About Us
Learn to surf with the best
Founded in the heart of the North Shore of Oahu DFC Surf Academy strives to create the best experiences the island has to offer. We have been teaching people how to surf since 2017, over the years it has grown to be a lifestyle. The North Shore of Oahu is such a special place we love to teach people how to surf and much more. All of our instructors grew up right here on the north shore, ensuring your in the most experienced hands. If you’re a first timer or a avid surfer its always the best fun surfing with the DFC!
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North shore Oahu is the surfing capitol of the world and Hawaii is the birth place of the sport of kings called surfing. Every instructor is well experienced and trained in lifeguard and ocean safety. Our goal is to provide a safe and fun environment for you to be comfortable in. Every lesson is a chance to share the beautiful ocean and all it has to offer with our guests in a family friendly fun activity.
We take all experience levels of swimmers and all ages. We go threw a step by step process on the beach teaching you the fundamentals of standing up on a surfboard. A simple 4 step process to ensure there is no confusion before we go into the water. Next we will teach you about water safety and general surfing etiquette along with a brief talk about the local ocean currents. We always personalize each lesson to the group that we have to ensure the best experience.
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The North Shore is the perfect learning place for begginer surfers, we teach you how to surf while teaching you how to enjoy the ocean safely. All of our instructors are happy to share the best places to eat in Historic Haleiwa town. Along with some of the best places to watch the sunset or just enjoy the beach. We can give you local knowledge that we know will enhance your vacation. We are here for more than just a surf lesson, we are here to make sure your vacation has as many pricless memories as possible.
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We are located on Oahu's North Shore which is about 40-60 minutes away from Waikiki. There is a bus route that will get you Get there. The Bus - Oahu's public transportation reaches the North Shore, and takes 1. 5-2 hours. The #52 bus departs Ala Moana Center and travels through the center of the island, ending in Haleiwa. Another route is located here. There is a direct bus departing from Alakea St + S Hotel St and arriving at Kamehameha Hwy + Pohaku Loa Way.
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Meet Our Staff
With professional instructors for a quality experience we have 99.9% success rate of getting people standing up. Whether you’ve never been in the ocean or tried to surf, we guarantee you will have a blast with us. Book your surf lesson or experience with the local surfers at the DFC surf academy today! Top ten things to do on the island of Oahu, an activity that everyone can enjoy. Always know our staff is here to help with any questions like Best surf shops, Places to eat and much more.
Braden Smith
Instructor
From the North Shore to Brasil he has surfed all over. Now this Oahu local is spreading his love for the ocean with DFC. Braden is a 4 year veteran at surfing lessons but has been surfing his whole life. Here he is at Waimea bay on a solid 10ft wave. Braden Smith also works for North Shore Shark Adventures and is a known waterman. From surfing spots like pipeline to sunset beach he is always having a good time in and out of the water.
Jacob Apilando
Lead Instructor
Jacob Apilando is a 3 time state champ shortboard division and has won many surfing contests. He is a very experienced longboard surfer and can teach you the most technical moves on a surfboard. He has been teaching surf lessons for over 5 years and is a co founder of the DFC surf academy. Born and raised on Oahu’s North shore he can get anyone up and riding on a surfboard. With a strong love for surfing, he takes teaching people how to surf with a passion. Here he is blowing out the tail on his free time. He loves to teach people how to surf and sharing his knowledge of the ocean is his passion. Learn to surf with Jacob today!
Kekua Betancourt
Owner
Kekua Betancourt founder of the DFC surfing academy and many other small businesses based out of the North Shore. A young entrepeneur who strives to create awesome experiences for locals and tourists alike. Born and raised on Oahu's North Shore he has the knowledge you need to have fun in Hawaii. Teaching peole how to surf has grown into a lifestyle and we can't wait to show you a good surfing spot near you! Learn to surf on oahu's north shore today.