We might be "gone surfing,” but you can always find us right here!

 
photo - a van parked next to a hawaii beach with surfboards stacked on top, showing value of cost of surfing for those travelling in hawaii

Cost of Surfing When Getting Started

Surfing is an exhilarating experience that connects you with the power of the ocean. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking to refine your skills, understanding the cost of surfing is essential. 

At Gone Surfing Hawaii, we believe in providing transparent and valuable information to help you start your surfing journey with confidence. Let’s take a close look at the cost of surfing when you’re getting started, and how you can make the most of your experience on the waves.

Understanding the Cost of Surfing

photo - a woman dressed in a wetsuit sitting on her surfboard at a hawaii beach thinking about the cost of surfing looking at the ocean

When it comes to surfing, the quality of your lessons can make a significant difference in your overall experience. Each surfing school will have different pricing depending on the type of company they are, the location, and the level of experience of their team members. 

How Much Are Surfing Lessons?

For those looking to share the experience with a friend or two, semi-private lessons are an excellent option at $120 per person ( $150 in peak season). These lessons maintain a low instructor-to-student ratio, ensuring you still receive quality instruction and attention.

The cost of surfing private lessons is $165 per person ( $205 in peak season) for a 1.5-hour session, which might seem like a premium, but here’s why:

Personalized Attention

photo - a surfing instructor teaching beginners on the beahc of waikiki

Private surf lessons offer one-on-one instruction, allowing the instructor to tailor the lesson to your specific needs and skill level. This personalized approach accelerates your learning curve and boosts your confidence in the water, essentially becoming the best surf lessons Waikiki beach option you can get. 

Expert Instructors

Our licensed instructors are not only skilled surfers but also trained in first aid and lifeguard CPR. Their expertise ensures that you’re in safe hands, learning the correct techniques from the get-go at your private surfing lessons.

Comprehensive Lessons

Each session includes a 15-minute land demo focusing on fundamental techniques, ocean awareness, and safety, followed by 1 hour and 15 minutes of wave riding and etiquette instruction. This comprehensive approach of our private surfing lessons covers all the bases, from paddling out to catching your first wave. Check out our gallery to see the happy smiles on our previous clients’ faces. 

How Much Do Surfboards Cost?

It’s important to understand that prices can vary significantly based on factors such as brand, material, size, and design. Here’s a general range to give you an idea:

Beginner Boards

For those just starting out, soft-top surfboards are a popular choice due to their safety and durability. The average cost of a surfboard for beginners typically ranges from $200 to $400.

Mid-Range Boards

photo - a surfer gliding through a wave in blue ocean water after training with his surf balance board

As you progress, you might look into buying a hard-top fiberglass or epoxy board. These can offer better performance and are priced between $500 to $800.

High-Performance Boards

For experienced surfers seeking top-tier performance, custom-made or high-end brand surfboards are an option. These can range from $800 to $1,500 or more, depending on the craftsmanship and materials.

It’s important to consider your skill level, the type of waves you’ll be surfing, and your budget when deciding to purchase a surfboard and finding the unique answer to your question: “how much do surfboards cost?” Additionally, visiting a local surf shop can provide valuable advice and the opportunity to see and feel different boards before making a decision.

How Much Is a Surfboard Rental in Waikiki?

photo - surf board rentals waikiki lined up next to a tree on a hawaiian beach

At Gone Surfing Hawaii, we offer a variety of surfboard rental options to suit different preferences and skill levels. Our rental prices are competitive, providing you with access to high-quality boards without the need to invest in purchasing one outright.

High-Performance Longboards

Ideal for beginners and experienced surfers alike, these boards offer stability and ease of catching waves. Our selection includes:

NSP E+ Longboards:

9′ NSP: Width 22 ³/⁴”, Thickness 3″

10′ NSP: Width 23 ¹/²”, Thickness 3 ¹/⁴”

Takayama In the Pink High-Performance Noseriders:

9′ Takayama: Width 23″, Thickness 2 ⁷/⁸”

Cost of Surfing Board Rentals

  • 1-hour rental
  • All-day rental
  • 5-day rental

Prices for rentals vary depending on the season, duration and type of board and range anywhere between $20/hour and $200/5-day rental. For specific pricing details, it’s best to contact Gone Surfing Hawaii directly.

Rental Convenience

Renting a surfboard allows you to try different types and sizes before committing to a purchase. It’s also a hassle-free option for travelers who don’t want to transport their boards. Our prime location on the beach in Waikiki means you’re just steps away from the water, eliminating the hassle of carrying your board long distances.

