Mickey is the true example of Aloha spirit! My wife is Japanese and wanted an instructor who could speak Japanese. Mickey was very fluent and made things so easy for my wife to understand. She had never surfed before, but Mickey's style of teaching made it easy. She was able to stand in no time and his photographer on the beach captured it beautifully. We were so sore the next day but I don't blame him. We actually decided to suck it up and go back the next day. It was truly a life changing experience for us. We look forward to going back soon and will defiantly check in with Mickey. He can also give advice on all the good local dining and activities. read more

Mickey was awesome - super knowledgeable about the surf and gave really good anecdotes to help you with technique. We did a 5pm sunset class with him, and boy was it beautiful. He is super fun, and easy going. I went with a friend, and he had us doing "party waves" (riding the same wave) in no time. Highly recommend Mickey - he is encouraging and good time. For set up, he was super easy to text and call. Thanks again! read more

Little late to write this, but Micah is an amazing surf instructor! And also a great person with true aloha spirit. My wife and I were on the last day of our babymoon and Micah took my last minute request to heart and managed to fit me in on a dawn patrol surf lesson with another couple, after they generously agreed to have me along. I was flying out that afternoon, so this really allowed for one of the big highlights of my trip. He got me up on first wave, and more after that. He was thorough in his instruction, but didn't waste any time to get us learning on the water. Great experience overall and I'm already looking forward to my next trip. In the meantime, I'll recommend Micah to everyone! Mahalo Micah! read more

Had an awesome time catching my first couple waves. Not only was it an incredible experience but my instructor Mickey made it a special day for me. Mickey, thanks for the great day! read more

10 yo: Im Surfing! Mickey is the BEST ever! Calm, patient, great attention to detail. Two adults got a great refresher course, and two kids went from fear and doubt to riding the waves. Grins, high fives and they are hooked for life. Thanks for sharing true Aloha with my boy and our friends! read more

Do yourself a favor and book a lesson with Mickey. He gave my wife and I our best lesson ever, and we have had 2 or 3 lessons before in Hawaii. The way he explained how to catch a wave was clear and after years of trying and not really getting it or knowing what I was doing, I caught five in a row. For my wife, she was afraid of the waves and he got her to be relaxed enough that she felt confident out there and standing up and riding more waves than she ever has. Great coach, good guy. Mahalo! read more

We met Mickey on the beach one day and two days later we signed up for lessons with him. He is so knowledgeable and successful. Both my friend and i had never gotten up before and we both got up on the first time! Thanks for a great experience mickey!! read more

Mickey was awesome. He taught our boys, 11 & 15, how to surf. It was one of their favorite activities while we were on the islands. See you next time we're out. read more

Got an awesome surfing lesson. Mickey was very patient with me and got me up on the board many times. Had a great time and learned a lot.

Micah was amazing! My husband had surfed before, but I hadn't, and Micah was patient and took the time to explain the key elements of surfing to the both of us. We practiced on the sand and then moved out to catch some waves. I started off a bit rocky (probably an understatement, I was a total spaz and kept falling hahah) but was able to get up a couple times thanks to Micah's encouragement! I highly recommend taking lessons with him- it's clear he is passionate about what he does and truly cares about each and every one of his students. He knows the ocean and the waves like the back of his hand, and makes you feel comfortable on a board. You won't regret taking a surf lesson with Micah- he rocks! Call him now!! read more

My boys and I had a great experience. I was able to book with Mickey's Surfing School last minute which was much appreciated. All three of us were able to stand up and ride the waves with Micah's help. He connected well with my boys (ages 8 and 9). They had a blast and frankly didn't want want the lesson to end. Surfing was definitely one of the highlights of their trip. read more

My girls (13 and 10) and I took lessons for the first time. Found Mickey on Yelp and I am stoked that our time out catching waves was incredible. No doubt we'll be out there again. Everything you read about Mickey being awesome is true. Thanks for taking care of us. And the videos, we shared them with family and they felt like they were out there with us. Mahalo! read more

