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Surfboard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Surf Instructor

Koloa, HI · On-site

$1.2K - $3.0K/mo

Conduct daily surf demonstrations for resort guests and actively promote surf lessons and rentals. * Assist guests with surfboard rentals and equipment selection. * Monitor beach and ocean conditions ...

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Surfboard information

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$13

$21

$62

How much do surfboard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for surfboard in the United States is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surfboard?

Surfboards are long, narrow boards specifically designed for riding waves in the ocean. Made from materials such as polyurethane or expanded polystyrene foam and covered with fiberglass and resin, surfboards provide buoyancy and stability for surfers. There are various types of surfboards, including longboards, shortboards, and funboards, each suited for different skill levels and wave conditions. The choice of surfboard depends on the surfer’s experience, size, and the style of surfing they prefer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surfboard shaper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surfboard Shaper, you need expertise in design, hydrodynamics, and manual craftsmanship, often gained through apprenticeships or industry experience. Familiarity with shaping tools, fiberglassing techniques, and CAD software is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help shapers understand clients' needs and deliver custom boards. These skills ensure high-quality, performance-oriented surfboards that meet both functional and aesthetic demands for surfers.

What are some common challenges faced by surfboard shapers, and how can they be addressed?

Surfboard shapers often encounter challenges such as staying up-to-date with evolving design trends, meeting specific customer requests, and managing physical demands of shaping and sanding boards. Adapting to new materials and technologies is also important for creating boards that perform well in different conditions. Successful shapers continuously hone their craft, seek feedback from surfers, and collaborate with team members in workshops to refine their designs and processes.

What is the difference between Surfboard vs Surf Instructor?

AspectSurfboardSurf Instructor
Required CredentialsNo formal credentials needed, but knowledge of surf safety helpfulCertifications often required, such as lifeguard or surf instructor certifications
Work EnvironmentOn beaches, surf shops, or rental locationsOn beaches, surf schools, or training centers
Industry UsageProduct used by surfersProfessionals teaching surfing skills
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that a surfboard is a physical product used by surfers, while a surf instructor is a professional who teaches surfing skills. Surfboards are essential equipment for surfing, whereas surf instructors provide training and guidance to learners. Both are integral to the surfing industry but serve different roles.

Can surfing be a career?

Surfing as a career typically involves professional surfing, coaching, or related industries such as surfboard manufacturing and tourism. Success requires skill, dedication, sponsorships, and often competing in events, with income varying based on performance and market opportunities.
More about Surfboard jobs

What cities are hiring for Surfboard jobs?

Cities with the most Surfboard job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Surfboard jobs?

The most popular types of Surfboard jobs are:

What states have the most Surfboard jobs?

States with the most job openings for Surfboard jobs include:

Infographic showing various Surfboard job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,777 per year, or $21 per hour.

$1.2K - $3.0K/mo

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Hawaiian Style Surfing | Poipu, Kauai

Do you love surfing and want to share that passion with others?

At Hawaiian Style Surfing, we believe learning to surf should be one of the highlights of every Hawaiian vacation. Every day, we introduce guests from around the world to the thrill of catching their very first wave while providing a safe, fun, and unforgettable experience.

We're looking for energetic, patient, and safety-minded Surf Instructors who enjoy working with people, love being in the ocean, and are passionate about helping others succeed. This is much more than teaching surfing—it's about creating confidence, building memories, and representing the aloha spirit both in and out of the water.

If you're dependable, positive, and thrive in an outdoor environment, we'd love to have you join our team.

What You'll Do
  • Teach private, semiprivate, and group surf lessons for guests of all ages and experience levels.
  • Create a fun, safe, and encouraging learning environment for every student.
  • Conduct beach instruction covering surfing fundamentals, ocean awareness, surf etiquette, paddling, popup techniques, and water safety.
  • Supervise students in the water while providing individualized coaching and encouragement.
  • Organize, transport, clean, and properly store surfboards and lesson equipment.
  • Conduct daily surf demonstrations for resort guests and actively promote surf lessons and rentals.
  • Assist guests with surfboard rentals and equipment selection.
  • Monitor beach and ocean conditions while helping maintain a safe environment for students, swimmers, and beach visitors.
  • Assist neighboring resort operations when business needs require.
  • Work closely with fellow instructors and resort staff to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
  • Represent Hawaiian Style Surfing with professionalism, positivity, and aloha every day.
  • Minimum Qualifications

    Applicants must:
  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Be legally authorized to work in the United States.
  • Be able to provide documentation verifying work authorization on the first day of employment.
  • Be a strong swimmer with excellent ocean awareness and confidence in surf conditions.
  • Possess strong surfing skills and the ability to safely teach beginner surfers.
  • Hold current CPR and First Aid certification or be able to obtain certification before the first day of work.
  • Hold a valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • Be physically capable of lifting and carrying surfboards and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Be dependable, punctual, and committed to providing exceptional customer service.
  • Be available to work weekends, holidays, and peak tourism seasons.
  • Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous surf instruction experience.
  • ISA Surf Instructor Certification.
  • Lifeguard certification or professional ocean safety experience.
  • Experience teaching children and families.
  • Knowledge of Hawaiian surf etiquette, local surf breaks, tides, and ocean conditions.
  • Experience working in hospitality, tourism, recreation, or customer service.
  • Basic surfboard repair and equipment maintenance experience.
  • Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive pay based on experience and lesson volume.
  • Opportunities to earn generous gratuities.
  • Health insurance (eligible employees).
  • Employee activity benefits.
  • Consistent scheduling.
  • Yearround employment opportunities.
  • Professional, supportive team environment.
  • Opportunities for advancement and professional growth.
  • Availability Requirements

    We operate year-round and are busiest during holidays and peak tourism seasons.

    Applicants must be available to work:
  • Weekends and holidays.
  • June through September.
  • December 15 through January 15.
  • These are our busiest periods, and time-off requests during these blackout dates generally cannot be accommodated.

    Why Join Hawaiian Style Surfing?

    Every lesson is an opportunity to change someone's vacation—and sometimes their life. Whether you're helping a child stand on a surfboard for the first time or giving someone the confidence to conquer their fear of the ocean, you'll create memories that last a lifetime.

    At Hawaiian Style Surfing, we're looking for team members who are passionate about surfing, committed to safety, and genuinely enjoy helping others. If you're ready to spend your days doing what you love while sharing the aloha spirit with guests from around the world, we'd love to meet you.