A surf lesson with North Shore Surf Girls has three parts: you meet your instructor at our blue truck on the beach, you take a land lesson on the sand, and then you head into the water. The land lesson comes first on every lesson and lasts approximately 15 to 30 minutes.
A first lesson usually comes with some nervousness about the unknown: “Can I do this? Will I be able to stand up? What if I fall?” Knowing how the lesson runs helps, so here it is, step by step.
Where do I meet my surf instructor?
Look for the blue North Shore Surf Girls company truck at the beach. That is where you meet your instructor. We do not have a storefront to check in at; lessons take place at the beach, by advance reservation.
Which beach depends on the season. In winter, lessons are normally held in the protected waters at Puaʻena Point in Haleʻiwa. In summer, lessons are normally held at Chun’s Reef. The final location can change with ocean conditions, weather, student ability, and your instructor’s judgment, so we cannot promise a particular beach in advance.
Surfboards and rash guards are provided on every lesson type, so there is no equipment to rent or carry. For what to bring with you, see our separate guide, How to Prepare for a Surf Lesson in Hawaii.
What happens in the land lesson on the beach?
Every lesson begins on the sand. The land lesson lasts approximately 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the size of your group and how much past experience the students have.
The land lesson is full, interactive instruction and coaching, and it covers four things:
- Surf technique. Your instructor coaches you on technique before you try it on a wave.
- Waves and currents. Your instructor shares local expertise on the waves and currents.
- A safety review. Safety is covered on land, before anyone is in the ocean.
- Your questions. There is lots of time to ask, including the three nervous ones above.
The purpose of the land lesson is simple: you enter the water with confidence.
What happens when we head into the water?
After the land lesson, you take your board into the ocean. Floating on your board with your legs in the clear blue water and the warm sun on your back, your only thought is about the next wave. When that wave comes, you feel a rush of adrenaline as the force of the ocean pushes you forward.
You are not out there with a coach who only knows surfing. Each of our instructors is an American Red Cross certified lifeguard and serves as the in-water lifeguard for their own students, on every lesson. Lessons are also adapted to your age, ability, confidence, and the ocean conditions that day.
Two honest answers to the nervous questions. Will you stand up? Many beginners hope to, but no surf school can truthfully guarantee it, and we do not. What if you fall? Surfing is an ocean sport and is never risk-free, which is exactly why the safety review happens on land first and why a lifeguard-certified instructor is in the water with their students.
How will I feel after my surf lesson?
At the end of your lesson your body will be tired, but your spirit will be energized and your mind clear.
How long is a surf lesson, and which one should I choose?
Guests can choose from different lesson lengths. The current options are listed on our surf lessons booking page. Whichever length you pick, the land lesson is part of it.
You can also choose the format: private and semi-private lessons or group lessons. The name says Surf Girls, but nobody is turned away for not being one: men, women, couples, families, and kids all learn with us.
If you have a question about ability, group size, or ocean conditions, the FAQs cover the common ones, or you can call us at 808-637-2977.
Ready to reserve your surf lesson?
Lessons are by advance reservation. Compare the lesson options and book on our surf lessons booking page, then look for the blue truck.