My child and I had an incredible experience with Jake at Manifesting Aloha Surf School. From the first communication, Jake was responsive, professional, and focused on safety, which immediately put us at ease. The lesson started with a thorough safety briefing and instruction on the beach before we headed into the water. The equipment was excellent, and thanks to Jake's coaching, we were both catching waves and standing up much sooner than we expected. One thing I highly recommend is the photo/video package. The footage and photos are amazing souvenirs and perfectly captured the experience. What really set Jake apart was how he went above and beyond for our family. After our lesson, he took my youngest child, who wasn't interested in a full lesson, out on his board to catch a wave. That small gesture made a huge impression and created a special memory for all of us. This was easily the highlight of our trip to Honolulu and exceeded every expectation. We'll absolutely book with Manifesting Aloha Surf School again the next time we're in Hawaii. Highly recommended!
About Activity
What's Included
Includes
- Surf Board, Leash, Water Shirt (Rash Guard), Water Shoes
- All Fees and Taxes
- Photo/Video Package (sent via email after lesson if purchased)
Excludes
- Gratuities or Tips
Departure & Return
Departure Point
- Meet at the end of the parking lot. There will be a small triangular beach on the ocean. This is a free parking lot. If you are unable to find parking here there is a paid parking lot to the right just before this lot. Call with any concerns. (We will do our best to answer the phone between lessons)
Return
- Meet at the end of the parking lot. There will be a small triangular beach on the ocean. This is a free parking lot. If you are unable to find parking here there is a paid parking lot to the right just before this lot. Call with any concerns. (We will do our best to answer the phone between lessons)
Itinerary
Private Surf Lessons are 1 on 1 instruction for ages 4 years of age or older. (Ages 4yo-11yo may choose to tandem surf with the instructor) 1. We will meet at the end of the parking lot at the ocean by a small triangular beach. You can choose the best size water shirt and water shoes. 2. We will begin by doing a demo near the entrance of the water to help you feel comfortable with safety, paddling, pop ups on the board, and covering any questions you may have. 3. This will be followed by an hour of practicing your surfing skills. Our instructors will be helping tow you if you are struggling paddling by yourself. They will also be pushing you on waves and helping you get comfortable with catching the waves. 4. Once we paddle back to shore we will get all purchased photos/videos uploaded the same day and send an email by that evening for your lifetime memories! You are guaranteed to catch a wave even if you ride on your stomach, however most people will catch multiple waves standing during their first beginner lesson.
Language Offered
Additional Info
Cancellation Policy
Reviews
I purchased a private lesson as a gift for my boyfriend’s birthday. He found Jake to be a wonderful instructor! It was his first time surfing and Jake got him standing on the board and catching waves easily! Also, we both found Jake to be very friendly and fun while also being safety conscious. He was also kind and loaned me a beach chair to use while they surfed. Boyfriend had such a great time and we’ve enjoyed watching the videos that came with the lesson. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
My family and I had the best morning surfing with Jake! Both my 6 year old and 1 year old loved it and felt comfortable surfing with Jake. I also borrowed a board so I could get out and watch them catch waves. Jake then helped me to feel confident catching some waves with both my children on the board and we all had so much fun! Thank you Jake!
The lesson with Jake was awesome. He corrected a lot of things I was doing wrong before I met him, and all his tips were helpful for getting on the board—something I used to struggle to do consistently. He’s super knowledgeable and very safety-conscious; I was really happy and satisfied!!
He was a great instructor and we enjoyed the experience. If you want to try surfing this was the way to do it!
Not only is Viator a simple tool to use to find great experiences like this, the experiences themselves never disappoint. Jake was amazing with communication before, during, and after the surf lesson. He was excellent at explaining things to my daughter and supporting her throughout the hour lesson she had with him. She learned the fun and appreciation of surfing and was able to surf 10 waves! I was able to watch from the beach and record all I wanted. Plus, I'd recommend the video/photo package Jake provides. And the icing on the cake.... We saw a Monk seal sunning on the beach, my daughter had a spotted eagle ray swim right under her during one surf, and they saw a sea turtle!! Highly encourage joining Jake for a lesson if you ever get the chance!
So glad we went for Jake and Manifesting. Great comms throughout and flexible with our timings. My daughter felt safe and educated throughout - ticked all the boxes - thank you Jake!
