Paradise Tango
Argentine Tango classes, milongas and themed parties in Honolulu
A dance studio specializing in Argentine Tango and related styles.
Photo: Jung Sae-In via Google
Before your first class
The studio specializes in teaching absolute beginners new to tango and dancing in general, and aims to make tango accessible and welcoming to everyone.
For themed tango parties, specific attire is encouraged based on the theme (e.g.
No special shoes required for beginning classes.
Parking is available on-site in Puck's Alley (entrance on University Avenue after Betty's Burgers); first hour free, then $3 per hour, credit card only.
About this studio
Paradise Tango opened in 2012 to serve the Oahu tango community. It is run by Brett and Jenny Griswold, who have been dancing and teaching Argentine Tango together for 12 years. Both are accomplished competitors and performers: in 2010 they placed 2nd in the Stage Tango category at the US Tango Championships and competed in Buenos Aires at the World Tango Championships. They also hold two Guinness World Record accomplishments — in 2014 they danced for 38 hours and 30 minutes, and that same year they danced Argentine Tango for the full 26.2 miles of the Honolulu Marathon in 11 hours, 43 minutes and 8 seconds.
The studio offers group classes on Sundays: Beginning Tango (12:00–1:00 pm), Advanced Tango (1:00–2:00 pm, by instructor permission), and Stretching & Balance (2:15–3:15 pm). A Guided Tango Practica runs every Sunday from 12:00–3:00 pm, open to all levels with no partner required. An online Rollout class (self-myofascial release with foam rollers) runs Thursdays at 6:00–7:00 pm. Performance Tango, a choreographed group routine class, is currently on break. Women's Technique is also currently on break.
Private lessons are available one-on-one or for couples, taught by Brett, Jenny, or both. A one-on-one private with both instructors costs $120 per hour, or $550 for five lessons. For couples, the rate is $140 per hour or $650 for five. Semi-private group lessons are available for up to four couples. The studio also offers an Ultimate Argentine Tango Experience (90 minutes for $250) that includes a private lesson, tango poses for photography, champagne, chocolates, and two free passes to the weekly Paradise Milonga.
The studio hosts Paradise Milonga, a weekly tango dance party on Fridays. Themed tango parties run throughout the year with titles like Disco Fever, Witches & Warlocks, and Whiskey Tango Fall. The studio regularly hosts visiting Argentine Tango instructors and offers them free housing, car use, and advertising support. Recent visitors have included Paloma & Maxi (February 2025), Gimena & Tomas (April 2025), and Gustavo & Florencia (May 2025).
The space consists of two studios, the Parlor (432 sq ft of dance space) and the Salon (500 sq ft), both located on the second floor at 2600 S. King Street. A monthly membership (Tango Addict) costs $125 and includes unlimited Sunday classes, the weekly practica, and a $20 discount on Friday milongas.
What to expect
Your first visit
Drop in on Sunday mornings for Beginning Tango (noon–1 pm, $5 for new students, $15 for others) or stay for the Guided Practica after class. The instructors work with absolute beginners and focus on foundation movements, technique and close/open embrace. Dancers learn in a welcoming, low-pressure setting.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Brett and Jenny Griswold teach all classes. Brett trained in jazz and modern dance from age 7, studied at UC Santa Cruz, and began Argentine Tango in 2006. Jenny trained in ballet from age 7, studied ballroom dance at Rutgers and holds a PhD in Earth and Planetary Sciences. Both co-founded Tangroupe at UCSC and have performed at national events and won choreography prizes.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
The studio specializes in teaching absolute beginners new to tango and dancing in general, and aims to make tango accessible and welcoming to everyone.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
Dress code
For themed tango parties, specific attire is encouraged based on the theme (e.g. Disco Fever, pirate outfits, Halloween costumes).
What to bring
No special shoes required for beginning classes. For women's technique and themed parties, dance shoes or smooth-soled shoes (no rubber or treads) that stay on the feet well (no slip-ons, pumps without straps, or heavy platforms or boots) are encouraged. Mats are encouraged for Stretching & Balance and Rollout classes.
Studio history
Paradise Tango opened in 2012 when Brett and Jenny Griswold moved to Honolulu. Brett had established tango studios and performance troupes in Southern California. Jenny was offered an Assistant Professor position in the Department of Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Hawaii at Manoa (she is now a tenured Associate Professor and Department Chair). Together they founded Paradise Tango to serve the local tango community.
Styles offered
3 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Amenities
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Paradise Tangohasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Paradise Tango, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about Paradise Tango
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Paradise Tango teach?
Paradise Tango teaches Argentine Tango, Milonga, Vals. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Paradise Tango located?
Paradise Tango is located in Honolulu, HI. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Paradise Tango offer private lessons?
Contact Paradise Tango directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Paradise Tango teach kids and adults?
Paradise Tango welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at Paradise Tango?
The fastest path is to visit Paradise Tango via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.
Is there parking at Paradise Tango?
Parking is available on-site in Puck's Alley (entrance on University Avenue after Betty's Burgers); first hour free, then $3 per hour, credit card only. Street parking on King Street is free after 6 pm and on Sundays.