Poipu Surf

Surf shop in Koloa, HI

SurfSpotGuide verified

4.1 (90 reviews)

Koloa, HI

About Poipu Surf

Poipu Surf, located in Koloa, HI, offers a well-stocked inventory ranging from modern apparel and Yeti products to surfboard rentals and lessons. Customers frequently praise the staff, noting exceptional service, knowledgeable assistance from individuals like Kai and Nino, and a genuine willingness to go above and beyond for shoppers. This shop is ideal for visitors seeking quality gear, unique souvenirs, or beginner surf instruction, benefiting from consistently friendly and helpful local expertise.

The Good

Customers consistently praise the friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable staff, frequently mentioning specific employees like Kai, Nino, Charlie, Chris, Jimmy, Jenn, and Chi for going above and beyond. The shop is well-stocked with a great variety of unique, high-quality merchandise, including modern Hawaiian styles, Yeti products, and surf gear. Rental rates are considered better than competitors, and the process is easy. Surf lessons are highly recommended, with instructors noted as fun, engaging, educational, patient, and professional. The location is convenient with easy parking.

Things to Consider

Several severe customer service complaints were reported, including employees being rude, disrespectful, and lacking the 'Aloha spirit,' particularly when handling inquiries about fins or during closing time. There were significant issues with billing errors (double charging) that the store allegedly refused to resolve, and long delays (over two months) in processing exchanges/returns, resulting in customers losing money or merchandise. Some staff members were perceived as unempowered to handle simple exchanges or as lazy/unattentive (ignoring customers who walked in).