We have taken a total of 4 lessons with this awesome group; 2 around 4 years ago and 2 last week. All lessons were great; the surfing lessons resulted in all of us standing up and surfing pretty early on in the first lesson. Each lesson got easier and easier. The next time we go, hopefully we'll figure out how to catch our own waves! Until then, ahuihou OSP - you guys rock it!! Alohas! Kaui, Pono, Koa, Kai and Peter DeMarzo (guess why we live on the mainland. LOL) read more

We had a really great experience at OSP! We surfed for the first time on our trip to Hawaii this summer, so all of us were beginners coming into the experience. We left feeling pretty confident and were able to do more than we expected with the help of the team. Everyone we interacted with was professional, incredibly helpful, and very patient -- they dealt well with us, especially since several of us were newcomers who were maybe a bit more hesitant when it came to standing up all the way on the board, etc. Safety was stressed, and there was always a good system in place to make sure we weren't in the way of other surfers and vice versa. The more one-on-one nature of the instruction was very helpful, and we didn't enter the water until we got some solid on-the-shore training first. The advice offered throughout the lesson was great and helped us improve over our two hours out there. The photos and videos at the end were a great keepsake. The transportation to/from the hotel was ideal, especially if you don't have a rental car. I'd definitely recommend if you're going to try surfing in Oahu! read more

If there was a 10-star option I'd go with that! These guys are amazing. I'm 43 and had wanted to surf since I was 12! Yeah, kinda late right? No. These guys got me a nice easy board and a after a few tries I was up and surfing. Un-freaking-believable! But wait, there's more! They taught my 15-yr old son how to surf as well as my 10-yr old daughter! They're so great with kids! My 10-yr old did a private lesson while my son and I did the group but you're all together the entire time!! Her instructor stayed with her the entire time! He paddled her out and pushed her into the waves and coached her so well that she was up and surfing before my son and me! He was amazing and my daughter was so stoked! At the end we got to watch the GoPro videos of our time in the water. I recommend the 2-hour! The 1-hour is fine, you'll get plenty out of it, but you'll be having so much fun that you won't want to come in when the hour is up, trust me! Don't hesitate to book lessons with this crew! They're real pros, they're so amazing! Troy is so real, so good, and the other guys too and the gals too I just don't remember all their names but damn, they're all so friendly and helpful. They coach you after each run, tell you what you need to do to stand up; I mean it real. They want you to surf, they want you to have a good time, you can feel it. So genuine, such pros, so patient. Believe me, these guys are the best. Worth every cent, no question. Mahalo Ohana Surf Project, Mahalo! Don, Luke and Natalee! read more

Obama Surf Project was just great! They were willing to work with me when I had a scheduling issue (my fault) and the lesson was so fun! Troy was a great instructor and all the instructors fostered a team (cheering) environment with the guests. Overall, I highly recommend Obama! read more

It was a first time surfing experience for all of us (ages adult, teens and young child). We booked a two-hour family lesson with Troy and Gabby and loved every second! All staff and instructors were very friendly and helpful. All of us were able to stand up on the board. We look forward to trying it again! read more

Highly recommend! Super fun time surfing - great instruction - we all caught lots of waves. Kids said it was the best thing we did in Hawaii!!! Will definitely book other sessions with the Obama Surf Project. read more

The entire experience END to END was excellent! Booking online was super easy, reminder notices via email was easy to read/follow, location easy to spot, team was VERY friendly & of course the lesson itself exceeded expectations. Troy was the instructor my husand and daughter had and he was amazing! He was helpful, friendly, supportive & really pumped them up during the entire experience. We loved it so much, we'll be back for more fun! Highly recommed Ohana Surf Project. read more

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Just surfed with OSP the last 2 days and it was a great experience! Great surf instructors who encourage all levels. Plus the surf break where they teach is less crowded than other areas in Waikiki. Overall highly recommend! read more

The instructors as so professional and friendly. I took the 1-hour class but I would definitely do a 2 hours class next time! I had so much fun, great experience! read more

Amazing surf school! I went for a group and individual lesson. We stood up on the first lesson and got good practice. On the second lesson I was able to learn some more advanced skills. So much fun. Now we surf on our own! read more

