Learn to Surf in Waikiki: Beginner Lessons at Duke Kahanamoku Beach
Waikiki’s long, forgiving rollers make it one of the best places to learn to surf. This one-hour beginner lesson starts at the Duke Kahanamoku Statue with a land demo, hands-on paddling help, and guided attempts to catch your first waves.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early for Briefing
Plan to be at the Duke Kahanamoku Statue 10–15 minutes early to complete a quick land lesson and safety briefing before entering the water.
Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen & Rash Guard
The Hawaiian sun is strong and the shallow reef is abrasive — protect skin with a rash guard and reef-safe sunscreen.
Bring a Light Snack and Water
One-hour lessons are active; hydrate beforehand and bring a small snack for energy after the session.
Follow the Instructor’s Safety Cues
Instructors will teach how to fall and paddle out safely to avoid reef contact — listen closely and ask questions if unsure.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sunrise stroll by Kūhiō Beach Park for calmer water and fewer swimmers
- •Nearby ice cream and shave ice stands on Kūhiō Avenue for a post-lesson treat
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles (occasionally offshore)
- •Various reef fish in the shallow breakers
Conservation Note
Use reef-safe sunscreens and avoid stepping on coral; local operators emphasize leave-no-trace beach etiquette to protect nearshore ecosystems.
Waikiki is central to modern surfing history; Duke Kahanamoku, a Hawaiian Olympic swimmer, popularized surfing globally and remains a local cultural icon.
What to Bring
Rash guardEssential
Protects skin from sun and board rash during paddling and standing up.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin while minimizing harm to coral and marine life.
Water-friendly footwear or flip-flops
Useful for walking to/from the beach and protecting feet on hot sand or rocky approaches.
Towel and change of clothesEssential
Dry off and change comfortably after the lesson.
Common Questions
Do I need to be able to swim?
Yes — basic swimming ability and comfort in the ocean are required; instructors stay close but you should be able to float and swim short distances.
What should I wear?
Wear a rash guard or swimsuit; no wetsuit is necessary. Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid jewelry that could snag.
Are boards provided?
Yes — soft-top beginner surfboards are supplied as part of the lesson.
Can children take lessons?
Many programs accept children, but age and weight limits vary — check with the operator and disclose ages at booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people with basic swimming ability and reasonable balance; expect short paddling and pop-up effort.
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