Took private 2hr lessons here now 3 times - all three times have been great experiences, the first having been nearly 3 years ago, which tells you consistency. I like heading into a lesson with a goal in mind, and the instructors have always helped me achieve my goals by the end of the lesson - first time was all new to me so was mainly about nailing the pop up; second lesson to become more confident and ride every wave I get; third lesson to surf down the line and navigate around obstacles. The instructors are great at reading the waves and have always gotten me into the optimal position away from the crowd but right on site for the wave to peak. They take care of the "logistics" and intricacies of surf etiquette so the student can focus on the surf itself. Could not recommend them more read more

After 5 years, we finally made it back to Hawaii and our previous experience with TG's made it an easy choice to return for our surfing adventure. They still have the enthusiasm and genuine demeanor to make the experience a great one. Their partnership with videographer (james) is seamless and, for the second time in 5 years, he captured great video to edit on our own (our choice to go this route- his company can do it for you too). Each of us had our own instructor (i.e., private lesson) for 1 hr. In our case, it was low tide but not sure if that was a good or bad thing. If I remember correctly, we caught about 5-6 waves during the water time period. Having the private instructor with you helps a lot with both "towing" out to the lineup and setting up to catch the waves. We will return to TG's again when we come back to Hawaii. read more

Excellent! Kids had a total blast! Went from not surfing a lick to wanting to surf every day. Recommended experience.

Ty Gurney Surf School was an awesome experience (on 6/15/21)!  After months of research, I determined they had the perfect combination of positive reviews, professional videography, and a convenient location to our hotel, The Outrigger Reef.     This was the first time my 12 year old twins (Jonas and Jocelyn) and I went surfing. This was also the first time that we have been out in the ocean, far from the shore.   While my daughter knows how to swim, she was nervous about the salt water burning her eyes and having to swim in deeper water among waves.  I did my best to get her prepared with pool training, but that can only go so far. I notified the staff and Ty Gurney (Owner) quickly jumped in and said that he was going to be her personal instructor.  This made her feel much more at ease. The staff was friendly and addressed any questions we had.  They were social, and fun to chat with before, during and after the sessions. The surfing was great - my kids did a great job for their first time and Jonas looked like a natural from the start. He wants to go back again!  He looks like he has the knack to be a future surfer!    We really enjoyed our experience and will be back next time we go to Hawaii.   I highly recommend Ty Gurney Surf School.  The kids loved it!!!!! They even bought a T-shirt and the Rash Guards they were wearing during the lessons!    And the video by 83 East Video Productions was epic!!!!!!! (link below) https://youtu.be/LfDuk2-sG3s Shout out to Ty, Alisa, Jasmine, Cheyenne, James (videographer), Austin!!! read more

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Great staff, and good location to watch our guest get a surf lesson. We bought a private lesson and it was perfect. If we have more guests that would like a surf lesson, this will be the place for sure. read more

Nico and Elliott provided private surf lessons to my husband and son, whom have not surfed before . The business is very professionally run, and the instructors are knowledgeable, encouraging and have a strong emphasis on technique (and useful feedback) and safety. They both got to stand atop the surfboard by the end of the lesson. Highly recommend them. Next time we'll go again with them and get the video package so people can see how cool it is to be riding the waves. read more

We rented Stand up Paddle boards a few days during our vacation. Only steps away from our stay at the Sheraton Waikiki. They are easy to locate, and have great rates. Lady at the desk was nice and informative. I would suggest lessons if you never been stand up paddling. It's harder than it looks. We took lessons awhile ago, so we didn't take lessons this rounds. We saw a few turtles which was a bonus. We saw Ty's instructors teaching surf lessons. They are very nice and noticed we rented SUPs. They said hello and ask if we were okay. Super nice of them to be that attentive. We'll definitely rent here again. Mahalo. read more

My wife and I just moved to the Island and wanted to learn how to properly surf. After reading various reviews, Ty Gurney stood out to be the best and he was even endorsed by Kelly Slater. We signed up for the semi-private lesson and Ty, Jacob and Nicco couldn't have been more awesome! They immediately made us feel comfortable and took us out to a local break "Populars". After a few tips, we both started catching waves. It was such a memorable experience and we'd highly recommend Ty Gurney to anyone who wants to properly learn how to surf and have a great time. Mahalo gents!! ‍ read more

It was an amazing experience all together. I had an amazing time and both instructors Nicco and Tanner were attentive, helpful and extremely fun and friendly. I would 10000% recommend their lessons. read more

