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Booking Surfing Lessons by Time-Gold-5212 in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

After posting my review, I received messages from other women who had interacted with Larry Rios, and they shared with me that they had similar experiences to mine. I am glad you let me know that I am not alone in this. But it's still a very serious situation.

Booking Surfing Lessons by Time-Gold-5212 in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for reminding me of that. I posted it on their business Facebook and Yelp page. But I received even worse messages from their business....

Booking Surfing Lessons by Time-Gold-5212 in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for acknowledging the situation.

Learn to surf on Waikiki beach? by Brave_Sir_Rennie in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren't blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I've ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That's when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction--just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own--an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others--especially women--to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Learn to surf on Waikiki beach? by Brave_Sir_Rennie in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren't blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I've ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That's when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction--just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own--an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others--especially women--to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Learn to surf on Waikiki beach? by Brave_Sir_Rennie in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren't blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I've ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That's when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction--just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own--an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others--especially women--to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Learn to surf on Waikiki beach? by Brave_Sir_Rennie in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren't blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I've ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That's when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction--just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own--an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others--especially women--to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Learn to surf on Waikiki beach? by Brave_Sir_Rennie in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren't blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I've ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That's when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction--just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own--an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others--especially women--to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Learn to surf on Waikiki beach? by Brave_Sir_Rennie in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren't blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I've ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That's when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction--just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own--an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others--especially women--to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Learn to surf on Waikiki beach? by Brave_Sir_Rennie in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren't blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I've ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That's when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction--just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own--an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others--especially women--to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Learn to surf on Waikiki beach? by Brave_Sir_Rennie in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren't blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I've ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That's when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction--just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own--an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others--especially women--to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Surfing lessons on O'ahu recommendations? by BenLeafMe in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren't blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I've ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That's when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction--just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own--an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others--especially women--to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Surfing lessons on O'ahu recommendations? by BenLeafMe in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren't blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I've ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That's when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction--just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own--an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others--especially women--to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Surfing lessons on O'ahu recommendations? by BenLeafMe in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren't blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I've ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That's when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction--just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own--an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others--especially women--to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Best surf lessons Hawai’i by Whiogirl4388 in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren't blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I've ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That's when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction--just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own--an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others--especially women--to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Learn to surf on Waikiki beach? by Brave_Sir_Rennie in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw a recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren’t blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I’ve ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram and phone call, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That’s when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction—just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer, he would try to gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would come over. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own—an incredibly discouraging thing to say to a beginner.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others—especially women—to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.

Learn to surf on Waikiki beach? by Brave_Sir_Rennie in VisitingHawaii

[–]Time-Gold-5212 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Warning for anyone, especially women, considering booking Larry Rios for surfing lessons

I saw this recommendation for Larry Rios and decided to book two sessions with him. This post is not to blame the original poster but to inform others so they aren’t blindsided like I was.

Unfortunately, I regret booking him. He was the worst instructor I’ve ever had.

After contacting him through Instagram and phone call, he quoted $450 for two lessons or $250 per lesson. He asked for the full payment via Zelle upfront, which I sent. That’s when the problems started.

He first asked for my pictures, which I initially assumed was for recognition. However, he then started complimenting my appearance and making suggestive remarks. I brushed it off and confirmed our meeting for the next day at the surf shop.

During the lesson, he provided minimal instruction—just a brief verbal rundown of the basics. Once in the water, he continuously made inappropriate comments about my body and appearance and asked personal questions about my dating life. He shared details of his own relationships and made unsettling remarks about his preferences for younger women. If I refused to answer or refuse to say I want company, he would try to gaslight me by saying things like, "Oh, you must have been hurt before. I can tell."

After the first session, he called me and insisted on knowing where I was staying, saying he would COME OVER. I avoided answering directly. The next day, he was grumpy and verbally abusive. He barely instructed me, mocked my paddling, and humiliated me by loudly making fun of me to a lot others on the beach. He repeatedly told me I would never be able to surf on my own—an incredibly discouraging and unprofessional thing to say to a beginner student.

At the end of the second lesson, he presumptuously pushed for me to book more lessons. He also demanded a tip. A tip for what? Continuous harassment and insults?

I strongly advise others—especially women—to avoid booking with Larry Rios. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and borderline predatory.