Rivers To The Sea, Maui Surf Lessons

Absolutely incredible! We had the pleasure of working with Eric and he made sure we had a great lesson! He taught nice and slow, made sure understood what he was saying, and did a great job easing us in! No one got frustrated either which was fantastic!! The admin and booking process awesome as well. They did a great job making sure we were able to surf before we left the island, and everyone handled us with kindness the entire time! They also provided surf shirts, shoes, and the board which was a plus!! Thank you so much for making this a trip highlight for us!

We had a small group of four for surf lessons. Our surf instructor was Sharky. He was absolutely wonderful. We had a great time. Learned a lot about aloha, surfing, and connecting with the earth. We had an absolute blast and would do it again.

Sharky was AMAZING! My daughter asked for surf lessons for her 19th birthday and she was SO happy after the lesson. Her 17 year old brother and his friend did it with her. Group of 3. It was perfect. All 3 got up and had a blast! Sharky can also add the title “therapist “ to his credentials because he told my kids that life is precious and they should try to get along better. 🤣. His words were touching. Not a lecture. They LISTENED to him!

We had a great experience and we will come back for more tomorrow! San effortlessly flowed between our 6, 13 and 47 year old first timers. The 6 yo was probably the easiest!

Our experience was amazing! My husband and I are very beginners at surfing. We had Erik as our instructor, and we were very pleased with him! He made sure that we were able to catch a wave— his instructions were very clear. I was VERY slow at paddling and he would pull me out there! Definitely the highlight of our trip. Thank you Erik!

I had a great private lesson with Griffin. Tide (the boss) is very friendly and expresses Aloha love with what he does and says, and he chooses his people well! During my lesson Griffin gave me good pointers and advice to get riding quickly. After some trial and error, with Griffins patience and skillful teaching, I was able to ride a wave all the way back to the beach! Surfing has been a pipedream passion for me for a long time, and I’m so happy I finally got to do it! Thank you Griffin for your time and I’ll always remember it!🤙

WOW!! This was one of our kids favorite activities on our cruise! I truly believe the quality of your surf experience has a lot to do with your instructor and if you are lucky enough to get Jess and/or Sharky as your instructor you have hit the jackpot! IMO if you don't have fun, it is all on you, not them! They were both patient individuals that were excellent at explaining the ins and outs of surfing. We booked this activity for our two kids and their SO who are all 21-22 yo and they can't stop talking about surfing and wanting to try it again! Each couple was booked with one instructor, but they decided they wanted to do it together, so they had two instructors for the four of them. They enjoyed doing it this way because they received feedback from two people instead of one. They were all able to get up on their boards which was cool! The beach is not crowded like a lot of beaches where surf lessons are offered, so no worries about "stealing" somebody's wave or being taken out by another surfer. The waves weren't crazy big so it was prefect for beginners. We took an Uber there from the cruise port and ordered an Uber when they were done with no problems. They provided shoes, rash guard, and the board. Communication prior to the lessons was excellent. The kids 100% recommend Jess and Sharky at Rivers to the Sea for surf lessons!! A special thank you to Jess and Sharky for helping our kids and their SO make awesome memories learning to surf in Maui!!

Sooooooo AWESOME! Sharkey was my instructor and was the best! He taught me how to read the water, safely get in position, time the paddle- and within minutes I was surfing my first Ocean wave. Thank you Rivers to the Sea for making my life long Hawaiian surfing dreams come true. I’m hooked!

Came to Maui with family, and surfing lessons for our teenage girls was on our must-do list, with dads going along for the adventure as well. Rivers to the Sea uses text message to communicate and provide reminders, which is very effective. Our guides chose a different surf spot based on the waves, and provided an update with good directions for us to follow. Once we arrived, we were given the basic hardware for surfing- a rash guard, booties, and a board. Kody walked us through the basics, and Izzie gave us pointers and help correct our form. Both instructors then got us on the waves, providing us direction to avoid other surfers, catch waves, and keep us from drifting with the current. The experience was fun and will forever be a cherished memory for us dads who got to go surfing with their daughters in paradise for the first time. Kody and Izzie's brief-but-thorough instruction and pointers on the waves helped us all have fun and stay safe. This is an attraction I recommend, and I would go so far as to also recommend specifically that you ask for Kody and Izzie!

