Private Surf Lesson at Waikiki Beach

Surfing began here. The waves at Waikiki roll in long, slow and forgiving over a sandy bottom, breaking gently enough that this is arguably the easiest place in the world to stand on a board for the first time — which is exactly why generations of beginners have learned in this bay.

A lesson starts on the sand with the basics: how to lie on the board, where to put your hands, how to get to your feet without falling sideways. Then you paddle out with your instructor, who stays in the water beside you, reads the sets, pushes you into waves and adjusts what you are doing between each attempt.

Because it is one to one, the pace is entirely yours, and most people ride standing before the session is out. Behind you as you turn back toward the beach is Diamond Head, which makes for a fairly memorable first wave.