Absolutely amazing experience for my 15 year old son! Jake was such a great instructor; my son said he felt really comfortable with him and felt more like he was out there with one of his older cousins than an instructor. They talked surfing and life in general, which my son loved. He was patient, fun, and taught my son a lot. We 100% recommend booking a lesson with him!l
I joined a surf lesson and had a very good experience. Jake is a great instructor, he taught me a lot and took a variety of photos and videos for me.
My oldest boy was very hesitant at first but ended up having a great time and getting up. And my youngest son had so much fun and wanted to do it again. Jake is so patient with them and an excellent teacher.
Jake was so patient and understanding. I had such great fun but won't be winning any surf competitions just yet!! Would highly recommend this lesson as an introduction to surfing. Jake obviously knows the best places to surf depending on experience and the local weather. Was so easy to find - great communication beforehand. He got some amazing photos too which just made the adventure worthwhile and great to look back on. Thank you so much!
I had an amazing experience with my first surf lesson! Jake was patient, knowledgeable, and made me feel comfortable right away, even as a complete beginner. He broke everything down step by step, from paddling to popping up, which made it much less intimidating. The environment was fun and so beautiful, and I appreciated how he focused on safety while still making sure we had a great time. By the end of the lesson, I was actually able to stand up on the board, which felt incredible! I’d highly recommend this to anyone thinking about trying surfing for the first time. It was such a memorable experience, and I can’t wait to go again!
I am below the knee amputee woman 61 years old and I had the time in my life. I was able to go out and two days so far and I was able to catch a lot of waves and Jake is an amazing instructor.
Jake provided an awesome experience! We went for a sunset lesson on Waikiki Beach. I have taken surf lessons in a number of places, and Jake really helped me to start moving into the next phase of surfing - getting up without the push! I was able to catch several waves, and he gave me plenty of pointers to get up and stay up. Jake was very personable and ensured we were a safe distance from other surfers while catching the best waves. Thanks for a great time!
First surfing experience... and it was the best part of my Hawaii visit. The instructor, Jake, was very accommodating, patient, and encouraging. I was able to stand and surf after some tries, and through it all, Jake ensured I was learning so I could eventually do it all on my own, wherever I decide to surf in the future. Lifelong learning for sure, and the cherry on top was memorable videos and photos taken by Jake.
Jake is a fantastic instructor- knowledgeable, patient, and personable. Great way to spend the morning and catching some waves. Even with my not-so-great knee and wrist(!) Jake found me great long rides so I could take my time getting up! I’m sure I’ll do it again next time I’m here. Highly recommend !
Jake is an awesome surf instructor! I stood up on the board in my first lesson, and he was so kind and encouraging the whole time. He even stayed longer so I could catch a better wave. I loved the experience so much that I booked another lesson during the same trip. The photos and videos were a great bonus and such a nice memory to keep. Highly recommend!
Nice and easy waters. He tries to make sure you get up on and stand and get great photos! Best instructor and experience compared to doing this in Biarritz and Bondi Beach. Especially good for children and fearful surfers
Jake is a super experienced instructor, he is very friendly, always with big smiles on his face. He is very enthusiastic about helping us and is very patient, which helps the kids develop an interest and confidence in surfing. My daughter was only 4 years old last year and is now 5. Both times we've come to Hawaii, she learned to surf with Jake, and as a result, she really loves surfing. I highly recommend that both adults and kids who want to surf in Hawaii get in touch with Jake to make your Hawaii trip even more amazing.
We had a fantastic experience with Manifesting Aloha Surf School in Honolulu. Our instructor Jake was super patient, beginner-friendly, and really knows how to coach you into success. He helped us paddle out, positioned us perfectly, and gave clear, real-time guidance on when to go and what angle to take so we could actually catch waves. Because of Jake’s coaching, I stood up multiple times, and by the end I was riding larger waves too. The lesson felt safe, hands-on, and personalized the whole way through. If you’re new to surfing and want a supportive instructor who will genuinely help you progress fast, book with them. Mahalo!
I had an amazing surfing lesson and couldn’t be happier with the experience. The instructor was extremely professional, patient, and encouraging, which made a huge difference, especially for someone who wants to progress quickly. Everything was explained clearly, from safety rules to proper technique, and the feedback in the water was spot on. The lesson was well organized, fun, and motivating from start to finish. I felt comfortable and confident the whole time, and I actually managed to catch several waves. Great vibe, great energy, and great results. I would absolutely recommend this surfing lesson to anyone, beginner or intermediate.
