available for rental and many surf shops around the island have them as well.

Can my 4 year old learn to surf?

Yes! Kids as young as 3 can surf. The student must be very comfortable in the water and will need help getting back out to the break. Try a kids surf camp on Maui that caters to kids learning to surf.

I'm 55, can I learn to surf?

Absolutely! Many people upwards of 60-70 years old have learned to surf in Hawaii. As long as you are comfortable in the water, you can learn to surf in Maui.

"I've never surfed before but I'm in pretty good shape. How long will it take me to learn to surf like those guys you see on TV? You know, the really BIG waves!"

Hawaii 505, Magnum PI kind of stuff, huh....:-)
It's not gonna happen overnight. A lot of it depends on your innate ability, the amount of time you practice and your sense of fearlessness.

Let's compare it to riding a bike: First you had a trike, then the training wheels, then you were off — wobbly but off. Maybe you ran into a bush or two. When you think about it the whole process to LEARN how to ride a bike took about a year. It was probably some time after that that you felt comfortable doing things like taking your hands off the handlebars, jumping curbs, etc. It's NOT gonna happen after one or two lessons though!

Big surf waves take a heck of a long time to master. You have to develop a kind of "second sense" about the waves, the ocean, timing, taking off, things like that. It all takes time and practice.

What about sharks?

Yes, Maui has sharks and the rare shark attack, though far fewer than say California or Australia. (Guess we can add Florida to that list now too).....but yes, sharks live in the ocean and that is where the surf is. It's not a regular occurance though.

Can I get hurt?

Well, yeah... It happens every day. That's why surf lessons are so important!!! There's a lot to consider when you are on the ocean and dealing with water and fiberglass surf boards. Surfing is not a sport to be taken casually (at least initially)!

I've seen the web pages of some surf schools which claim you don't even need to know how to swim. How's that possible?

Tricky but true... but let me say that you do need to be at the very least comfortable in the water. Remember that it's the reef along the shoreline which makes the waves break, so you're in pretty shallow water most of the time. Most times it's easy to stand on the bottom. (Not suggested without booties however!!). You are also attached to the surf board with a leash which keeps the board within arms reach. It's a bit like having a big flat life preserver attached to your foot!!!

I took a couple of lessons last time I was here, and this time just wanted to rent a board and go out on my own. Is that recommended?

It's always safer to have a partner, (buddy system and all) but you can certainly do it. I'd stay near the other schools or other Maui surfers. Don't go out to a spot you are not familiar with until you are more comfortable. And NEVER go out in something that looks too big for you. Remember, when you are standing on the shore, you are not getting a true perspective of the real size of the waves!

Do I need to wear a wet suit or bring any special gear?

Put sunscreen on before you get into the water to allow it to soak in...get the tops of your feet and the behind the knees too.....a light weight rash guard is good to save your chest from rubbing on the board....a one piece suit is best for women surfing.... Maui is usually warm enough to forego the wet suit....

What are the key things I should look for in a good instructor?

Patience! Patience! Patience!!! And someone who is getting results. Personally, I like instructors who stand in the water with the class as they learn to surf. It's much easier to help students and pass on instruction while standing next to them instead of surfing along with them on a board.