Always wanted to surf and was on a solo trip in Maui. Finally got the courage to try at the ripe age of 38 and the experience probably changed my life.
The teachers at ISA are very professional and give compact and precise instructions, nothing extra but everything you need to know when you start. I got along with them really well and they were fun to be around. I’m an athletic person and I’m used to listening to instructions carefully so I felt like I got the hang of it pretty fast and felt very safe the whole time. The waves were perfect for a beginner but still enough to practice the basic moves.
It was pretty challenging to find the meeting spot at the Kaanapali Beach because there were so many other surf schools at the same time, but just look for the color of rashguards they tell you they are wearing and come early! The lesson took actually about 1h 15mins but to be fair, I was so sore the next day that it’s not a good idea to surf for hours when you’re not used to it just yet.
The only down side of this experience is the price (90$) which is quite high. I’d like to have maybe another lesson before going alone because I’m not familiar with the waters in Maui, but I’m afraid I cannot afford it. :/ But everything in Maui is pricey, so I guess it is what it is.
All in all, this is a good experience for anyone who wants to find out if surfing is for them. They provide all the equipment and tips, and as a solo traveller, it’s always safer to join groups first when you try something new. I’m afraid I have been bitten by the surf bug now, and there might be no turning back. Be careful guys ;) And stay loose!