Hans Hedemann South Shore (Queen Kapiolani)
Activities (6)
Surf Lessons
At Hans Hedemann Surf's Waikiki Beach location (150 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815), you'll dive into Hawaii's legendary surf culture with professional instruction that's shaped countless riders over the years. Whether you're stepping on a board for the first time or looking to sharpen your technique, these comprehensive 2-hour surf lessons deliver personalized coaching that meets you exactly where you are. Starting at the Kapahulu Avenue shop, your instructor walks you through essential safety protocols and fundamental techniques on dry land. This isn't just a quick rundown—you'll master proper paddling form, learn to read wave patterns, and understand positioning before you ever touch the water. Once you're ready, it's time to put theory into practice in Waikiki's forgiving waves. The beauty of Hans Hedemann's approach lies in their flexible lesson structure. Group sessions welcome surfers 14 and older, creating an energetic atmosphere where you'll feed off each other's stoke. Prefer more focused attention? Semi-private and private lessons offer intensive coaching, and private sessions accommodate younger participants aged 5-14. Everything you need comes included: rashguards, reef shoes, and quality surfboards suited to your skill level. Your instructor stays right there with you in the water, offering real-time feedback as you catch wave after wave. They know exactly how to adjust their teaching—from basic pop-up mechanics for first-timers to advanced positioning strategies for experienced riders. You'll need solid swimming skills and good physical condition for these surf lessons adventures. Not recommended for pregnant women or children under 14 (except in private lessons). Show up 15 minutes early with your swimsuit, towel, and reef-safe sunscreen, and get ready to experience why Waikiki remains the world's most iconic surf destination. What's not included: gratuities and hotel pickup/drop-off. Cancellation policy requires 48 hours notice to avoid fees. ★4.9 stars • 1431 Google reviews • Lessons from $100
Direct with the operator. They take your booking and run your tour. We may earn a commission, never added to your price.
SUP Lessons
Learning to stand-up paddleboard in Waikiki doesn't get much better than at Hans Hedemann Surf, right at the Queen Kapiolani Hotel. I've watched countless visitors discover their sea legs during these comprehensive 2-hour SUP lessons Honolulu, and the location couldn't be more perfect for beginners and those looking to sharpen their skills. What sets this experience apart is the thorough land instruction before you even touch the water. Your instructor will walk you through proper paddling techniques and balance fundamentals on the beach, which honestly makes all the difference once you're floating. Whether you choose group, semi-private, or private lessons, you'll get personalized attention that matches your comfort level. The transition from beach to ocean is surprisingly smooth, and before you know it, you're gliding across Oahu's crystal-clear waters. It's quite the workout—your core and cardio will definitely feel it—but the stunning ocean views make you forget you're exercising. Everything you need comes included: quality paddleboard and rashguard rental, so you just need to show up with your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. These SUP lessons Honolulu work for ages 14 and up in group settings, though private instruction can accommodate younger kids, making it perfect for families wanting one-on-one guidance. Group lessons need at least two people, while semi-private and private options give you faster skill development through individualized coaching. You'll need to be a confident swimmer in good physical shape—this isn't recommended for pregnant women due to the physical demands. Arrive 15 minutes early at Hans Hedemann Surf Waikiki (150 Kapahulu Avenue), and remember that gratuities and hotel transport aren't included. Cancel with 48 hours notice to avoid fees, and you're all set for an unforgettable paddle.
Direct with the operator. They take your booking and run your tour. We may earn a commission, never added to your price.
Surfboard Rental
Hans Hedemann Surf School offers quality surfboard rentals with a 4.9-star rating from 1431 Google reviews. When you need a surfboard rental Honolulu locals trust, this is your spot. Their board selection covers everyone from first-timers to advanced surfers. They offer the following types of rentals: Short Boards Fun Boards Long Boards Standup Paddle Boards & Paddles Body Boards & Fins Longboards are perfect if you're just getting your feet wet or want that classic glide. Intermediate surfers usually gravitate toward the fun boards – they give you stability when you need it but still let you progress your skills. Advanced riders can grab a shortboard to really work the waves. Here's the deal with bookings: you need to plan ahead, and they're pretty strict about cancellation policies. Give them 48 hours notice or more and there are no fees. Cancel between 24-48 hours and you're looking at 50% charges. Cancel within 24 hours and you'll eat the full cost with no refunds.
Direct with the operator. They take your booking and run your tour. We may earn a commission, never added to your price.
