Oahu Tours
Surfing Lessons On Waikiki Beach
4.5

Surfing Lessons On Waikiki Beach

By Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee
Recommended by 90% of travelers
90% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
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About
There are few better places to learn to surf than the gentle, rolling waves of Waikiki Beach. Learn the basics or refresh your skills in a small-group lesson (four students to one instructor) that’s tailored to your skill level. Relax in shallow water with a soft, sandy bottom on a stable board. These Waikiki Beach surf classes are perfect for anyone looking to gain surfing skills and confidence.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 13-99, max of 5 per group
Duration: 1h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: Japanese, English, Spanish
More

Highlights
  • Learn to surf on Hawaii’s Waikiki Beach
  • Get personalized surfing instruction in a small-group lesson
  • Hassle-free round-trip transport from select Waikiki hotels
  • Surfboards and rash guards provided

  • All required equipment (Surfboard & Leash)
  • Professional instructor
  • use of locker to store belongings
What's not included
  • Gratuities
  • Photography - with advance reservations
  • Rash Guard rental $5
  • Optional Lock rental. $5. or bring your own

Begin your surfing experience with pickup from select Waikiki hotels. Check in at the surf shop and meet your instructor for an introduction. Get suited up in provided rash guard and choose the right surfboard for you. Next settle in for the dry portion of the class. Learn the basics of balancing on your board while still on land and get comfortable before venturing into the water. The classes are suitable for all ages and all skill levels. Whether you are just starting out or want to build on your experience, small class sizes of no more than four students per instructor guarantee plenty of personalized teaching. Next head to the beach where your instructor gets you set up your board. Then it’s time to dive in, paddle out, and catch some waves. The tour ends with a return to your original pickup location.

Start:
  • Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee, 226 Lewers St #154, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
    Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee located at 226 Lewers St #154 next door to Roy's restaurant. ***CHECK IN - 20 minutes prior to lesson start time.*** Please walk into the cafe and you will see the Surf Side Retail / Check In area..... we will get you signed in there.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Near public transportation
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 8942P1

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
    • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
    • MUST be able to swim.
    • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 5 travelers

    • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 8942P1

    From
    ₱7,514.85
    per adult
    Select date and travelers

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    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee
      534
      Honolulu, United States
      Joined in July 2011
    • Tripod137
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Outrigger Canoe Ride - So Much Fun!
      Our family of four had an amazing time on the Outrigger Canoe ride! The guides were friendly and laid-back, making the experience even more enjoyable. It was such a thrill to be out on the water, paddling with all our might, and then surfing the waves toward the shore. The waves were extra high the day we went, but the guides made sure we were safe and had a fantastic time. If you're in the front seat, be prepared—you will definitely get WET!!! This was the perfect first activity for our vacation in Oahu!
      Written August 27, 2024
    • shellysW5850LO
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      A MUST stop!
      The food, atmosphere, and staff were awesome! We fell in love with this place! We were treated like family and felt right at home. Can’t wait to come back and see the friends we made while we were here!
      Written July 22, 2024
    • S8669JAchristinek
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Outrigger Canoe Is So Much Fun!
      Our family of five had an amazing experience on the Outrigger Canoe ride! It was so much fun being out on the water working together with the guides to find the wave, paddle with all of our might, and then surf it in towards the shore. If you're in the front seat, wear glasses because you're getting WET! It was truly exhilarating and a highlight of our time on Oahu.
      Written July 13, 2024
    • fornaro24
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Outrigger Canoe ride
      JP /John Paul did an awesome job guiding us on the outrigger canoe adventure! 10 out of 10! Only use him for you activities on Waikiki!
      Written June 28, 2024
    • Barbara F
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Amazing experience
      I can’t say enough good things about our outrigger canoe ride. I was very unsure that I could do it once I saw the canoe but John Paul said I would be alright and he was correct. They reviewed what would happen, how to get in and how to paddle and how to ride the waves. John Paul and his crew were very friendly and constantly making sure we were doing ok. They could not have been more welcoming. The actual ride was amazing. We ride three waves and we loved it. The water was beautiful and when paddling out you could see the coral on the bottom of the ocean. Highly recommend
      Written June 23, 2024
    • Duke1140
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      OUTSTANDING FUN!!!
      We had a morning Polynesian outrigger canoe ride with Captain John Paul and we had a total blast. I believe they try to give you 2 ride attempts during your time. John Paul , being an expert surfer, was reading the waves and we enjoyed 4 wonderful rides in. It was fun, exciting, gave me the sense of surfing and the enjoyment of being on the water off of Waikiki Beach. I highly recommend this company and John Paul.
      Written June 6, 2024
    • RayFort
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Amazing So Much Fun
      Amazing Experience Family Inclusive so much fun we loved it can't wait to do it again. Guys on the boat were brilliant, highly recommend.
      Written June 2, 2024
    • JeffreyMatthewCohen
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Excellent location; great staff and boards!
      We stayed in Oahu for 4 nights over my birthday in May, 2024. We rented boards from Big Wave Dave’s for the duration of our stay. The place it located close to the Sheraton and Royal Hawaiian on Waikiki. Great location, awesome staff, and great boards and pricing. In addition to the surf shop, there’s also a coffee shop which is great as well. Thanks for the great boards and service guys!! Had a blast.
      Written May 25, 2024
    • T241GRjohnc
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Best on the beach
      My wife just got back from a lesson with Chad. Her smile was from ear to ear. What a great soul! If you're in Waikiki, please get a lesson from these guys. From the land lesson to the waves to the walk back to the shop, you're learning. Chad thank you so much for today. We'll be back soon brother! Mahalo
      Written April 26, 2024
    • Kate S
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Had lots of fun, gained confidence & learned a lot!
      As beginners, we weren’t sure what to expect, but the instructors made us feel great on the waves. They were so friendly and talented. Highly recommend for first-time surfers!! We got up on the first try!
      Written April 14, 2024
    • Sherpa398312
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Outrigger canoe ride was a blast!
      From someone who does not surf, this was a great way to catch a wave! JP was an encouraging, easy-going and informative steerer for our group. Would definitely recommend this activity if you want to try something different on the water!
      Written March 27, 2024
    • ljrevay
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Sibs first time out!
      The surf lessons were so fun. It was our first time out and we actually stood up! They could not have been nicer or more supportive.
      Written March 22, 2024
    • dhkmnjj
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      A MUST-DO!!
      My instructor was Raye. Not enough words to describe her: phenomenal, fabulous, patient, kind, extraordinary. We started out with the basics on land, then paddled our hearts out to get past the reef below us and get to the waves. Her main goal: stay relaxed and just have fun. Which wasn’t hard!! Thank you so much Raye!
      Written January 24, 2024
    • amyjJ6486MF
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Just do it!
      Fantastic business! I signed up for the 1 on 1 surf lesson and loved every minute of it. Paul was my teacher and because of him, if I could rate 6 stars, I would! If you're down to send it and experience surfing, give these guys a call and do the 1 on 1 lesson! Thanks for making my trip awesome! Nothing but the best to these guys!
      Written January 19, 2024
    • vitot555
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great instructor and friendly service!
      The service was great! Pauly was an anmazing instructor. Very friendly and detailed. He helped me catch my first waves. I would definitely go again. Highly recommend!
      Written January 19, 2024
    See all 534 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

    Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

    Popular mentions

    4.5
    4.5 of 5 bubbles108 reviews
    Excellent
    90
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    8
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    2
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    8

    Mohit V
    2 contributions
    1.0 of 5 bubbles
    Oct 2022
    While the surfing lesson itself was good and rewarding, the package was terrible. I had booked a package with photos and video. After finishing the lessons, the employees told me that I should receive my media within 48 hours. I did not get anything after a week. I called more than five times to ask about where my photos and video were and they had no idea. After a month of no answers, I asked for a refund and the person answering the phone just kept saying that he does not know how to do a refund nor does he know where the photos/videos were. I e-mailed the owner several times and did not get a response. Despite repeated attempts at getting a phone number for the owner or manager, I was not provided one. I finally had to give a final warning asking for a refund or facing a small claims suit before they connected me to the owner and issued a refund. This is one of the worst experiences I have had with customer service. I chose these people because it was meant to be memorable and it instead turned into a nightmare. I wasted several hours just following up with them. I NEVER got my photos and videos. Go with someone else that is more reliable and get your media right away. I am completely disappointed with Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee. I would put a photo with this review but I don't have any...thanks to them :( :@
    Written December 2, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Chris G
    1 contribution
    1.0 of 5 bubbles
    Sep 2022 • Family
    We were sold a 2hr private surf lesson which turned into 1.5hrs after we paid. We also paid $149 for video and photos of the lesson. We received a link to the videos and out of approx 48 short clips only 6 were of my son and wife - the rest were of another group.

