The 5 Kauai Surf Trips That Earn Their Price

1.Po’ipu Surf Lesson

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 361 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $89Our pick

Meet Hoku Water Sports at Koʻa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach for a 90-minute beginner lesson. Instructors such as Kele, David, and Dave teach paddling, pop-ups, and ocean safety on land before coaching you in the water. Boards, booties, and rash guards are included.

“Our teenagers who are beginner surfers loved this experience and did it for a few days. The instructors were kind, fun and professional. If you are looking for a great experience for your kids, or even for adults looking to learn surfing in a safe and supportive environment, look no further- this is it!”

Check availability →Read our full review

2.Private Hanalei Sandy Bottom Surf Lesson on Kauai

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 339 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $118

Meet Hawaiian Surfing Adventures in Hanalei for a private lesson in the bay. Instructors such as Nick, Luca, Patrick, and Tapu teach ocean safety, board skills, and wave timing with equipment included. Most beginners stand during this roughly 90-minute session.

“Sean was an amazing instructor! My husband and I felt confident and were surfing on the first wave! The day was perfect and we had a blast.”

Check availability →Read our full review

3.Kauai’s Ultimate Group Surf Lesson

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 110 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $121

Meet Hawaiian Style Surfing at 2440 Hoonani Road for a 90-minute beginner lesson near Poipu Beach. You get a board, rash guard, and water shoes, then learn ocean safety and surfing basics before practicing in the water with an instructor such as Adam, Austin, Tom, Kai, or Hudson.

“Great experience for the family. Our instructor was incredible and made the whole surfing experience memorable.”

Check availability →Read our full review

4.Stand Up Paddle Rental- Wailua River to Secret Falls

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 107 reviews · 1 day (approx.) · from $64Best value

Pick up a stable SUP, paddle about two miles up the Wailua River, then hike through muddy jungle terrain to Secret Falls. Kauai SUP provides the board, paddle, leash, life vest, dry bag, map, straps, and loading help. You need a vehicle and enough fitness for a long day.

“The river on paddle boards is easy and it’s nice to go at your own pace. We expected Secret Falls to be a bit more. The journey on foot is not for the faint of heart. The very nice man at the shop who helped us load and unload was such a nice part of the experience.”

Check availability →Read our full review

5.Outrigger Canoe Surfing at Kalapaki Beach

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 54 reviews · 1 hour (approx.) · from $72

Paddle a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe from Kalapaki Beach, then ride several ocean waves with a skilled steersman such as Kristian, Krishna, or Kashawn. No surfing experience is needed, but expect splashes, steady paddling, and a lively one-hour outing for groups of up to four.

“Our guide gave us clear, encouraging instructions and fun waves to ride. He was personable and the venue provided great conditions.”

Check availability →Read our full review