The Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Waikiki Beach is known as a surfing-centric hotel and resort not simply because of its close proximity to the beach widely recognized as the place where surfing was introduced to the world—one passenger steamship at a time—but because of the woman whose name it carries. Princess Victoria Kaʻiulani Kalaninuiahilapalapa Kawekio I Lunalilo Cleghorn, better known as Princess Kaʻiulani, was born on October 16, 1875, and died on March 6, 1899, and her connection to Waikiki was deeply rooted in the ocean and the royal grounds of ʻAinahau. She was part of a Hawaiian aliʻi tradition in which the ocean was not some distant backdrop viewed from shore, but a place to swim, surf and gather—a tradition that brought aliʻi and “ordinary” Waikiki residents alike into the same waves whenever conditions were right. That history makes the Princess Kaʻiulani name particularly fitting for a resort sitting just steps from the sands and surf of Waikiki.
All of this blends together into the cultural experience awaiting guests at the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Waikiki Beach today, who can come to understand that surfing during their stay is about far more than simply checking an activity off a vacation itinerary. Getting into the Waikiki surf puts you directly into a living Hawaiian tradition—one that connects the ocean, the beach, the Beach Boys and generations of people who have found joy, community and a sense of place in these waves. And for those who have never surfed—or who still don’t feel comfortable calling themselves surfers—Sheraton Princess Kaiulani surf lessons provided by none other than authentic Waikiki Beach Boy Sparky Barros and his team of instructors offer the perfect way to begin. Their combination of cultural appropriateness, surfing expertise, patience and genuine aloha spirit culminates in what Princess Kaʻiulani’s 21st-century guests should be looking for: pure enjoyment, pure stoke, and a brand-new skill that can remain with you long after your Waikiki vacation is over. Book your first lesson by calling 808-724-4208, and read further for more information about learning to surf as a guest of the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani.
What to Know About Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Surfing Lessons from Sparky’s Surf School
Where Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Lessons Take Place
When you’re staying at the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, meeting your Sparky’s Surf School instructor(s) couldn’t be more convenient. Whether you’re coming on your own, with your significant other, bringing the family, or traveling with a group of friends, your surf lesson begins with a short stroll from the resort lobby toward Waikiki Beach and the iconic Duke Kahanamoku Statue. That’s where you’ll meet your instructor(s), say aloha, get acquainted with what’s ahead, and begin the on-sand portion of your lesson before heading into the water. You won’t need to worry about finding a surf shop, arranging transportation, or navigating somewhere unfamiliar—the Duke Kahanamoku Statue is your easy-to-find meeting point, putting you just moments away from the sand, the surf, and your first Sparky’s Surf School experience in Waikiki.
Cost of Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Surf Lessons
Sparky’s Surf School keeps the pricing straightforward, with the rate determined primarily by how many people are surfing together. Private lessons are $169 per person, giving you one-on-one attention from your instructor; semi-private lessons are $139 per person for two or three surfers, making them a popular choice for couples, siblings, or friends; and family/group lessons are $119 per person for four or five surfers, making this the most economical option for families and groups. Children under 10 are required to take private lessons.
Those are the standard rates shown on the booking form, but it is worth calling Sparky’s directly at 808-724-4208 if your plans fall outside the typical booking options. If you are interested in multiple days of surf lessons, bringing a particularly large group, or organizing something such as a birthday celebration, bachelorette party, corporate outing, or other special group experience, ask about possible discounts or customized arrangements that may not be reflected in the standard online booking form.
Ready to find out why we’re consistently ranked by TripAdvisor as one of the top surf schools worldwide? Call to schedule your lesson(s) at a day and time most convenient for your Oahu vacation.