Micah was the best! My boyfriend and I decided to give surfing a shot while in Waikiki and we chose to learn from Micah since he was so highly recommended. He was incredibly responsive from the moment we reached out for a lesson and very easy to schedule a lesson. Neither of us had ever surfed before so we were a little apprehensive but Micah really put us at easy and made the entire lesson fun and relaxing. I ate shit a number of times and Micah took the time to figure out why I was so crappy and really helped me stand up on a couple waves. Of course the boyfriend was much better. I don't think I would have been able to do it with anyone else! He's the best and I highly recommend him!!! read more

As an apprehensive, first-time surfer, I recommend private lessons from Micah for both beginners and newcomers to surfing. Micah first provided a very basic and simple lesson on the sand about how to position my body on the board, where to maintain eye-contact, how to go from paddling to standing, and what to do after catching a wave. He teaches in a simple and easy-to-understand manner while also providing plenty of encouraging and reassuring cheers. On the water, Micah remained next to me which made me feel safe. He explained various safety tips (keep board pointing forward, etc) about paddling out. He maneuvered the board when waves became rougher, reminded me about my position on the board, coached me to stand up, and surfed alongside of me to troubleshoot my stance. Micah was patient, encouraging, observant, and insistent on helping me to feel successful. He went at my pace (arms got so tired!) and constantly assessed the waves, my ability, and even the other surfers around me. Micah is a hard working, hilarious, and positive person and focused on ocean safety + fun. I feel confident about continuing to learn more surf techniques because Micah provided a solid beginner foundation. Ocean safety and proper technique are key to enjoying the sport. read more

Not sure what else to say that hasn't already been said by others. Micah is a real pro; not just as a surfer, but more importantly as a teacher. Even though we are both beginners, both my wife and I were able to stand up on the board after one or two attempts, thanks to the excellent instruction we had on land before going out. It's not just about technique either--Micah also taught us how to stay safe when sharing the water with other surfers and canoes. A couple of times he would firmly but politely let other surfers know when they mistakenly did not follow the right of way properly. On top of all that, he's also a real genuine guy who's just wants to make sure everyone has a great and safe time. You can tell he's not in the business for the money. We went over time by forty-five minutes, and he didn't bat an eye because he saw that we were enjoying ourselves and he had some time before his next lesson. And after we were done, he even took us over to one of his favorite coffee shops and treated us to some iced teas. Bottom line, Micah went above and beyond our expectations (which were already high based on the other reviews we read beforehand). We'll definitely give him a call if we're ever back in Waikiki read more

I am not a yelper by any means however our experience with Mickeys Surf School has called me to action. We got super lucky and booked the day before our lesson during the Christmas holidays. Micah returned our inquiry from his website the evening we sent it and then communicated via text there after. If he doesn't answer immediately, chill the heck out....he is in the water working his surf instruction magic. Our kids surfed in Costa Rica once about 8 months prior to instruction with Micah. Micah took them out and started them right where they left off. Our experience far exceeded our expectations. Our kids said they enjoyed surfing even more this time with Micah. Micah is super hospitable offering his beach umbrella and local island knowledge anytime during your stay after your lesson. He takes amazing video too and gives them to you FREE OF CHARGE!!!! Stop what you are doing right now and book your surf lessons with him. read more

Mickeys Surf School - Paddleboarding Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Mickey is the best at what he does. You can feel his passion for surf... & somehow he makes you feel the same way once you catch that first wave. ANYONE can surf with the help of a guru like this. You wont regret it. Mahalo Mickey! read more

