Local guide by North Shore Surf Girls
Looking for kids surf lessons on Oahu’s North Shore? Teaching children to surf is one of our very favorite things to do. The North Shore is a wonderland for any child — or any adult who’s a child at heart — especially out in the gentle waves where kids first learn to ride.
At North Shore Surf Girls, we’re a locally owned, women-founded surf school in Haleʻiwa, and we love helping kids catch their first wave in a safe, encouraging way. Call us anytime at 808-637-2977 to book a lesson for your child or family.
What Age Can Kids Start Surfing?
“What age can my child learn to surf?” is a question we get all the time. Here’s how it works on the North Shore:
- Surf lessons: age 2 and up. We recommend children be at least 2 years old for a surf lesson.
- Tandem riding: even earlier. Many North Shore surfing parents start riding tandem with their little ones around 1 year old — and some as young as a few months — with a skilled adult holding them the whole time.
Every child is different, so if you’re not sure whether your child is ready, just ask us — we’re happy to help you decide what’s best for your keiki.
Our Approach to Teaching Children
Every child has a unique personality and their own way of getting comfortable in the ocean. We keep that front and center: we customize each lesson so your child feels safe, confident, and genuinely excited as they get acquainted with the water and ride waves for the first time.
Our instructors are patient, encouraging, and experienced with young surfers. We go at your child’s pace — never rushing, always watching out for their comfort and safety. For many kids, that supportive approach is the difference between a scary first try and a giant grin as they ride their first wave to shore.
Thinking of Teaching Your Child Yourself?
Some parents want to teach their own kids, and that can be a wonderful way to bond — but safety comes first. If you want to give your child a surf lesson yourself, it’s important that you’re a strong, confident surfer and waterperson. You don’t want your child to get hurt while learning.
If you’re an expert on a surfboard, the best and safest way to start is riding tandem — you and your child on one board together. Tandem surfing lets you coach your child in real time, keeps them secure, and is a beautiful way to share the sport. If you’re not an experienced surfer yourself, it’s best to leave your child’s first lessons to a professional.
Why the North Shore Is a Great Place for Kids to Learn
The North Shore of Oahu isn’t just the surfing capital of the world — it’s also home to gentle, protected beginner breaks that are ideal for children. Learning to surf here gives a child something that lasts a lifetime: a genuine love of the ocean, confidence in the water, and memories of their first waves in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
We teach with reef-safe practices and a deep respect for the ocean, and we love passing that aloha for the water on to the next generation.
Book a Kids Surf Lesson on Oahu’s North Shore
North Shore Surf Girls is a locally owned surf school based on the North Shore of Oʻahu, serving Haleʻiwa, Waialua, and the surrounding North Shore beaches. Lessons for children ages 2 and up.