My husband wanted the kids to try surfing for the first time and what better place than Hawaii? There were alot of options so I yelped it snd went from there. Ty Gurney had an easy online booking process which I appreciated and great reviews so we were sold. If they are under 15 you will need to book a private 1/1. It was fine since they were all newbies we did 3, 2 hour privates for my son (13) daughter (15) and hubs. They had a blast! The instructors were awesome! They went pretty deep so you won't be able to see them but we opted to get the unedited video footage for $65. What a way to spend Christmas Day, surfing! A great experience was had by all and I highly recommend doing it if you are on the fence. Private is the way to go unless you are more experienced. read more

Ty and team does it again!! Between Ty himself joining our lesson along with Tanner and Alex, we not only were able to stand up countless times throughout the two hours but had an incredibly enjoyable and chill time on the water while doing it! The instructors all care a lot about making it a great experience for you (including calming any nerves and providing lots of encouragement!), and this lesson was no different -- 10/10 for Ty, Tanner, and Alex! read more

Signed up two grandkids, 8 and 12 year olds. Initially our intention was to sign them up for their Kids Surf Camp program, however that's not currently happening. Had to leave to pick up another one, so I had to trust and leave them with the surf instructors. When we came back to pick them up, they couldn't stop talking about their experience. When asked if they would do it again, it was a definite yes. read more

Ty Gurney Surf School - One of the grandkids followed by his surf instructor. - Surfing Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

This was my second time taking a surf lesson at Ty Gurney's (first was 2018 and that was a great experience too). I took a 2 hour private lesson with Dakota and Nico (he was taking videos, but also gave pointers on how I could do better). These guys were great! I had so much fun talking to them and they were very patient and very encouraging. I highly recommend this place if you want to try surfing. I've had two great experiences with them. read more

My boyfriend and I took our first 2 surf lessons with Koa and Elijah (with bonus support from Ty! Thanks Ty!). I'm glad that we booked private lessons because it ensured that we both were able to go on as many waves as the weather permitted. Do check in on weather forecast to see if it's a good day to ride (surfline.com) The vibes were great, and learning to stand up on the wave for the first time was easy with our great instructors I think it still helps to watch YouTube to supplement the lesson. The next day, we switched to fiberglass longboards and experimented with our popup and timing, and turning down the line. Having tips from YouTube videos and direct support by the instructors seems the best way to make the most of these lessons. All in all, 100% recommend!! read more

I would highly recommend Ty Gurney Surf School. Everyone we encounter was super nice and thoughtful. They were great with our kids. The photos and videos were beautiful. We would definitely go back the next time we are in Waikiki. read more

Aloha to All, Took my 40 year old nephew for his first surf experience and he had a great time and a fabulous SAFE private lesson. Worth every penny. At 74 years I had not been out surfing for about 8 years and in spite of bilateral shoulder replacements and a added waist line I had a terrific time and came in after 2 hours feeling 30 years younger. Front office fun and very easy to interact. Lena was a very caring person and extremely helpful. The private instructors were accommodating and we caught many great rides. They made it seem easy. Even though they said I was "shredding it" and I clearly was not they made me feel great.They were very relatable and easy going. Made sure everything was safe. Great value. Extremely satisfied. Wonderful surf session on a truly memorable day. Thanks TY and entire team. I will be back read more

My 12 year old Keiki did a three day surf camp in July. I wasn't sure she would take to it, but she had a blast. They super personable folks gave her one on one instruction and had her catching waves from day one. They sent us go-pro footage from the last day. She can't wait to do it again, and I am considering lessons for me...:) The Ty Gurney team were vigilant and FUN! read more

Ty Gurney Surf School - Surfing Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Best Day ever according to our 5, 7, 11 and 13 year olds. The instructors made is so easy for them to learn and they all got up quickly. The instructors were so patient and fun with the kids! Highly recommend read more

Great surf school service instructor (We got lucky to surf) Best surf school in Honolulu !! Must try experience while in Hawaii ! read more

First time surfing, had a great time! Nicco had me standing up on a board in no time. It did help I've had prior board experience, but I liked how he kept it simple and emphasized that. You paddle to gain speed, you stand up in a 3 step process, and...you ride! That's basically it - if you think much more about it you are more likely to crash. I tend to be an overthinking type person so keeping that top of mind helped me a lot. I also liked how this school tows you after each wave. I've wind surfed before and let me tell you, it sucks to paddle with a big board. Here they take care of that so you just do the fun part - riding waves! After I got the hang of the basics, Nicco was able to answer questions about other topics - how to identify a good wave, how to turn into waves, etc. Also highly recommend the two hrs - it flies by, it's a lot of fun. read more

