Looking for surf lessons on the North Shore of Oahu, taught by instructors who know the area and keep things safe for beginners? Here's a list of trusted schools offering group and private lessons, plus coaching for all levels.
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Why take surf lessons on the North Shore
The North Shore of Oahu is one of the best places in the world for surfing, with many beginner surf spots that are great for learning and taking lessons.
Winter is our surf season, which can feel intimidating, but places like Chun's and Pua'ena Point stay mellow enough for beginners, and you see many surf schools there.
Lessons are offered year-round, even in summer when the waves are smaller, so no matter when you visit, you can have fun learning to surf.
The instructors here know the ocean inside and out, and many were professional surfers. They understand currents, tides, and how to read the waves, so you know you're safe and in good hands.
It's also good to know that these surf schools cater to all ages, offering 1-on-1 coaching, private and group lessons (or you can book an all-inclusive surf camp with daily guided lessons, accommodations, meals, and hands-on coaching).
With that in mind, here's a list of the schools offering surf lessons on the North Shore for beginners and tourists that we recommend.
Surf schools North Shore Oahu
North Shore Ohana School of Surfing
North Shore Ohana School of Surfing focuses on safety, and every instructor is CPR/AED certified and knows the area well.
They teach all ages and offer 1-on-1, couples, private or open group lessons, and they even work with little kids. If you already surf, you can hire them to be your surf guide on the North Shore.
All gear is included, and you can ask for a photographer if you want photos.
They usually teach at Chun's Reef in summer and Pua'ena Point in winter, but they still check conditions and pick the best spot that day.
Quick details 📌
- Types of lessons: 1-on-1, private groups, open groups, kids tandem, surf guide.
- Skill level: Beginner, intermediate, or advanced.
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours.
- Price range: $95 to $350 per person.
- Equipment included: Yes.
- Location: Chun's Reef, Pua'ena Point.
Lesson options & how to book:
- Private "Kapu" (1 surfer): 1.5 or 2 hours - from $225 - Book Now
- Private "Holoholo" (2 surfers): 1.5 or 2 hours - from $150 - Book Now
- Private group (3-5 surfers): 1.5 or 2 hours - from $115 - Book Now
- Private group (6-8 surfers): 1.5 or 2 hours - from $120 - Book Now
- Private "Ohana" (9+ surfers): 2 hours - from $95 - Book Now
- Open group (3-6 surfers): 1.5 hours - $120 - Book Now
- Kids "Keiki" tandem (ages 2-12): 1 hour - from $200 - Book Now
- Surf guide (1-2 intermediate to advanced surfers): 3 hours - from $350 - Book Now
North Shore Oahu Surf School
North Shore Oahu Surf School keeps things really personalized. Before every lesson, they talk with you about your comfort level, experience, and goals, so the session is tailored to exactly what you want to get out of it.
One thing that makes them stand out is their teaching style. They never mix surfers with different experience levels, so you won't be grouped with people who are way ahead of you or just starting out.
Their head instructor, Kala Grace, is a professional surfer who grew up on the North Shore and started teaching at 15. The rest of the team are local watermen with the same deep experience, and everyone is CPR and lifeguard certified.
They offer lessons and coaching for beginner, intermediate, or advanced surfers, and they back everything with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you don't stand up and ride a wave during your first lesson, you get your money back.
They usually use Pua'ena Point or Chun's Reef depending on the time of year and what the ocean is doing that day, but they always choose the best option for the conditions.
Quick details 📌
- Types of lessons: Private 1-on-1, semi-private (2), small groups (3-5), larger groups (6+).
- Skill level: Beginner, intermediate, or advanced.
- Duration: 2 hours.
- Price range: $100 to $225 per person.
- Equipment included: Yes.
- Location: Chun's Reef, Pua'ena Point.
Lesson options & how to book:
- Beginner private lesson (1 surfer): 2 hours - $225 - Book Now
- All levels semi-private (2 surfers): 2 hours - $150 - Book Now
- All levels private small group (3-5 surfers): 2 hours - $115 - Book Now
- All levels private large group (6+ surfers): 2 hours - $100 - Book Now
- Intermediate to advanced coaching (1 surfer): 2 hours - $225 - Book Now
- Gift card: Choose any value - Get a Gift Card
North Shore Surf Girls
North Shore Surf Girls stands out because every lesson is taught by experienced female instructors, from surfers who've charged Waimea Bay and competed around the world to those who've surfed for film and TV, including Blue Crush and Baywatch.
