Oahu North Shore: Surf Lessons with Pro Lifeguard & Dogs

Summary

Learn to surf Oahu’s waves with a local pro and her dogs

You’ll learn to surf on Oahu’s North Shore with a pro lifeguard and her friendly dogs by your side. After a quick beach lesson, you’ll paddle out for real waves — maybe even spot sea turtles gliding nearby. It’s equal parts laughter, challenge, and salty air; you’ll walk away sandy, tired, and weirdly proud.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I was more nervous about meeting the dogs than getting on the board. They’re kind of famous around here, these fluffy sidekicks who trot down the sand like they own the place. Our guide, Kai (she told us her name means “sea” in Hawaiian — I probably pronounced it wrong), just grinned and handed me a rash guard that still smelled faintly of salt and sunscreen. The whole group was half-laughing, half-shivering as we listened to her explain how to pop up without face-planting.

The first fifteen minutes were all sand and awkwardness — my feet kept sinking into the warm grit while Kai demonstrated paddling moves, her two dogs weaving between us looking for dropped snacks. Then, suddenly, we were out past the break, boards bobbing under us like little rafts. The water was colder than I expected, but not in a bad way — more like a wake-up call. And then she pointed: “There’s a turtle.” Sure enough, this round shadow drifted by so close I almost forgot to paddle. You don’t get that on every surf lesson on Oahu’s North Shore.

I wiped out at least four times before I caught anything resembling a wave. Kai cheered anyway (“That counts!”), and one of her dogs barked from shore like he agreed. I can still feel that first moment standing up — legs shaking, sun in my eyes, salt everywhere. It lasted maybe three seconds but felt longer. Afterward we all flopped onto our towels laughing at ourselves and swapping stories about who fell off most creatively. Honestly, I didn’t expect to care so much about getting it right or about those small moments when everyone just…clicked.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Surf lessons on Oahu's North Shore

• Meet instructor and dogs
• Get equipped with surf gear
• Attend 15-minute beach lesson
• Surf beginner waves for 75 minutes
• Encounter sea turtles while surfing

Top questions

Are surf lessons on Oahu’s North Shore suitable for beginners?

Yes, these lessons are designed for beginners and include all equipment plus instruction from an experienced local guide.

How long is the surf lesson?

The class lasts 90 minutes total: about 15 minutes on the beach and the rest in the water.

Is equipment included in the price?

Yes, your surfboard, rash guard, and leash rental are all included.

Can children participate in these surf lessons?

Yes, children under 18 can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Will we see sea turtles during the lesson?

You might! The tour includes a free turtle tour if conditions allow.

Is this activity wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are welcome during the lesson.

Do I need to reconfirm my booking?

The supplier requires reconfirmation by phone 24 hours before your tour date.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary surf equipment—board, rash guard, leash—and starts with a short beach lesson before heading into the ocean for guided practice with a professional Hawaiian lifeguard (and her friendly dogs). There’s also a free turtle tour if you’re lucky enough to spot them while out on Oahu’s North Shore waves.