Learn to Surf in Beautiful Wailea, Maui
Private and group surf lessons for all ages and experience levels — Conveniently located At the COve, Maui’s Top Beginner Surf Break
Whether you’re catching your first wave or have surfed before, there’s no better place to learn to surf than The Cove in Kihei — Maui’s top beginner break. Just a short drive from Wailea, our surf lessons take place in safe, gentle waves ideal for first-timers and families. You’ll receive expert instruction in small groups, with plenty of personal attention and aloha.
Why Surf With Us?
At Wailea Scuba, Surf & Paddle, we believe surfing should be safe, fun, and unforgettable. Our beachfront location is minutes away from one of Maui’s most beginner-friendly breaks, and our certified instructors are passionate about helping every guest succeed — whether you’re 6 or 66.
Private Surf Lessons
One-on-one coaching. 100% focused on you.
If you’re looking for the most personalized surf experience in Maui, this is it. Our Private Surf Lessons are completely customized to your pace, experience, and goals. Whether it’s your first time in the ocean or you’re just looking to catch as many waves as possible, our expert instructors will give you their undivided attention.
Perfect for children, nervous swimmers, older adults, or anyone who wants that extra level of care and confidence. Surfers under age 10 must have their own surf instructor for safety reasons.
Includes:
- Surf Booties
- 1 student per instructor
- Surfboard & leash
- Rash guard
Semi-Private Surf Lessons
Your own wave crew. More personal attention, just the right size.
Want something more intimate than a group class, but not entirely solo? Our Semi-Private Surf Lessons are tailored for pairs or small parties of 2–3 people. This is an excellent option for couples, siblings, or friends traveling together. With more time per student and closer instruction, you’ll progress faster — and laugh harder doing it. Surfers under age 10 must have a own surf instructor for safety reasons and are subject to an additional charge.
Includes:
- 1 instructor up to 4 guests and 2 instructors for 5 guests
- Surfboard & leash
- Rash guard
- Surf Booties
Group Surf Lessons
The perfect first wave experience — shared with others.
Our Group Surf Lessons are ideal for beginners looking for a fun, social, and affordable way to learn. Set against the calm shoreline of Wailea, this 90-minute session starts with land-based instruction before heading into the gentle surf. You’ll learn basic techniques like paddling, balancing, and popping up — all while having fun in a safe and supportive group setting. Guests 10 and under cannot join these lessons for safety reasons.
Includes:
- 5 students per instructor
- Surfboard & leash
- Rash guard
- Surf Booties
Frequently Asked Questions: Maui Surf Lessons
Do I need any prior experience to take a surf lesson?
Not at all! Our lessons are designed for first-timers and beginners. You’ll learn everything from paddling technique to popping up — and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Is surfing safe for kids?
Yes — absolutely. We offer private lessons for kids ages 6 and up, and our instructors are experienced in teaching children with a strong focus on safety, patience, and fun. All kids are required to wear rash guards and surf in calm, shallow areas.
What if I’m not a strong swimmer?
You don’t need to be an expert swimmer to participate. Our lessons take place in waist-deep water, and your instructor is right by your side. If you’re uncomfortable in the ocean, we recommend booking a private lesson so we can give you more focused support.
What should I bring to my lesson?
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Water bottle
- Positive attitude!
We provide everything else — including soft-top surfboards and rash guards.
What kind of surfboards do you use?
We use high-quality soft-top surfboards that are stable and beginner-friendly. These are ideal for learning how to pop up and catch waves safely.
How long is each lesson?
All of our surf lessons are 1.5 hours. This includes a land-based safety and technique session followed by water time with hands-on instruction.
Can I surf with friends or family in the same lesson?
Yes! We offer Group and Semi-Private Lessons for guests who want to learn together. If you’re looking for something more personal, consider booking a Private Lesson for just you or your child.
What happens if the weather or surf conditions aren’t safe?
Your safety is our top priority. If the ocean conditions are unsafe due to weather or surf, we’ll contact you to reschedule or provide a full refund.
Will there be photos of my lesson?
Yes! Photo packages are available for purchase. Ask your instructor or inquire at check-in if you’d like to have your surf moments captured.
Where do we meet for the lesson?
While all of our ocean adventures launch directly from Polo Beach in Wailea, our surf lessons take place just 10 minutes away at The Cove in Kihei — one of the best beginner surf spots on Maui.
The Cove offers consistently gentle waves, and safe, shallow conditions ideal for learning to surf. It’s the go-to location for locals and instructors teaching first-time surfers, and we use it because it gives our guests the best possible chance of standing up and having fun — safely and successfully.