Learn From People Who Know the Ocean.
At Makai Surf Club, your surf lesson is about more than standing on a board. Our instructors bring years of ocean experience, local knowledge, and a genuine passion for helping others feel confident, comfortable, and stoked in the water.
Based at Ukumehame Beach on Maui’s West Side, our team creates a supportive and personalized experience for beginners, developing surfers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy more time in the ocean.
Karlie Thoma
@karliethomaKarlie has spent her entire life in the ocean, from surfing, kiteboarding, winging, foiling, 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. Her years in the water have given her a deep understanding of ocean conditions, board sports, and what it takes to build confidence in the water.
Today, she shares that passion by teaching others, helping surfers become more comfortable in the ocean, and spreading the stoke one wave at a time.
Katie McConnell
@keiti_marKatie is a professional big wave surfer, marine biologist, and all-around ocean lover who has spent years exploring the water both above and below the surface.
She has surfed some of the world’s most powerful waves, including Nazaré, Mavericks, and Maui’s very own Pe’ahi. Her experience in challenging ocean environments has given her a deep respect for the ocean and a strong understanding of ocean awareness and safety.
When she’s not surfing, Katie spends plenty of time beneath the waves advancing ocean conservation. She loves helping surfers of all levels and backgrounds find confidence and fun in the ocean, and brings a whole lot of stoke to every session.
Ginger Prados
@gingerpradosGinger is a lifetime waterwoman, longboard surfer, and lifeguard at Maui’s Hookipa Beach. Her life revolves around the ocean and the people who enjoy it.
When she’s not out longboarding, Ginger is keeping watch over one of Maui’s most iconic breaks, bringing years of ocean safety experience and local water knowledge to every lesson she teaches.
Ginger loves sharing her passion for the ocean with students of all levels. Her friendly approach helps create an experience that feels safe, fun, welcoming, and full of aloha from the moment you arrive at the beach.
Meet Your Instructor. Catch Your Wave.
Learn to surf at Ukumehame Beach with experienced local instructors who know the ocean and love sharing the stoke.