North Shore Surf Lessons Near The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay
Staying at The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay?
North Shore Surf Girls is an independent, women-owned surf school that has been teaching beginners on Oʻahu’s North Shore since 2007. We are not affiliated with The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay — we’re the local surf school just down the coast, and many of our students are visitors staying at or near Turtle Bay who want to experience another side of the North Shore.
A surf lesson with us is an easy add-on to a Turtle Bay stay: a short drive along the coast, an experienced local instructor, and a beginner-friendly beach chosen for that day’s conditions. Surfboards and rash guards are provided, and lessons are available as private, semi-private, or group sessions for adults, kids, families, and first-time surfers.
The easiest way to plan your lesson is to call after you arrive — we’ll help you pick the best time and location for the conditions during your stay. You can also browse our full surf lesson FAQ while you plan.
Why Choose North Shore Surf Girls?
Turtle Bay guests have plenty of activity options, and the resort area has its own surf culture. Choosing an independent local surf school is about the kind of experience you want: personal, flexible, and rooted in the community that lives and surfs here year-round.
- Teaching on the North Shore since 2005
- Women-owned, locally operated business
- Beginner specialists — most students are first-timers
- Private, semi-private, and group lessons
- Family- and kid-friendly instruction
- Surfboards and rash guards included
- Lesson locations chosen daily for conditions and ability
Our instructors are experienced local surfers who know the North Shore’s breaks in every season. That local ocean knowledge shapes everything — where we teach, when we teach, and how quickly beginners get comfortable in the water.
A More Beginner-Friendly Way to Enter the Water
For a first-time surfer, where you enter the ocean matters. North Shore Surf Girls selects lesson locations based on current conditions and each student’s ability. At our commonly used beginner locations — Chun’s Reef in summer and Puaʻena Point in winter — students can typically begin from sandy beach entry areas rather than navigating a rocky or reef-covered shoreline.
- Sandy shoreline entry at our common teaching beaches, when conditions allow
- Easier board carrying for kids and first-timers
- Simpler, more comfortable entry and exit from the water
- Locations matched to each day's conditions
Some surf areas around Turtle Bay feature nearshore reef and rocky bottom, which less experienced surfers may find harder to navigate. A sandy entry doesn’t remove the risks that come with any ocean activity — conditions always vary, and every lesson begins with safety instruction on the beach — but for beginners, children, and families, it can make the whole experience feel more approachable.
Where Will We Surf?
We don’t lock you into a single beach. Lesson locations are selected according to season, wave conditions, currents, weather, student age, and ability — whichever spot offers the most appropriate conditions for learning that day.
Chun’s Reef is a summer favorite: seasonal North Shore conditions often bring smaller waves well suited to beginner instruction, with sandy shoreline entry areas and a beautiful, classic North Shore setting.
Puaʻena Point, near Haleʻiwa, is our common winter teaching area. When conditions permit, it offers a more protected learning zone with sandy beach entry — and it has introduced thousands of first-time surfers to the North Shore.
- Season and swell size
- Currents and weather
- Student age and ability
- Overall suitability for instruction
How Far Are Surf Lessons From Turtle Bay?
Our lesson beaches are along Oʻahu’s North Shore and within easy reach of Turtle Bay by car — a scenic 20-25 minute coastal drive, with travel time increasing in the late afternoon. Check current traffic before you leave, and consider pairing your lesson with food trucks, shops, and shave ice in historic Haleʻiwa town.
Lesson Options for Turtle Bay Visitors
Every lesson includes a surfboard, a rash guard, and land-based instruction before you enter the water. Beginners are welcome in every format — the right choice mostly depends on who’s coming along.

Private Surf Lessons
One-on-one attention for first-timers, nervous beginners, and anyone who wants to progress quickly with an instructor's full focus.

Semi-Private Surf Lessons
Ideal for two: couples, siblings, a parent and child, or two friends learning together at the same pace.

Group Surf Lessons
A fun, social lesson for friends, families, and travelers who enjoy a shared experience in the water.

Family Surf Lessons
Parents and kids learn together, with instruction adjusted to each family member's age, comfort, and ability.
Never Surfed Before? Perfect.
