Surf Lessons in Kihei with Waves Hawaii Surf School - Kahului

Surf Lessons in Kihei with Waves Hawaii Surf School

Kahuluieasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–3 hours per lesson

Fitness Level

Basic fitness needed to paddle and stand; suitable for all ages with no prior experience required.

Overview

Waves Hawaii Surf School in Kihei offers beginner-friendly surf lessons framed by Maui’s gentle shores. Whether you're starting with a baby surf experience or advancing through a 3-day camp, their expert guidance ensures you catch waves quickly and safely.

Details

Kihei, on Maui's sun-drenched southwestern shore, offers some of the most accessible and gentle waves in Hawaii—perfect conditions for surf lessons that cater to beginners and intermediates alike. Waves Hawaii Surf School stands out as a dedicated surf provider here, delivering tailored experiences from “Baby Surf” trials designed for the tiniest novices to structured multi-day surf progression camps. Their setting is ideal: calm, manageable surf breaks where new riders can focus on paddling, popping up, and finding balance without the intimidation of larger swells. The shallow sandy bottom and consistent small waves create a safe environment that accelerates skill-building with confidence.

Waves Hawaii’s variety of lessons—group, semi-private, and private—offer flexibility for all learning styles. Their instructors, praised for patience and clarity, make a noticeable difference in early success, helping students get to their feet quickly and catch multiple waves. The presence of an in-water photographer adds a modern touch, capturing your best moments on the board and providing visual feedback.

Beyond the basic lessons, the 3-day Surf Camp and the signature Billabong Girls Bali Surf Trip extend the journey, combining skill progression, local cultural immersion, and ocean safety education. This school’s approach fits perfectly with Kihei’s reputation for warm water, gentle reef breaks, and consistent windless mornings.

Kihei itself is a vibrant coastal town with volcanic-rock shorelines, coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, and views across the Pacific that ignite motivation for every surfer. Waves Hawaii Surf School anchors itself as one of the best entry points to riding Maui’s waves, making it a must-stop for families, solo travelers, and anyone eager to get truly comfortable on a surfboard.

Adventure Tips

Choose Lessons Based on Your Skill Level

Waves Hawaii offers group, semi-private, and private lessons, allowing beginners to tailor instruction to their comfort and pace.

Arrive Early for Calm Mornings

Morning sessions often feature lighter winds and smaller waves, ideal conditions for learning and improving balance.

Bring a Towel and Change of Clothes

Since there are no changing facilities right on site, having your own towel and dry clothes will keep your day hassle-free.

Consider Booking the Photographer Option

The optional in-water photographer captures your best rides, offering helpful visuals to track your progress and great memories.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Kamaole Beach Park I for quieter vibes
  • Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge nearby for birdwatching

Wildlife

  • Hawaiian green sea turtles
  • Reef fish like humuhumu-nukunuku-apua'a

History

Surfing has been a core part of Hawaiian culture for centuries, with Maui’s shores central to ancient wave-riding traditions.

Conservation

Local efforts emphasize reef protection and sustainable use, encouraging surfers to respect marine ecosystems during their visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Early morning
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • North Kihei coastline cliffs
  • Kamaole Beach Park shoreline
  • The surf break near the school’s lesson area

What to Photograph

Surfing action shots
Sunrise over the Pacific
Tropical reef fish below the surface

Recommended Gear

Board Shorts or Swimsuit

Essential

Optimal for freedom of movement and comfort in warm Hawaiian waters.

summer specific

Rash Guard

Essential

Protects skin from sunburn and irritation during extended time in the water.

all specific

Sunscreen (Water Resistant)

Essential

Critical for sun protection during daytime lessons on exposed beaches.

all specific

Waterproof Camera or GoPro

Optional for capturing on-water moments if you don’t use the instructor’s photography service.

all specific

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