My instructor was patient and personable and the whole experience was super fun even in the cloudy weather. He brought me a wet suit top to make sure i was warm and gave clear instructions which lead to a successful surf outing!! 10/10 recommend
One word: outstanding. Jake went above and beyond: an excellent teacher and great surfing coach. It was my first time trying it out and he ensured I was not only ready but encouraging all the way. If you're looking for a private lesson that gets you the Hawaii surfing experience: use this company.
Simply awesome! I had the opportunity of learning from Jake, who took the time and effort to help me out on the waves and was also such a chill guy to talk to! 10/10 would recommend 🤙
So freaking awesome! So patient and knowledgeable. Nicest guy ever and truly cares about his clients. You won’t regret going with him, and it’s going to be a BLAST
Super friendly and encouraging instructor. Jake made me feel comfortable and confident. Felt like I got great feedback and excited for more lessons!
This is my first surfing lesson, and I had a great time! Jake is a great instructor and I definitely recommend everyone to come!
I booked a 1-on-1 surf lesson with the $40 photo package — one big reason I chose this school. My instructor was super nice, very tall, and a real handsome guy! The 7 AM class was chilly at first (October water!), but I got used to it. It rained a little, then a rainbow appeared when the sun came out — such a beautiful moment. It was my first time surfing; I didn’t stand up, but it was still a great experience and exactly what I hoped for. You can leave your stuff in the instructor’s trunk, and they provide non-slip socks. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen! I trained for a month beforehand, and I’d recommend others do some prep too.
Really fun experience!!! Jake made it so fun and easy to understand!! Would recommend and defiantly do again!!! Loved it so much!
Jake was great! Super helpful! Took great pictures. The whole set up was easy. Scheduled online. I texted to confirm location and he responded quickly. He made sure to get great pictures and videos and was very approachable and knowledgeable. I have some health issues and he totally worked around them. If you are considering a lesson, I would definitely recommend him!
My daughter (4 years old) and I had an amazing time with Jake for a sunset surf session. He was kind enough to have a board for me to borrow as I got a front row view to watch my daughter enjoy her lesson & catch a couple waves for some fun party rides. It was an amazing time and my daughter had an absolute blast! She fully trusted Jake and caught some amazing waves to ride.
My adult daughter did a private surf lesson with Jake. It was her 2nd surf lesson ever & she really enjoyed it. He was patient & was with her throughout the session. She said he was encouraging, attentive, gave good tips & that it was an overall very helpful surf lesson. He was kind & gave me a beach chair & binoculars too. It was package with videos
Sure, here’s a concise and positive review you could use: ⸻ I had two amazing surfing lessons with Jake and really enjoyed the experience! The first day had bigger waves and better weather, which made it extra fun, but both sessions were great. Jake was super attentive and made sure I felt comfortable and had a great time throughout. Highly recommend taking lessons with him if you’re looking for a supportive and fun surf instructor.
Great surf experience with Jake, we were beginners and felt very safe. Jake was very protective and gave us the possibility to enjoy our first rides. We highly recommend.
We love our surfing instructor Jake! He is skilled, easygoing, no pressure coach that taught our daughter how to surf in no time! The beach he used is less crowded and the people there are amazing. We will miss our surf time with Jake!
I could not be more pleased with my surfing lesson with Jake. He was easy to communicate with and helpful and friendly throughout the experience. He even brought out a beach chair and binoculars for my husband watching from the shore. Best of all, I was able to surf! I am 57 years old and had tried surfing about 15 years ago and could not even stand up. With Jake's helpful guidance and instruction, I was up on the first attempt. He helped with a big push to get going and told me just when to paddle and when to stand, and it worked! After a few send offs from Jake, he suggested I try it on my own, and I was able to do it. It was an exhilarating experience, and I highly recommend booking Jake for your own surfing lesson. Get the photo package, as you will certainly have a successful session!
