Two hours of private instruction at Kalama Park gives first-timers a clear path to standing and riding in the Pacific. Morning sessions favor small, clean waves and one-on-one coaching that accelerates progress.
Two hours of private instruction at Kalama Park gives first-timers a clear path to standing and riding in the Pacific. Morning sessions favor small, clean waves and one-on-one coaching that accelerates progress.
Stand on the warm blacktop of Kalama Park and the ocean will already be speaking: a steady chorus of breaking waves, a mild trade-wind hush, and the occasional shout of a guide scanning the lineup. In a private two-hour lesson here in south Kihei, the Pacific dares you forward and the instructors shape the lesson to your balance, fear, and grin.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Surf Shack Maui · Kihei, Hawaii
Stand on the warm blacktop of Kalama Park and the ocean will already be speaking: a steady chorus of breaking waves, a mild trade-wind hush, and the occasional shout of a guide scanning the lineup. In a private two-hour lesson here in south Kihei, the Pacific dares you forward and the instructors shape the lesson to your balance, fear, and grin.
Surfing in Hawaii is both modern sport and living history — heʻe nalu, the Hawaiian art of wave-riding, was practiced by aliʻi (chiefs) centuries ago and remains a cultural thread on Maui. Geology is simple to read: a shallow reef gives way to a sand-bottom beach break at Kalama, creating forgiving, catchable peaks for beginners. Local culture leans friendly and practical; expect ʻohana-style patience, clear safety briefs, and a preference for morning sessions when winds are light.
The lesson begins with dry-land drills and board selection, moves to paddling and wave selection, and ends with controlled pop-ups and short rides. Instructors bring boards, rash guards, and water booties; you bring sunscreen and a willingness to fall and try again. Tides and swell size govern difficulty — mornings usually offer smaller, cleaner waves. Stay hydrated, wear reef-safe sunscreen, and listen to coaching: most students stand up in a single focused session, and the operator’s guarantee means you’ll be surfing or get another lesson.
Practical: meet at Kalama Park (1976 S Kihei Rd), arrive 15 minutes early, and be prepared to swim in waist-to-chest deep water. This lesson is ideal for families, first-timers, and anyone wanting one-on-one progression in Maui’s gentler surf.
easy.
2 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect short paddling bursts and standing practice requiring basic upper-body and core strength.
Minimum age is 5 years; children must be accompanied by an adult and will receive age-appropriate instruction.
No prior experience required — lessons are tailored from absolute beginner to advanced technique for private groups.
Meet at Kalama Park parking lot (1976 South Kihei Road), far left side when facing the ocean; look for the white and yellow van with polka dots.
Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time; no refund within 24 hours.
Surfing on Maui traces to ancient Hawaiian heʻe nalu practiced by chiefs; modern surf instruction blends that lineage with contemporary safety and technique.
Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid standing on or touching coral, and follow instructor guidance to minimize disturbance to marine life.
Surf Shack Maui operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Stand on the warm blacktop of Kalama Park and the ocean will already be speaking: a steady chorus of breaking waves, a mild trade-wind hush, and the occasional shout of a guide scanning the lineup. In a private two-hour lesson here in south Kihei, the Pacific dares you forward and the instructors shape the lesson to your balance, fear, and grin.
Stand on the warm blacktop of Kalama Park and the ocean will already be speaking: a steady chorus of breaking waves, a mild trade-wind hush, and the occasional shout of a guide scanning the lineup. In a private two-hour lesson here in south Kihei, the Pacific dares you forward and the instructors shape the lesson to your balance, fear, and grin.
Surfing in Hawaii is both modern sport and living history — heʻe nalu, the Hawaiian art of wave-riding, was practiced by aliʻi (chiefs) centuries ago and remains a cultural thread on Maui. Geology is simple to read: a shallow reef gives way to a sand-bottom beach break at Kalama, creating forgiving, catchable peaks for beginners. Local culture leans friendly and practical; expect ʻohana-style patience, clear safety briefs, and a preference for morning sessions when winds are light.
The lesson begins with dry-land drills and board selection, moves to paddling and wave selection, and ends with controlled pop-ups and short rides. Instructors bring boards, rash guards, and water booties; you bring sunscreen and a willingness to fall and try again. Tides and swell size govern difficulty — mornings usually offer smaller, cleaner waves. Stay hydrated, wear reef-safe sunscreen, and listen to coaching: most students stand up in a single focused session, and the operator’s guarantee means you’ll be surfing or get another lesson.
Practical: meet at Kalama Park (1976 S Kihei Rd), arrive 15 minutes early, and be prepared to swim in waist-to-chest deep water. This lesson is ideal for families, first-timers, and anyone wanting one-on-one progression in Maui’s gentler surf.