Absolutely first rate. I received a few recommendations from both the Ritz Carlton and the Westin. I even called a local board shaper to get an unbiased opinion. They said Rivers... immediately. The lesson for my 8 year old son was given by Anne-Marie, she was absolutely awesome. Kind and supportive, yet firm. Assisting and attentive yet allowing him to find his way. I have already set up another lesson. I highly recommend this group.

Booked my kids semi-private surfing lessons the day before. Received very clear directions regarding what to bring and where to park. Our instructor, Nohea met us by the road and was awesome. He was great with my kids (15 and 22) and they were riding the waves within minutes. It isn't the cheapest , but I'm glad I went with them. I suggest the semi private lessons just for the fact that you get the sole attention of the instructor. Also, for first timers, understand that paddling back out to catch the waves is exhausting if you aren't used to upper body work outs. My kids had a blast but they are definitely sore today.

Couldn't ask for a better surf instructor. Sharky Māui was professional by reaching out to us 24 hours prior to the lessons and provided instructions on how to get to the surf location. He is very patient with my 17 year old daughter. He was encouraging and positive. He has been surfing for over 30 years and knowledgeable about the surf currents and conditions. Thank you Sharky. See you next year. We will definitely recommend you to friends and family. Mahalo

Great Lesson for my husband and I! We are complete novices and probably a little old for something like this but our instructor Izzy was super patient and encouraging!

The instructors were great, very helpful and communicated well. Easy location to find.

First time trying a surfing lesson; Dad (me) and 4 kiddos ages 20-32. Instructor Jayson got us warmed up on the beach and assigned boards based on perceived athletic ability lol. Windy day but Jayson did a great job of finding the right spots to catch the best waves. Would definitely use them again! Also, photographer takes a ton of pics that can be purchased and then Airdropped to your phone.

Based on great reviews, we booked 2 separate semi private surf lessons for our two boys (9 and 12). They have had around 5 surf lessons along the Oregon Coast this summer already but were excited to surf in Hawaii without the need for a wetsuit. The first day we received a call 8 mins before our meeting time that asked us to meet at mile marker 12 instead of 19 (which was further away for us). Apparently better surf conditions when the weather is cooperating. Ended up arriving at 7:38am instead of 7:20am. Lesson still ended at 9am despite a later start. Our instructor the first day was not very engaging which was disappointing. Not sure if it was because he doesn't like working with kids or if he was having a bad day. He wasn't rude, but didn't smile much at all or engage in much friendly banter with kids or ourselves. Minimal effort from our perspective which was disappointing. The next lesson was a few days later and we asked for a different instructor. Wanted to give this company another chance before reviewing. Our second instructor Anne-Marie was awesome! She texted us info the night before about where and when to meet. Dropped a Pin on Google maps to help. Great communication. She was enthusiastic, actually talked to our boys, and gave advice in a kinder way to them. She was encouraging and celebrated with them when they did well. Exactly what we were hoping for from the beginning. First experience was a 3.5 star. 2nd experience was 5+ stars. Would still highly recommend this company and would use them again on future trips to Maui. And would definitely request Anne-Marie again.

Great experience! The instructors were so good with our kids that we booked them for a second lesson. So much fun!

Unforgettable experience for the entire family. Simple directions to the beach and a great booking tool online. We met Cody by the beach and he took care of everything. They provided rash guards, sunscreen and freshwater with a pump at the end to wash off. We went with our two girls age 9 and 11 and both were nervous going but by the end they said it was one of the best experiences theyve ever had. The entire family was able to stand up and actually surf. This is a must do with a great group of guys that are well-versed in surfing and teaching.

Booked a last minute group surf lesson for 5 kids ranging in age from 7 to 18. Our instructor Cody was amazing--kind and patient and engaged with the kids as he helped them navigate the ocean. Even with the age differences, he was able to get each and every one of the kids standing up on the board at least once. While safety was his top priority, it seemed he would not be satisfied if he could not get them to ride at least one wave. And they all did so on their last one to shore. The ultimate marker of success was that each kid came out one by one saying they want to go surfing again! Great experience with Rivers to Sea and Cody!!

