Heʻe nalu is the Hawaiian term for surfing and translates to “wave sliding.”

Did ancient Hawaiians surf?

Yes. Surfing was widely practiced in ancient Hawaiʻi and was part of cultural life for both chiefs and commoners.

Why is the North Shore of Oʻahu so famous for surfing?

The North Shore is known for powerful winter swells and iconic surf breaks that helped shape modern big-wave surfing and professional competition.

What are alaia and ʻolo boards?

Alaia and ʻolo are traditional Hawaiian surfboard styles. Alaia were typically smaller; ʻolo were typically longer and historically associated with chiefs.

Where should beginners surf on the North Shore?

Beginner-friendly locations depend on season and conditions. A local, certified instructor helps you choose a safe location and learn proper etiquette.

Beginner Family Surf Lessons on the North Shore, Hawaii

Private Family Surf Lesson 2-hr

Enjoy an unforgettable private North Shore adventure designed just for your family group! Your experience begins with a two-hour surf lesson, where our expert North Shore Surf Girls instructors provide personalized coaching with a 3:1 student-to-instructor ratio, ensuring both safety and maximum fun in the water for all ages.

Person From $115.95

Duration: 2 hours
Ages 2+
3 person minimum

Book a Lesson Now

Exclusive 2-Hour Private Surf Lesson for Your Family
Personalized Coaching with a Small 3:1 Student-to-Instructor Ratio
A Wonderful Activity for All Skill Levels and Ages
Learn to Surf in a Safe and Supportive Environment

A Wonderful Family Activity

Instruction by Former Pro Surfers and Trained Lifeguards
Experience the Thrill of O’ahu’s Legendary North Shore
Expert Team Featured on MTV, Blue Crush, and Travel Channel
Local Experts Who Treat Every Family Like Their Own

Create lasting memories with our Private Family Surf Lesson, a two-hour adventure tailored specifically to your group’s needs on the beautiful North Shore. Whether your family is full of beginners or looking to improve their skills together, our expert instructors provide high-quality, personalized coaching. We maintain a 3:1 student-to-instructor ratio to ensure that every family member receives the attention and support they need to feel confident and safe in the waves.

The North Shore Surf Girls are more than just instructors; we are a local team of former pro surfers and trained lifeguards who have been featured in Blue Crush, Bay Watch, MTV, and the Travel Channel. We pride ourselves on treating our customers like family and sharing our deep love for the ocean. Our goal is to help your family bond over the incredible experience of catching your first waves together.

Tailored 2-hour private surf session for your family group
Safe and engaging instruction for both children and adults
Small 3:1 ratio for personalized attention and safety
Guidance from world-class pro surfers and lifeguards
Unforgettable memories made on the legendary North Shore
Local, family-oriented service from a globally recognized team

Exclusive 2-Hour Private Surf Lesson for Your Family
Personalized Coaching with a Small 3:1 Student-to-Instructor Ratio
A Wonderful Activity for All Skill Levels and Ages
Learn to Surf in a Safe and Supportive Environment

A Wonderful Family Activity

Instruction by Former Pro Surfers and Trained Lifeguards
Experience the Thrill of O’ahu’s Legendary North Shore
Expert Team Featured on MTV, Blue Crush, and Travel Channel
Local Experts Who Treat Every Family Like Their Own

Tailored 2-hour private surf session for your family group
Safe and engaging instruction for both children and adults
Small 3:1 ratio for personalized attention and safety
Guidance from world-class pro surfers and lifeguards
Unforgettable memories made on the legendary North Shore
Local, family-oriented service from a globally recognized team

NSSG Shirts for Sale

Commemorate your adventure with our exclusive NSSG apparel! More than just a shirt, our gear is an authentic souvenir of your journey on the legendary waves of Oahu. These custom-designed pieces are created specifically for our students and fans, and you won’t find them in any other shop on the island—or anywhere else in the world.

Whether you’re looking for a comfortable t-shirt to remember the day or a professional-grade rash guard for your next session, wear your North Shore experience with pride!

T-Shirts Available in:

S, M, L, XL

Surfing Shirts Available in:

S, M, L, XL

Buy A Shirt!

After catching your waves, your group will head out on a turtle viewing tour, where you’ll get the chance to see.

After catching your waves, your group will head out on a turtle viewing tour, where you’ll get the chance to see Hawaiʻi’s beloved honu (green sea turtles) in their natural habitat.

After catching your waves, your group will head out on a turtle viewing tour, where you’ll get the chance to see.

After catching your waves, your group will head out on a turtle viewing tour, where you’ll get the chance to see Hawaiʻi’s beloved honu (green sea turtles) in their natural habitat.