Kids Surfing Lessons in Waikiki: An Honest Look at a Private Experience

If you’re planning a family trip to Oahu and want your kids to catch some waves safely, this 2-hour private kids surf lesson might just be what you’re looking for. It’s designed for families who want personalized coaching in a relaxed setting, with experienced local guides who know Waikiki’s waters inside and out. While it’s tailored to children and beginners, it’s also a great way for more confident little surfers to refine their skills or explore underwater wonders.
What we love about this tour is the one-on-one coaching—your child won’t be lost in a crowd, and the guides’ insider knowledge makes for a more meaningful experience. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy beautiful views of Diamond Head while learning to surf truly enhances the adventure. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this is a relatively short activity—just two hours—so if you’re craving a full day of water fun, you might want to combine it with other activities.
This experience is best suited for families with kids, beginners, or anyone curious about surfing in a safe, supportive environment. If your child is a little hesitant about the water or new to surfing, this private lesson can build confidence in a friendly, non-intimidating way.
Key Points

- Personalized attention from local guides ensures your child’s comfort and skill development.
- All necessary gear and snacks are provided, making it a hassle-free experience.
- The stunning Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head views add a memorable scenic backdrop.
- Flexible options, like tandem boards and life jackets, cater to different comfort levels.
- The private setting guarantees your family gets focused coaching without distraction.
- The full refund policy offers peace of mind if plans need to change.
Planning more time in Oahu? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An In-Depth Look at the Kids Surfing Experience

When considering a kids’ surf lesson in Waikiki, what really matters is how the experience is structured and how it caters to young learners. This tour delivers personalized coaching, which is a significant advantage. Unlike group lessons, a private guide like Shane can tailor instructions to your child’s skill level, making it more effective and enjoyable. The fact that Shane is a local who knows Waikiki’s waves intimately means he can quickly assess the best spots and conditions for beginners or those wanting a bit more challenge.
The Itinerary and What to Expect
Your day begins with a convenient pickup, though the meeting point is at Waikiki Beach itself—an iconic stretch of sand that’s perfect for beginners. Once there, your guide will introduce your family to the gear and safety instructions. Kids can learn to paddle, balance, and ride waves in a safe environment, with the option to use life jackets or tandem boards if needed, at no extra charge. This flexibility helps nervous children feel more secure as they start their surfing journey.
Throughout the session, the instructor will focus solely on your group, giving undivided attention to your child’s confidence and technique. The guided coaching means less time waiting in line or sharing attention with strangers—it’s all about your family. As the reviews highlight, Shane’s expertise helps children gain confidence quickly, often riding waves early in the session.
Underwater and Reef Exploration
One of the unique perks of this tour is the inclusion of snorkel gear, which can be requested at no extra cost. This allows your family to explore Waikiki’s underwater scenes—searching for turtles, fish, and coral reefs when not riding the waves. If your kids are curious about marine life, this adds an extra layer of excitement to the water adventure.
What Makes It Special?
The combination of beautiful scenery, professional guidance, and all-inclusive amenities makes this experience stand out. The snacks and bottled water keep everyone energized, and the safety measures like life jackets help nervous beginners feel more at ease. Plus, being able to enjoy the view of Diamond Head while catching your first wave is truly memorable.
- Kids and Adults Private or Group Surf Lessons 90min. 100% support
- Hawaiian Culture & Snorkel Adventure with Photo/Videos
- Deep Sea Shared Fishing Charter in Honolulu
- Kaneohe Sandbar Snorkeling Tour – 1st Tour
- Swim With Dolphins & Turtles in West Oahu (Semi-Private Tours)
- Shark Diving and Snorkeling in Oahu Hawaii
The Value for Money
At $175 per person, this private lesson might seem like a splurge, but when you consider the personalized coaching, all gear, snacks, and the expert guidance from Shane and his team, it’s quite reasonable—especially given the quality and safety focus. Several reviews emphasize how this experience exceeded expectations, with families saying it was “absolutely worth it.”
The Downside?
The main limitation is the duration—just about two hours—which might feel short for some. If you’re looking for a full day of water activities, you’d need to supplement this with other experiences. Also, since it’s a private tour, the price per person is higher than group lessons; however, the quality and customized attention often justify the cost.
Who Should Book This?
This private kids’ surfing lesson is ideal for families visiting Waikiki who want a safe, private setting for their children to learn or practice surfing. It’s perfect if your kids are hesitant about the water or entirely new to surfing, thanks to Shane’s friendly guidance. Also, if your family appreciates scenic views, the backdrop of Diamond Head makes the experience feel even more special.
Final Thoughts
For families eager to introduce their children to surfing in a relaxed, personalized environment, this tour offers excellent value. The knowledgeable local guides, focus on safety, and scenic setting make it a memorable, worthwhile experience. While it’s not a full day at the beach, it’s a high-quality, focused activity that builds confidence and creates fun memories.
If your kids are curious about water sports, enjoy being in the ocean, or just want a safe space to try surfing for the first time, then this private lesson is well worth considering. It’s especially suited for families who value personalized attention and want a friendly, expert guide to share Waikiki’s famous waves with their children.
2 hours Private Kids Surfing Lessons
“Shane and Captain Neil were the absolute BEST. Our family of 5 had the most amazing experience for our first time surfing. We all were able to ride…”
Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The lesson lasts approximately 2 hours, giving enough time for a thorough introduction and some wave riding without it feeling rushed.
Is transportation provided?
Pickup is offered, but the meeting point is Waikiki Beach itself—so most travelers will find it easy to get there.
What gear is included?
Snacks, bottled water, and surfing gear are all provided. Life jackets and snorkel masks are available at no extra charge upon request, catering to different comfort levels.
Can my child surf on a tandem board?
Yes, tandem boards for two persons, including a child and instructor, are available. Additional boards for solo surfing can be arranged once your child is comfortable.
Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The focus is on helping beginners and kids gain confidence, with personalized coaching in a safe environment.
What if my child is nervous?
The private setting and flexible options like tandem boards and life jackets help make nervous children more comfortable.
Is this experience family-friendly?
Yes, it’s designed for children and families, with a focus on safety, fun, and confidence-building.
What’s the price?
It’s $175 per person, which includes all gear, snacks, and instruction. The personalized attention offers good value for a private experience.
Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, it’s best suited for children comfortable in the water and eager to try surfing.
Can I cancel if our plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the activity. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
If you’re looking for a fun, safe, and personalized introduction to surfing for your kids in Waikiki, this private lesson could be just right. It combines expert guidance, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed vibe that makes learning to ride waves a memorable part of your Hawaiian adventure.
More Workshops & Classes in Oahu
More Private Tours in Oahu
More Tour Reviews in Oahu
More Oahu experiences we've covered
- Historical Tour of Downtown Honolulu in Red Light District
- Snorkeling with Turtle/Water Scooter/Paddleboard Adventures Oahu
- Airport Shuttle – HNL Airport to Waikiki
- Waikele Outlet Shopping Shuttle from Waikiki
- Ko Hana Rum Tour and Tasting
- Premier Waikiki Sunset Party Cruise with Live DJ and Full Bar
- Guided E-Bike and Kayak Tour to Mokulua Islands in Kailua, Oahu
- North Shore Farm: Anahulu River, Kayak-Sup, Turtles, Lunch & More
- Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise with Snack & Hula Entertainment
- Exclusive Waikiki Yacht Snorkel with Lunch and Bevs
- Whale Watching Cruise in Honolulu
- Group of 2 + mid length eFoil experience Honolulu HAWAII