Cost of Surfing Gear and Essential Items

photo - two surfers walking to ride ways in a scenic location with ocean and green mountains in Hawaii

Investing in the right surfing gear and accessories is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience on the waves of Hawaii. While the initial cost of surfing gear may seem high, but quality gear will last longer and perform better.

Wetsuits: Your Second Skin in the Water

In the warm waters of Hawaii, a wetsuit may not always be necessary, but it can provide extra protection and comfort during longer sessions or on cooler days. The cost of surfing wetsuits can range from $100 to $500. 

For Hawaiian waters, a lighter wetsuit or a spring suit is often sufficient, providing just enough insulation while allowing full mobility for paddling and riding waves. If you know you will be surfing somewhere where the water temperature isn’t as pleasant as here in Hawaii, we advice you to invest in a good wetsuit for optimal surfing.

Rash Guards

Rash guards are especially important in Hawaii’s sunny climate. They protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays and prevent rashes caused by friction against the surfboard. Cost of surfing rash guards varies from $20 to $60, and it’s wise to choose one with a high UV protection rating to stay safe under the intense Hawaiian sun.

Surf Wax

Surf wax is crucial for maintaining a grip on your board in the warm Hawaiian waters. It’s important to choose a wax that’s formulated for tropical temperatures to ensure it doesn’t melt off your board. The cost of surfing wax is relatively low, typically equalling between $2 and $5 per bar.

Additional Accessories for Hawaiian Surfing

When surfing in Hawaii, you might also consider accessories like reef booties to protect your feet from sharp coral ($30 to $60), and a waterproof sunscreen to keep your skin protected in the water ($10 to $20). 

Surfboard leashes ($20 to $50) and surfboard fins ($30 to $150) are also important for safety and boosted, smoother performance. Surfboard bags ($50 to $200) and repair kits ($10 to $30) are essential for maintaining and transporting your equipment.

Take time to read this blog to discover ways to make your surfing experience much easier when the time to hit your first wave comes. 

Cost of Surfing in Hawaii: Travel Expenses

photo - hawaii surfboards stacked in the greenery

Traveling to Hawaii for a surfing adventure is an exciting prospect, but it requires careful planning and budgeting to manage expenses. By being mindful of your spending and seeking out ways to save but not compromise on health and safety, you can fully immerse yourself in the Hawaiian surfing experience without overspending.

Airfare

Airfare is a major consideration when planning a surfing trip to Hawaii. Costs can vary significantly based on your departure location and the time of year. For instance, a round-trip flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu might range from $300 to $600. Booking in advance and watching for deals are key strategies to save on airfare to this popular surfing destination.

Accommodation

In Hawaii, accommodation costs can span a wide spectrum depending on your preferences and the island you’re visiting. Budget-conscious surfers might opt for hostels or surf camps. The cost of surfing hostels starts at around $60 per night. For more comfort and privacy, hotels or vacation rentals in prime surfing areas like the North Shore of Oahu or Maui’s Paia can range from $250 to $600 per night.

Transportation

Getting around in Hawaii is an important consideration for surfers. Rental cars are a favored option, offering the freedom to chase the best waves across the islands. Daily rental rates can vary from $40 to $100, depending on the vehicle type and rental location. Public transportation or shuttle services are available for those on a tighter budget, though they may limit your flexibility.

Surfboard Rental or Transport Fees in Hawaii

If you’re not bringing your own surfboard to Hawaii, rental options are plentiful near popular surf spots. Prices can range from $20 to $40 per day for a quality board. For those traveling with their own surfboard, airline transport fees can range from $50 to $150 each way, so it’s important to check your airline’s policy ahead of time.

Food and Miscellaneous Expenses in Hawaii

Budgeting for food and other daily expenses is crucial when surfing in Hawaii. Depending on your dining preferences, you can expect to spend at least $60 to $100 per day on meals and snacks. Additionally, setting aside funds for souvenirs, local activities like island tours, and unexpected expenses will ensure a more enjoyable and stress-free trip.

Prepare Yourself Beforehand

In conclusion, understanding the cost of surfing is crucial for planning a successful and enjoyable trip to Hawaii. At Gone Surfing Hawaii, our team offers a range of options for lessons, rentals, and gear to suit your needs and budget. By being informed and making smart choices, you can experience the thrill of riding the waves in Hawaii without breaking the bank!


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