Learn to stand up on a wave beneath Diamond Head with a private two‑hour lesson at Kaimana Beach. Certified instructors lead a land briefing and guided in‑water coaching tailored for first‑timers and young learners.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The warm Pacific laps at your ankles as Diamond Head watches from the east; a private instructor unfolds a foam board and explains how the wave will meet you. On Kaimana Beach, waves come in friendly sets, the whitewash coaxing you to paddle, the current nudging you into position. The first thirty minutes are on land — stance, paddling mechanics, and how to ‘pop up’ — then you shoulder a board and let the ocean test what you learned.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable swimming fitness; able to paddle on stomach and perform short bursts of upper‑body effort
Wildlife
History
Surfing (he‘e nalu) has deep Hawaiian roots; Waikiki was a royal surfing playground before becoming a public recreation area.
Conservation
Use reef‑safe sunscreen, avoid standing on coral, and follow instructor guidance to minimize disturbance to marine life.
Reserve your spot on the Private Surfing Lesson: Two Hours of Beginner Instruction today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive 20 minutes early
Check in at the Kaimana Beach Hotel storefront, use the extra time to fit a rash guard and stretch.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
The reef is fragile — apply reef‑safe sunscreen before you hit the water to protect coral and your skin.
Hydrate and eat light
Have a light snack an hour before and sip water; paddling is upper‑body intensive and the sun adds fatigue.
Know basic swim comfort
Lessons require comfort in waist to chest‑deep water and the ability to float; kids under 10 must take private lessons.
Swimsuit
Quick‑dry suit for mobility in the water.
summer
Rash guard
Protects against board rash and sun exposure during repeated pop‑ups.
summer
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin while minimizing damage to coral ecosystems.
summer
Towel and change of clothes
Dry off and swap to warm clothes after the session.