Torq Surf Board Rentals
When you're ready to hit Oahu's waves, Torq Surf Board Rentals at 150 Kapahulu Avenue offers premium surf board rentals from $25. This spot has earned its 4.9-star reputation through consistently delivering high-performance boards that are regularly inspected and maintained for peak performance. The selection here covers every type of rider. Shortboards give experienced surfers the quick response they crave for agile maneuvers, while longboards provide that relaxed ride perfect for newcomers still getting their sea legs. What sets this place apart is their attention to detail – every board gets regular maintenance checks and is crafted from durable materials for a smooth and responsive ride. The knowledgeable staff won't just hand you any board. They'll actually talk through what you're planning to do out there and match you with equipment that complements your surfing goals. Whether you're looking to work on your cutbacks or just want to glide along some gentle rollers, their diverse range caters to various surfing preferences. Booking couldn't be easier with their user-friendly online platform, plus they offer flexible rental periods to suit your schedule. Day trips, extended surfing vacations – whatever works for your plans. Each rental comes with a complimentary leash (because nobody wants to swim after a runaway board) and guidance on proper usage and safety measures. Their cancellation policy offers multiple options: cancel 48+ hours ahead for a full refund, 24-48 hours prior for a 50% refund, or less than 24 hours which is non-refundable. If you don't show up without prior notice, the entire rental fee is forfeited. If adverse weather conditions or unsafe surfing conditions occur, they'll offer to reschedule or provide a full refund. Reservation changes can be made up to 24 hours before your scheduled rental, subject to availability. For reliable Torq surf board rentals that deliver exactly what you need, this operation provides premium boards and dedicated customer service to make the most of your time in the water.
Direct with the operator. They take your booking and run your tour. We may earn a commission, never added to your price.
Body Board Rentals
Looking to catch some waves? This body board rental service at 150 Kapahulu Ave has you covered with quality rentals starting from $15.00. With 4.9 stars and 1431 Google reviews, their flexible rental options – hourly, daily, or weekly – let you hit the surf on your own timeline without breaking the bank. What sets these rentals apart is the equipment quality. You'll get lightweight, durable boards crafted from high-quality foam that delivers excellent buoyancy and stability. First-timer or experienced rider, there's a range of sizes to find the perfect fit for your body type and comfort level. The beachside location makes everything effortless. Quick pickup, easy returns, and you're spending more time in the water instead of dealing with logistics. That's exactly what body board rentals visitors need – less hassle, more surf time. Their cancellation policy offers full refunds for cancellations 48+ hours out, 50% back between 24-48 hours, and no refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours before rental time. They'll reschedule when adverse weather or unsafe conditions arise, and in genuine emergencies, they assess situations case-by-case for appropriate resolution. You can modify reservations up to 24 hours before your rental time, subject to availability. No-shows forfeit the entire rental fee, and refunds process within 7-10 business days to your original payment method. Each rental gets you access to those quality foam boards designed for both durability and performance. Whether you're planning a quick session or a full week of wave riding, they've got rental periods that fit real schedules. Need to make changes or have questions? It's reliable equipment with convenient rental options – exactly what you want when you're ready to experience the waves.
Direct with the operator. They take your booking and run your tour. We may earn a commission, never added to your price.
GO Soft board Rentals
Kapahulu Ave is about as central as it gets on Oahu's south shore, which makes Hans Hedemann South Shore a smart pick if you want time in the water without burning half your day getting there. Grab your board, get your safety briefing, and you're ready to hit the waves. The rental structure is genuinely flexible, which matters when you're working around an Oahu itinerary. Need an hour before you head out for lunch? Done. Blocking out a full day or even a few days to focus on surfing? That works too. Hourly, half-day, full-day, and multi-day options mean you build the session around your schedule, not the other way around. The meeting point at 150 Kapahulu Ave puts you in a corner of Honolulu with plenty to explore nearby. What's included: the board itself and a safety briefing. Physical intensity runs moderate — worth keeping in mind if you're stacking activities that day. No driver's license required to rent, and no food is included, so eat before or after depending on your timing. Like anything on the water in Hawaii, this one is weather dependent. If the operator calls it off due to conditions, you'll get a full refund or the option to reschedule. Cancellation terms are straightforward: 48 hours or more out, you get a full refund. Between 24 and 48 hours, 50% comes back. Inside 24 hours, the rental is non-refundable, and no-shows forfeit the full fee. Changes to your reservation are accepted up to 24 hours before your rental time, and refunds process within 7–10 business days. For go soft board rentals Honolulu visitors want to actually fit into a real Oahu day, this one earns the recommendation.
Direct with the operator. They take your booking and run your tour. We may earn a commission, never added to your price.
About
You can't talk about Oahu surfing without mentioning Hans Hedemann, and his South Shore operation at Queen Kapiolani Beach carries on that legendary reputation beautifully. This isn't just another surf school - it's where decades of Hans's expertise meet some of the most welcoming waves you'll find in Honolulu.
The location alone tells you everything. Queen Kapiolani sits right in Waikiki's sweet spot, where the waves break gently enough for first-timers but still offer that authentic Hawaiian surf experience everyone dreams about. The calm conditions here make it ideal for SUP too, especially if you want to escape the crowds and glide over crystal-clear water.
Their instructors really know these waters. They've spent years reading the conditions at this exact break, so whether you're wobbling through your first surf lesson or trying to nail your SUP technique, you're learning from people who understand every shift in the tide and wind. The ocean safety instruction alone is worth it - these aren't just surf tips, but essential knowledge for enjoying Hawaii's waters responsibly.
Equipment-wise, they've got you covered with everything from those forgiving soft-top GO boards that won't ding your shins to traditional longboards and quality paddleboards. The beauty of their Queen Kapiolani setup is how seamlessly it fits into a Waikiki beach day - grab a lesson in the morning, then spend the afternoon lounging on one of Hawaii's most beautiful stretches of sand.
This is where Oahu's surf culture lives and breathes, and Hans Hedemann South Shore gives you an authentic taste of that legacy.