Booking with Rivers to the Sea was a seamless experience. I was concerned that although we booked for a group of 3 that others would be included in the group but after emailing them, I got a prompt response from Tide that it would just be our 3 in the group. Kain called the day of to make sure we found our way to the beach ok. Kain was an awesome instructor. My 2 teenage girls thoroughly enjoyed learning from him and both were able to get up on their surfboards on their first try. He was very good at explaining how to watch the waves and the water and how to get up on the board. They loved the experience so much they wanted to go again! Thanks for an awesome experience Kain!

Fantastic experience! My 12 yr old son and husband wanted to try surfing and Kain was the perfect instructor. He was patient, encouraging and calm as he taught them the basics. Next thing we knew, they were in the water, standing on their boards and surfing. Both my son and husband said they would absolutely do it on our next trip! Rashguards, swim shoes and boards are brought for you so all you need is swim trunks and a towel. Highly recommend!

My boys and I took our very first private surfing lesson this morning with Jason. My 2 teenage boys ,including myself, were surfing in no time. He was very knowledgeable and patience. I highly recommend "Rivers to the Sea" to anyone interested in learning how to surf.

Absolutely amazballz! Super huge MAHALO to Tide and Cain at Rivers to the Sea surfing. Our family was up and surfing in no time with the incredible guidance of TIDE and CAIN. They made us feel comfortable and confident from the first wave. If you want a real personal surf lesson, learn to surf with these guys. special shout out to Tyler for taking some killer pics of our special day!!

In the midst of the Corona Virus pandemic and it's effect on the hospitality industry during our trip to Maui, our surf lesson with Kain from Rivers to the Sea was a much needed excursion. Despite concerns of cancellation and closures, Rivers to the Sea called and made every effort to see we could make our lesson happen. And we did! Kain was an excellent instructor for my daughter and me. Weather conditions were very favorable and Kain's expert directions assured both my daughter and I were able to learn the basics of surfing and catch more than few waves on our first go. Thank you Kain and Rivers to the Sea for introducing us to the joy of surfing. We will be back!

Justin was the instructor for my daughters first lesson. They chatted for a bit and then went out in the water and she got up the first time. Justin was polite, professional and an extremely good instructor. Would definitely recommend!

Learning to surf has been on my bucket list for quite a while. This year I finally worked up the courage to try it out. I chose Rivers to the Sea because they had good reviews on multiple platforms. The reviews were right on target. The location where they take first timers is a great spot to learn. Waves were gentle, but big enough to actually surf. My instructor, Kain, was great. He offered specific tips and was patient and encouraging. I was able to catch at least five good waves before the end of my first session.

Our twin 15 year old sons had an outstanding time with Kaine. He had them standing up surfing on the first ride! He was easy to communicate with...texted to make certain we knew the location..was very knowledgable about the area and found the perfect waves for our sons. The boys had a terrific time and I would recommend this company whole heartedly.

Tide was the guide for my wife, daughter and I. We all got up on the first try!!! They made it easy to learn. The instructions were simple...eyes forward. They showed us how to paddle, get up and stay up. We were all catching waves on our own at the end. Tide is a great instructor. The group size was perfect; three plus the instructor. Well worth the extra cost. We all feel confident to go rent a board and surf on own. I would give Tide 10 stars.

This was an exceptional experience for my family. We had never been surfing before and our guide Kyler was wonderful. He was patient with us and very helpful. We all were able to get up on the board and had many successful runs. The equipment was in excellent condition. Kyler was organized and punctual and contacted us the night before. Highly recommend this company.

We thoroughly enjoyed our lesson with Taylor. Communication was great - he found out the morning of the lesson that the surf wasn't good and immediately texted me the new meeting location. Taylor was thorough and kept safety in mind with our land instruction, and he accommodated our different skill levels and learning styles in the water. It was just an awesome day and couldn't be better. We wanted to take another lesson, but just couldn't work it into our schedule. When we return to Maui, we will definitely take another lesson (or more) with Rivers to the Sea

Our coach, Cody, was great and very patient! We had previously tried surfing without having any prior instruction (our mistake) and it was obviously not a super successful outing. Within a few minutes with Cody, he had use standing and riding baby waves! Highly recommended!