Living in Hawaii is a surfer's dream ... until all your friends and relatives clamor to visit and want you to teach them how to surf. Then it become a bit of a nightmare, because teaching a multidimensional sport like surfing is much, much harder than it looks, and can be really hard on your own equipment. Enter Ohana Surf Project! When folks come to town with a watery agenda, I send them straight to Chelsea and the gang at OSP. After doing all my research on local surf schools and the few reputable independent instructors here, I chose OSP for its professionalism, consistency, attention to safety and charm - yes, charm! Part of the whole surfing experience is vibing with a great tribe, and the staff of OSP are hands-down the nicest folks in the business. They really seem to love their jobs and share a commitment to giving their clients the kind of stoke that turns them into real surfers, not just tourists who get a few pushes and a picture to prove they did it. (Although my friends all seem to love the pix and videos from their OSP experiences.) Now that I know most of them by reputation - not just the longtime managers but all the men and women (yay, women!) who work there, I don't want to call anyone else out by name b/cause they are all seriously committed, awesome waterpeople. Just go to OSP and meet them for yourself. Seriously. read more

Ohana Surf Project - Kamani Leaf at Beach Park where OSP is :) - Surf Schools Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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I can't believe I've waited this long in life to surf!!!But I am so glad I chose Ohana Surf Project for my first surf lesson ever. It couldn't have been more perfect and ideal. And I stood up on my first try! The entire experience was on point, including picking me up at my hotel, teaching us a quick safety and basics lesson with a video in the van before we headed out, stretching on the beach before we entered the water, learning on the sand first how to properly stand up on our boards, and then hitting the gentle rolling waves of Waikiki to try out our newly acquired skills. I not only got to learn to surf in the light blue waters of Waikiki Beach but also had the most beautiful views of Diamond Head and the city in the background. When you are laying on your surfboard peacefully waiting for the next wave to come in, that view is breathtaking. They teach you at Publics Beach which is to the left of the main area of Waikiki and a much better area to learn as it has less surfers. I chose the group 1 hour lesson which had only two others in my group and one instructor, so I really received pretty much a private lesson. The rates are also affordable and competitive compared to the other surf schools in the area and even back in NY. As soon as I was paddling out in the water, I decided to extend my lesson to 2 hours. So glad I did because I could have lasted out there for hours, so 1 hour definitely would not have been enough. I was also taught by the best and had no idea until afterwards! I was fortunate to have been taught by Kainoa McGee. Google him! Kainoa gave each of the three of us in our group individualized attention so that we really learned how to correct anything we may have been doing wrong. He would choose the waves for us and once we were standing, he would call out how to correct our foot placements or whether we needed to squat down more, etc. Taylor was also great, as she was out there with us helping and calling out instructions too while she also filmed us with a GoPro. Her pictures and videos came out amazing as she has a great eye. That was a really nice extra that I didn't expect. Well worth the charge and they airdropped them directly to my iPhone right after the lesson. The instructors all told me I was a natural out there which really has now encouraged me to continue to pursue surfing. I will undoubtedly continue to learn back at home at Rockaway Beach, Queens and one day for sure will return to the waters of Waikiki! Mahalo and Aloha!!! read more

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My partner and I did a semi private lesson for 2 hours with Matt. It was a lot of fun and we did better than we expected for our first time surfing! We got to ride a bunch of waves (at least 10 but can't remember) with the help of Matt who was super helpful in timing the waves for us and giving us tips. Would definitely recommend read more

Amazing experience. I have taken beginner lessons twice previously (some of us never learn haha), and Ohana Surf Project blew them out of the water. The instructors were so friendly, and were so attentive to our kids (5 and 8). The 5 year old did a tandem private lesson which was absolutely worth it. Me, my brother, and my 8 year old were in a family lesson (so 3 of us with a single instructor). Ou 8 year old got very nervous and also struggled with paddling (bc she couldn't get her arms very far into the water - wide board great for us novices but she is small). Our instructor was fantastic about accommodating her. He ran with her to help her stand up and she was confident enough to do it herself on the final wave. If I had to do it again I would book her on a private lesson, not bc they didn't do an amazing job, just that it was in my opinion over and above for our instructor to work it's her so extensively. 10/10 highly recommend, for everyone but especially if you have kids! read more

My 6 year old had a 2 hour private lesson, which gave her enough time to get comfortable on the board and ride plenty of waves. Kai and the team did an amazing job guiding her and giving her confidence. She already wants to surf again read more

We booked a family surf lesson and all had the absolute best time! Our instructors were fantastic. They took time to really explain everything to us and especially to our two kids (7 and 10 years old). We felt confident and they instructed us so well that we were able to get up on the board rather quickly! Our entire family had an awesome time, and Kevin took amazing pictures and videos of us. Such an amazing memory that we'll always remember! read more

Loved my surfing lesson so much! It was my last day in oahu and I was able to book the group lesson (for myself only, went with a group of other people) that same day! I was able to get up on the board on my first try just following exactly what the instructors said to do. I did the 2 hour one and it was definitely worth this. Highlight of my trip. I will take these lessons any time I come back to Hawaii! read more

