Surf Lessons Explained
Surf lessons names and types can be REALLY confusing. Below is a simple explanation of each lesson type so you can choose what works best for you.
PRIVATE or SEMI-PRIVATE
Personalized coaching at your pace.
Best for guests who want focused instruction one on one (private) or those who want to learn with their spouse or friends (semi private 2-3 people). You get calmer pacing, more feedback, and a lesson shaped around comfort, confidence, and progress in Waikiki.
GROUP LESSONS
Social, high-energy learning with guidance.
Group lessons (4-6 people) are intentionally limited to guests who all book together. Unlike typical surf schools, groups are never mixed with strangers (often called open groups). We emphasize preserving comfort, focus, and a higher level of instruction.
CHILDREN or FAMILY
Supportive structure built for younger surfers.
These surf lessons are designed for kids and/or families learning together, with extra emphasis on safety, encouragement, and clear steps. Instruction stays patient and positive so your kids truly enjoy the experience.
ADVANCED LESSONS
Technique-focused coaching
For surfers who already catch waves consistently and want better positioning, timing, and wave reading. Coaching is tuned to Waikiki conditions so you improve faster in the breaks you will actually surf here.
Surfing Really is for Everyone
ANYONE CAN LEARN, WITH THE RIGHT GUIDANCE.












What You Learn at Your Waikiki Surf Lesson
LAND LESSON INSTRUCTION
Board overview and sizing
Leash placement and use
Prone position on the board
Dry-run paddling technique
POP-UP STANCE MECHANICS
Hand placement
One-motion pop-up technique
Front and back foot placement
Balanced surf stance
ENTERING THE WATER SAFELY
Safely carrying your board
Entering with oncoming waves
Protecting yourself and others
Controlling the board in shallow water
PADDLING TECHNIQUES
Efficient paddling in the water
Paddling through whitewater
How to get past breaking waves
Finding and using channels
POSITIONING AND WAVE TIMING
Where to sit in the lineup
Identifying rideable waves
When to start paddling
How hard to paddle
Looking back and reading the wave
OCEAN SAFETY AND ETIQUETTE
Reading wave sets and lulls
Identifying safe zones
Right-of-way rules
Dealing with wipeouts
Lineup awareness

Booking Form
If you’re not sure which surf lesson is right for you, see our full breakdown of Waikiki Surf Lesson Types and Pricing. Otherwise, fill out the form and Mickey will contact you as soon as possible.
Surf Lessons at Waikiki Beach
CANDID surf lessons & ACTUAL students AT mickeys surf school
Waikiki’s #1 Surf Lessons
Surf lessons in Waikiki should feel personal, calm, and confidence-building. Every lesson here is designed around your ability level, comfort in the water, and goals for the session. Whether it is your first time standing on a board or you want focused coaching to improve technique, lessons are tailored to you, not run as a volume operation.
Lessons take place in Waikiki’s beginner-friendly surf breaks with consistent waves and sandy bottoms. You can choose private, semi-private, group, family, children’s, or advanced lessons, all taught with patience and clear instruction. The goal is simple. Get you riding waves safely, comfortably, and smiling by the end of your session






