REVIEW · MAUI
3-Day Surf Camp on Maui at Kalama Park in Kihei
Catch your first wave in Maui. This three-day surf camp at Kalama Park in Kihei gives beginners time to build real skills instead of squeezing everything into one lesson. I like the chance to return for three days, and I like that professional instruction, a board, rash guard, and reef shoes are included. The main catch is the price: at $502.56 per person, it costs more than a single surf lesson.
I also like the flexible departure choices and the family-friendly setup. Instructor San helped one participant surf independently within three days, while Lucas patiently worked with a family of four. Still, check the booking details carefully: the activity is listed with a maximum of two participants, and you must provide three preferred dates or the booking may be canceled.
Key things to know before booking

- Three days at Kalama Park: You return to the same Kihei surf location for a progression-based experience rather than a one-off lesson.
- San and Lucas receive special praise: San helped a participant catch waves alone, while Lucas was praised for his patience with a family group.
- All essential surf gear is included: You receive a surfboard, rash guard, reef shoes, and instruction from a professional.
- Several departure times are offered: This can make it easier to fit surfing around the rest of your Maui plans.
- The group limit needs checking: The stated maximum is two travelers, despite feedback describing a family of four.
- Photos cost extra: Surf photos may be available to purchase, but they are not part of the listed price.
Three days to build a real surfing habit
A single surf lesson can be fun, but it often ends just as you begin to understand the balance, timing, and basic movement. This camp gives you three days to return to the water and work on those early skills. That extra time is the central reason to consider it.
The experience lasts approximately three days and two hours. The description calls it a surf progression camp, with the aim of teaching the basics and helping you improve. You are not simply checking surfing off a Maui activity list. You are given repeated chances to practice.
I like this format for anyone who wants more than a quick introduction. You can use the first day to get comfortable with the equipment and basic instruction, then use later sessions to improve. The exact lesson structure is not specified, so you should not expect a guaranteed step-by-step syllabus. Still, the design is clear: return to Kalama Park for three days and build from one session to the next.
That makes this a particularly sensible choice for children and adults who learn by repetition. It also helps if your first attempt is awkward. Surfing has a steep learning curve for many beginners, and one difficult start does not have to define the whole experience.
More Surf Camps and Multi-Day Trips in Maui:
- 7 days All Inclusive Surf Package
★ 5.0 · 96 reviews - Stellar 3 Day Surf Package
★ 5.0 · 83 reviews - 2-Night Byron Bay Surf Camp
★ 5.0 · 68 reviews
Meeting the Waves Hawaii Surf School van

You meet at Waves Hawaii Surf School, at 1900 S Kihei Road in Kihei. The instructions ask you to meet the school van five minutes before your lesson. That is a small detail, but it matters. Arriving early gives you a better chance of finding the meeting point without turning your first surf session into a race against the clock.
The activity begins and ends at the meeting point. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you need to arrange your own way to the start. The location is near public transportation, which may help, though the supplied information does not specify routes, travel times, or parking arrangements.
Several departure times are available throughout the day. I see that as a useful advantage on Maui, where you may be planning other activities, meals, or beach time. You can choose a schedule that fits your day, but you should confirm the exact time during booking because the available options are not listed here.
The meeting instructions are simple, yet you should pay attention to the date requirement. You must provide three preferred dates in the Special Requirements field at checkout. If you leave that information out, the supplier may cancel the booking. Confirmation arrives within 48 hours, subject to availability, so do not treat the reservation as final until you receive confirmation.
Why Kalama Park works for this camp

Kalama Park in Kihei is the fixed setting for all three surf days. That consistency is useful for a beginner. You do not have to learn a new meeting point or adjust to a new part of the island each morning.
The information provided does not describe the exact beach conditions, wave size, changing facilities, or classroom setup. I would not assume those details. What you can count on is the location, the surf school van, and the instruction taking place at Kalama Park.
The fixed location also keeps the focus on practice. You return to the same general area and work on getting better rather than spending part of each day traveling between sites. Since hotel transportation is not included, staying near Kihei may make the schedule easier, though the activity itself does not require a hotel stay at a specific property.
What the three-day progression means for you

The first session is designed to teach the basics. That likely means the core skills needed to begin surfing, but the provider does not give a detailed lesson plan. The useful promise is not a particular maneuver. It is the chance to keep practicing over three days.
The strongest feedback focuses on independent wave catching. San is specifically praised for helping one participant catch waves alone by the end of the camp. That is a meaningful result for a beginner because it suggests the instruction is aimed at giving you practical ability, not just a pleasant introduction.
Lucas receives similar praise for patience and helpfulness. That matters when a family is learning together. A calm instructor can make a big difference when people progress at different speeds, especially with children.
The program is described as suitable for all ages and skill levels. I would read that as a broad welcome rather than a promise that every participant will advance at the same rate. Your progress will depend on your starting point, comfort, and ability to attend all three sessions.
The activity has also been especially popular with children. Families should still note the group-size information before booking, since the stated maximum is two participants. The positive family feedback and the listed maximum do not fully match, so ask Waves Hawaii Surf School to confirm how the limit applies to your party.
A few more surf days around Maui worth a look
- 3 Day Surf Progression for Families, Kids, and Beginners in Kihei at Kalama Park
★ 5.0 · 5 reviews - Raglan: 3 Day Surf Lesson Package
★ 5.0 · 2 reviews
Gear included, photos extra

The price includes a professional instructor and the main equipment needed for the lesson:
- Surfboard
- Rash guard
- Reef shoes
- Professional instruction
That makes budgeting easier. You do not need to arrange a separate board rental for each day, and reef shoes are supplied as part of the package. The information does not specify sizes, styles, or whether you should bring personal items, so ask the provider if you have special equipment needs.
Souvenir photos are not included. They may be available to purchase, and Elijah is praised for taking photos on all three days and sending them promptly after the camp. That could be worthwhile if you want a record of your progress, especially because surfing is difficult to photograph from shore.
Still, treat photos as an optional extra, not part of the $502.56 price. If pictures matter to you, ask about the cost and availability before the first session.
Is $502.56 a fair price?

