"It's easy to end up with an impersonal surf lesson in Lahaina, where many instructors value quantity over quality, but the guides at family-owned and -operated Maui Waveriders take the time to make sure every student gets a meaningful experience. After spending 15 or 20 minutes going through the motions on sand, it's time to hit the water, and each participant takes a turn catching a wave as the instructor provides personalized feedback. Keep an eye on the water, too—you might paddle by some sea turtles and harmless blacktip sharks." - Juliana Shallcross