Family Surf Lessons in Kihei at Kalama Park

If you’re planning a trip to Maui and thinking about trying your hand at surfing, this family surf lesson at Kalama Park in Kihei might catch your eye. Based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like a well-organized, fun, and safe way to get started in the water—especially for families or groups of friends who want a private, guided experience.

What immediately stands out is the personalized attention you get from dedicated instructors, and the fact that all the equipment—boards, reef shoes, rash guards—is included. That means no fuss about rentals or gear issues, which is great if you’re new to the sport. Plus, the location of Kalama Park offers gentle waves and shallow waters, making it a solid choice for beginner surfers.

A potential downside? Since lessons are in high demand during peak seasons, you’ll need to book well in advance—sometimes up to 51 days ahead—to secure your spot. And, like any water activity, safety is key, so if your group includes very young children or non-swimmers, it’s worth considering how comfortable everyone is in the surf. This experience appears best suited for families, groups, or anyone wanting a private, beginner-friendly introduction to surfing in a relaxed environment.

Key Points

• Private, family-oriented lessons ensure personalized coaching in a small group setting.
• All gear is included, eliminating the hassle of rentals and ensuring everyone has the right equipment.
• The location offers gentle waves and shallow water, ideal for beginners learning to stand.
• Onsite amenities like parking, restrooms, and outdoor showers make the experience more convenient and comfortable.
• Booking in advance is essential during peak seasons to secure a spot.
• Highly praised instructors like Eddie and Summer are noted for their professionalism and positive attitudes.

Experience Details

The Family Surf Lessons at Kalama Park are a well-thought-out introduction to surfing, especially if you’re new to the sport or traveling with kids. The sessions last about 2 hours, giving enough time for instruction, practice, and a bit of fun in the water. The lessons take place from Monday to Saturday mornings, which are perfect times to catch the calmer, more beginner-friendly waves.

The meeting point is conveniently located at Surf Yoga Maui, Kalama Park, making it easy to find and access. The activity ends back at the starting point, so there’s no need for complicated transfers. With the option of a mobile ticket, you can skip the lines and head straight to your lesson.

What’s included?

• All necessary equipment—surfboards, reef shoes, and rash guards—are provided, meaning you won’t have to worry about bringing or renting gear.
• A private instructor gives you tailored guidance suited to your group’s experience level.
• The setting includes onsite parking, public restrooms, outdoor showers, and even a walking path, making it easy to relax before or after your lesson.

The environment

Kalama Park is known for its gentle waves and semi-shallow water, which are perfect for beginners. Reviewers rave about their experiences, with one noting how their instructor, Eddie, made sure everyone was tended to and learned valuable tips. Bianca, another happy participant, remarked that their entire experience was “fantastic”, highlighting the instructor’s attention and the overall positive vibe.

Who is this best suited for?

This activity is an excellent choice for families or groups wanting a private, guided introduction to surfing. It’s also suitable for anyone who appreciates well-organized lessons and values safety and comfort. The included gear and the calm waters help first-timers feel at ease, making it a good option for all ages (most travelers can participate).

Deep dive into what the experience offers

From the moment you arrive at Surf Yoga Maui, the atmosphere is welcoming. The staff and instructors are praised for their professionalism and friendly approach. Summer, one of the guides, checks in on experience levels beforehand, ensuring that everyone’s needs are considered. This attention to detail is crucial, especially when learning a new sport in an environment that can be unpredictable.

The two-hour lesson is designed to balance instruction with practice. Expect to spend part of the time on land, learning the fundamentals of paddling and standing up, then move to the water to apply those skills. The calm, shallow waters at Kalama Park mean you’re not fighting against powerful waves, which is a relief for beginners.

Reviewers share stories of their children and teens having success early on. One parent noted how their girls were standing on their boards by their second attempts, thanks to Eddie’s expert coaching. This immediate success builds confidence and makes the experience memorable.

What makes this stand out?

Besides the quality of instruction and the inclusive gear, the location itself is a bonus. The park has a lovely walking path, a playground for younger kids, and several cafes and restaurants nearby for after-surf snacks. The onsite parking is plentiful, which can be a real plus in busy seasons.

Potential improvements

While the experience is highly rated, it’s worth noting that you should book early during peak seasons because lessons tend to fill up fast. Also, the activity is limited to Monday through Saturday mornings, so if you’re a late riser or visiting on a Sunday, you might need to plan accordingly.

Is it worth the price?

At $172.77 per person, this experience might seem a bit steep at first glance. However, considering all gear provided, personalized instruction, and the prime location, many would agree it offers solid value. For families or groups wanting a safe, guided introduction to surfing, the cost pays off in peace of mind, convenience, and the chance to learn from experienced instructors.

The reviews suggest that the quality of the instruction and the friendly atmosphere make this into a memorable part of any Maui trip. Plus, the small group setting means you’re not lost in a crowd, and your instructor can pay close attention to your progress.

Who should book this?

This surfing lesson is great for families, groups, or friends who want a private experience and aren’t experienced surfers. It’s perfect if you prefer a safe, guided approach rather than trying to figure things out on your own. The calm waters and all-inclusive setup make it especially suitable for beginners and younger travelers.

It’s less suited for those seeking an adrenaline rush or advanced surfers looking for challenging waves. Also, if your schedule doesn’t align with the morning times or you’re traveling during very busy peak seasons, plan ahead to secure your spot.

FAQs

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, the experience is friendly for most travelers, and the calm waters make it an approachable way for kids to learn. Just ensure your children are comfortable in the water.

How early should I book?
It’s best to book as early as possible, especially during spring, summer, and winter breaks, as lessons tend to fill up weeks in advance.

What equipment is included?
All necessary gear—surfboards, reef shoes, and rash guards—is provided, so you do not need to bring your own.

What is the duration of the lesson?
The lessons are approximately 2 hours long, providing enough time for instruction and practice.

Where do the lessons take place?
They are held at Kalama Park in Kihei, starting and ending at Surf Yoga Maui.

What if the weather is bad?
The activity requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility to adapt your plans.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized way to dip your toes into surfing with your family or friends, this private lesson at Kalama Park is a solid pick. The combination of courteous, professional instructors, all gear included, and the gentle waves makes it accessible and enjoyable for beginners. It’s a chance to build confidence in the water while soaking in some of Maui’s best views.

While it’s worth planning ahead and considering the costs, many previous guests have found the experience worth every penny—especially when they see their kids standing up and smiling after just a short lesson. The laid-back vibe, friendly guides, and beautiful location make this a memorable part of any Maui trip, perfect for creating shared moments and a new family story—”We learned to surf in Maui.”

Happy surfing!