With roots in Maui and a lifelong passion for the ocean, Makai Surf Club is here to guide you through your ultimate surfing experience. You can expect quality gear, a proper safety briefing, and friendly in-water support for both first timers and confident swimmers.

surf

lessons

learn to surf with us


For beginners up to intermediate, we teach and reinforce the four fundamentals of surfing!

1. Where to position your body when laying on a surfboard.

2. Proper paddling form and technique.

3. How to push through waves when paddling out to a lineup.

4. How to pop up to your feet and stay balanced on the board. 

Private Lessons
2 hours @ $345.00

Personalized guidance to help you catch your first waves or refine your skills with confidence

Semi-Private Lessons (2 surfers)
2 hours @ $475.00

Semi-private surf coaching with a friend, building confidence, improving technique, and understanding waves in a supportive environment

*Please inquire if student is under the age of 9 years old*

group lesson

Interested in booking lessons for your family or group of friends? Ask us about

our group lesson offers!

Email: makaisurfclub@gmail.com

Call OR Text +1 (808) 214-8034

learn to surf with a maui local in one of the best surfing destinations!

Meet the founder


A young woman with wavy brown hair, smiling, wearing a black shirt and small earrings, against a plain light background.

maui, hi

world-class Kiteboarder

Waterwoman

founder / lead instructor

KARLIE THOMA

She has spent her entire life in the ocean, from surfing and kiteboarding to foiling, winging, and everything in between. If it has something to do with the ocean, she probably does it—and does it well.

As a former competitor on the Big Air World Tour for kiteboarding, Karlie brings world-class experience and energy to every session- with salt water basically running through her veins. Surfing, foiling, winging, kiteboarding— if it involves the ocean, she’s all in. Today she shares passion by teaching others, building confidence, and spreading the stoke one wave at a time.

Born and raised on Maui, Hawaiʻi, Karlie is a true water woman through and through—surfing, foiling, winging, kiteboarding; if it involves the ocean, she’s all in! Born and raised on Maui, Hawaiʻi, she has salt water basically running through her veins.

one wave at a time 〰️〰️〰️

one wave at a time 〰️〰️〰️

What People Are Saying

Book your lesson

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Getting started is simple. Just book your preferred lesson through our website by completing the sign-up form and making the payment online. You should receive a confirmation, then you’re all set for your lessons!

  • Yes, absolutely! We love getting people into surfing and guiding them every step of the way. Whether you’re shredding your first wave or would like to advance your skills, we’ve got you. Makai Surf Club is here to guide you through your ultimate luxury surfing experience. You can expect quality gear, a proper safety briefing, and friendly in-water support for both first timers and confident swimmers.

  • We will meet at this location and look out for the black Toyota Tacoma. This spot is mauis top spot for learning with consistent year-round conditions, perfect for beginners and surfers looking to improve their skills.

    Please do not drive onto the sand. It’s really difficult to get out if you don’t have 4x4. Remember to bring sunscreen, a towel, and water, and be ready to rip it up 🏄🏽‍♀️🏄🏽‍♂️

    Coordinates: 20°47'46.4"N 156°35'07.7"W

  • Swimwear, sunscreen, water, good vibes, and the biggest smile! Makai Surf Club provides quality longboards and rash guards.

  • We can organize photos/videos to be taken during your sessions. If you'd like photos or videos taken during your session, please inquire through makaisurfclub@gmail.com

  • You can reach us anytime via our email makaisurfclub@gmail.com or call (808) 214-8034 during office hours.

    We will do our best to get back to your queries as soon as possible!

〰️〰️〰️ Best day ever!!!

〰️〰️〰️ Best day ever!!!