Most of our students have never been on a surfboard. Lessons start on the sand, where your instructor covers the essentials before you get wet — so nothing in the water comes as a surprise. Every lesson includes:
- Surfboard suited to your size and ability
- Rash guard
- Professional instruction from experienced local surfers
- Land-based lesson before entering the water
- Paddling and board-handling basics
- Help choosing the right lesson format
- Guidance based on current conditions
In the water, instructors typically cover ocean awareness, paddling, body positioning, standing technique, turning the board, basic surf etiquette, and how to paddle back out efficiently. We never guarantee that every student will stand up — the ocean makes no promises — but our teaching locations and patient, step-by-step instruction are chosen to give beginners the best possible start.
When Should Turtle Bay Guests Book a Lesson?
Visiting in summer
Summer is prime beginner season on the North Shore. From roughly May through September the North Shore often sees smaller surf than winter, and many days are well suited to first lessons — mornings frequently offer the most favorable conditions. Summer lesson beaches here can also feel less crowded than Waikīkī, though conditions and crowds vary day to day.
Visiting in winter
Winter is big-wave season on the North Shore, and surf can grow far beyond beginner territory. That’s exactly why we choose our locations daily: when conditions allow, we teach at more protected areas such as Puaʻena Point, and if a day isn’t suitable for beginners, we’ll tell you and help you reschedule. We don’t put first-timers into unsuitable surf.
Either season, the best move is simple: call us after you arrive on Oʻahu and we’ll recommend the best lesson time for the conditions during your stay.
Staying at Turtle Bay? Come Surf the North Shore With Us.
Make surfing part of your North Shore vacation. Book your lesson online, or call North Shore Surf Girls at (808) 637-2977 after you arrive and we’ll help you find the right lesson, time, and beach for the conditions — no surf experience needed.
What Our Students Say
North Shore Surf Girls has been recognized by Vogue in an editorial coverage about learning to surf on Oʻahu’s North Shore.
North Shore Surf Girls
5.0Out of 5 starsOverall rating out of 483 Google reviews
We had an awesome time with the North Shore Surf Girls. We got our 4 kids (13, 15, 21, 21) lessons and Remi was their instructor. She was very informative and patient with them. My wife and I sat on the beach and took lots of pics and vids. They all loved it and were exhausted after the 2 hour lesson. Thanks for the experience of a lifetime NSSG!
I took five kids (ages 7–10) surfing for the very first time and booked a private lesson with two instructors. It was an incredible experience! The instructors were patient, encouraging, and knew exactly how to build the kids' confidence. Amazingly, everyone was standing up and riding waves within the first hour! They made the experience fun, safe, and memorable for both the kids and myself. I would highly recommend this surf school to anyone, especially families with first-time surfers.
Great Experience.
Went surfing for the first time. Carol and Matt are awesome instructors. Only went because my grandchildren were going and figured that, at my age I might not get another chance. The instructors were very patient and understanding that it took a little more effort to get a 73 year old man to catch a wave. But I did it and it was awesome!! Thank you so much Carol and Matt!
I brought my two girls to surf with Lily and they loved it. More than other schools we've tried on O'ahu. They are 11 and 12 and really likd having a female instructor who was willing to actually teach them new skills and help them progress...not just catch a few waves. Surf Girls were prompt and prepared and professional but still relaxed and friendly.
Great teachers, great people
I had a great experience with North Shore Surf Girls! My instructor, Lawrence, was amazing. He gave me the tips and guidance I needed to stay safe and improve my surfing. I had quite a few wipeouts and even reached a point where I wanted to end the lesson early, but Lawrence encouraged me to keep going and stay positive. Thanks to his patience and support, I was able to catch a wave by the end of the lesson. Catching that wave made the entire experience unforgettable and gave me a real sense of accomplishment. For an additional fee, they also had a photographer there to capture the experience, which was a great way to preserve the memories and celebrate the progress I made during the lesson. I highly recommend North Shore Surf Girls to anyone looking to learn how to surf or improve their skills!
Lawrence is killer. 1 of us had done surf lessons before and stated how much more enjoyable it was with him. Even watching some of the other instructors we felt lucky to be with him- good teacher, but calm & feels like you’re just being taught by a good friend. Liked him so much we booked repeat lessons with him!! He can get the worst of the worst up on a board. Go get it- and request Lawrence!!
You can tell Remi loves to surf and teach people how to get up and catch a wave. She was very personable, knowledgeable and patient in her teaching. Not only was she excited when I got up but also all the other people just out having fun.
A group of three 33-40 yr olds (male and female) and Amy made sure all of us got up and rode the surf on our first try! She was so encouraging and kind. I got voluntold by my husband and brother-in-law that I had to go with them and I was terrified. Amy read that right away and brought my nerves back to earth and made sure I felt safe and ready to rock and roll. I highly recommend her and this kick ass women owned and managed business. Totally worth the price and don’t forget to tip, not because you have to, but because they work hard giving you a great experience!!! Mahalo, Amy! I’ll never forget my 40th birthday and riding the waves on the final day of our trip!
