THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Maximize your wave count and progress quickly with a private surf lesson at Jamie O’Brien School of Surf in Honolulu. Tailored one-on-one coaching ensures safe, rapid skill development on Waikīkī’s beginner-friendly reef break.
Maximize your wave count and progress quickly with a private surf lesson at Jamie O’Brien School of Surf in Honolulu. Tailored one-on-one coaching ensures safe, rapid skill development on Waikīkī’s beginner-friendly reef break.
Book with Jamie O’Brien School of Surf
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Jamie O’Brien School of Surf · Honolulu, Hawaii
Located in the vibrant heart of Honolulu on Kalākaua Avenue, the Jamie O’Brien School of Surf offers one of the most focused surfing experiences in Hawaii’s iconic Waikīkī Beach area. Known for its gentle rolling reef breaks, Waikīkī provides ideal waves for learners but also rewards surfers who want to sharpen their skills with consistent, manageable surf. This private surf lesson is designed for anyone eager to master the fundamentals or build confidence in the water with expert one-on-one guidance.
What sets the Jamie O’Brien School of Surf apart is its commitment to personalized coaching tailored to your individual pace and style. The session begins with detailed land-based instruction, covering paddling techniques, proper stance, safety protocols, and wave selection. Once in the ocean, your instructor remains right beside you, offering real-time feedback and encouragement. This exclusive attention accelerates learning and maximizes wave time, whether you’re a first-timer, a young child, or someone returning to improve.
Waikīkī’s geological setting—a shallow coral reef break—gives beginner surfers the chance to develop board control without the intimidating power of open ocean waves. Beyond the waves, the school is embedded in Honolulu’s surfing culture, offering a safe, structured environment backed by instructors rigorously selected and trained by the legendary Jamie O’Brien himself. They’re CPR-certified, experienced, and passionate about sharing Hawaii’s surfing heritage.
After your lesson, there’s time to review action shots of your session, perfect for tracking progress or sharing the achievement. Parking options nearby include valet service at the Twin Fin Hotel or self-park at the Honolulu Zoo, with a short stroll to the surf shop. Whether you’re aiming for your first ride or refining your pop-up and paddling, this private surf lesson weaves skill-building with the thrill of Hawaiian waves—a true gateway into the local surf scene.
easy.
1.5 hours.
Basic fitness recommended; ability to swim comfortably is required.
Jamie owns and operates the school but does not teach himself. All instructors are carefully chosen and trained by him.
Yes, the private lesson is perfect for beginners and completely tailored to your skill level.
All necessary gear including surfboards, leashes, rash guards, and reef-safe sunscreen is provided.
Absolutely. Kids as young as 2 can take private lessons with specially trained instructors.
We recommend taking motion sickness medication about 30 minutes before your lesson if you are prone to it.
Yes, surfboards are available for rent, but availability may vary seasonally due to surf conditions.
Waikīkī has been a surfing hub since ancient Hawaiian royalty rode these reefs, anchoring surfing’s cultural significance here.
Instructors promote reef-friendly practices and educate surfers about protecting coral habitats amidst rising tourism.
Jamie O’Brien School of Surf is a Honolulu-based surf and water-sports school offering structured, instructor-led activities in Waikiki. The school provides a broad selection of experiences including private surf and bodyboard lessons, private and Ohana stand-up paddleboard tours, group surf and bodyboard classes, and kids-only surf lessons tailored for children aged ten and under. Programs range from one-on-one coaching to small-group Ohana sessions with a 4:1 guest-to-instructor ratio, ensuring focused attention across formats. Instruction combines land-based technique coaching and ocean practice to accelerate skill development while emphasizing safety and local knowledge. Private sessions are positioned for rapid progression with dedicated instructor time, while family Ohana experiences offer private group instruction and guided SUP tours featuring insights into Waikiki’s coastline, marine life, and history. A daily group bodyboard session is offered at 10am, and Beach Candy sign-up streamlines access to complimentary rental items at participating hotels. Operating from Honolulu, Hawaii, the school serves vacationers and local residents seeking guided water-sport activities in accessible Waikiki surf zones. With clearly defined programs for families, kids, individuals, and groups, Jamie O’Brien School of Surf presents reliable, instructor-led options for surf, SUP, and bodyboard experiences in Hawaii.
Book with Jamie O’Brien School of Surf