Frequently Asked Questions
Before you surf, You may have some questions about our Surf School and lessons. The following are frequently asked questions and we hope it answers your inquiries.If you have any more questions, please don't hesistate to contact us.
1) Will I stand up?
2) What is included and What do I need to bring with me?
3) I am out of shape, can I still learn to surf?
4) Are there any age limits?
5) What types of lessons do you provide and how much are they?
6) How long has Hans Hedemann Surf School been in business?
7) Are your lessons for first-time surfers only?
8) How many lessons will it take me to catch my own waves?
9) Do you offer lessons in other languages?
10) Where do you teach your lessons?
Top 1) Will I stand up?
At Hans Hedemann Surf School we do a comprehensive pre-surf "land lesson" where each student goes through all the motions on how to stand up. After going through the land lesson because surfing is mainly muscle memory most people will stand up on their first few waves.
Top 2) What is included and what do I need to bring with me?
You only need to bring a towel and swim wear. The lesson includes the surfboard, lyrca surf shirt, and instructors who will provide instructions for the entire two hours. We even have a supply of sunscreen to keep you covered.
Top 3) I am out of shape, can I still learn to surf?
Our school has a variety of surfboards for different levels of surfers and sizes. We make it easy matching the board with the student depending on their individual physical conditioning.
Top 4) Are there any age limits?
We have taught surfers from age 4 all the way up to 84. And they have stood up and caught waves. As long as the student has the desire to learn, we will get them up and riding.
Top 5) What types of lessons do you provide and how much are they?
We offer 2 hour lessons three times a day at 9am, 12 noon and 3pm. Most people join a group lesson which is 3 to 4 students with one instructor. A group lesson is $75 dollars per person. We also have semi private lessons with 2 students with one instructor. A semi private lesson is $125 dollars per person. A one on one private lesson is $150 dollars. The benefit of the semi private and the private is the instructor can bring you away from the group where they can focus on just you and your surfing.
Top 6) How long has Hans Hedemann Surf School been in business?
Hans Hedemann competed on the world professional surfing tour for 17 years. After retiring in 1993, Hans opened up the surf school. The school has been going strong for over 15 years. We are the only surf school in Waikiki that is open everyday of the year and offers free hotel pick up.
Top 7) Are your lessons for first-time surfers only?
Our goal with every student is to turn them into a surfer. Some schools are satisfied with getting students to stand up once. We want everyone to experience the joy of riding waves. No matter your level of surfing, first-timer or amateur or experienced, we can cater to your skills. We also have pro surfers on staff who can work with more experienced surfers to really take their skills to the next level.
Top 8) How many lessons will it take me to catch my own waves?
During the first lesson our instructors are right there next to you to assure you catch many waves. We actually give your board a push so that you are able to match the waves speed and stand up. There are some techniques we teach to increase your paddling speed. We often have students who are able to catch their own waves during their first lesson. It is completely up to the students desire. Our instructors will provide the techniques and motivation to help you push your limits.
Top 9) Do you offer lessons in other languages?
We have instructors that can communicate fluently in Japanese, Spanish, Portuguese, French and sign language.
Top 10) Where do you teach your lessons?
The beaches in front of the Waikiki Parc have some of the best surf breaks in the world. There are four surf breaks where we can teach our lessons depending on experience and ability. We are also able to travel to many other breaks along the South Shore including Diamond Head. Our school even offers lessons and guided surf tours to the North Shore.
