Kona Mike’s Surf Adventures

For guests hoping to experience one of Hawaiʻi’s most iconic ocean traditions, Kona Mike’s Surf Adventures offers a welcoming and memorable way to learn to surf on the Big Island. Located at Kahaluʻu Beach in Kailua-Kona, these lessons are designed to help beginners, families, and returning surfers feel comfortable, safe, and connected to the ocean.

Whether it’s your very first wave or something you’ve always wanted to try together as a family, Kona Mike’s creates the kind of vacation memory that often becomes a favorite part of the trip.

About the Experience

Kona Mike’s Surf Adventures has been teaching surf lessons along the Kona Coast for more than 20 years, with lessons based at Kahaluʻu Bay, a well-known beginner-friendly surf and snorkeling area in Kailua-Kona. The drive from Hale Mele in Mauna Lani typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes, making it an easy half-day or full-day outing along the coast.

Their local, lifeguard-certified instructors work with guests of all skill levels, from complete beginners learning how to paddle and stand for the first time to more experienced surfers wanting to improve technique and confidence in the water. Lessons are intentionally kept personal and supportive, with smaller class sizes that allow instructors to adjust to each guest’s pace and comfort level.

The atmosphere is relaxed, encouraging, and family-friendly. Guests often appreciate how approachable the experience feels, especially for children, first-time surfers, or anyone feeling a little nervous before getting in the water. There’s something incredibly special about catching your first wave with the Kona coastline and warm Hawaiian sunshine all around you.

Lesson options currently include:

• Private Surf Lessons — approximately $210, no age restrictions
• Ohana Surf Lessons — approximately $169 for ages 11 and up, $210 for ages 10 and under
• Group Surf Lessons — approximately $124 for ages 11 and up

Pricing and availability may change, so it’s always best to confirm directly with the provider when booking.

Why Guests May Love It

• Beginner-friendly lessons with experienced local instructors
• A memorable family activity that creates lasting vacation moments
• Smaller lesson sizes with individualized guidance and encouragement
• Beautiful ocean views and a relaxed Kona beach atmosphere
• A fun way to experience Hawaiian surf culture firsthand

Helpful Tips

• Advance reservations are recommended, especially during holidays and busy travel seasons
• Morning lessons often offer calmer ocean conditions and gentler winds
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen, towels, swimsuits, water, and dry clothes for afterward
• Guests with younger children may prefer private or ʻohana-style lessons for added comfort and flexibility
• Guests are responsible for confirming lesson details, pricing, weather conditions, and bookings directly with the provider

Hale Mele Note

One of the joys of staying at Hale Mele is having the time and space to try something new while still moving at a relaxed island pace. A surf lesson with Kona Mike’s can turn into one of those unforgettable Big Island memories — full of laughter, sunshine, ocean spray, and the excitement of standing up on a wave for the very first time before returning home to unwind together at Hale Mele.