Learn to Stand Up Paddle in Waikiki
Tour Highlights
Stand above Waikiki’s clear water, the shoreline fading as you glide into open blue. Beneath you, coral reefs and sea turtles move through shifting light, and for a moment, everything feels weightless.
- Glide across calm Waikiki waters with steady paddle strokes
- Drift above Waikiki’s tropical coral reef ecosystem
- Master stable stance and efficient padlding for confident balance
- Progress faster with one-on-one customized coaching
- Catch small-waves for SUP surfing along Waikiki’s outer reef
Quick Local Tip: You'll be paddling off what local's call "Publics" Reef. This area stays calmer than most of Waikiki because the breakwall blocks direct swell while still allowing easy ocean access. Take advantage of that protection by beginning on your knees before standing, you’ll feel the board’s stability right away.
What to Expect
Your lesson begins with check-in and a brief safety overview before walking over to nearby Kapiolani Park to meet the water with your instructor. Onshore instruction is customized to your experience level, focusing on stance, paddle control, balance, and ocean conditions. Beginners focus on feeling stable and comfortable on the board, while more experienced paddlers can work on smoother turns, better wave timing, or even trying SUP surfing.
Once on the water, instruction feels natural and supportive. Your instructor stays close, offering techniques, such as powerful forward strokes for propulsion, reverse strokes for control, and sweep strokes for smooth directional changes as you glide across the surface and build rhythm with each stroke. For those ready to advance, you may experiment with stepping back on the board for quicker turns or catching small rolling waves off shore.
From your elevated vantage point, Waikiki’s clear water reveals a vibrant world below. As you paddle, you might see coral heads scattered along the reef, tropical fish darting beneath your board, and, if you’re lucky, a Hawaiian green sea turtle cruising peacefully through the shallows. Throughout the experience, the focus remains on skill progression, awareness, and enjoying the moment, leaving you with the confidence to explore the ocean long after your lesson ends.
Lesson Types
Open Group Lesson (Ages 13+ | 4:1 Ratio | Must Swim)
An engaging and social option ideal for beginners who want structured instruction in a small group setting while enjoying individual feedback and strong safety oversight.
Private 1-on-1 Lesson (Ages 2+ | 1:1 Ratio | Non-swimmers welcome)
The most personalized SUP experience available. Perfect for guests with anxiety, special physical needs, young paddlers, or those seeking focused skill development at their own pace.
Semi-Private Lesson (Ages 13+ | 2:1 Ratio | Must Swim)
Designed for two participants who want individualized coaching while sharing the experience with a friend or partner.
Exclusive Group Lesson (Ages 13+ | 3–4:1 Ratio | Must Swim)
Ideal for families or friends traveling together who prefer their own dedicated instructor rather than joining a mixed group.
Family Lesson (1 Parent + 1 Child 6–12 Required | 2–4:1 Ratio | Must Swim)
A shared ocean experience designed to strengthen family bonds while learning balance, coordination, and water confidence together.
Professional Coaching Lesson (Ages 5+ | 1:1 Ratio | Must Swim)
Advanced instruction for paddlers looking to refine technique, increase endurance, improve turning precision, or transition into SUP surfing. Includes performance-focused guidance tailored to your goals and ocean conditions.
Included
- Stand-up paddleboard
- Paddle
- Safety briefing
- Professional instructor (CPR & First Aid certified)
- Secure storage for belongings
- Transportation to and from designated Waikiki meeting points
Requirements & Important Information
- Check in 20 minutes prior to lesson start time
- Wear swimwear and sunscreen; bring a towel
- Must be comfortable in the water for most lesson types
- Children under 12 must have a parent or guardian present at check-in and check-out
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious back problems
- Guests with medical conditions should notify staff in advance
Duration
1-2 hoursAddress
Ohana Surf Center inside the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort - 2552 Kalakaua Avenue, P159/P160 Honolulu HI, 96815
Cancellation Policy
Customers may receive a full refund with at least 48 hours’ notice prior to their scheduled lesson. Large group bookings of nine or more participants require 72 hours’ notice for cancellation. All cancellations or rescheduling requests must be made by phone. No-shows or reductions in the number of participants within the 48-hour cancellation window will be charged in full. Rescheduling between 48 and 4 hours before the lesson is subject to a 20% rescheduling fee, and lessons rescheduled within the 48-hour window are no longer eligible for refunds. Photo packages, rashguard purchases, and wetsuit rentals are fully refundable upon request.