I have been afraid of waves, undertow and really the ocean for 9 years, and their coaching not only got me over this fear, but I'm totally fearless to go back in now! And their instruction and positive vibes gave me courage to stand up and ride the wave, over and over!! I can't wait for a second lesson to improve my new skill! Mahalo to my coaches and entire family of OSP! read more

Big mahalo to the crew at Ohana Surf Project! Matt and Chelsea were such awesome surf instructors. I was a bit nervous at first because it was my first time surfing but I was able to catch a lot of waves with Matt's help. All the instructors were very kind and they were definitely concerned for everyone's safety. They start by teaching the basics then once you're out surfing, they'll teach you how to improve your technique after each wave. Chelsea also takes awesome pictures and videos of everyone surfing. I definitely recommend anyone wanting to try surfing in Honolulu to check out Ohana Surf Project! You'll have an awesome experience like I did. read more

I can't give enough stars for this place! I had never surfed before and was worried I'd not be able to do it. The instructors worked with me closely, and I stood up. I enjoyed it so much, I went back the next day! The instructors were supportive and had great suggestions/tips for a completely new surfer. It was so much fun, and I will definitely go back! read more

I had a great surf lesson with Ohana! The staff is very friendly and patient, love the vibe here. The booking is very convenient online, there's also a number you can call to book sorta last minute sessions if there are spots. They offer pick up in Waikiki you can arrange with them beforehand. This was very convenient for me as I didn't have a car but did have a lot of beach stuff. Im very glad that I signed up for the 2 hour session, because I was never good with board sports and was struggling to stand up. Thanks to Chelsea's patient guidance and encourage I finally made two rides on the wave! During the lesson they will also be filming you with a GoPro and you can purchase the photos/videos afterwards. The shots were very good and picture quality turned out great. They also have a surf club you can join if you are local, and branches in other places you can continue surfing with. I had a wonderful time, highly recommend Ohana to anyone! read more

Over the Covid Xmas break, we needed to switch it up. Our kids can swim, but never went out to surf, so we thought this would be a great experience. Ohana Surf Project was awesome! We signed up for a family pack for kids under 13. The lesson started with some safety stuff and some instruction, then out to the ocean! Our instructor was Troy, and he was a positive and friendly guy. I was amazed that he got our kids up and riding on their 1st wave! In that hour, he must have helped pushed them onto 10-15 waves. It was a wonderful experience for the kids and myself. Thank you Ohana Surf and to Troy for your easy going fun time! read more

This was my first surf lesson and I couldn't have had a better time! Such an amazing company with quality teachers. I would highly recommend! read more

If I can give 6 stars, I would. I had a few hours to kill before heading to the airport. I called them at 8:30 in the morning, and someone answered me. I signed up for a group lesson in 5 minutes, and I am given instructions in an email. Chelsea was awesome. She got everyone settled quickly, gave us onshore safety instruction, and also a real demo on the beach. Then, we are off to the shore. The whole process was efficient. Someone was there to give us instruction, someone was there to take pictures, and someone was there to keep us safe. I was able to stand up quickly, I guess, because of Chelsea's belief in me. I did it. I was so glad I did it! Thank you team! read more

Great experience with this group of instructors as someone exploring wave-riding sports for the first time! Kevin and Chelsea were very knowledgeable and kept the lesson relaxed and fun. read more

My family of four took the family surf lesson. I was very impressed by the lesson. The coaches are very nice and patient. The location they selected is very safe and good for the beginner. Everyone was able to successfully catch the waves several times. I am a good swimmer and I tried to surf by myself before but it was very difficult. With the coach's help, this becomes so easy. Our family really enjoy our time surfing. read more

Great experience today!! Would recommend to others :) we had a semi private lesson with K, who was very supportive and friendly throughout the process. We felt very safe throughout the lesson, too! read more

You can't go wrong by choosing this company for your surf lessons! I am a 55 year old lady and I took SUP lesson with Kevin. My cousin actually recommended them and I was very glad I listened to the recommendation. Although have surfed before I was not comfortable going out to SUP without guidance. I will definitely go back to this company for my surfing and SUP lessons. And I will heartily recommend them to anyone who travels to Honolulu. They are good people. They work with the level you are at, not just a "standard" lesson. Even though I'm middle aged they didn't treat me like an old lady. I can't wait for my next visit to Honolulu. And although they film and photograph you during the lesson, the purchase is optional and not a high pressure sale. The price is also reasonable. I just chose not to purchase. Mahalo For a great experience! read more

