Get 1:1 coaching with a certified lifeguard surf instructor at Kahaluʻu Bay
2 Hours
Private coach, board, rashguard
Build your surfing skills in a private 1:1 lesson led by a certified Hawaiian lifeguard surf coach. Start with classroom coaching at HLSI HQ, then head to Kahaluʻu Bay for up to 2 hours in the water.
You must be able to swim, follow basic English instructions, and safely participate in intensive physical activity. A parent or guardian must stay on location for minors if not surfing.
No change/cancellation fee if made 2+ days in advance. Changes and cancellations within 2 days of class date will incur a 100% charge, including late arrivals or no-shows. A 15-minute grace period is allowed from the scheduled start time.
Plan about 2.5 hours total from check-in to paddle-in.
Yes. Student transportation from the check-in location to Kahaluʻu Beach Park is not provided, so plan to self-transport.
Arrive dressed in swim clothes. Bring a towel and reef-safe sunscreen. You can use complimentary rentals for a swim shirt and water shoes.
75-5909 Ali'i Drive. Kailua-Kona HI 96740
This family-owned operation run by siblings Jake and Tiffany (who took over from their father and uncle) has mastered the art of getting beginners surfing quickly. Most first-timers report standing up within their first 10-15 minutes, thanks to a smart approach that starts with on-land instruction before hitting the water. The small group sizes make a real difference too, with many reviewers noting they had essentially one-on-one attention and got instant feedback after each wave. Jake gets consistent praise for being encouraging, conversational, and genuinely fun to spend time with in the water. What stands out is how much the instructors actually engage with students rather than just pushing them onto waves. They provide ongoing tips throughout the session, adjust when conditions aren't ideal, and create an atmosphere that feels authentically welcoming rather than transactional. Extras like providing rash guards and water shoes set them apart from other surf schools. Multiple families mentioned this ended up being their kids' favorite activity of the entire vacation, with children as young as 9-10 having successful sessions. The flexible scheduling and kama'aina rates are nice touches from a business that clearly cares about doing things right.
If you are considering surfing, do it, and do it with Hawai’i Lifeguard Surf Instructors. My family of 4 (including boys 11 and 9) had an amazing time! Jake and John ensured we caught a lot of waves and continued to give us pointers during our time in the water. They’re great at what they do and the entires family couldn’t be happier with our surfing adventure!
Cassandra B
May 14, 2026
If you are considering surfing, do it, and do it with Hawai’i Lifeguard Surf Instructors. My family of 4 (including boys 11 and 9) had an amazing time! Jake and John ensured we caught a lot of waves and continued to give us pointers during our time in the water. They’re great at what they do and the entires family couldn’t be happier with our surfing adventure!
Cassandra B
May 14, 2026