This was booked from the Sea and Surf google location. Once booked, the confirmation came through as North Shore Surf Girls. Our instructor Carol was very patient, and gave my kids the feeling of “they are in control” and to have the confidence they needed for ages 10 & 12. They were nervous of “coral” and “currents”. Neither of those ended up being an issue for them despite both being present. We got instructions on land, practiced before going in, and coaching while out in the water. We opted for private lessons and are so glad we did. Lawrence ended up helping our group when his lessons finished and it kept us moving along going out on waves even in a private group and it also helped with my 10yr old getting pulled back out by an instructor without wearing them out. Definitely recommend!
If you are looking for more than just a "stand up once and take a photo" tourist experience, North Shore Surf Girls is the place to go. I surfed with them this December on the North Shore of Oahu, and it was hands-down the best instructional experience I’ve ever had in any sport. I had the privilege of working with Carol Phillips. Carol isn’t just an instructor; she is a master of the craft. What set her apart was her deep focus on surfing mechanics. Instead of just pushing me into waves, she took the time to explain the "why" behind every movement. She gave me constant, actionable feedback and clearly explained how my specific actions led to a successful ride or wipeout. Beyond the physical technique, she prioritizes surfing safety and culture, ensuring I left the water with a better ocean awareness and respect for the lineup. Carol has an incredible ability to read her students. She tailored her teaching approach perfectly to my learning style and adapted her instructions as I progressed throughout the session. By the end of the lesson, I didn't just feel like I had surfed; I felt like I had actually learned how to surf. If you want a professional, safe, and deeply educational experience I highly recommend North Shore Surf Girls.
My daughters had an absolute blast with the North Shore Surf Girls. The first day, Remi did an awesome job managing both of them and their different strengths, personalities - and had them both standing up on their first waves! My youngest had so much fun she went back the next day for a second lesson, this time with Carol, who was also fantastic. It is totally worth making the trek for a less crowded beach and unique spot for surf lessons! Tip: If you're not sure about how long of a lesson to take, my athletic (but one is petite) 11 & almost 13 year old were good after the 1.5 hour lesson. Shorter they would have asked for more, but longer their arms may have fallen off!
Surf lessons with North Shore Surf Girls was the highlight of our boys vacation in Oahu! They loved it so much they convinced us to bring them back the next day. Josh and Remy were absolutely wonderful with our beginner boys! We are extremely pleased with the service and fast response with squeezing us in with our last minute planning for lessons. You guys rock! Highly recommend North Shore Surf Girls!!!
I have been here twice now and I highly recommend them for learning how to surf. I 2021 I had my first ever surf lesson here. At the end of 2024 I had the opportunity to come to Oahu on business and I knew I wanted to go surfing with this group again. I booked a time I thought was good and then later on needed to reschedule and Carol was excellent at doing that. I got my lesson with Amiee and she was fantastic! I did the hour private/semi private lesson and it was everything I could have wanted. I got 1 on 1 instruction on everything from safety, to surfing form, to carrying a board, the paddle zones and surfing zones, etc. I thought it was really good. Once we got out onto the water I was even able to get up on a few waves and that made my whole day. I have a lot to work on and I wish I could surf every day. This is an incredible sport and the people here make it a really fun time. I can't wait to come back and get another lesson with Aimee, Carol, and the whole team
Carol was great. We had a lot of fun surfing with and her instructions were great. Very relaxed and helpful to us learning. Highly recommend her and her business to anyone wanting surf lessons and or board rentals.
Can't say enough good things about North Shore Surf Girls. We started with a lesson for our 14 year old daughter with Aimee, who was very knowledgeable and a great instructor. After a brief beach lesson, we watched them paddle out and, within minutes, were thrilled to watch her catch her first wave ever! The experience was better than we hoped, and seeing other outfits with their client interactions left us reassured that we made the best choice. In one case, two young men worked with another school's instructor who tossed his board in the ocean and paddled away, leaving his students struggling to get their boards past the waves on their own. That instructor didn't even bother turning around. Incredible. Needless to say, our first experience was so good that we returned for a semi-private lesson with Carol. This surfing magician turned a 53 year old father into his daughter's hero. I caught quite a few waves before having to return from shear exhaustion. It was a blast and a memory we will forever cherish. Thank you, Aimee and Carol!
