Get ready to catch gentle waves with your toddler in Kihei! Our Baby Surf Experience offers a safe, fun introduction to surfing for kids aged 1 to 6, led by certified instructors.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for families with young toddlers; no advanced physical fitness required but parents should be comfortable in water.
Wildlife
History
Kihei has long been a fishing and surfing hub for native Hawaiians, fostering a deep connection to the ocean that continues today.
Conservation
Local surf schools actively promote reef-safe products and educate visitors to protect Maui’s fragile marine ecosystems.
Waves Hawaii Surf School
Get ready to catch gentle waves with your toddler in Kihei! Our Baby Surf Experience offers a safe, fun introduction to surfing for kids aged 1 to 6, led by certified instructors.
Waves Hawaii Surf School is a surf instruction company based in Kihei, Hawaii that offers beginner to intermediate surfing experiences along Maui’s south shore. The school provides private surf lessons, group lessons, semi‑private lessons, a three‑day surf progression camp, specialized baby surf experiences, and guided two‑hour Surf with a Local sessions. Several international trips, including the Billabong Girls Bali surf trip, are also organized.
Instruction takes place primarily at Kalama Park and other suitable coastal breaks in Kihei. Lessons include safety briefings, equipment such as surfboards, rash guards, reef shoes and wetsuits where appropriate, and guidance from experienced instructors. For multi‑day surf camps, a water photographer documents student progress. Toddler sessions pair a CPR‑certified surf guide with the child for tandem surfing and include life vests.
Waves Hawaii Surf School emphasizes Aloha, personalized coaching, and small group sizes to maximize learning and safety. Sessions are tailored to skill level and pace, with instructors adapting techniques to suit individual needs. Equipment is provided for scheduled lessons, removing the need for guests to bring gear.
Bookings accommodate families, friends, and solo travelers seeking skill development or a first ocean experience. The business is located in Kihei, allowing convenient access to popular local surf spots. Customers can view booking options, session lengths, pricing and cancellation policies directly on the school's online booking platform. Prospective guests should check age restrictions, weather-dependent scheduling, and instructor certifications when booking to ensure the chosen lesson matches their goals and expectations.
Location
Kihei, Hawaii
South Maui surf access
Experiences
7 Experiences
Private, group, camps, trips
Equipment
Boards & Gear Included
Rashguards, reef shoes, wetsuits
Safety
CPR-Certified Guides
Toddler tandem sessions available
Book private, group or family surf experiences with equipment provided and CPR-certified guides
Wear sun protection
Apply reef-safe sunscreen and bring a hat to shield your little one from the Hawaiian sun.
Arrive early
Arriving at least 15 minutes before your lesson allows time to get fitted with gear and prepare comfortably.
Stay hydrated
Bring water for everyone; keeping hydrated helps maintain energy and comfort during the surf session.
Choose the right time of day
Morning sessions often offer calmer waters and less crowded beaches—ideal for toddlers new to surfing.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects delicate skin and preserves Hawaii's marine environment during sunny surf lessons.
summer
Wetsuit & Life Vest
Provided by Waves Hawaii to ensure warmth and safety for toddlers in the water.
Water bottle
Keeps you and your child hydrated during and after the surf session.
Water shoes
Optional for protecting feet when walking on rocky beach areas before or after surfing.
summer