Mickey is possibly the most magical person I have ever met. I am a 40 year old plus-sized woman who has dreamed of surfing my whole life. But I was scared, and overwhelmed, and honestly did not believe I could do it at my age and weight. But my best friend found Mickey's class thanks to reviews like these and convinced me we could try together while on vacation in Waikiki on March 17. Mickey was easy to work with -- super fast and easy booking, returned messages promptly, and worked with our schedule. When we showed up, he was upbeat, kind, and very supportive. And he made a promise that I honestly doubted: that within the 80 minute long lesson, we would stand up and ride a wave. Let me tell you something -- I did not believe it for a minute. Maybe for other people, sure. But not for someone like me. But Mickey was right! He was so patient and positive and before I knew it, both I and my best friend were surfing. He is professional and friendly and the time just flies by. You have no idea you're even getting better and then suddenly you're standing up on the board and people around you are cheering. I loved it. I loved every minute of it. It was everything I had ever hoped for, and Mickey made it so easy to get there. It's only been a week, but I am still over the moon. I am back home now, but I am making plans to take up surfing locally (I live near the Oregon coast) and I am so thrilled to have found a physical activity that filled me with such joy. I will probably never be able to thank Mickey enough for what he has done for me. If you're on the fence about trying -- you think you're too young, too old, too out of shape, too something -- Mickey is the teacher for you. I've never been so happy to have given something I was scared of trying a chance. I have no doubt you will be too! read more

Tried to book a lesson middle of the day Thursday. They did not respond to email or phone call until late next day.Told them i had already surfed with another instructor. They said sorry about that, as if , who i did surf with was BELOW them . The way the text read was Rather Rude !! Then kept BUGGING me with text looking for me to give them any business . Too little too late ! I surfed with Moku ! Top Notch lesson and attention to detail . Up on the first wave !! Had a great day with MOKU !! read more

Girlfriend and I had an incredible time surfing and learning from Micah. Our first time at it, I was really impressed at how he boiled down the mechanics; I actually felt good about getting in the water after being apprehensive prior to the lesson. Loved the personal attention, and genuine interest Micah had in what we were and were not doing well. Each go we were learning and making adjustments and to my surprise spent way more time on our feet than I would have imagined. Equally impressed with his command out there and always felt as though he directed traffic perfectly, knew the best spots and established a good flow - I felt fortunate we had Micah leading the way for us. An awesome way to cap off our trip and plan on coming back for another lesson in the near future. Highly recommend to anyone. Thanks again Micah. read more

Took time on the beach to understand my level and my needs for the lesson, and tailored the time in the water perfectly to my skill set. Then went above and beyond the allotted time because we were having too much fun! Was really great, especially in comparison to other experiences on Waikiki, where the instructors were a 1000% less pleasant and less sensitive to the desires of the customer. Thanks again! read more

Just got back from our lesson with Mickey and WOW. We were hoping that by the end of the lesson we'd manage to catch one wave, but all there of us caught MULTIPLE waves and just had the best time!! Mickey is a fantastic teacher and an all around fun person, and we could not have asked for better. If you're hoping to learn how to surf and have a 5 star surfing experience in Hawaii, look no further and book Mickey's Surf School. read more

Mickey was such an awesome instructor!! Very knowledgeable and patient, and took time to help show where we made mistakes with our pop up and how to fix them. We had so much fun and everyone in our family got up on the board. He was so patient and sweet to our kids, and just a blast to hang out with. He even took our 3 year old out to catch some waves. We were incredibly happy with our lessons and we hope to come back sometime again. I highly recommend booking with Mickey! Thank you for a memorable experience!! read more

Mickey is by far the best surf instructor in the water anywhere! He is incredibly patient and confident. My 8 year old daughter loved him and said he was the best coach ever! I swam out to the surf to take pictures of my daughter while she was surfing and I got to listen to the other surf instructors in the water but none were as positive and encouraging as Mickey. He also is the only instructor that I saw who had the skills to hold the student's board with his foot while paddling his own board as they caught a wave together, which allowed him to hold my child's hand as she would stand up on her board giving her that assistance in standing and balancing on the board while riding a wave. Every other instructor in the water just pushed their student's board and barked at the student to stand up as they floated away. I have been a life long surfer but there is no way I could hold my kid's board with my foot while holding her hand to stand up on a wave, Mickey is amazing! My daughter cried/sobbed when her lesson was over. If you get to meet Mickey than you will get to meet someone with the true spirit of aloha! My daughter can't wait to return for more lessons with Mickey and still weeks later brings up missing him and her "awesome" surf lessons with Mickey! read more