All instructors are Red Cross Lifeguard certified and trained in CPR and First Aid, so safety is always a top priority.
Lessons are small and personal, no more than four students per instructor, so you'll get plenty of attention and guidance.
They teach students of all ages, from toddlers to adults, and even offer private lessons for students with disabilities.
You'll usually surf at Pua'ena Point or Chun's Reef, but the instructors always pick the spot with the best conditions that day. For $40 extra per person, you can get photos of your lesson!
Quick details 📌
- Types of lessons: Private 1-on-1, semi-private (2), private groups, open groups, kids tandem.
- Skill level: Beginner.
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours.
- Price range: $65.95 to $189.95 per person.
- Equipment included: Yes.
- Location: Chun's Reef, Pua'ena Point.
Lesson options & how to book:
Jamie O'Brien Surf Experience
Jamie O'Brien Surf Experience is based at the Ritz-Carlton Turtle Bay Resort, which already sets it apart. The area is beautiful and has a relaxed resort feel!
The surf spot on the west side of the resort, right by the pool-side bar, is perfect for beginners. You get a nice view of the resort, and while it can be a little windy at times, it's not too rough for learning.
Every lesson begins with a quick land intro on ocean safety and technique before you head out. On the water, you're coached by instructors personally chosen by Jamie O'Brien. He owns the school but doesn't teach, and his team is fully CPR and lifesaving certified.
They teach all ages, from toddlers to older adults, and offer private lessons for anyone who prefers one-on-one coaching.
Another unique perk: every lesson is photographed, and you can review and purchase the images afterward.
Quick details 📌
- Types of lessons: Private 1-on-1, private groups, open groups.
- Skill level: Beginner.
- Duration: 1.5 hours.
- Price range: $145 to $299 per person.
- Equipment included: Yes.
- Location: Surf spot on the west side of the Ritz-Carlton Turtle Bay Resort.
Lesson options & how to book:
Surfing & travel resources
- Check out my full guide for more info on what it's like to surf on the North Shore.
- If you come here in winter, here's the schedule for the North Shore surf competitions, so you can watch the best surfers in the world compete.
- Stop by Haleiwa Town if you have some free time. I've got a list of the best things to do there, and it's just a few minutes from where you'll be taking your surf lesson.
- To help you get a feel for the area, places to eat, where to stay, getting around, and more, here's my complete North Shore visitor's guide.
- Since the waves here are powerful, it's smart to have travel insurance. I recommend World Nomads for solid coverage.
FAQs about surf lessons on the North Shore of Oahu
Winter is actually a great time for surf lessons. While the waves can get bigger, swells come more consistently, and there are a few beginner-friendly spots.
Summer waves can be tiny, which might seem ideal for beginners, but they can actually make learning a bit tricky.
If I had to pick the best months for waves, weather, and fewer crowds, I'd go with October/November or March/April.
Yes, you can! As long as you're comfortable being in the water and pay attention to the safety briefing your instructor gives before you paddle out, you'll be fine.
Definitely let your instructor know about your swimming ability so they can give extra guidance and support.
Some people like to wear a life vest to feel more secure - just keep in mind it can make paddling a bit harder.
Most beginners on the North Shore can stand up and ride a wave in their first lesson. That said, it takes a while to get comfortable paddling, reading waves, and being in the crowd while learning surf etiquette. If you can, take as many lessons as possible - surfing is one of the toughest sports you'll ever try!
For girls, I recommend a one-piece surf suit or board shorts with a rash guard. Guys can do shorts and a rash guard too. If you get cold easily, a wetsuit top is a good idea (I always wear one because it can get chilly with the wind). When you book your lesson, ask if wetsuits are available to use.
Bring a towel, a hat, and a water bottle, plus anything you'll need afterward like a change of clothes or snacks. If you've got your own rash guard or wetsuit, bring it, but most schools will have boards and safety gear for you. Oh, and don't forget reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the islands!
Hope this guide helps you feel ready to pick a surf school and book your lesson on the North Shore. If you have any questions, drop them in the comments - I'd love to chat more!
Oh, and take a look at these next - they'll help you plan your visit:
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