This was the best experience for my tween son ever. He was surfing waves with only 1 lesson. Tide took his time to be patient and make the experience fun. Tide had that Maui homegrown vibe that made my husband and son comfortable and relaxed. I watched from the sidelines and Tide made sure to let me know when to start recording or take the best pictures. I can not rave enough about how great this experience was. Had we not had to fly home that same day I'd schedule more lessons (For me too). Hawaii musts!! Coming back SPECIFICALLY for Rivers to the sea. Cant wait. Oh and he also told me where to go for a close good eatery as you will be hungry after the surfing workout.

Had an amazing week of instruction with Tide. My nephew was charging the waves by day two! I highly recommend hiring these guys. Worth ever penny!!!

Tide was amazing ! Totally helped me conquer my fear of getting out there. He was extremely helpful & fun. Can't wait to come take lessons again with my kids this time !

We booked a private surf lesson with Rivers of the Sea in May. Jason was our instructor and we could not have had a better experience. About 15 minutes prior to the lesson, he called to make sure we didn't have any issues finding the location. We we got there he explained everything really well and had us practice on the beach to make sure we were comfortable. When we were ready to go out, he provided tips and coaching the entire time, helped us catch waves, and made sure we had a great time! We already want to go back to Maui and plan to book another session when we do.

Tide and his crew were AMAZING! This was the first surfing lesson for our 8 and 10 year old and the swell was very large. He put us parents at ease and after working on the sand he took them out individually to make sure they were safe. The kids had an amazing time and did not want it to end! We will go back as soon as we can get back to paradise! Thanks!

Rivers To The Sea made it easy to get me going on the water, even though I am a 60 year old total beginner. This is an efficient personalized company that assures an excellent experience. Tide, who overseas EVERYTHING is totally dedicated to making sure I had the right instructors (I've heard that ALL of the instructors are amazing. I was very pleased with my private lessons: Kyler knew exactly how to get me surfing even when the waves weren't cooperating, and gave me very helpful tips- worked on my turns, etc. Eric adapted quickly to my learning style, and is highly experienced and knowledgeable on every aspect of surfing from the mechanics, timing, equipment, and even getting intense me to zen/ relax/ take it as it comes.etc. but still catch as many waves as possible ). Rivers To The Sea has excellent quality equipment, instructors who are on-time and ready to teach, and choose the best spot for the day, and an efficient and friendly office staff (thanks Vinnie and PJ). Tide keeps everything together. Most importantly, they got me up and going and having fun immediately. I couldn't recommend Rivers To The Sea more highly.

11/10/2015 I received a 90 minute surf lesson from Jason Clark with Rivers to the Sea. This was my first time surfing and my lesson was top notch! Jason starting by explaining wave and sea basics. He really emphasized that his goal was to help me understand what to be aware of when looking for surfable waves. Next came practicing the stand up on land, but it wasn't 10 minutes into my lesson before I was out in the sea. Jason helped me position my board and occasionally provided the necessary push to give me all chances possible of standing up. Couple waves in I was able to stand up! Jason was calm, friendly and informative; I really enjoyed him as in instructor. If you are interested in surfing I highly recommend Rivers to the Sea and Jason Clark.

This was a great experience! It was just Tide, our instructor (& the owner) and the four of us all alone on a beautiful beach just south of Lahaina. Tide gave us a quick lesson on the beach, and then helped the kids and I paddle out and catch some waves! We were all able to stand up and surf, the waves were small but perfect for beginners, and Tide was so patient and helpful. The best part was being away from the crowds and having Tide all to ourselves. I would definitely recommend this surf school, I'm so glad we found them!

Really happy with the surf lesson we had for my sons. Both of them were riding waves in the first few minutes! I also felt they appreciated our business and genuinely care about their clients! Safety was a priority, as well! We would definitely use them again next time we are in Maui!!

These guys are a class act! I took my 6 yr old twins out for a 90 minute private lesson and they LOVED it. Their instuctor was Wangdu, he was great! He kept things at their level but kept encouraging them to keep going. They got up on several waves. They also hung a bit with Tide and Kiva. The whole experience was 5 star and DEFINITELY something we would do again.

Had a great sesh with Jason. My son has been surfing for about to years and Jason got him carving the way he wants to. Jason shreads and will be going back to him and The Rivers Bros when I come back.

