Learning to surf is one of the most fun things you could ever do for yourself and learning in Waikiki is one of the best places in the world to try it. Not only is it where surfing was born, but it is an easier, more enjoyable place to learn.
It is important to take a lesson with someone who knows the surf break well and is experienced because this will make your lesson more successful and of a higher quality, enhancing your experience.
It is beneficial to learn from a professional because they will teach you everything you need to know and be there the whole time to guide you, keep you safe and help you into waves. Taking a lesson makes surfing easier and more fun than it is if you try to learn on your own.
5 Reasons Why You Should Book Lessons With a Waikiki Surf Instructor When Learning How to Surf on Oahu
1. Access to the Best Beginner/Intermediate Surf Spots in Waikiki
Close to shore – The specific break we teach at is close to shore, which is easier to paddle to than some other surf spots. This means you can conserve your energy for more surfing and less paddling!
Type of wave – Some surf spots have waves that break quickly which puts more pressure on the surfer to be able to stand up quickly and can make it a frustrating process. However, at the spot where we teach in Waikiki, this is not the case. Our waves are slow moving rollers, which are ideal for learners as there is plenty of time for them to go through the steps to stand up.
Lack of current – Even weaker swimmers can come on a surf lesson with us. There is usually a lack of current at our surf break, which means that it is easier for beginners to get out to the lineup and stay there. A surf instructor will help you determine where the lineup is.
Depth – The water at our surf break is not too deep or shallow, which makes it easier and more pleasant for swimmers of all abilities.
2. You’ll Be Provided with a Board Right for YOU
Having the right surfboard is essential to make your lesson enjoyable and successful. Having a board too small for you can make it more difficult for you to paddle, catch the wave and also make it more challenging to stand up. The board size that works best for beginners depends on the size of the person and the current conditions.
At Sparky’s Surf School we will give you instructions on how to stand up, and go over safety. Then we will determine what size board will work best for you and will maximize the success and fun of your lesson.
3. You’ll be Safer With an Instructor
Familiar with the surf spot – An instructor is beneficial because they will get you into the lineup and are familiar with the spot and have a relationship with the other instructors in the water which means you will get more chances for waves.
Keep you in the safe zone – An instructor will keep you in the safe zone, and will also keep their eyes peeled for possible dangers / other people in the water. The most dangerous part of surfing is the other beginners in the water and having an instructor really minimizes the risk of crashes. An instructor will teach you safety and point out hazards in the water and what to do to keep yourself safe.
Choosing the right size waves for you – An instructor will pick out appropriate size waves for you and push you onto them at the right time. Experienced instructors can select waves better than you will be able to because they know how to ‘read the ocean’ which is a skill that takes a long time to develop. They can tell what direction the wave is going, when it is going to break and where to push you.
Save yourself energy – This means minimal effort on your part – so if you are on a lesson, you will do more surfing than paddling. This also means you will get more waves in a shorter time than people trying by themselves. People who don’t take a lesson will burn out quicker and can get frustrated easier. Surfing isn’t as easy as it looks! But having an instructor goes a long way!
4. You’ll Actually Have FUN While Learning
Warm water – The water in Waikiki is warm all year round, and only varies between 23 and 28 degrees C. Warm water makes surfing that much more pleasant, and you can move freely without need to wear a wetsuit.
Views – The best view of diamond head is from the water! Admire the view while you are surfing, it is something you’ll never forget. Offshore wind – The wind in Waikiki is almost always offshore, which means the water is smooth and glassy. This makes for very pleasant conditions.
Clear water – Waikiki’s water is nice and clear too, so look out for fish and turtles while you are waiting for a wave!
Photos – Our photography package at Sparky’s Surf School differs from other schools because it is done from the water not the land. This means a wider variation of angles and overall better pictures!
5. You’ll Make a New Friend
Not only will you get a person that will teach you how to surf and keep you safe in the water, you will also make a friend for life if you choose Sparky’s Surf School! If you find that you want to buy a surfboard when you travel back to your home, (this happens to a lot of our students!) Sparky will be glad to give you some tips on how (and where) to choose a board that’s right for you. Follow us on Instagram and keep in touch!
Contact Sparky’s Surf School in Waikiki today to learn more.