At $502.56 per person, this is a serious activity purchase. The value depends on whether you want three days of instruction or only a quick taste of surfing.
For one short lesson, the price would be hard to justify. For three days of professional instruction, supplied equipment, and a progression-based format, the calculation is more reasonable. You are paying for repeated access to coaching, not just board time. The ability to practice again the next day is the main benefit.
I would especially consider the camp if surfing is one of your main Maui goals. If you are curious but unsure, a single lesson elsewhere may be a less expensive way to test your interest. This camp makes more sense when you already know you want several sessions.
The cost does not include hotel transportation or photos. You should also account for your own transport to and from 1900 S Kihei Road. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, which gives you some flexibility, but late cancellations and late changes are not refunded or accepted.
Who will get the most from this surf camp?
This experience suits you best if you want:
- Three days of beginner-focused practice
- A family-friendly activity
- Instruction for different ages and skill levels
- A set surf location in Kihei
- Several departure choices during the day
- Surf gear included in the price
- A chance to work toward catching waves independently
The camp may be less suitable if you want hotel pickup, a large social group, or a detailed sightseeing program beyond surfing. It is also not the right choice if you can attend only one day, since the booking is for a three-day camp.
The family feedback is encouraging, especially the praise for Lucas helping a family of four become surfers. But because the stated maximum is two participants, I would confirm the group arrangement before paying for a family booking. That is the most important practical question left open by the supplied details.
A small-group feel, with one detail to confirm

The listed maximum of two participants suggests a personal, low-pressure format. A small group can give you more direct time with an instructor and make it easier to ask questions. It may also be helpful if you are nervous about learning in front of a crowd.
At the same time, the wording creates a clear inconsistency. The experience is promoted as family friendly and has feedback from a family of four, yet the maximum is listed as two participants. Do not guess at the answer. Contact Waves Hawaii Surf School and ask whether the maximum applies per booking, per lesson, or to the total session.
Service animals are allowed, and most people can participate. The activity is near public transportation. No other accessibility details are provided, so anyone with mobility, balance, or equipment concerns should discuss them with the provider before booking.
Booking details that can save you trouble
You need to submit three preferred dates in the Special Requirements field at checkout. This is not an optional note. Failing to provide the dates can result in cancellation.
Confirmation is sent within 48 hours, subject to availability. I would avoid building a tight schedule around the camp until that confirmation arrives. Several departures are offered, but the actual times depend on availability.
Plan to meet the Waves Hawaii Surf School van five minutes before the lesson. Since pickup and drop-off at your hotel are not included, give yourself enough time to reach 1900 S Kihei Road.
The cancellation policy is straightforward: cancel at least 24 hours before the local start time for a full refund. If you cancel within 24 hours, you will not receive a refund, and changes made in that period are not accepted.
Should you book the three-day Maui surf camp?
I would book this camp if you want to give surfing a fair try, value personal instruction, and can commit to all three days. The strongest reasons are the repeated practice, included gear, flexible departure choices, and the clear praise for San and Lucas. The aim of catching waves independently feels more useful than simply posing with a board for an hour.
I would pause if $502.56 feels high, if you need hotel transportation, or if your schedule cannot handle three sessions. I would also confirm the maximum group size before booking with more than two people.
For a child, a beginner adult, or a family member who learns best with patient coaching, this has the makings of a worthwhile Maui activity. Just provide three preferred dates, wait for confirmation, and clarify the group limit first.
FAQ
Where does the surf camp take place?
Surfing takes place at Kalama Park in Kihei, Maui.
Where do I meet the instructor?
Meet at Waves Hawaii Surf School, 1900 S Kihei Road, Kihei, Hawaii 96753. You are asked to meet the school van five minutes before your lesson.
How long does the experience last?
The surf camp lasts approximately three days and two hours.
Is this a one-day surf lesson?
No. This booking is for a three-day surf camp focused on learning the basics and improving your skills.
Is equipment included?
Yes. The price includes a surfboard, rash guard, reef shoes, and professional instruction.
Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No. You must arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting point.
Can children participate?
The experience is described as family friendly, suitable for all ages and skill levels, and popular with children.
What dates must I provide when booking?
You must provide three preferred dates in the Special Requirements field at checkout. If you do not provide them, the booking may be canceled.
Can I cancel for a full refund?
Yes, if you cancel at least 24 hours before the local start time. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not refunded or accepted.
Just added around Maui
- 2-Hour Semi Private Hawaiian Surf Lesson with the best in Maui..★ 5.0 · 15 reviews
- Surf with ALOHA SURF SCHOOL★ 5.0 · 9 reviews
- 2-Hour Surf Lessons with a Pro★ 3.5 · 3 reviews
- Private Surf Lessons in Maui★ 5.0 · 2 reviews
- Epic Surf Safari – Best of Maui★ 5.0 · 4 reviews
- Semi-Private Surf Lesson at Kalama Beach in Kihei★ 5.0 · 25 reviews
- Private Surf Lessons in Lahaina, Maui★ 5.0 · 31 reviews
- Surf Lesson on Maui★ 5.0 · 6 reviews
Surf Camps and Multi-Day Trips, compared.

8 Day Outstanding Surf Holiday in Tamraght, Agadir
Read our review →
Surf lessons 1h30 (4-6 people) Kokoplaj Surf camp Guadeloupe school
Read our review →Browse the lists this lesson appears in






