Frequently asked questions
Plan your SFC surf lesson with clear answers
These answers summarize current published information. Your latest booking confirmation controls exact details for the booked session.
Lesson formats and duration
SFC publishes 60- and 90-minute options. The core formats are an open group, private one-on-one instruction and a private group for 2–8. Open groups may include other students; private groups do not.
Available formats and times appear for the selected date.
Equipment and personal items
SFC’s governed facts confirm that the lesson includes a surfboard, leash and rash guard. Bring any footwear or other personal items requested by the latest confirmation and review the what-to-bring page for a practical checklist.
Do not assume storage, towels, food, transportation or media are included unless the current booking details say so.
Meeting and arrival
Lessons meet at Ala Wai Boat Harbor, 1651 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu. The current .org directions say to enter the Ala Wai Boat Harbor area from Ala Moana Boulevard, follow Holomoana Street to the end and park on the left just past Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon.
Follow the latest confirmation if it adds or changes instructions.
Conditions and changes
Surf lessons happen in a changing environment. Weather, water and the people in the group can affect the lesson plan. Follow the instructor’s direction and monitor booking messages before leaving.
The booking confirmation or direct communication from SFC provides the current cancellation and change policy. Review it before checkout instead of relying on an older summary.
Questions guests ask on the sand
Read the current answer before you leave Waikīkī
Will I actually stand up on my first lesson?
The first lesson is built around getting to your feet. Scott stands behind it with a simple promise: stand up on your first lesson, or it’s free. Every wave still depends on the ocean, but the lesson is built to get you to your feet.
Do I need to know how to swim?
You should be comfortable in the water. Lessons start on the sand and then in shallow whitewater close to shore, so you are never far from standing depth, but swimming ability matters for your safety. Tell SFC in advance if anyone in your party is a nervous or non-swimmer so the instructor can plan for it.
Is a lesson good for nervous beginners?
Yes. Scott has spent about 20 years teaching first-timers in Waikīkī, groups stay small at no more than four students per instructor, and everyone practices the pop-up on dry sand before adding water. Students consistently describe the lesson as clear and encouraging.
How long are SFC surf lessons?
SFC teaches 60-minute and 90-minute surf lessons. Check the booking calendar for live times and availability.
Which lesson formats can I book?
Choose an open-group lesson, a private 1-on-1 lesson or a private group lesson. private groups need at least 2 students and hold up to 8.
How large are the groups?
Lessons are capped at 8 students, with no more than 4 students per instructor. Groups of 6–8 should book at least 24 hours ahead.
What is included?
Every lesson includes a surfboard, leash and rash guard. Bring your own reef-safe sunscreen, water and a towel.
Where do the lessons surf?
SFC teaches at the gentle south-shore breaks Scott knows well — Kaisers, Ala Moana Bowls and Rock Piles. Where you actually paddle out depends on the ocean that morning; your instructor makes that call after reading the conditions.
Can kids take a lesson?
Yes. Kids do well in Waikīkī’s gentle water and often stand up faster than their parents. Readiness is less about age than comfort in moving water and following one instruction at a time. A private or private group gives younger surfers the most support.
What should I bring?
Bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, drinking water and a dry change of clothes. Your booking confirmation notes anything else specific to your lesson.
When should I arrive?
Arrive 20 minutes before your lesson. Your booking confirmation will flag any updated timing.
Where do lessons meet?
Lessons meet near the Ala Wai Boat Harbor at 1651 Ala Moana Boulevard. Your booking confirmation has the exact day-of meeting instructions.
What if I need to change or cancel?
Your booking confirmation carries the current cancellation and change terms. For anything specific to your reservation, text SFC at +1 808-490-8674 before lesson day.
What happens if conditions change?
Ocean conditions can change the lesson plan, location or timing. Follow your instructor’s guidance and check your booking messages for updates.
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