About Us
Welcome to Goofy Foot Surf School
A staple in the West Maui and Lahaina surf community, Goofy Foot Surf School has been a cornerstone of the local surf community for over 30 years. Owned by Tim Sherer and Fabio Maximino, passionate surfers with a deep connection to the ocean, our school was built on the belief that surfing should be accessible, enjoyable, and safe for everyone, regardless of age or skill level.
World Class Conditions
We teach on West Maui, one of the best places to learn in the world!
Certified Instructors
All instructors are CPR and First Aid Certified, and safety is an emphasis.
Our Guarantee
You will stand up and ride at least one wave or the next lesson is free!
Certified Instructors
All instructors are CPR and First Aid Certified, and safety is an emphasis.
Spreading the Joy of Surfing
Our mission is simple: to share the joy of surfing with as many people as possible. We believe that surfing is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life. It connects us to nature, challenges us to grow, and provides a sense of accomplishment like no other. Our goal is to provide a welcoming and supportive environment where every student can experience the thrill of catching their first wave or improving their skills.
Our Commitment to Maui
We are proud to call Maui home and are committed to preserving its natural and historic beauty. As part of our dedication to the environment, we actively engage in eco-friendly practices and community initiatives. We believe that it’s our responsibility to protect the ocean we love, and we encourage our students to do the same.
Meet Our Team
Led by owners Tim Sherer and Fabio Maximino, our experienced and passionate instructors are dedicated to making your surfing experience fun, safe, and unforgettable. Come ride the waves with the best in Maui!
Tim Sherer
Owner/Founder
Founder, resident master instructor and “stoke broker” Tim Sherer has personally taught tens of thousands of surfing students. He holds certifications from the Maui Red Cross in CPR, 1st Aid and Lifeguard Training. A formal education and a relationship with the ocean have been ongoing parts of his life since early childhood. His joy and enthusiasm for both have earned him a university degree and a resume rich with surfing experiences from around the globe.
Tim has much to offer aspiring students. His approach to teaching is very positive, patient and adaptable towards the needs of each individual. The goals and concerns of our students, their safety, fun and learning are primary priorities! If you are interested in improving your surfing skills, expanding your surfing horizons, Tim’s depth of experience and reputation in the field make him an unparalleled choice for your surfing instruction. A lesson with Tim can help you to take your skills to the next level!
Fabio brings tremendous passion to the Goofy Foot team. He shares his lessons from a lifetime of surfing around the world, a deep appreciation and respect for Hawaiian culture, and incredibly contagious positive energy with all who learn to surf with Goofy Foot- a great balance of professionalism and fun!
In addition to running the daily operations at Goofy Foot, Fabio is the owner of our sister company, We Paddle Maui. Fabio is also the founder of Capoeira Rio Maui, an avid musician and has spent many years dancing hula on stage. He is a passionate and active community member, committed to sharing tradition and aloha.
Fabio Maximino
Owner
Goofy Foot would not be what it is today without the hundreds of committed staff who make it all possible. We want to mahalo every single one of the hundreds of Goofy Foot Surf School instructors, shop, office staff, and photographers who have shared their labor of love for service to the empowerment and transformation experience of all the students who venture into the adventure of learning to surf- to you we are endlessly grateful!
Want to join the team? Connect with us here
Our Testimonials
What Our Customers Say
Surfboards Available
Surfboards Available
Happy Students
Years of Surf Instruction
Why Choose Us
When you choose Goofy Foot Surf School, you’re not just signing up for a surf lesson—you’re joining a community. Our experienced instructors bring decades of expertise to every lesson, ensuring that you receive personalized attention and guidance. We pride ourselves on our small class sizes, which allow us to focus on each student’s individual needs.
Safety is always our top priority, and we use high-quality equipment and proven teaching methods to ensure that your time in the water is both fun and secure.
Experience the Aloha Spirit
We embody the aloha spirit in everything we do. We are more than just a surf school; we are a family, and we welcome you to join us. Let’s make memories, catch some waves, and celebrate the joy of surfing together.
This was the highlight of our trip! The manager, the instructor… both wonderful! I was honestly terrified of surfing but wanted to overcome my fears and I definitely did! Such a great time, worth every penny.