Mickey is the best surf instructor bar none in Honolulu!! He has taught both of my young boys Jack and Will to surf and they absolutely LOVE Mickey!! He is great teacher who always makes sure the kids are safe but his personality, laughter and fun while teaching makes all the difference. If you are looking for the best surf teacher in Hawaii...look no further than Mickey. read more

Micah is an amazing instructor and definitely knows what he is talking about. He simplified the fundamental surfing steps and prompted me when to swim to catch the wave, stand and where to look. I was hooked after the first lesson so I decided to return for a 2nd lesson. I highly recommend a 2nd lesson with Micah as he will teach you how to understand surfing by looking for the perfect break, the exact moment to swim to catch the next wave, the correct way to turn and swim against the wave, surfing etiquette and most importantly, constructive criticism to help improve your next ride. Micah, thank you for an unforgettable experience. read more

Mickey! Awesome instructor, great attitude, great person, and has the most love for being in the water I've ever seen! He's super patient, and actually makes surfing fun! Prices are affordable and you actually learn. Can't wait to see him again and spice up some of my surfing physique and technique. :) read more

My husband and I started my first surfing lesson with Mickey and I absolutely got hooked! I wanted to return again but with the weather condition at that time with the flash floods and pre-made plans, we returned to do try SUP but we missed him and ended up with another company that wasn't so energetic and helpful. Anyway, Mickey has amazing energy, funny, and he really does pay attention to make sure you have got all the basics down. He rocks! read more

Mickey is amazing. He knows the water really well and you're not afraid when you're out there in the big ocean because he has your back ! I couldn't have find a better instructor to bring me out there for the first time. I also don't think I could have learned as much and surf as much without his clear instructions and detailed guidance. read more

Really enjoyed my time with Mickey. He's very outgoing and is very patient. Very reasonable price and is open to continue to give tips if you rent a board after lessons with him. I was able to get the basics and stand on the board every time after this lesson. read more

Mickey has amazing reviews for a reason - he is the best. My friend and I were in Hawaii celebrating our 35th and 40th birthdays, and neither of us had ever touched a surfboard before, but we were excited to try. I chose Mickey's surf school due to his reviews and website which showed him to be a patient and positive teacher, and I am so glad that I did. Mickey set us each up on the right surfboard for us, and from the beach to the waves instilled us with confidence and positivity, and helped us have an excellent time- he is incredibly kind, and clearly an expert teacher- he has 20 years of teaching experience! Mickey talked with us about the history of surfing on the island, his own experiences growing up here, and at the end of our lesson shared a great spot for local coffee (Kai Hawaii in the mall across the street) and offered local tips for the rest of our stay and for future visits. He spent lots of time with us, and taught in a way that felt fun and relaxed. This was our first time in Hawaii, but we plan for it not to be the last, and I would eagerly come back for another lesson from Mickey and recommend him to friends and family. He was great to work with from the first message- I just filled out his contact form on his website and received a personal text message back within a couple of hours- we contacts potential customers back in between lessons. If you've read this far, you can stop your research and send him a message, you've found the best teacher on the beach, it was even more fun than we had hoped. read more

My very first time surfing in Hawaii with big help from Mickey. I decided to take a lesson on a whim. It took him only a few minutes to reply to my email and offered to pick me up. Great service. Since I stayed in ko olina and was too far for him to give me a ride, he suggested a place to park my car. He even suggested I move my car to his place so that I wouldn't have to pay for parking. Again, great service! He took me to his garage where he keeps his babies (surfboards). He listened to me to learn my level, and we picked a board together. I thought we would be surfing in waikiki beach. Instead, he took me to makapuu beach (I think that was the name...?) from learning my level. I appreciated that a lot! It showed he really wanted to take me to the next level! After multiple falls, he kept encouraging me. He also gave me soooooooo much information about surfing that I never knew. He also gave me tips that I could try right away and workout suggestions for when I return home. The lesson was so much fun! I can't wait to go back and get more lessons from him. Next time, maybe with a thicker and wider board :) :) Mahalo, Mickey! read more

