Private Surfing Lessons in Waikiki

What a fun experience! Unforgettable memories made. This Surf experience was scheduled after an amazing Honolulu hike; I highly recommend this Surf lesson, it was definitely the icing on the cake."

I don't ever leave negative reviews, but I did a beginner lesson with Max and it was pretty distressing. I saw he had good reviews, but unfortunately that was not what I experienced. I mentioned it was my first time, and I was very nervous, but I felt completely judged by his constant stream of comments that I wasn’t trying hard enough, I needed to stop taking rests, and that every time I fell it made things inconvenient. I shouldn’t have to keep defending to him the fact that I was indeed trying, and trying the hardest I could. I know this sport is difficult and I was fully aware I was signing up for a challenge. What I hadn’t anticipated was having to audibly tell him before a wave, “No, I’m not ready. I need to breathe,” and getting pushed into the wave anyway. It caused me to nose dive from the loss of energy. I felt a lack of empathy and support from the one on one instructor that could see and hear that I was having a hard time. Honestly, I feared for my safety. Because of this, I chose to end my lesson early. If I could sum up my feedback for Max’s teaching technique, it would be this: Compassion goes a long way, and kindness goes even further. When your student is getting repeatedly knocked down on the shore by the waves and falling face first into the sand, that would not be the time to scold them for being too slow. Checking in on a person’s well being is equally as important in safety guidelines as anything else. It would also help to acknowledge their efforts and that they are trying their best. When we parted ways, I was clearly shaken up and he was not concerned. I didn’t find it “encouraging” to be reproached every time I fell. I didn’t feel comfortable out there with him at all. If you are specifically looking for an instructor that is patient, compassionate, and supportive, I personally would not recommend Max. It felt more akin to bootcamp. I left the lesson in tears, humiliated for the way I was spoken to and completely demoralized.

Surf instructor is very good. Sky was so helpful and encouraging. He pushed me ahead in my skills to time my takeoff. .

I got this for my son's that had never been surfing before but were eager to learn. Max was their instructor. He got them up on some good waves, and they had a great time. He went out with them and and was able to instruct them in the water as well. Must do in Hawaii!

Amazing experience! Max was great with our kids and got them both up on boards quickly and safely. They might be a little overconfident thanks to his guidance! 😅 Everyone was so nice and encouraging. Such a fun adventure and one I know the kids will talk about for a long time. Thank you!

Surfing with Max is a lot of fun!

Our surfing instructor made the experience memorable and successful. My child has multiple sensory processing and special needs and for this reason does not pair well without quite a bit of effort and attention devoted to this as a task. Maxwell was patient, thorough in his instructions and mindful of my child’s limits. This was the second time on two separate occasions he’s instructed surfing lessons while in town and I’ve recommended both him and his surf and skim school to those inquiring of private surfing instruction. The sense of pride and accomplishment at the end of the lesson makes the price nominal and worth every penny!

Max did a great job with our grandkids. Hour was fine as beginner surfing is strenuous. Kids had a great time.

Max was fantastic! Everyone in my family was able to catch multiple waves. The area was crowded, but Max navigated the crowds and we had a great time!

Max was very helpful and patient with us as beginners. Would him for anyone wanting to learn! Book soon as slots fill up quickly!!