Surf lesson w/ GoPRO cameras

If you’re heading to Oahu and dreaming of catching your first wave, this surf lesson with GoPro footage might just be the perfect start. With a high rating of 5.0 from 123 reviews, it’s clear that most who try it fall in love with both the experience and the personal touch provided by knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re completely new to surfing or looking for a relaxed introduction, this experience promises some great memories — and plenty of waves to ride.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s designed for small groups of just two people, ensuring personalized attention from your instructor. Second, the inclusion of GoPro footage — so you can relive every wipeout and wave catch — makes it a memorable keepsake. Third, the location is perfect for beginners, with a less crowded beach environment ideal for learning without the chaos of Waikiki’s hustle. The only potential downside? If you’re not comfortable swimming or have limited physical fitness, you might find the physical aspect slightly challenging, but overall, this is a beginner-friendly adventure.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a fun, relaxed, and authentic introduction to surfing, especially those who appreciate capturing their moments on camera. It’s also a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to build confidence in the water. Now, let’s explore what makes this experience special and how it delivers genuine value.

  • Personalized small-group lessons for individual attention
  • GoPro footage and edited photos/videos included, creating memorable souvenirs
  • Ideal for beginners, with clear instructions and patient guides
  • Less crowded beach environment enhances learning and comfort
  • All necessary equipment provided, including rash guards and shoes
  • Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind

The adventure begins at 75 Ala Moana Park Drive in Honolulu, where your instructor, often named Ryo or Michael, will greet you and review the basics of surfing. During the 30-minute land session, you’ll learn how waves work, surfing etiquette, and how to position yourself on the board. This part is crucial, especially for newbies, to build confidence before hitting the water.

Once prepared, you’ll head to a local, beginner-friendly surf break. Unlike the busy shores of Waikiki, this spot offers space and a calmer atmosphere — great for catching waves without feeling overwhelmed. The small group size of just two (and sometimes three) ensures your instructor can give focused tips and corrections, making your progress faster.

As you get in the water, the real fun begins. Your instructor will help you find the best waves suited for beginners, often selecting great surf spots that are less crowded but still ideal for learning. Many reviewers highlighted how their guides, like Ryo and Mike, were incredibly patient and observant, picking waves that match your comfort and skill level.

A standout feature is the GoPro camera that records your ride from start to finish. This footage isn’t just random clips; it’s professionally edited and sent to you afterwards, making for fantastic souvenirs. Several reviewers, including Frances and Erica, praised the quality of these videos, which capture the thrill of standing up on your board or even just paddling out. The images often include shots of students gleefully catching waves, providing a boost of confidence and nostalgia.

Throughout the water session, the guides are attentive, encouraging, and ready to offer tips to improve your stance and technique. Many guests expressed how their guides, like Mike or Rio, made them feel comfortable even if they were nervous. One reviewer mentioned that even their 15-year-old daughter succeeded with the instructor’s help, highlighting the lesson’s accessibility.

The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, balancing instruction, practice, and fun. Afterward, you’ll head back to the starting point, often feeling proud of your new skills and eager to try again.

At $125 per person, this tour offers several value-packed advantages. The personalized instruction, the use of GoPro footage, and the all equipment included mean you don’t need to worry about bringing anything but yourself. Many guests appreciated how the instructor provided rash guards, shoes, and even sunscreen, removing extra hassle.

When you compare this to other beginner lessons that might not include professional footage or small-group settings, this experience stands out as worth the investment. Several reviewers emphasized how much they appreciated the included videos, noting they’d cherish the footage for years.

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is its small group size, often only two to three participants. This setup allows the instructor to focus on your individual progress, correct your form, and ensure you’re catching waves safely. Guests described the guides as friendly, patient, and observant, which significantly enhances the learning process.

This personalized attention creates an environment where even the most nervous first-timers can quickly gain confidence. Reviewers like Denise and Christina shared how they, despite their age or initial doubts, were able to stand on their boards thanks to the attentive coaching.

