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Written by Samara — Philippe’s wife, photographer, and part of the Maui Vibe Surf Club family Traveling to Maui with kids? West Maui is one of our favorite places for families because you really don't have to fill every day with a huge excursion. Some of the best family memories here are simple ones—getting in the ocean, exploring a new beach, watching the sunset, or trying something together for the first time. As a mom raising our kids here on Maui, these are seven experien

If you’re planning a trip to Maui and wondering what you absolutely have to do while you’re here, we might be a little biased—but we think surfing should be at the top of your list. You can drive the Road to Hana, watch the sunset, snorkel, and spend the day at the beach. But learning to surf gives you something different: the chance to actually experience Hawaii from the water. And you don’t need any surfing experience to try it. At Maui Vibe Surf Club, we teach first-time s

Surfing is something you can start at almost any stage of life. This week at Maui Vibe Surf Club, we had three guests in their 60s out surfing in West Maui — and they did amazing. One of them, Matt, had actually booked a private surf lesson with Philippe two days earlier. He loved the experience, did great in the water, and decided he wanted to surf again. This time, he invited two of his friends to join him. So a couple of days later, the three of them were back in the water

If you’re planning to take a surf lesson in Maui, you may be wondering which type of lesson is best for you. Should you book a private lesson, share an instructor with someone you’re traveling with, or bring your family or friends for a group lesson? At Maui Vibe Surf Club, we offer private, semi-private, and closed group surf lessons, giving you the freedom to choose the experience that works best for you. Here’s how they compare. Private Surf Lessons A private surf lesson g

One of the best parts of learning to surf in Maui isn't just standing up on your first wave—it's being able to relive that moment long after your vacation is over. At Maui Vibe Surf Club, we offer GoPro video packages upon request, so you can leave with more than just memories. You'll have real footage of your surf session to watch, share, and enjoy for years to come. Relive Your First Wave There's something special about seeing yourself catch your first wave. Whether you nai

There are plenty of surf schools on Maui, but at Maui Vibe Surf Club, our goal has never been to simply teach people how to stand up on a surfboard. We want every guest to leave feeling more confident, connected to the ocean, and excited to surf again. A Unique Experience Awaits From the moment you arrive, we're focused on creating a fun, relaxed experience where you feel supported every step of the way. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to improve your skills, ev

West Maui is one of the best places to learn how to surf, offering warm water, consistent waves, and ideal conditions for beginners. According to Philippe Chagas, professional surfer and coach with over two decades of experience, choosing the right surf spot and using proper equipment are key to learning safely and confidently. The Lahaina Breakwall is one of the most popular beginner surf spots in West Maui. It offers small, gentle, and consistent waves with an easy paddle-o

Every morning I walk down to the beach and I see it — that look on a first-timer's face. Equal parts excitement and nerves. Maybe they've never surfed a day in their life. Maybe they tried once and it didn't go well. Either way, before we ever touch the water, I sit down with them and go over the same three things. Not rules. Not warnings. Just the stuff that actually makes the difference between a frustrating session and one they'll be talking about for years. 1. Stop trying

One of the first things I do when I meet a new student on the beach in Maui is watch them walk. Seriously. How someone moves tells me a lot — their natural balance, their dominant side, how they carry tension in their body. Before we even touch a surfboard, I've already started designing their lesson. That's the power of personalized surf instruction, and it's why one of the most important decisions you'll make before your lesson is choosing the right format for your session.

Real Surf Techniques from a Surf Pro

The ocean off Maui is one of the most beautiful places on earth. It's also one that commands real respect.

People ask me all the time: 'What's the best thing to do in Maui?' I'm obviously biased. But I also genuinely believe the answer is: learn to surf. Not because surfing is the most extreme activity on the island — it's not. Not because it's the easiest or the most popular — there are plenty of other options. But because surfing connects you to Maui in a way that nothing else quite does. The ocean. The rhythm of the Pacific. The culture. The feeling of standing on a wave for th

One of the first things I do when I meet a new student on the beach in Maui is watch them walk. Seriously. How someone moves tells me a lot — their natural balance, their dominant side, how they carry tension in their body. Before we even touch a surfboard, I've already started designing their lesson. That's the power of personalized surf instruction. Every Surfer Starts Somewhere Different I've taught surfers from all walks of life here on Maui. Former athletes who think sur

At Maui Vibe Surf Club, every private surf lesson is tailored specifically to you.

West Maui has everything a new surfer could ask for — warm water, welcoming waves, and some of the most beautiful coastline on the planet.