Highly recommend if ever in Hawaii! I've always wanted to try surfing. I scheduled a private lesson with Ty himself (as opposed to a group lesson you get more breaks instead of paddling). Ty was very mellow and patient. I guess the waves aren't as good during the winter, but we had several slow, long waves that were good to ride. We started off on the sand, practicing the stance for a few minutes, then headed to the water. By the second or third time, I was up riding the waves! The bottom was said to be very shallow but sharp. Even for a not so strong swimmer, I didn't have a problem (I did get a Hawaiian tattoo aka a fat lip from the board but that was my own clumsiness. After that, we only had a few minutes left and called it a day). We saw a turtle on our way in (which I was told was good luck). Nicco had taken a few photos before the start of the next session, but I haven't received them yet... I did a lot of research before choosing a surf school and liked the fact that the instructors are CPR certified. They also loan you rash guards for the lesson (but I still ended up with surfer rash on my elbows). 2022 #9 read more

Incredible! 100% recommend to anyone regardless of skill level. My husband and I learned from Ty, Jacob and Nicco. They we're all incredibly inviting, kind and genuine people who made it relaxing and fun while learning the technique. I've tried surfing a few times before and never made it up on the board. But not today! Today, I did it! I actually surfed and was able to do it a few times. this is 100% due to all of their expertise and guidance. I can't say enough good things about this place and the people. Worth every penny! We also purchased the video option as well and I'm so glad. I can't wait to see it! read more

Great experience! I did a surf lesson with Ty and it was my first time ever surfing. I originally had a lesson scheduled for a day when there were no waves so when i got there they told me I could rebook or they would fully refund me. Luckily they had an available slot for a time that worked for me so I came back two days later. It was my first time ever surfing and Ty explained all the basics to me very well. We practiced getting up into position a few times on the sand before heading out to the water. Ty did most of the paddling for me which was great because it is pretty tiring! He was always on the lookout for good waves for me and would push me into them and yell "Up" when i needed to get up. I had originally booked a two hour lesson but one hour in, I was pretty tired and my arms were hurting so Ty asked if I wanted to head back. I said yes and they refunded me the money for the second hour. Even after I said I wanted to go back, Ty looked for one last wave for me and I ended up being out there for 1.5 hours. Overall, great experience and highly recommend this surf school for beginners! read more

The surf instructors at Ty Gurney Surf School are truly exceptional. They explain everything to beginners in great detail and have a deep understanding of each individual's needs. They are very observant and know how to connect with their students. Two hour lessons fly by when you're having that much fun. The location of the surf school and the part of Waikiki where the surfing takes place is fantastic. read more

Amazing. Booked two semi private lessons with Ty for me (56) and my adult sons. It was an unforgettable experience. Ty (yes there is a Ty and you'll probably see him on the water) and his team are great at coaching, are engaging and supportive. We were catching and riding waves right away, and they were with us every step of the way. They helped us to get out to where the waves were the best (they will literally pull you out). They coached us through each wave. They were positive and engaging. They were focused on us and making sure we had a great experience. I went from never having surfed to riding waves my first day. I saw kids and adults of all ages doing the same. We ended up renting boards from Ty for another 4 days. Nate, Pat, Elliot and the staff in the shop were all great to work with. If you've ever watched surfers from the beach and wondered whether you can do this, you absolutely can. Go for it. You'll be in great hands with Ty and his team. read more

If you have kids, I highly recommend going with this company. My son had a blast with these guys, he was cruising through the waves (he had never surfed before) They personify Hawaii- positive vibes and great energy. Not once did we feel unsafe or not being looked after. Great job Ty Gurney Surf School!!!! read more

My honey wanted to take a surfing lesson while we were on the island and he had an excellent experience with Ty Gurney school. He's brand new to surfing and so he was looking for a private lesson that would let him get some individualized coaching. He's athletic and was also hoping to learn enough that he could feel comfortable renting a board in future and just going out on his own. He got everything he was looking for here -- Rhett was a great instructor! The opportunity to have your teacher tow you was a game changer so he had plenty of energy to spend on the waves. They loaned a rash guard and really everything was well taken care of and easy! read more

Our 8 year daughter took a private surfing lesson with Jacob. He was so great with her and she had the best time! She can't wait to come back next year. The two hour lesson was perfect! Honestly, she wouldn't have wanted to come back in after an hour. She caught several waves and couldn't be happier. Thank you for the best experience!!!! BV read more

Ty Gurney Surf School - Surfing Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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I had an amazing time here at TY Gurney . Everyone is great from the front desk to instructors. I was surfing with Nico (1 lesson) and Justin and they are both wonderful. I had 3 lessons with Justin and he is an ncredible instructor. I am a little scared of big waves, but Justin helped me relax and made me feel safe. He told me what to do when big waves come, and gave me tons of helpful tips about surfing. He always made sure that I have a proper form when surfing. Learning how to surf was the highlight of my trip to Hawaii. I would recommend Justin to anyone who wants to learn how to surf . read more