Aimee was a fantastic instructor from beginning to end. She had me up and riding waves in no time. It was also lovely just chat with her and learn more about her experiences as a native Hawaiian. Strong recommend on doing a lesson!
Our instructor Amy was amazing. She was patient and helpful with my teenagers and my husband, and all three had multiple successful attempts at surfing. They are hooked and can’t wait to come back to Hawaii and do it again! The meeting point was easy to find, all gear was provided, and there was even a photographer that got amazing pictures we could purchase after. North Shore Surf Girls was amazing!
This was such an amazing experience for the whole family. Much thanks to Aimee, Josh and Avery. They were able to accommodate us and all six of our children ages 17 down to 6. They gave special attention to our six year old and when it was his turn would ride tandem with him and by the end he was even able to ride solo. Everyone got up several times. When we signed up they had us send in our ages and sizes and experience level. They were ready with the correct board sizes to help us be successful and the location was perfect for us a with small surf-able waves. I highly recommend this company.
Where Do Turtle Bay Guests Meet for Lessons?
North Shore Meeting Locations
Near Haleʻiwa, Oʻahu's North Shore — exact beach confirmed when you book
Lesson meeting locations are along the North Shore near Historic Haleʻiwa, another must see, and are always confirmed before your lesson, based on that day’s conditions. Look for our blue North Shore Surf Girls company truck.
After you arrive on Oʻahu, call or text (808) 637-2977 and we’ll confirm the best time, location, and directions from Turtle Bay.
Turtle Bay Surf Lesson FAQs
Are there surf lessons near Turtle Bay Resort?
Yes. North Shore Surf Girls teaches beginner-friendly surf lessons at North Shore locations within easy reach of Turtle Bay by car. Lessons run year-round, with beaches chosen for each day’s conditions.
Is North Shore Surf Girls affiliated with The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay?
No. North Shore Surf Girls is an independent, women-owned surf school founded in 2007. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay — we simply teach nearby on Oʻahu’s North Shore.
Can beginners take surf lessons on Oʻahu's North Shore?
Yes. Beginner instruction is our specialty. We choose beginner-appropriate locations based on daily conditions, and most of our students are surfing for the very first time.
Where do Turtle Bay guests meet for surf lessons?
Meeting locations are along the North Shore near Haleʻiwa and are confirmed when you book. Call us after you arrive and we’ll confirm the details and directions from Turtle Bay.
Where do you usually teach in summer and winter?
Chun’s Reef is common in summer, when smaller seasonal surf often suits beginners. Puaʻena Point near Haleʻiwa is common in winter, when it can offer a more protected learning area. Final locations always depend on conditions.
Is the water entry sandy?
At our commonly used teaching areas — Chun’s Reef and Puaʻena Point — students can typically enter the water from sandy beach areas when conditions permit, rather than crossing rock or reef.
Why does sandy beach access matter for beginners?
Carrying a surfboard in and out of the water over sand is simpler and more comfortable than navigating rocks or reef, especially for kids, families, and first-timers. It doesn’t remove ocean risks, but it makes learning more approachable.
Are surfboards and rash guards included?
Yes. Every lesson includes a surfboard and a rash guard, plus land-based instruction on the beach before you enter the water.
Can children take surf lessons?
Yes. Kids and families are welcome. Family and private lessons let children learn with instruction matched to their age, comfort, and ability.
Are private surf lessons available?
Yes — private, semi-private, and group lessons are all available. Private lessons are the best fit for nervous beginners or anyone who wants one-on-one attention.
What time of day is best for a beginner surf lesson?
Mornings frequently offer the most favorable conditions, especially in summer. Because conditions change daily, call after you arrive and we’ll recommend the best time during your stay.
What happens if the waves are too large?
We move to a more protected teaching area when conditions allow, or help you reschedule. We don’t take beginners into unsuitable surf.
Is the North Shore crowded during summer?
Summer lesson beaches on the North Shore can feel less crowded than Waikīkī, though crowds vary by day and beach. Your instructor will pick the most suitable spot available.
How far is North Shore Surf Girls from Turtle Bay?
Our lesson beaches are along Oʻahu’s North Shore, within easy reach of Turtle Bay by car. Travel time varies with North Shore traffic, so check current traffic before you leave.
Should I book before arriving on Oʻahu?
Booking ahead is smart during busy seasons, and you’re welcome to call after you arrive so we can point you to the best day and time for conditions. No surf experience is needed — just swimwear and sunscreen.