Stand
up paddle boarding is a becoming a very
popular pastime. It was originally called
"beach boy surfing", named after the famous
Waikiki beach boys, who combined their
outrigger canoe paddling skills with their
surfing skills. Stand up paddle surfing
(SUP) begins on flat water, where you can
get your balance on the oversized boards.
Stand-up boards are larger and more stable
than surfing longboards, which makes them
more stable. The boards are ridden standing
up, so some initial balance is required. The
rider uses a long shafted paddle for
propulsion and steering. There are different
strokes you learn to help you turn, and to
make you go. (Steering is more about
paddle-work in the beginning).
Standup has grown into a worldwide
phenomenon. It has become many things to
different people; a recreational pastime, a
competitive sport and a great way to get a
core workout. Standup has become
popular on lakes and rivers. It has great
appeal for wave surfers. and many devotees
participate in long distance events,
traveling between the islands (crossings),
touring along coastlines, or exploring bays
and inlets.
The great
appeal about standup paddle surfing is that
no previous experience is required,
and you do not have to be super fit to give
it a try. It is much less demanding than
regular surfing. Therefore it appeals to all
ages, young and old. This makes it a great
activity that families can share and do
together.
Once you have your balance, this is a very
pleasant way to tour the ocean, and to
explore the reefs. Just cruise and relax, or
pick up the pace for an isometric workout for your core
muscles. Standup paddle surfing is a great way to get
fit without having to working out. It is a way of
exercising without even realizing it, just have fun.
When you are on the board the constant motion engages
hundreds of small muscles from the soles of your feet
into your legs and core midsection. They all come alive
through the process of balancing an stabilization. Some
mobility required as you from from kneeling
to standing, but there is zero impact on knees and ankle the joints.
Paddling engages the shoulders, arms, chest and back.
Go at your own pace, rest whenever you like, slow or
fast, its up to you. If you are feeling more
adventurous, you can try to catch some small
waves. Maui has some gentle surf that is
easy to ride. Most people will be fully
satisfied (and exhausted) after their
SUP session. We supply all the beginner
equipment, and a variety of sizes to
accommodate different people sizes. Bigger
folks will need more floatation (please let
us know if you are over 220lbs). Advanced
sup-surfers can rent from a wide selection of
differing board sizes and types.
Group Sessions: Group
Sessions start at our regular times at our Kihei
Location 6days a week. Every
standup session begins with a brief land lesson to discuss
technique, safety and theory, we practice some of the
skills you will need later in the water. Then we begin
the water part of the lesson close
to shore on the flat water. We cover topics of surf
sense, ocean awareness, board handling, and our float
plan. In the near shore area we practice board handling
steering and power strokes until you get comfortable
with the basics, balance and steering. After the basics
have been covered we move out a little further to
explore our ride area and interact with the ocean.
Each Standup Group
class is small and personal and has people of a similar
skill level. Each individual student receives plenty of
attention from the instructors. We
go at each individual's pace, slow and steady, or as fast as you
can assimilate the information. There is much to learn,
and we can cover beginners basics or more advanced
skills for those students with some previous experience.
Private Sessions: Every level of standup student can be taught in our
private lessons. We give you your very own
instructor/guide for the duration. Bring your own board
or use our gear. Private sessions are best when learning any
of the specialized skills, or when going on SUPfaris to
other locations, and downwinders and coast runs. Another
option is the
Semi-private lessons which are available for couples
etc. We have several different locations available
depending on the daily wave and wind conditions. Call
ahead for our surf forecast and we can help you catch
the best conditions. Just let us know what you
want and we can tailor the lesson to you. We also offer
Semi-private sessions for couples or pairs. If you have
some intermediate skills already, and want to get
a little more serious. or whether you want to try some
bigger waves, the private session is for you. We also do
private family groups and coaching. Your very own
instructor just for your self or your group. Private
sessions can adjusted to fit your schedule, and your
needs.
Beginner Group Lessons: Our regular
Beginner Group SUP Lessons are held daily at Kalama park in Kihei.
Just south of the whale statue. Check out our driving
directions on our Maps Page.
Call ahead for availability. Lessons usually start at
8:30am Monday thru Saturday. All lessons are by
appointment and must be pre-booked. Gift certificates are
also available.
Minimum age for adult group classes is 9years old.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Children's
lessons available for kids 6years and up. All students
must be able to swim. Life jackets available on request (please ask ahead of time). Please come to your lessons rested, fueled and energized, and be ready for a
great new water sports experience.
Beginner Stand-up surfing Lessons are held at
Kalama park in Kihei. just south of the whale statue.
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding - What's
your level?
BEGINNERS: Stand Up
Paddling is a lot of fun. Learn about safety,
etiquette, and the core techniques. Start out in the flat
water, get your balance and off you go. Groups are small
and personal. Or you can have a private or semi-private
lesson. Customized lessons allow you to choose the start
times, and lesson length. Some fitter people may want a
longer session, no problem.
INTERMEDIATE:
SUP in the waves, start small and get some longer rides.
At this level we are working on timing and turning. The
wave does all the work, if you know how to find the
sweet spot. We have multi day classes that can span you
whole vacation, or be your regular weekend activity. With some practice you will be
catching on before you know it. We provide all the equipment.
Lessons seven days a week, year round. Lesson
start times are usually 8am.
ADVANCED:
Advanced SUP surfing
sessions are also held at various locations according to
weather conditions. All lessons are by appointment. All
private lessons taught a private or semi private.
Weather conditions vary. Call ahead and we can schedule
according to the best conditions.
Minimum age
for adult group classes is 9years old.
Children must be accompanied by an adult
(onshore). Children's lessons available for
kids 6years and up.
Please let us know if you have any medical
condition or physical/mental disabilities that may be a
concern during a water activity. For more information
about our school policies and cancellation policy
click here.