“Awesome intro to Surf lessons!! … My instructor ‘Zoom’ was absolutely incredible. He was friendly, super knowledgeable and really relaxed.”
Verified Review
Whether you're a hesitant first-timer or a returning surfer aiming to level up, these private and semi-private lessons in Kihei offer the ultimate personalized experience. With a gentle beach break and warm waters ideal for beginners, Maui Wave Riders provides a relaxed yet focused environment, pairing each student (or small group) with a dedicated instructor. All gear is included, and instructors tailor the pace and goals of the session to each guest—making it an ideal choice for kids, couples, or anyone craving more than a group setting can offer.
GUEST REQUIREMENTS
For ages 4+
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Easy surfing
WHAT TO BRING
Swimsuit, Towel, Sun protection
CANCELLATION POLICY
Changes or cancellations must be made 24 hours prior.
WHAT GUESTS ARE SAYING
4.9★ from 2,300+ reviews on TripAdvisor
Guests say Maui Wave Riders’ instructors are patient, upbeat, and skilled at turning nervous beginners into confident first-time surfers. Families love how safe and fun the lessons feel, with plenty of cheering and easy waves to build confidence. Couples and friends mention that the small class size makes the vibe relaxed and personal — by the end, everyone leaves with a huge grin and a few stories about their first wipeout or the perfect wave they caught together.
Private Surf Lessons
We suggest a private for those who want a more advanced lesson or complete individualized attention. We also recommend a private lesson for surfers who want to work on their skills or for those who are hesitant beginners! We definitely recommend our Private Lesson for young children!
Semi-Private Surf Lessons
Our Semi-Private lesson is great for couples or for kids! It consists of 2-6 students from your party with a private instructor! This lesson will be more individualized than our Group Lesson. It allows you more attention with your instructor and you do not share your instructor with anyone outside of your party!
We specialize in all levels from beginning to advanced. The classes include use of a rashguard, surf shoes, a soft top surfboard, and safety fins. The lessons include an approximate fifteen-minute land lesson on the basics of surfing, emphasizing water safety. The rest of the time is spent with an instructor in the water teaching you how to catch your own waves!Maui Wave Riders has been teaching first-time surfers and ocean lovers how to ride Maui’s waves for over 20 years. Family-owned and run by people who grew up in these waters, the team is all about sharing the island’s laid-back surf culture in a safe, friendly way. Whether you’re a total beginner or fine-tuning your pop-up, Maui Wave Riders keeps it simple: warm water, gentle coaching, and that first thrill when you stand up on your own wave.
Kihei Location: 2021 South Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96753
(Note: They have Lahaina and Kahului locations — guests choose location when booking.)
Please notify Maui Waveriders immediately of any changes or cancellations to your reservation. Reservations not cancelled within 24 hours of the scheduled lesson time will be subject to payment. The credit card used to guarantee your reservation will be charged 100% of the total price.
To change or cancel a confirmed reservation and obtain a cancellation confirmation, please call us at 808-875-4761.
Should you be delayed due to travel you must inform us before 3pm local time the date before your lesson so your reservation is not considered a “no-show.” The lesson may possibly be rescheduled for another time or date with a rescheduling fee if you call the day before the lesson. Should you cancel the lesson without rescheduling, a 100% charge of the total will occur.
FOLIO TRAVELOGUE
Learning to surf in Kihei, one private wave at a time
The beach in Kihei has a way of putting you at ease. Maybe it’s the slope of the sand, the way the waves roll in like they’ve been practicing for this all day, or just the warmth of the water that feels like it was made to welcome people in.
I met my instructor by the Maui Wave Riders tent, boards already lined up, the kind of quiet confidence in the air that makes you believe you’ll actually stand up by the end of the hour. And I did. But before that, there was a stretch of time—fifteen minutes on shore, simple instructions, safety first, and then, just like that, we were in the water.
In a private lesson, it’s about rhythm. Your own rhythm. And when that rhythm lines up with the wave… it’s magic.
What made it different was the attention. One instructor, just me. Adjusting every move, celebrating each wipeout like a badge of progress. I watched a couple nearby, laughing and learning together, and a kid about eight years old, catching wave after wave like he was born to do this.
In a group, it’s about energy. But in a private lesson, it’s about rhythm. Your own rhythm. And when that rhythm lines up with the wave… it’s magic.
