Adventure brief
Surf Lesson with Gopro
Learn to surf away from the crowds at Ala Moana Beach Park with The Surfing Sensei’s expert instructors. Perfect for beginners, enjoy a safe, personalized lesson on gentle Hawaiian waves.
Ala Moana Beach Park, located just minutes from downtown Honolulu, offers a rare pocket of calm in one of Hawaii’s busiest outdoor playgrounds. Unlike the more crowded Waikiki coastline, Ala Moana’s broad sandy shore and gentle breaks create an inviting setting for newcomers to surfing. The Surfing Sensei has carved out a distinctive niche here, providing semi-private surf lessons tailored for beginners eager to tap into the Pacific swell in a safe, supportive environment.
What sets The Surfing Sensei apart is its commitment to beginner safety and personalized instruction. Each 90-minute session features highly skilled instructors certified with lifeguard credentials who guide participants through every step—from understanding ocean conditions and safety protocols to mastering paddle technique and catching waves. Participants receive complimentary reef shoes and rash guards, essential gear for comfortable interaction with Hawaii’s coral reefs and unpredictable surf conditions.
The locale itself enhances the experience. Ala Moana is sheltered by an offshore reef, creating manageable waves that are perfect for first-time surfers learning balance and timing without the intimidation of larger surf zones. This reef also nurtures vibrant marine life, adding a layer of natural wonder to each lesson.
Historically, this area has been a gathering place for local surfers long before tourism surged, maintaining a genuine Hawaiian surf culture that participants can feel imbued throughout their lesson. This activity appeals to anyone aged 7 and up, accommodating small groups up to five participants for an intimate, hands-on atmosphere. Whether you’re a visitor aiming to check off a bucket-list item or a local seeking to build confidence on a board, The Surfing Sensei delivers a dynamic entry point into Hawaiian surfing traditions.
By offering lessons away from tourist traps in a relaxed setting, this company elevates the beginner surf experience while honoring Ala Moana Beach Park’s distinct coastal environment.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early to Secure Parkingessential
Ala Moana Beach Park can fill quickly, so arrive early to find convenient parking close to the launch point.
- 02Use Provided Reef Shoesinfo
Wear the complimentary reef shoes during your lesson to protect your feet from sharp coral and rocky areas in the surf zone.
- 03Follow Safety Briefings Closelyessential
Listen carefully to your instructor’s safety instructions to navigate ocean currents and surf etiquette effectively.
- 04Bring a Waterproof Camera Caseinfo
If you want to keep your phone dry while watching or filming, a waterproof case is helpful even with GoPro footage being captured professionally.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Rash Guard
Protects skin from sun exposure and board rash during surfing.
summerEssentialReef Shoes
Protect feet from sharp coral and rocky sea floor; provided by The Surfing Sensei.
EssentialSunscreen
High SPF sunscreen guards against strong Hawaiian sun during lessons.
summerEssentialWater Bottle
Staying hydrated is important before and after your surf session.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Magic Island lagoon for calm swimming nearby, Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park offering local surf breaks
Local fauna
Green sea turtles (honu) often spotted resting on the reef, Humpback whales visible offshore in winter months
Historic heritage
Ala Moana Beach Park was developed in the 1930s and has long been a cherished spot for local surfers escaping busier areas.
Mindful exploration
The Surfing Sensei promotes sustainable surf practices by encouraging use of reef-safe sunscreen and respecting marine habitats.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Beach shoreline facing east for sunrise shots, Magic Island pier for wide beach panoramas, From the water near the reef for wave action
- Subjects
- Surfing action, Hawaiian coastal flora, Ocean reflections at sunrise
- Best times
- Golden hour, Early morning, Late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need previous surfing experience?
No, lessons are designed for complete beginners with no prior surfing experience necessary.
Are the instructors certified?
Yes, all instructors hold lifeguard licenses and have professional surf coaching experience.
What's included with the lesson?
Your session includes a surfboard, rash guard, reef shoes, basic technique instruction, and GoPro video footage.
Can children participate?
Yes, lessons are suitable for ages 7 and up, with tailored coaching to match age and skill level.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Lessons may be rescheduled or relocated if ocean or weather conditions pose safety risks.
How many people are in each lesson?
Lessons are semi-private, with up to five participants to ensure personalized instruction.