    Followed this up and got no reply. Chased up the photos and no reply again. Sent an email and got ignored.

    Went into the store and was told someone will be in contact and 3 days later still nothing.

    Pathetic service - don’t waste your money.
    Written September 20, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Nancy L
    3 contributions
    1.0 of 5 bubbles
    Dec 2022
    My grandchildren just took surfing lessons from them. We are extremely upset and will never recommend them to anybody. Our 10 year old granddaughter was literally left by herself out in the ocean when her group went in. They never counted the number of people to make sure they had everyone. She was scared and crying on her board alone with no one around her. Petrified parents and grandparents looking for her on the beach. She yelled for help and thank God stayed with her board. She finally found another group and they helped her in. Big Dave took no responsibility and said she should have watched for them. Thank God it had a happy ending and she knew to look for help. It could have been devastating end of vacation.
    Written January 1, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Onyé
    4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Mar 2021 • Couples
    This was so much fun! Our instructors were Josh and Chris. I was with Chris for majority on my time in the water and he was so helpful, fun and encouraging! He probably wanted me to surf and enjoy the experience more than I even wanted to which was so encouraging. I got a few good surfs in after he guided me properly! Josh is cool and fun. Both down to earth guys!

    I would recommend this experience with Big Wave Dave. It’s Worth the price and experience. It’s perfect for non surfers and if you can’t swim you get a life vest. I would do this all over again.

    I highly suggest wearing a snorkel shoe, swim shoe, something for swimming that will stay on your feet to protect you from rock cuts that could occur as it did for me. Have fun!
    Written March 20, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    dawnmbent
    Beaumont, TX262 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Chris was the instructor for my 4 grandchildren and he was AMAZING! The kids loved him. His smile and laugh was contagious and quelled the nerves of 1st timers. The youngest (13)and the only girl rode more waves than the guys 😄. They all enjoyed it very very much. Money well spent. Paying for their surf lesson was my gift to myself and I definitely would do it again. For the kids one of the highlights of my lifelong dream of visiting the beautiful friendly state. Thank you Chris!
    Written July 28, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    MFamily3
    Denver, CO126 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Aug 2022
    My daughter was nervous to try surfing, but asked for a lesson anyway. Problem. We only had one full day left in our trip and everyone was booked solid...except Big Dave. We went along to the lesson feeling a little unsure and nervous. Her instructor was phenomenal! He put her at ease right away and made her feel comfortable. She ended up rocking it and now wants to plan all of our vacations in surfing destinations so she can do it again! We paid extra for the video package and are so glad we did. We have amazing video clips of her surfing.

    Highly recommend Big Dave Wave! Absolutely a highlight of our trip.
    Written August 15, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Sophie V
    14 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I had the best time. As a larger lady, and not an active one at that, I was really nervous. The team were incredibly supportive and managed to get me standing up by the end of the lesson. 10/10 would recommend for anybody who hasn’t surfed before but is looking for a supportive place to try it out
    Written July 7, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Zach
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jul 2023
    Took a private lesson and was standing on my first wave - great instructors, brilliant location, and FUN! We also saw sea turtles while on our boards (wow, bonus) and the cafe was a great place to unwind with coffee and an acai bowl afterwards. Compared to the group classes (and prices) at the resort we were staying at, this was WAY better. Don't miss it.
    Written July 24, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Sarah
    Chicago, IL5 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nov 2022 • Solo
    I never would have been able to stand up on a wave without the instructor’s help! He was amazing and helped a ton. Definitely would do it again. Also, I would recommend wearing a swim suit that you’re comfortable moving around in and won’t fall off easily.
    Written November 7, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Urbantraveler
    Hong Kong, China63 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Our group of seven beginners (three adults and fours kids, ages 9-13) all enjoyed private and semi private lessons with their experienced surf instructors.

    Hard to say anything more than the good things that have already been written about this company! Friendly, encouraging, enthusiastic and professional staff made our surf lessons one of the vacation highlights of our trip. Big thank you!
    Written January 3, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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    Surfing Lessons On Waikiki Beach provided by Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee

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