Kihei Surf Lessons at Waves Hawaii — Billabong Surf School in Maui
Learn to ride south-shore waves with Waves Hawaii at Kalama Park. Two-hour Billabong-affiliated lessons with a 6:1 ratio, reef-safe gear, and local instructors who teach technique, safety and surf etiquette.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early to suit up
Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes before your slot to sign waivers, put on reef shoes and warm up; lessons depart promptly.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
The lesson includes rash guards but not sunscreen—use reef-safe SPF to protect skin and coral ecosystems.
Hydrate and fuel up
Two hours in sun and salt requires a full water bottle and a light snack beforehand to sustain paddling energy.
Book private for young kids
Children under 8 or nervous beginners progress faster and safer with a private 1:1 lesson—ask about private options when booking.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the shoreline east toward Sugar Beach for long shallow sandbars and tide pools at low tide
- •Explore Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve south of Kihei for coastal lava fields and clear snorkeling spots (respect protected areas)
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles (honu) in nearshore waters
- •Seasonal humpback whales offshore (Dec–Apr) visible from the beach
Conservation Note
Stay on sand entries, avoid stepping on coral, and use reef-safe sunscreen—local groups monitor reef health and rely on visitor cooperation.
Surfing on Maui is an ancestral practice; Kihei’s beaches were historically used for training aliʻi (chiefs) and local fishermen who read reef breaks and swells.
Photographer's Notes
- • Kalama Park shoreline facing west for bracelets of breaking waves
- • Sugar Beach for wide-angle sunrise surf scenes
- • Ahihi-Kinau lava fields for contrasting rock and sea textures
What to Bring
Reef shoesEssential
Protect feet on rocky entry points and coral while providing traction on wet sand and lava shelves.
Rash guard (provided)Essential
Prevents chafing and offers UV protection during prolonged exposure to sun and saltwater.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated before and after your lesson; avoid single-use plastics to protect reef systems.
Towel and change of clothes
Quick dry towel and a dry set make the post-surf transition comfortable for the drive home.
Common Questions
What is included with the lesson?
Two-hour instruction, soft-top surfboard, rash guard and reef shoes are included; professional instructor and on-beach safety briefing are provided.
How old do kids need to be?
Children of most ages can participate, but Waves Hawaii recommends private 1:1 lessons for kids under 8 for safety and better progression.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes—participants should be comfortable in the water and able to swim; instructors coach technique but not basic swim training.
What happens in bad weather?
Lessons may be canceled for safety if conditions are poor; full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the lesson.
Is transportation provided?
No—meet at the Waves Hawaii van in Kalama Park at 1900 S Kihei Rd; there is no traveler pickup service.
Are there health restrictions?
Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious spinal or cardiovascular conditions; disclose medical issues when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Kihei, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required—comfortable paddling, basic swimming ability and ability to pop up on a board quickly.
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