Awesome private lesson with Tide today kids had a blast and did very well ! Tide was friendly helpful and a true professional. Thanks!!!

We LOVE Tide!!! We have been surfing with him for almost 10 years, every time we come to Maui. Our kids have grown up along side Tide, and surfing never goes out of style. We've recommended Rivers To The Sea Surf School to all our friends and Tide never disappoints. He really makes you feel confident, that you can get up on the board, and you will. Even our New York niece could do it. There's really no reason to look elsewhere. Tide's the real deal!!!!

Tide was amazing! The whole family had a great time. 11YO and 8YO both managed to get up on their boards and other than some sunburn on our legs the experience was the best of the trip.

My husband and I had never been surfing. We both got up early in our lesson and had a great time! We definitely recommend their surf lessons!

Booked this surf lesson and had a great time learning with this surf school. I am a beginner who has been out a handful times in Malibu, and took an hour and a half lesson with the instructor Jason who was super knowledgeable and patient. Gave very good advice from paddling out and over the waves, proper stance, and what to do once I caught the wave and how to turn. Learned a ton and had a good time!

We booked a private surfing lesson with Tide Rivers while visiting Maui in May 2014. Tide was incredibly patient, caring and professional. He was so friendly and gave us 100% of his attention. We really enjoyed the lesson and experience. He even recommend a few places to eat and we are so grateful he did, because we ended up eating an amazing local restaurant! I would 100% recommend Rivers to the Sea. A+++ experience and customer service. Thank you so much Tide!!!

My three kids had an awesome lesson this morning with Tide Rivers. His enthusiasm, encouragement and skill had them all up and surfing within just a few minutes. Smiles everywhere. They all enjoyed the experience and list it among the highlights of their trip. Tide is a great guy and it is absolutely worth booking with him vs. one of the pack-em-in group schools. Great value, great attention. HIGHLY recommended.

Our son had a great lesson with Tide this morning. Tide provided great instruction and our son was riding waves in no time. Very patient and gave great instruction. Our son had so much fun that we booked a 2nd lesson the next day. Another great experience and Tide even got our daughter standing up her first time! Great memories. We'd highly recommend Tide and Rivers to the Sea surf lessons for anyone wanting a first class experience.

Tide was awesome! Taught the whole family how to surf and get up!!! The best experience we have ever had as a family! Thank you so much...

my wife and i decided to give surfing a try, when in Hawaii, right? we had Jason as a teacher, he was great, we had an awesome time, and were both "surfing"immediately - albeit baby waves, still got a lot of runs in. HIGHLY recommend!

We had a great surf lesson with Tide. He is an amazing instructor and very encouraging. I was nervous at first but by the end of the lesson I didn't want to get out of the water I was having so much fun. My husband and I will definitely be bringing our kids back in the summer. We can't wait for Tide to teach them to surf. He's a great guy and very attentive. He gives suggestions to make sure you are improving each time. I would highly recommend him as an instructor to any age group.

Rivers to the Sea is awesome. Jason and Tide were patient, encouraging, and truly wanted to help you learn how to surf. We all felt comfortable and stress free. Everyone (ages: 7, 9, 34, 35, 59, and 60) were surfing waves within 20 minutes. The littles ones were up on the first try and the adults only needed a try or two before we were up and officially surfing. My mom (60) had a little more difficult time positioning her legs when she attempted to stand on the board but Jason gave her tips on how to balance and stand and she was up in no time! The beach area is secluded so you aren't surrounded by lots of people (which is great) and if you fell in the water you didn't have to worry about coral like at other surf schools. My parents took surfing lessons from another surfing school a few years back and they said nothing compares to Rivers to the Sea. They said it was a completely different experience and they wished they had only taken lessons from Rivers to the Sea. From the beginning (reservations) to the end (saying goodbye) it was an easy and friendly process. They may be a tad more expensive than other surf lessons but it was worth the extra money no doubt about it. After we were done surfing, everyone had a smile on their face and were so excited! We recommended Rivers to the Sea to several people already. You will not go wrong with these surf lessons! Thank you Tide and Jason for the best time! (PS. Jason- my mom still owes you a Hula Pie!) I would also recommend the photo package so you don't miss anything!