I wanted my kid to do something that will leave him with a long lasting memory from our mom/son trip to HI. This is a MUST BOOK (esp fellow mommies with kid/s). My hard to impress pre-tween knew I signed him up for surfing lesson but had a very meh attitude. As a city family we only see surfing via tv shows/movies (lol) hence why I signed him up. He absolutely loved it!!! We were very lucky and got Ty Gurney himself as the instructor. Ty was a very chilled guy and my Ty took a liking to him I can tell. After like 5/10 mins of instructions off they went into the water. I also booked for a videographer which I recommend as well to capture it all. Pete actually does go out which I thought was pretty cool. According to Ty G and Peter; Ty did really well. He was able to catch a few waves and saw sea turtles too! I booked for 2 hours of private but bc my kid was so cold he asked Ty to cut it down to an hour instead. So Ty G is very good with listening to kids which I appreciate. I know for fact I will rebook this again next year when we come back bc my kid had such an amazing experience. Will surely recommend TGSS to all my mommy friends/groups and blogs back home in NYC. So thanks Ty Gurney; my kid will forever remember his 1st surfing lesson and I earned a cool mom point with him. TGSS is so convenient as well; if you're staying along on the main road. Oh yeah! Pack rash guard for your kid. Although they do have for you if you don't have one... read more

Geez! This place rocks but I will tell you be very careful if you're a beginner or they will bring you 1/2 mile out into big surf. Lol But the instructor doesn't waste anytime and gets you right out into the water. Could probably have used a little more instruction. It was exciting to say the least! read more

We happened to stay at the hotel where Ty Gurney Surf School is located and the surf lesson is conveniently located just cross the street from the business! Students are loaned a rash guard to protect from both the sun and the board. My kids' instructor, Pat Sterba, was highly professional and an excellent instructor. The kids were up and standing on the board in no time! The boys had a wonderful time and are excited to rent boards during the rest of our vacation and catch some more waves. We opted for the video package with 83 East Productions and although the completed video is still in progress, I have no doubt it will be as awesome as their advertisement shows. read more

Ty Gurney Surf School - Instructor Pat Sterba towing the boys in after a successful lesson. - Surfing Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Great surfing lesson and instructor, Jacob gave good feedback and help both my teenage kids improve

My daughter took privates lessons while on vacation in Waikiki. Instructors on both days were knowledgeable and she had fun!

It's quite expensive but a first surfing class with photos and video is worthy. My kids loved it!

Amazing! Absolutely amazing! Would highly recommend! So easy to book! wonderful instructors & super friendly staff. My twins had one hour lessons with Ty Jr. & Peter and they fell in love with surfing. Thank you guys for making their first surf experience a great one! Cant wait to see the photos & video read more

Ty Gurney Surf School - ‍‍ - Surfing Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Had a large group of 8, kids and adults and we had a blast. We all got a fair share of waves to ride and had a lot of fun with our crew of instructors being out on the ocean with family. Will definitely do this again when in Oahu! read more

If you're wanting to surf in Oahu, this is the place to go! I was quite afraid going into the experience and left trying to figure out when I can come back to surf and I owe it all to Ty Guerney's! The instructors (Little Ty, Rhett & Nicco) for our group were so kind, well-informed, and endlessly helpful. They were great at walking us through the process and i could tell they were experts at their craft. I felt safe in their hands and had SO much fun. Book a lesson, you won't regret it! read more

Booked private lessons for me and my 2 kids (5 and 7yo). They had a blast! Ty and his crew made sure we all had a great time. We could have done more than an hour easily. It goes by so fast. We all got to ride lots of waves. We also paid for the video clips from 83 East, the videos and photos were amazing! I love rewatching my kids having a fun time surfing on the Waikiki surf. read more

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I'm 56 and never surfed in my life, but it's something I wanted to try. I booked a 1-hour private lesson, and was lucky to have the owner (Ty) as my instructor. I went in all in and also requested a videographer as I wanted something to remember after the fact - Nicco did the filming. TL, DR - absolutely wonderful experience, and I will do it again with Ty's school! What I learned is Ty/Nicco are extremely patient and pass no judgement on one's abilities. I found they are both encouraging, easy going, and age didn't matter. Lesson starts with going over a 3 step process on the beach, and then basically head out and give it a go. Ty did all the work and towed me out to the waves. After each attempt at catching a wave, Ty kept the feedback short and simple on what to focus on with lots of positive encouragement. I had a lot close success and many falls. Ty worked hard to give me something I could remember, and took me out for one last wave. He told me exactly what I needed to do, and viola - I was able to stand up for a ride to remember on my last wave for the day! Huge gratitude to Ty. About a week later, I received my video and pic package (digitally) from Nicco. I am so glad I did it (at least this one time). I felt the videography was well worth it because it memorialized something I've always wanted to try. The quality of the pics and video were top notch. The video included music plus a view stock edits (turtle and seal) which were nicely done. 100% recommend this experience. And I will do it again when I return to Hawaii. read more

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