Aloha, Kalama Beach!

The sun was just beginning to rise over the horizon as I made my way to Kalama Beach in Kihei, Maui. The air was warm, the ocean inviting, and the promise of a perfect day of surfing hung in the salty breeze. As a seasoned surfer, I’ve had my fair share of lessons and waves, but there’s always something magical about learning in a new spot, especially one as renowned as Maui. The gentle waves and the friendly vibe of the island were calling my name, and I was ready to answer.

Upon arrival, the check-in process was seamless. The staff was welcoming and responsive, having already communicated with me over email to reschedule my lesson due to weather conditions. It was a blessing in disguise, as the surf conditions were absolutely perfect the following day. I always recommend booking lessons early in your trip to allow for such flexibility. After all, the ocean has its own schedule, and it’s best to go with the flow.

Riding the Waves with Epps

Our instructor, Epps, was a gem. His knowledge and passion for surfing were evident from the get-go. I’ve had a few lessons before, but Epps was the first instructor who managed to get me up on the board consistently. His approach was straightforward and easy to grasp, which made all the difference. We started with a brief land lesson at the park, where Epps shared insights that clicked instantly. It was like a light bulb moment, realizing what I’d been doing wrong all this time.

The group was small, just three of us, which allowed for a more personalized experience. Epps tailored his coaching to our individual skill levels, making sure we each got the most out of the lesson. In the water, he initially pushed us into the waves, offering guidance and encouragement. I found myself falling quite a bit at first, but Epps’s advice to stop overthinking was exactly what I needed. Once I let go of my analytical mind, I was up and riding, feeling the exhilaration of catching wave after wave.

Capturing the Moment

As the lesson progressed, Epps transitioned from pushing us to coaching us on when to paddle, creating a smooth learning curve that never felt overwhelming. The joy of standing up on the board and riding the waves was indescribable, a feeling that never gets old no matter how many times you’ve done it. Surfing, as I’ve often said, isn’t like riding a bike; it’s a dance with the ocean, each wave a new partner.

I decided to invest in the photo package, and it was worth every penny. The photos captured the essence of the day, the triumphs, the wipeouts, and the pure joy of being in the ocean. It’s a day I’ll remember fondly, not just for the surfing but for the camaraderie and the shared experience with fellow wave chasers. If you find yourself in Maui, I highly recommend catching some waves at Kalama Beach. It’s an experience that will leave you sun-kissed and smiling, with memories to last a lifetime.