🏄 Surfing in Hawaii – Where to Find the Best Waves
We all know that surfing is the official sport of the Hawaiian Islands, right? There is no better place to head out for a session than the place where surfing was invented, and even if you are a beginner, you can learn to surf on the same breaks that the greats learned on. In spots like Waikiki Beach and the North Shore of Oahu, the best surfers in the world, and legends in the sport, honed their craft and started their lessons at young ages, taking advantage of the beautiful weather and consistent breaks. On each island, finding the legendary surf spots is a piece of cake, and if you are itching to learn to surf, you can take a surf lesson during your trip.
🌊 Hawaii Surfing at a Glance
- Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing and home to world-famous waves
- Beginners can learn at calm and protected beaches like Waikiki
- Peak big-wave season occurs in winter (Nov–Feb)
- Summer swells also bring excellent conditions across all islands
- Expert surf instructors are available year-round
🌬️ When to See Hawaii’s Biggest Waves
To figure out the best breaks to see, you just need to know which island you will be visiting. Finding Hawaii’s biggest waves typically occurs during the winter months, though summer surf swells are common and if a big swell hits the island’s shores, you are in for a real treat.
📍 Top Surf Spots on Oahu
You’ll watch in amazement at the most popular surf beaches as they are hit with big waves, rising to unimaginable heights with tiny surfers expertly riding through barrels. Oahu’s most well-known surf spots are on the North Shore and South Shore. Here are the most iconic:
- Waimea Bay – massive winter waves and legendary history
- Sunset Beach – long rides and big-wave competitions
- Banzai Pipeline – world-famous barrel waves
- Haleiwa – classic North Shore surf town break
- Waikiki Beach – gentle, beginner-friendly longboard waves
Surf lessons from local experts are especially popular in Waikiki, and you’re going to have the time of your life during your adventure in the water.
🏝️ Great Surf Spots on Neighbor Islands
There are many more incredible surf spots across the Hawaiian Islands. Some of the most exciting include:
- Jaws (Maui) – home to some of the largest waves on Earth
- Pine Trees (Big Island) – a local favorite with fun, reliable breaks
- Ho’okipa (Maui) – famous for windsurfing and strong surf
🤙 Learning to Surf in Hawaii
Hawaii is considered the mecca for surfing and visitors to all islands love to learn how to surf in the place where surfing was invented. Fear not—surfing for the first time is not dangerous. Surf lessons take place in protected coves and beaches with small waves that are perfect for first timers. After a day on the water, you’ll be hooked, and the thrill of riding your first wave will be a great memory from your trip.
Even if you don’t surf, and you are fortunate enough to watch the big waves at one of the top surf spots in Hawaii, you’ll have a great time watching the legendary breaks and the pros ride them with ease.
📞 Book Popular Surf Lessons Early
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Hawaii tours and activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.
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