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{FAQs}
Gear FAQs  
What time are we picked up in Waikiki? Do I have to know how to swim?
Where is the beach located? Will I have my own instructor?
What is the average size of your classes? Do you offer classes throughout the day?
How long is the actual lesson time? What should I wear?
How big do the waves get? Can I stand in one lesson?
Are the lessons offered everyday? How should I prepare for the lesson?
I have surfed before. Do you still recommend this? What do I have to bring?
What kind of vehicle should I look for at pickup? What type of board will we be using?
Do I have to accompany my children? What type of payment do you accept?
Can I come along as an observer? Are there bathroom/shower facilities?
Can I bring my own board? Is there a cancellation policy?

 

What time are we picked up in Waikiki?
We start our pickups at 7:00 a.m. (Tour #1) and 9:30 a.m. (Tour #2) and get you back to Waikiki by 11:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. respectively.

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Do I have to know how to swim?
Being a strong swimmer is not a prerequisite, however, you should be able to at least tread water. The depth of the water ranges from 3-6 feet (the farther out you go the deeper it gets) so you will be able to stand and rest if the need arises.

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Where is the beach located?
Our beach is located approximately 30 minutes from Waikiki, on the southwest coast of O'ahu

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Will I have my own instructor?
We maintain a 3 to 1 student/teacher ratio or better, which guarantees that each student will get plenty of personal attention in the water. For private instruction, a 1 to 1 student/teacher ratio will be utilized for those who desire extra attention.

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What is the average size of your classes?
Although enrollment varies based on seasonal travelers, we average anywhere from 8 to 15 students per class. We take a maximum of 15 students per tour.

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Do you offer classes throughout the day?
Since our surfing adventure is run as a 4 and 1/2 hour "tour," we run only two classes per day. Tour #1 pickup at 7:00 a.m. and Tour #2 pickup at 9:30 a.m.

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How long is the actual lesson time?
We conduct a 45 minute beach lesson which includes a safety portion and technique portion. Once completed, we enter the water and surf for 1 hour and 15 minutes. This is more than enough time to get you surfing and really wear you out!

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What should I wear?
Wear comfortable swim shorts and tops. Each student will also be outfitted with a rash guard/surf shirt and reef walkers.

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How big do the waves get?
The waves average from knee to chest high. The reason for these gentle waves is a barrier reef 1 mile off shore which breaks down any large swell. Our beach is perfect for surfing instruction.

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Can I stand in one lesson?
If you can lie face down on the floor and get to your feet in less than 5 seconds, you can stand in one lesson. Our program is specifically designed to get the 1st timer and beginner up and riding within a very short period of time.

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Are there lessons offered everyday?
Everyday except major holidays.

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How should I prepare for the lesson?
First of all, get a good nights sleep because you will expend a lot of energy that day. Secondly, try and limit your sun exposure the day before. We will be at a beautiful secluded beach for a few hours that day. It would be a shame if sunburn prevented you from fully enjoying the area.

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I have surfed before. Do you still recommend this?
Our surfing adventure is unlike any other surfing lesson. Unless you've progressed past the beginner level and are very comfortable in the ocean, we strongly recommend our tour.

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What do I have to bring?
Bring a towel, extra change of clothes and a water bottle. Do not bring valuables like expensive jewelry since they are easily lost in the ocean and sand.

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What kind of vehicle should I look for at pickup?
We will pick you up in a white 15-passenger van with the Hawaiian Fire logo emblazoned on the side. You can't miss us. Also, if you see one van pass you by, don't worry. Another will be along shortly to get you. We have specific routes that make for quicker pickups.

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What type of board will we be using?
We only use ultra-safe soft foam/rubber surfboards. They are 10 or 11 feet in length and 4 inches thick. Their size allows for an easier time in learning the basics and are extremely fun to ride.

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Do I have to accompany my children?
No, you do not. However, we do require that a parent or guardian be there at time of pickup to sign a liability waiver. A minor will not be allowed on the tour without an adult accompanying them or a signed waiver.

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What type of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, travelers checks and major credit cards. If you plan on paying by cash or travelers check, we will need a credit card as a deposit to hold your spot at time of booking. This is only a deposit and will be discarded once payment is made.

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Can I come along as an observer?
Yes. But keep in mind that when booking people for our tour, surfers will take priority. However, we usually set aside a few seats for those who want to accompany family but do not wish to surf. The cost for this is $30 per person.

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Are there bathroom/shower facilities?
Yes. A restroom and fresh water showers are located 30 yards from the beach.

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Can I bring my own board?
No. Our passenger vans are not equipped to transport surfboards. All equipment will be provided for you, just relax and have a good time.

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Is there a cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy is as follows: You will be charged in full if you attempt to cancel your reservation within 24 hours of your lesson time.

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