I haven't actually met Mickey, lol, but he was so extremely nice and helpful when I called for surf lessons, that I just had to leave a review / thank him for being so awesome! While he was completely booked during my time on Oahu, he referred me to Barak for a private surf lesson and I had the best time! We surfed Diamond Head and the weather cleared up for us - absolutely fantastic! Thanks Mickey, hope to surf with you on my next trip! read more

My daughter's and I had the best experience with Mickey! After being referred to Mickey by my aunt who lives on the island, I felt this was going to be the safest and most personable surf experience during our vacation. Mickey DID NOT disappoint. His style and video taping our experience will be with us forever. Can't wait to go back to O'ahu and receive more lessons from him. Mahalos, Mickey!!!! read more

After attempting to learn how to surf on my own/with student instructors a few times to no avail, I decided it was time to get a proper instructor. Mickey was awesome. He has been surfing since he was a young child and you just can't replicate the level of experience and knowledge he has gained from a lifetime of surfing. He was kind and patient in helping us demystify the surfing experience by thoroughly explaining surfing technique, and best of all, my brother and I both caught our first waves!! It was my brother's first time surfing too. Overall, it was a great day of learning and play out on the water, thanks Micah! read more

Learning to surf with Mickey made surfing more fun than it already is! He's super helpful and keeps things going quick so that you're not waiting around. If you're in the area, you have to take a lesson with him. He's definitely one of the nicest people I've ever met and an awesome surfer! Thanks Mickey! read more

My gf and I had a short trip to Oahu, but one of the things we had to try was surf lessons. We spent a good while researching where the best place would be with something of a budget in mind. In the end, we found Micah, and we honestly couldn't be happier. We actually called the day before, but he recommended we wait till the following day, because the waves were pretty small and he wanted us to get the most bang for our buck. It was our very first time surfing and we started out with some quick basics on the sand. Before long we had our boards and were out on the water. It has been several years since I've done any board sports (and the first time for my gf), but under his tutelage we both managed to stand and ride on our first attempts. He gave lots of pointers on technique, but also emphasized safety and surf etiquette, which I thought was great. It was really impressive watching him judge incoming waves (that I myself could not distinguish from the endless ocean) and choosing just the right sized surfs for our level. He seemed to know exactly when and where the best waves would be. Not only is he an outstanding instructor, you can actually tell that he is a great guy all-around. From bantering back and forth to other longtime surfers, to recognizing and shouting encouragement to his previous students, Micah has a fantastic personality and is really a first-class surf instructor. At the end of our day (which actually ended up going overtime at no-charge) Micah gave us his number and told us if we ever had any questions or needed some reminders of our lessons in the future to feel free to reach out. Overall, Mickey went above and beyond what we expected and arguably gave us our best experience in Oahu. We cannot recommend him enough. read more

Mickey was great! I went with a group of 4 and Mickey did a excellent job catering to all of us. Mickey first had us practice the form on top of boards in the sand first. He had great analogies and was bilingual too (we had Koreans and English speakers in our group). We went in the evening when the waves were a bit bigger but Mickey was savvy enough about the waves that he was able to find and start us off on the smaller waves. When we felt more comfortable, he let us do bigger ones. Even though we had four in our group Mickey gave attention to all of us, and as we got more experience he micromanaged a lot less. Definitely worth the time and money! read more

I am a non-swimmer and terrified of water. My boyfriend really wanted to surf during our vacation. We called one day before and they accommodated us. We lucked out and got a lesson with Micah. There weren't other students so it was like a private lesson. Micah is the best!!!! He sensed all my fears and was extremely patient and calming. He basically paddled out for me and sent me off on all waves, and rode side by side on the wave, even holding my board so I could stay balanced. We had almost 2 hrs with him. It was a bucket list experience and I highly recommend it..see if you are lucky enough to get Micah too read more

My friend and I wanted to learn how to surf in Hawaii. Our surfing lesson with Mickey was one of our highlights for our Holiday. We both have never surfed before and Mickey was so great at explaining and teaching us! We were able to surf for the first time ever thanks to Mickey and we'll be forever grateful for the fun experience. Mickey has been surfing since he was 4 years old and has a huge amount of experience, he was so much fun and made the experience so memorable. I would highly recommend booking a lesson with him! read more