Kona: Private Surf Lesson at Kahaluu Beach Park

Summary

Private surf lesson Kona gentle waves Kahaluu Beach

You’ll start your day learning to surf gentle Kona waves at Kahaluu Beach Park with a patient local instructor by your side. Feel the rush of catching your first wave (even if it’s wobbly), soak up stories from your guide, and finish salty-haired but smiling — all gear included.

What’s the experience like?

I barely had time to feel nervous before we were standing on the warm sand at Kahaluu Beach Park, boards under our arms and salt in the air. The morning sun was already bright but not too hot — you know that soft golden light that makes everything look a bit kinder? Our instructor, Kaleo, grinned and handed me a rash guard that still smelled faintly of sunscreen. He asked if I’d ever surfed before (nope), then showed us how to pop up right there on the sand. I could hear kids laughing nearby and someone playing ukulele under a palm tree. It felt casual, not like some big intimidating “lesson.”

Getting into the water with my own private surf instructor was honestly less scary than I’d built it up to be. The waves at Kahaluu are gentle — more like rolling hills than anything wild. Kaleo kept talking quietly, pointing out when to paddle or just let myself float for a second. There was this moment when I finally stood up (okay, wobbled) and he whooped from behind me — I almost fell off from laughing. Salt water in my mouth tastes way different here, somehow sweeter? Maybe just nerves. Anyway, after a few tries, something clicked and I actually rode a wave all the way in. Still can’t believe it.

By the end, my arms were jelly but I didn’t care. We sat on our boards for a minute watching little fish dart around our feet while Kaleo told us about his first wipeout as a kid — he made it sound hilarious instead of scary. Walking back up the beach with sand stuck everywhere and hair full of salt, I felt weirdly proud. Not just for standing up but for trying at all. If you’re thinking about booking a private surf experience in Kona, honestly — go for it. Even if you wipe out half the time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private surf lesson at Kahaluu Beach

• Meet professional surf instructor
• Receive one-on-one surf instruction
• Practice surfing on gentle waves
• Enjoy surfing experience at Kahaluu Beach Park

Top questions

Is this private surf lesson suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed for all skill levels including complete beginners.

Where does the surf lesson take place?

The lesson is held at Kahaluu Beach Park in Kona.

Are children allowed to join the private surf experience?

Yes, children can join; it’s especially recommended for younger surfers.

What equipment is provided during the lesson?

You’ll get a surfboard, reef shoes, and a surf shirt included.

Is transportation included in this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Can people with health issues participate?

This activity isn’t recommended for those with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnant travelers.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the activity.

Is this experience suitable for all fitness levels?

The lesson is suitable for all physical fitness levels except those mentioned above.

What’s included

Your private surf experience includes use of a quality surfboard sized right for you, comfortable reef shoes so you don’t worry about your feet on lava rocks, and a rash guard shirt — everything you need for time in the water at Kahaluu Beach Park with one-on-one guidance from an experienced local instructor.