It was my first time visiting Hawaii, and surfing was one of my definite to-do items during the trip. As a first time sufer, my husband and I weren't sure what's a good option, so we booked it through our hotel. We chose a semi-private session for 2 hours, and it was more than enough! Since it was only 2 of us, we took rapid turns with little breaks and got most out of it. They provided safety sessions prior to going into the water, which was very helpful. Instructor Chelsey and Zac were helpful and supportive. They kept us busy in the water for sure ;) Highly recommend the activity itself and also Ohana Suf Project. read more

It was an awesome experience! "K" our instructor was great! He gave tips each time to let us know what we were doing wrong. The photographer even gave us instructions to help us stay up. It looked much more organized than other surf schools in the area. My goal was to get on my feet in a low crouch and I made it all the way up and stayed there for a bit! I can finally check this off my bucket list! It also was very reasonably priced! read more

Teens loved it! They were safe and within the 2 hour beginner lesson they stood several times for several waves. The location was excellent. Just make sure to use lots of sunscreen, wear rashguard and maybe even leggings or come in halfway through to re-apply sunscreen. Great team! read more

A highlight our trip! Staff was amazing-- kind, knowledgeable, funny. The family lessons are very competitively priced as were the pictures and videos. If you're considering Ohana Surf Project, my advice is 100% do it!! Kevin was our instructor-- He helped us feel safe in the water and adjusted the lesson to our family's ability. The blonde woman who seemed to run it was also top-notch. read more

I HAD SO MUCH FUN! And you will too! I did a 2 hr group surfing lesson. They give you enough on beach information/practice where you understand what's going to happen but aren't overwhelmed. They want you to just get out there and start surfing! So that's what I did! They help you get the basics and you will definitely be able to stand up at least once by the end of the lesson. They are very attentive so you feel safe and comfortable the whole time. They take pictures and video for you so the only thing you have to focus on is surfing! They are ALL so nice especially Troy and Laina and will help you with surfing or any other questions you have about Hawaii. If you're on the fence about surfing, I'm telling you to just do it! You won't regret it :) read more

Great team and very systematic with ensuring safety of everyone in the group lesson. They made sure to take care of my girlfriend who cut her chin open on a wave she wasn't ready for and by the end was able to stand up. I also learned very quickly through their advice and now plan on buying a board once I get back to California. Everyone in the group lesson was able to ride a wave by the end which is great from a statistical point of view. They provided compression shirts, water shoes, and long boards making the learning curve as short as possible. Would definitely recommend them to anyone as I know how frustrating providing lessons can be (having given a lot of snowboarding lessons) and this team is patient and provides good vibes all around. read more

Super friendly instructors that will encourage you and help you progress your surfing fast. Safety instructions at the beginning are clear and easy to understand. They will always make you feel safe out there. 100% would recommend :) read more

2 hour surf lesson for my family of 4. We all had a great time! We've taken surf lessons a few times before with a different school, but we are still beginners. Our lesson with OSP felt very organized and the instructors were very patient and helpful. The feedback for getting the pop up technique down was very helpful and easy to understand. I would totally go with them again when we are in Waikiki! read more

I had an incredible time my first time surfing with Ohana Surf Project. I did a two hour group lesson and was fully expecting to wipe out the entire time, but instead was able stand every time. The boards they had us use were perfect for beginners. I know this because I rented a different board on another beach the next day and had a more difficult time with it. They had great instructors, great instruction, and gave a solid safety tutorial in the beginning to make sure everyone was super comfortable in the water. They had an entire team of 6 or 7 people in the water with us, and had a very organized system to make sure we all caught waves. Can't say enough great things about this school and their staff, they are awesome. Mahalo! read more

Ohana Surf Project made my first surfing experience incredibly memorable. They picked up from a pre-determined meeting spot and were incredibly accommodating even with trying to squeeze my fiancé in last minute. The instructions were very clear and everyone on the team made me feel comfortable and prepared. There were numerous coaches out on the water calling out instructions and providing tips to improve each run. Additionally they took the most amazing photos and videos that were available for purchase at the end. I would highly recommend them to anyone, especially if it's your first time learning to surf. read more

Such an awesome experience! Our instructor was Nick. Not only was he super cool, but he was a great instructor. We had both only "attempted" surfing once in So Cal, so we decided to give it a go. Nick gave great cues and made us get up and surf over and over! The whole team had great attitudes. Make sure you get the pictures because you'll never want to forget this day! read more

Very memorable experience; highly recommend. We booked two parent-child packages, plus an extra private instructor for my 7 yr old. A lot of attention (total 5 staff for 4 participants-- 2 took photos, 2 instructors, plus 1 private instructor). The add-on media package was a great value too- gopro videos and still photos delivered via Dropbox read more

Ohana Surf Project - 8 yr old, first time surfing - Surf Schools Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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