Hosted on the iconic North Shore of O‘ahu at Turtle Bay, this 90-minute group surf lesson is designed for beginner surfers looking to catch their first wave in a fun and friendly setting. Led by expert instructors at a 4:1 guest-to-instructor ratio, you’ll start with land-based instruction before paddling into some of the island’s best beginner surf. All equipment is included—boards, rash guards, reef shoes—so you can focus on learning and having fun. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends, it’s an easy, energetic way to get stoked and maybe even stand up on your first wave.
“The instructors were patient and so fun. I stood up on my first try!”
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GUEST REQUIREMENTS
For ages 12+, group size limited to 16 guests.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Active
WHAT TO BRING
Swimsuit, sun protection
CANCELLATION POLICY
Changes or cancellations must be made 48 hours prior.
WHAT GUESTS ARE SAYING
5.0★ from 1,990+ reviews on Google
Guests rave about the surf lessons for being fun, welcoming, and just the right mix of laid-back and professional. Many mention how relaxed but safety-focused the instructors are, striking the balance between coaching and good vibes. First-timers say they stood up on their first wave, while returning surfers appreciate the extra pointers to push their skills. It feels more like joining a local crew than just booking a lesson — full of laughs, high-fives, and that classic surf stoke.
“Best surf lesson ever! I felt safe and learned so much. Can’t wait to come back.”
Verified Review
Perfect for guests looking to meet new friends, share the stoke, and experience the thrill of riding waves together! Our Epic Group Surf Lesson is designed for groups of all skill levels, ages 12 and up, who want to enjoy a fun and social surfing experience.
With a maximum group size of 16, you'll have plenty of opportunities to catch waves and connect with fellow surfers. Our experienced instructors maintain a 4:1 guest-to-instructor ratio, ensuring everyone receives personalized attention and guidance.
What to expect:
- A fun and social group surfing experience
- 4:1 guest-to-instructor ratio
- Experienced instructors
- All skill levels welcome
- Ages 12 and up
All equipment needed for surfing is provided which includes:
- Surfboard
- Fins
- Leash
- Rash guard
- Reef ShoesFounded by legendary North Shore pro surfer Jamie O’Brien, the Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience brings authentic local surf culture to anyone who wants to learn. The team is made up of experienced instructors who know these waves inside out and love helping beginners stand up for the first time or guiding intermediates to the next level. Sharing the stoke is the whole point — expect pro-level insight, a few good laughs, and a warm welcome in Jamie’s home break.
Meeting Point:
Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience Surf Shop, ground level of Ritz-Carlton Residences at Turtle Bay
57-091 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731
Check-in Instructions:
Arrive at the surf shop at least 15 minutes before your lesson. Look for the team in the Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience gear — they’ll get you set up with your board, rash guard, and reef shoes before heading down to the beach together.Customers will receive a full refund or credit with 48 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price.
FOLIO TRAVELOGUE
Stoke for Everyone
I’ve watched surfers before, from the beach, from the lens of surf films. I never thought I’d be one. But there I was—barefoot, sun-warmed, and nervously waxed up on a longboard. The group was a mix: honeymooners, solo travelers, a father and daughter. All of us looking at the ocean like it might let us in.
The instructors were relaxed but sharp—clearly pros. We ran through safety and paddling technique, practiced our pop-ups in the sand, and then made our way to the water. At first it was chaos: foam boards, awkward angles, a few surprised yells. But then something clicked. You paddle, you feel the lift, and suddenly you’re riding. It might last five seconds. It might be wobbly. But it’s surfing. And it feels like flying.
“You paddle, you feel the lift, and suddenly you’re riding… and it feels like flying.”
Between sets, we floated. We laughed. The instructors were always there—correcting your stance, giving a thumbs up, or just cheering when you nailed it. By the end, most of us were standing, high-fiving strangers, totally hooked.
Back at the surf shop, we rinsed off, reviewed the GoPro photos, and agreed: we’d never forget our first waves. And we owed it to the ocean—and to each other—for sharing the stoke.
