Dedicated to perpetuating
the traditions of "He`e Nalu" (Surfing),
one of Hawaii's favored pastimes. ~PN
Welcome to Waiola Surf Academy, a premier Hawaiian surf school located in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii. Our expert team offers top-notch consulting and training services in vintage surfing techniques. With deep water lifeguard certification, we ensure a safe and enjoyable surfing experience. Book online for surf lessons and explore our customer testimonials, showcasing our dedication to quality and excellence in every wave.
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Reviews
About Us
“At Waiola Surf Academy, our mission is to share the true spirit of Aloha through unforgettable surf experiences that honor Hawaii’s rich heritage. We are dedicated to teaching all ages and skill levels with heart, authenticity, and a deep connection to the ocean powering each student to ride with confidence, joy, and respect for the culture that shaped surfing.”
Family Owned & Operated
Unlike many tour companies in Maui that are part of larger monopolies, we are a local, family-run business. When you choose to book with us, you are directly supporting our ‘ohana and contributing to the well-being of our island community. We take pride in offering personalized service and exclusive tours designed with care, passion, and aloha.
Meet Our Team
Waiola Elaban
Owner Operator
Waiola Surf Academy was founded by Waiola Elaban, a Maui native raised on the island’s south shore, where the ocean was more than water—it was ʻohana, healer, and teacher. With over 20 years in hospitality and surf instruction, he created the academy to uplift Hawaiian culture through the sacred practice of papa heʻe nalu, a cherished tradition passed down through generations.
Rooted in the spirit of aloha, kuleana (responsibility), and mālama i ke kai (care for the ocean), Waiola Surf Academy is more than a surf school—it is a space for cultural learning, ocean respect, and community reconnection.
Although the Lahaina fires put his original vision on hold, it did not extinguish his flame or his dream. Waiola Surf Academy is being reborn to restore a piece of Lahaina’s history, empower the next generation, and carry forward the stories and spirit of Hawaiʻi for generations to come.
Rowland Ramos Jr
Co-Owner Operator
Rowland Ramos Jr is born and raised in Kihei on the island of Maui. Rowland is embedded to the values of kuleana (responsibility) and aloha 'ãina (love for the land and sea), instilled by his grandparents and nurtured by years spent in the ocean.
He began waveriding in 2007, and the waves became both his passion and his teacher-shaping resilience, humility, and purpose. Now he envisions a future where the next generation lives in harmony with Hawaii's waters, rooted in respect, awareness, and aloha.
(808) 830-1231
615 HI-30,
Lahaina Hawaii 96793
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