Top Surf / SUP Lessons on Oahu

Where better to learn to surf than the birthplace of the sport? James Cook was the first to witness Hawaiians ‘wave sliding’ in 1778, however, surfing has been a significant part of Hawaii’s tradition for hundreds of years.

Waikiki on the South Shore is where much of this early Hawaiian surfing took place. Today, the turquoise water and gentle waves host 17 surf schools and thousands of surfers of all levels. The North Shore of Oahu is known as the surfing mecca of the world. Many consider it the birthplace of surfing and surf culture, and thousands of fans meet on the North Shore each year to watch professional surfers face off in international competitions. During the winter months, some beaches can have swells that reach up to 30 feet or more.

In summer, however, the North Shore waves are calm and welcoming. So, what better place to learn to surf than the legendary North Shore beaches? Each surf school has professional instructors and excellent safety training, so you will be in good hands.

Although the West Side of Oahu is a road less traveled, it offers some of the most amazing beaches and landscapes on Oahu. The beaches are perfect for both beginner and intermediate surfers as they are less crowded than popular surfing beaches. On the West Side, you can learn the basics of surfing or stand-up paddle boarding in the best ocean conditions.

Here are our top recommended surfing schools and stand-up paddle board (SUP) schools on Oahu.

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