Unlike the crowded shores of Waikiki, the chosen surf spots for this lesson are more relaxed and spacious. The less crowded environment means fewer distractions and more waves to practice on, which is essential for making progress quickly. Guests frequently noted how this setting made the experience more comfortable, especially for those new to the water.

The local surf break also offers some scenic views and a more authentic surfing vibe — a bonus for travelers wanting a break from more commercialized beach scenes.

From the reviews, guides like Ryo, Mike, and Rio are consistently praised for their patience, friendliness, and professionalism. They are observant of each student’s form, always ready with constructive tips, and capable of making even the most hesitant feel at ease.

One reviewer mentioned that their instructor never made them feel rushed or uncomfortable, which is critical in a beginner setting. Many guests appreciated how guides picked great waves, tailored their approach to each individual, and genuinely wanted everyone to succeed.

The inclusion of GoPro footage is a significant highlight. Reviewers often described the videos as professional, fun, and full of action shots of them catching their first waves or wiping out (and laughing about it). After the lesson, you’ll receive edited clips and photos via email, allowing you to relive the highlights.

Many found this feature to be worth every penny, as it captures the thrill and joy of learning to surf in a way that simple photos can’t. These videos often become treasured souvenirs, especially for first-timers who want to remember their accomplishment.

  • Meeting Point: 75 Ala Moana Park Drive, Honolulu, easily accessible and near public transportation, making it convenient for travelers staying in Waikiki or nearby.
  • Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes — a perfect length for beginners, balancing instruction and play.
  • Group Size: Limited to 2-3 people, ensuring personalized attention.
  • Equipment Provided: Rash guards, shoes, and sunscreen — so you don’t need to bring much.
  • Physical Requirements: Moderate fitness level and swimming ability are recommended. Guests noted that guides are very patient, making the experience suitable even for those with little water confidence.
  • Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change or weather turns unfavorable.

Many reviews highlight how guides like Ryo and Mike went above and beyond. For example, one guest mentioned that despite feeling unwell, their guide offered to continue another day without extra charge. Others appreciated how guides tailored the lessons to their skill levels, ensuring everyone left with a sense of achievement.

Guests with young children or teenagers shared how the calm, spacious environment and attentive instructors made the day enjoyable for all ages. Several reviewers described the experience as “fun, relaxed, and memorable,” emphasizing how they finally managed to stand up on a surfboard — sometimes on their very first try.

This surf lesson is a fantastic choice for beginners who want a safe, enjoyable, and personalized introduction to surfing. The small group size and professional guides ensure everyone gets ample attention, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families. The GoPro footage is a bonus, transforming fleeting moments into lasting memories.

If you’re after a less crowded, beginner-friendly surf experience that mixes fun with learning, this tour offers excellent value for money. The location, equipment, and attention to detail make it a standout option for those wanting to build confidence in the water while capturing the experience on film.

While it’s definitely suited for most fitness levels, those who are comfortable swimming and willing to try a bit of physical activity** will get the most out of it. Just arrive with a smile, some sunscreen, and a readiness to play in the waves.

Is this surf lesson suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, it’s designed for beginners. The instructor will review the basics before heading into the water, and many guests report they were able to stand on the board after just one lesson.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the instruction, all necessary equipment like rash guards and shoes, and the GoPro footage with edited photos and videos sent afterward.

How long does the lesson last?
The entire experience is around 1 hour 30 minutes, including land instructions and water time.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 75 Ala Moana Park Drive in Honolulu, which is accessible by public transportation and centrally located.

Can I cancel this activity?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is physical fitness a requirement?
A moderate fitness level and swimming ability are recommended, but guides are patient and supportive, making it accessible even for novices.

This beginner-friendly surf lesson in Oahu combines expert guidance, personalized attention, and the chance to record your first waves on high-quality footage. Perfect for those looking to dip their toes into surfing or seek a relaxed, fun activity that leaves lasting memories.