I had my very first surfing lesson with Jake the morning after I arrived in Waikiki, and it was truly the highlight of my entire trip. From the moment we met, Jake was welcoming, professional, and incredibly passionate about what he does. He took me to a perfect beginner-friendly spot just outside the main Waikiki crowds—beautiful, peaceful, and ideal for learning. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to start. Jake was so patient and encouraging. Not only did he teach me the fundamentals of surfing in a way that was easy to understand, but he also helped me paddle and gave me little pushes that made it so much easier to catch waves—something I really appreciated as a first-timer! I was able to catch so many waves, and the pure joy I felt was unforgettable. He also took amazing photos and videos throughout the lesson, capturing both the action and the stunning scenery—including Diamond Head crater in the background and even a sea turtle we spotted both times I went out with him! The footage he got of me and the turtle together is something I’ll treasure forever. I had such a great time that I booked Jake again for my last day in Waikiki—and it was just as magical. He is a thoughtful, dedicated instructor who genuinely wants you to have the best experience possible. I can’t recommend him enough. I’ll definitely be coming back to Hawaii, and when I do, I’ll be surfing with Jake again. Mahalo!
My 6 year old did a 1 on 1 lesson with Jake and Jake was phenomenal! He was so kind, educational, and patient. My son had the best time and wants to go again. Can’t recommend Jake enough!!!!!
Booked this for our grandsons (14 and 11). They had an amazing experience. Jake was GREAT!. Each grandson got to have a private lesson. Jake asked about their surfing experience (which neither had ever surfed before) and made them (and us) feel comfortable that they would ba safe and would have a great time. Both boys said they had a blast and that Jake was amazing. They wished they could have done it more. Thank you Jake, and we recommned Manifesting Aloha Surf School, especially if you are staying at the Hilton Hawaiian Village as his lesson was right next to the Hilton Lagoon (less than a 2 minute walk).
Jake was amazing! Our first visit to Hawaii and both kids wanted to learn to surf. Jake was easy going, easy to deal with and took great care of our kids. We felt safe leaving our kids with Jake. He took time to make sure both kids were able to stand up on the boards and surf. He also helped them spot a sea turtle. Please call Jake for a lesson if you are near Waikiki
I had an awesome experience learning to surf with Jake! Super approachable, relaxed, and just overall a great vibe in the water. What really stood out was how clearly they broke things down - every tip was super actionable and actually helped me improve each session. Whether it was positioning, reading the waves, or popping up smoother, it all clicked faster than I expected. By day 3, I was riding a shorter 9-foot board and catching waves out at Rocks, which I never thought I’d be doing that soon. If you want someone who’s chill but knows how to get you better fast, I definitely recommend Jake.
The surfing experience with Jake was awesome. Had a blast and caught some nice rides! Jake is a great guide and instructor! I highly recommend.
Awesome experience! Awesome instructor! He helped make my birthday even more special! I appreciate his patience. Such an awesome instructor! Male sure you book with him!
I did both private and semi-private lessons with Jack. He is very nice and flexible. I love the best part is that Jack actually value the customer. 1. There are two locations , you got to choose. 2. And you can talk to Jack for an instant book. He is here to help you. 3. He helped me paddle a lot.. 4. Always good vibe only. Cheerful. I think it’s what the service supposed to be. Highly recommend.
Great experience! My kid is 8yrs old - and Jake was fantastic! He is a clear communicator and patient, she had a blast!! Photos and video provided were fantastic, truly a great experience! Jake also brought chairs for the parents to watch from the beach.
I’m out of shape and was nervous but Thanks to Jake I was able to surf! He was very patient and knowledgeable. Would definitely do it again.
My kid and I did a double lesson (me and kid) together the first day and my kid had so much success and fun that he begged me to go back again the next day (he did a private lesson that day). Jake was great, moved at my kid's pace with techniques, and was able to switch to different boards/ surf spots on the fly based on conditions and how my kid was doing. I appreciated that he emphasized safety and went over what to do if you were heading towards someone else or vice versa- other surf schools sometimes don't do that and assume it'll all be fine. It was nice to not be in the heart of Waikiki and the crowds. I had fun too :) Go pro footage was awesome as well. When I'm back, we'll see him again for sure!! 🤙
Jake is wonderful. He’s very patient and a great instructor. He’s calm and presents a perfect environment to learn. My family highly recommends his one on one lesson.
Jake was so patient and very kind. I felt like a queen riding those small waves. Even though I couldn’t see anything I felt safe with him! He functioned as my eyes and surf instructor basically.😂10/10 would do it again!
My daughter was nervous to experience surfing lessons here in Hawaii. Jake was awesome and she had a great time. We totally recommend him. You won’t be disappointed!!!
Monday through Friday 9 am to 7 pm EST
Reach us by phone
Reach us by email
