KAHUKU SURF FIELD GUIDE
Ohana Surf Lesson: Private family surf coaching on Turtle Bay’s gentle break
A 1.5-hour private group lesson for families and friends run by Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience that pairs a 15–20 minute land lesson with in-water coaching and photo review—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Ohana Surf Lesson: Private family surf coaching on Turtle Bay’s gentle break.
Adventure brief
Ohana Surf Lesson: Private family surf coaching on Turtle Bay’s gentle break
On the windward shore of Oahu at Turtle Bay, the Ohana Surf Lesson delivers a deliberate, beginner-focused introduction to standing on a wave—designed for families and friend groups who want the reassurance of private instruction and the joy of learning together.
Situated along the pristine coast of Oahu, the Ohana Surf Lesson offers a perfect blend of adventure and family fun in one of Hawaii’s most vibrant surf spots. Known for its gentle yet rolling waves, this location provides an inviting environment for all skill levels, especially beginners eager to catch their first wave, or families looking to share a memorable ocean experience. The lesson, led by experienced instructors, emphasizes safety, technique, and in-the-moment fun, making it ideal for both novices and seasoned surfers seeking to refine their skills.
What sets this trip apart is its personalized approach. Guests receive dedicated coaching tailored to their comfort levels and aspirations. The warm atmosphere ensures that everyone—from kids to adults—feels supported as they paddle out and ride the surf. The clear, turquoise waters and consistent swell make for excellent conditions, while the sandy beach provides a safe zone for resting and soaking in the stunning surroundings. After the session, many visitors linger to enjoy the scenic shoreline, perhaps snapping photos or simply basking in the Hawaiian sun.
This adventure not only promises physical activity but also fosters family bonding and connection to the ocean. The expertise of Jamie O’Brien’s team guarantees a safe, engaging time, whether you're a first-timer or seeking to improve your technique. The lessons are suitable for a variety of ages and skill levels, with plenty of opportunities for laughter and learning. Overall, the Ohana Surf Lesson in Oahu offers a unique chance for visitors to immerse themselves in Hawaiian surf culture while creating lifelong memories on the water.
Perfect for travelers staying in nearby Honolulu, this adventure makes for a fun, accessible, and enriching addition to any Hawaii itinerary, leaving guests energized and inspired by their time on the waves.
Route Schematic
Itinerary schematic
A compact flow of meeting, instruction, in-water surfing and wrap‑up.
Meet at Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience shop
Start and end at the surf shop located on the ground level of the Ritz‑Carlton Oahu Turtle Bay where you check in and gear up.
Land lesson
A 15–20 minute on‑land session teaches ocean safety, paddling, stance and how to pop up while instructors tailor instruction to your group.
In‑water surfing at the beginner break
Head into the water with a 4:1 guest‑to‑instructor ratio to catch beginner-friendly waves for roughly an hour; the operator can shift locations on property depending on conditions and provides golf cart transfers if needed.
Photo review and checkout
Return to the surf shop to review lesson photos taken during your session; images are available for purchase.
Participants should expect variable ocean conditions; the operator adjusts location on property as needed and may provide transfers—guests with special needs or who require extra attention are advised to book private instruction per operator guidance.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Private group coaching with a 4:1 in-water ratio
Ohana lessons are run as private group sessions so your family or friends get a dedicated instructor; in the water the operator maintains a 4:1 guest‑to‑instructor ratio to deliver personalized feedback as you learn paddling, stance, pop‑ups and wave selection.
Land lesson, then surf
Each session begins with a 15–20 minute land lesson covering ocean safety and technique before heading into the beginner break for roughly an hour of guided wave time, then returning to review photos at the surf shop.
Photographed moments available
Lessons are photographed so you can purchase images of your group riding their first waves, preserving the shared memories of your Ohana lesson.
What the day feels like
What it feels like to take an Ohana Lesson
The lesson is intimate and paced for novices: after meeting at the surf shop you’ll run through safety and technique on land, then move into the water with an instructor who keeps the group focused on smaller, learnable waves—an approach that prioritizes steady progression, personal attention, and shared moments on the face of the wave.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this lesson suits and when you should consider a different option.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Lessons run daily in multiple time slots—9:00 AM, 10:15 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:45 PM, 2:00 PM and 3:15 PM—and each session is 1.5 hours long.
Bring a swimsuit, towel and sunscreen; the shop provides rash guards, reef shoes and all necessary surfing equipment including boards, leashes and wetsuits when appropriate.
Meet at the Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience shop on the beach level of the Ritz‑Carlton Oahu Turtle Bay (enter the resort, turn left at the ‘Surf House’ and follow the stairs down to the surf shop entrance).
Full payment is required at booking; you may cancel up to 48 hours prior to the lesson for a full refund. Changes within 48 hours are not guaranteed but will be accommodated when possible.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
If the forecast shows big waves, will my lesson be canceled or will I be forced to surf large surf?
No—because of Turtle Bay’s variety of breaks the operator can adjust the lesson location on property to find beginner‑appropriate waves year‑round; if the surf in front of the shop isn’t suitable they provide complimentary golf cart transfers to alternate spots.
Will Jamie O’Brien personally teach my lesson?
No—Jamie O’Brien owns and operates the school but does not teach; all instructors are hand‑selected by Jamie and are trained to provide safe, high‑quality instruction.
Do you offer advanced or intermediate coaching?
No—the program specializes in beginners and first‑time surfers and does not offer advanced coaching; the shop can refer advanced surfers to other coaches if requested.
What is included in the price?
All required equipment is provided—surfboards, wetsuits, leashes and surf wax—and lessons are photographed with images available for purchase.
What happens during the lesson?
Lessons start with a 15–20 minute land lesson on safety and technique, then move into the water for roughly an hour of guided surfing followed by a photo review at the surf shop.
What are your lesson times and how long is a lesson?
Lessons run daily at 9:00, 10:15, 11:30, 12:45, 2:00 and 3:15 and each lesson is 1.5 hours long.
Are instructors certified in lifesaving or CPR?
Yes—every instructor is CPR and lifesaving certified.
Can I take a lesson if I can’t swim or if I have a disability?
Yes; non‑swimmers are required to take a private one‑on‑one lesson. Guests with disabilities are welcome but should book private instruction if extra attention is needed.
Why do you ask for my age when booking?
Age is requested so the operator can set the correct instructor ratio and select appropriate boards for your lesson.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-24T23:55:49.210Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.