Though now considered recreational pastimes, ancient Hawaiians used surfing to communicate with the gods and inner tubing to taunt demons. Speak to the spirits with today's Groupon: for $79, you get semiprivate surf lesson for two (a $220 value) at Surf Lessons Newport Beach.

Riding the roaring waves of Orange County's undulating beaches, Surf Lessons Newport Beach seduces water-whisperers with stirring instruction from expert wave-runners. The semiprivate lesson equips a twosome of beginner or intermediate crescendo-crashers with boards and wetsuits before divulging a water-safety training that includes tips on how to best evade breaker bears while wearing honey-soaked swim trunks. After a paddling demonstration, former Hawaii State Surf Champion Sean Louden imparts wisdom on wave etiquette, style, and technique then guides students into the water for some watertop coaching. Once the 1.5-hour lesson has finished, you'll feel confident in your skills to hang loose, go turtle, and midwife water births.