Private Stand up Paddle Lesson and Tour (for 1 or more paddlers)

We booked this lesson and rental last minute. Called in the morning and was able to book at private SUP lesson for 1pm on the same day. Very convenient! Was easy to find the marked van--it was parked in front of the beach...along the water and kinda across from the restaurant. We were able to park directly beside the Rainbow van. Our instructor was friendly, patient, informative, and upbeat! (She was the owner's daughter!) While we (my 12 year old and I) have been paddleboarding before, the quick lesson on the beach was appreciated. She offered little tips and practices as we went down the river, too. Having a guide was appreciated as she showed us the way to the river via the ocean. This was great. Now, that we know the way, we would likely simply rent boards or kayaks in the future and guide ourselves. Paddleboarding down the river in Haleiwa has always been a dream of mine. So glad that I finally did it. While we only saw one turtle, the foliage and scenery was lovely. It was a peaceful trip. In areas, we enjoyed resting on the boards and floating down the river. The water was rather brackish--to be honest, I would not have liked to have fallen in! We told, though, that it was safe and clean--it is just water! We had a quick swim in the ocean upon returning to the van. A bit of a drop off as one walks in the ocean. Temperature was great, though. Our guide took photos the entire way--and Airdropped them for me at the end of the trip. For free! So great--we are still looking through them! This was a nice touch! (Notes--we took nothing on the ride. My car key was left in the van. Our flip flops were secure in the teacher's water bag. No bathroom as we were directly on the beach. Luckily, we changed and used the restroom at Dole Planation before showing up.) All in all, it was a fantastic experience!

This was my first SUP experience and also the most fun I had during my Hawaii trip. The river and nature was beautiful, saw a few turtles and other other wildlife, and Ivy the instructor was wonderful. Thank you!!

Just returned home from my solo trip to Oahu. I've been wanting to try SUP forever and signed up with Rainbow Watersports for a private lesson. Kate was my instructor and she was so great!! She knew how nervous I was and my fear of drowning (I'm not a strong swimmer). She gave perfect instructions and once we were in calmer waters I was able to stand up easily! We had a great time talking and looking at the turtles along the way. We made a quick stop to visit "Uncle" - he sells coconuts and we had some fresh coconut milk for our ride back. That was an unexpected highlight for me and a memory I will treasure forever! The second time I got up to stand was pretty effortless, as I just took my time and remembered what Kate had told me to do. The time went by so fast. THANK YOU so much again to Kate - she's a treasure! If I make it back to the island again I for sure will look to see if she's there and take another lesson! Perhaps next time a night adventure will be crossed off my list! Thank you Kate!!