Private
Choose one-on-one coaching when individual attention, a flexible pace, or extra time for questions matters most.
Your first Waikiki surf lesson
Beginner surf lessons in Waikiki
A first lesson should answer more than “Can I stand up?” This guide helps you choose a format, prepare useful questions, and arrive ready to learn.
Choose your format
The best lesson is the one that fits how you learn
Private, semi-private, and small-group sessions offer different balances of attention, company, and price.
Semi-private
Bring one friend when you want personal coaching but also want to share the experience with your crew.
Small group
Choose the social option when learning alongside others is part of the fun and you are comfortable sharing instruction time.
What to tell Hella before the lesson
Start with the practical details: your dates, group size, and whether anyone has surfed before. Add the information that helps you feel prepared. That might include comfort in the ocean, previous board-sport experience, or a question about the conditions you expect.
Hella will confirm your session time when you book. Meet her at Moku Surf on Koa Avenue, where you will choose a board suited to your height and weight before walking about one block together to Waikiki Beach.
Board rental and what to bring
Board rental is included with a private lesson. For semi-private and small-group lessons, board rental costs an additional $15 per person. Bring your own swimwear, towel, drinking water, and sun protection. Keep valuables to a minimum and ask before the day if you are unsure what can be stored safely.
What beginners should focus on
Comfort before speed
Your lesson begins with pop-up practice on the sand before you enter the water. Progress is easier when you can ask for a reset instead of rushing to keep up.
Listening to the conditions
Waikiki is still the ocean, not a controlled pool. Conditions can vary by day and location. Hella covers surf etiquette and water safety before offering coaching and simple assists in the water.
A realistic next step
Your first lesson can show you what to practice next. Some people want another guided session; others simply want a memorable first experience. Both are valid outcomes.
Planning around ocean conditions: The National Weather Service Honolulu publishes an official Hawaii surf forecast. Your instructor's day-of guidance should still determine the session plan.
Beginner lesson questions
Do I need surfing experience?
No. Hella offers lessons for complete first-timers as well as people returning to surfing.
Is private better for a beginner?
Private is useful if you want the most individual attention. A shared lesson can be a better fit when learning with friends matters more.
Is a board included?
Board rental is included with a private lesson. It costs an additional $15 per person for semi-private and small-group lessons.
Where do we meet?
Meet Hella at Moku Surf on Koa Avenue. After choosing a board, you will walk about one block together to Waikiki Beach.
How do I book?
Contact Hella directly by text, Instagram, or email. Share any details you already know, and she will help from there.
Keep exploring
Ready to ask about your first lesson?
Tell Hella your dates, group size, and whether anyone has surfed before.
Contact Hella