Last updated on March 27th, 2024 at 11:14 am
If you are looking for the best surf spots in Hawaii, you came to the right place. In this surf guide to Hawaii, you will find all the information you need for your next surf trip, including travel tips, surf seasons, and the best surf beaches in Hawaii.
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About Surfing in Hawaii
Hawaii is, without a doubt, the world’s surf capital. It is the “surfing Mecca” where it all started many years ago. With all due respect to all the great surf destinations, Hawaii is the mother of surfing. To clarify, it is not just because of the perfect waves and famous surf spots in Hawaii such as Pipeline and Jaws; it is mainly because surfing is deeply rooted in the heart of this land; it is part of the tradition.
In Hawaii, everything is about and around surfing. As the birthplace of modern surfing, you will find surf shops, surf schools, and yearly international surf competitions. Most of Hawaii’s surf scene is centered in Oahu, which is considered the best surf Island out of the 8. However, on the other Islands, the surf is up and kicking just as much.
Hawaii is a U.S. state located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, right between the U.S. and Australia. In fact, it is the most isolated archipelago in the whole world. Due to its geographical characteristics, Hawaii is exposed to massive swells coming from all directions. For that reason, this “land of reef breaks”, as some surfers call it, is the ultimate surfing playground. With tropical weather year-round, crystal blue water, and incredible waves, any surfer must surf in Hawaii at least once in his lifetime.
The Best Surf Spots in Hawaii
The Hawaiian archipelago consists of 8 different Islands. However, only 4 of them are suitable for surfing, so these are the ones we will be focusing on. Each island has its own characteristics, so when surfing in Hawaii, you must choose which one suits you the most. In detail, these are the best surf spots in Hawaii:
Surf Spots in Oahu
Oahu is, without a doubt, the best surfing island in Hawaii. Actually, it is world-famous for its North Shore, which produces massive waves each winter and hosts some of the most famous surf spots in the world. Remember that Oahu’s North Shore is the professional’s playground, so spend the winter here only if you can handle the waves and the competition in the lineup. During summertime, on the other hand, beginners can surf Oahu too. So, these are the main surf spots in Oahu:
Pipeline:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- This is the most famous surf spot in Hawaii and one of the best waves in the world. Located on the North Shore, this break got its reputation for its highly challenging barrels crashing over a shallow reef with underwater caves. Pipeline is where you can meet in the lineup the best surfers on the planet. Boards break here daily, and injuries are a common thing, so this wave is definitely not a joke. Therefore, surf it only if you are at that kind of level. The lefts at Pipeline are called Banzai, and the right is called Backdoor; both require an airdrop straight into the barrel. Moreover, this beach hosts the annual “Billabong Pipe Masters Pro”, one of the most valued events in the surfing world.
Sunset Beach:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- Walk on the beach about 2 miles from Pipeline, and you will see the break of Sunset Beach. This famous big wave spot produces an average wave height of 8-12 feet and breaks to the right side.
Backyard:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- This break is known as “Sunset Beach Northern Brother”, as there is a similarity between these 2 waves. Here, you can ride an aggressive barrel over an almost exposed reef. Therefore, you need to be a professional, or just crazy, to surf it.
Waimea:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- Situated at the mouth of Waimea River, this is the most famous big wave surf spot in Hawaii. Therefore, during winter, you will see many “tow-in” surfers riding it on their “gun” surfboards.
Off the Wall:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- Another world-class wave just down the beach from Pipeline. Here, you can ride a fast barrel over a very sharp reef. Many good surfers hang out here, so this spot is always crowded.
Gas Chambers:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- Another punchy reef break on the North Shore. The waves here break to both right and left and are pretty consistent.
Haleiwa:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Intermediate to advanced.
Description- This wave is a bit mellower than the others but still very strong when the swell is big. Watch out for the strong currents on this beach.
Puaena Point:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Beginner to intermediate.
Description- Just next to Heleiwa, this spot offers a soft break and is perfect for beginners.
Chun’s:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Beginner to intermediate.
Description- Another beginner-friendly wave. Here, you can take some surf lessons and even get some pretty long rides.
Turtle Beach:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Intermediate.
Description- Also called “Laniaka Beach”, and famous for the many sea turtles that hang out here. Right in front of Turtle Bay Resort, there are some nice mellow waves.
Waikiki’s Canoes:
Break type- Reef and beach break.
Skill level- Beginner to intermediate.
Description- You will find this break on the South Shore of the Island. The waves here are calm and forgiving, which is great, mainly for longboards and paddle boards.
Diamond Head:
Break type- Reef and beach break.
Skill level- Intermediate.
Description- On this beach, you will find several different peaks from which to choose. While the best break is located at “Cliffs”, the other ones also offer some great intermediate waves.
Surf Spots in Maui
Maui is a stunning island with blue lagoons and crystal-clear water. However, it also picks up more wind than the other islands. Therefore, the best time to surf in Maui is early morning, before the wind kicks in. When all the conditions align, some of the best surf spots in Hawaii are found here. These are the main surf spots in Maui:
Jaws:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- This is definitely the most respected break in Maui. Actually, it is worldwide famous for its huge waves. During winter, this spot on the North Shore produces 10-20 foot waves, and sometimes even more. For that reason, some big-wave riders come to surf in Hawaii just for this specific wave.
Honolua Bay:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- This is probably the most popular surf spot in Maui. Although it can get crowded, the barrels here are absolutely fantastic.
Ho’okipa:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Intermediate.
Description- Even though this spot is more suitable for wind and kite surfing, you can catch some great waves here if you wake up early in the morning.
Ma’alaea:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Intermediate to advanced.
Description- Located on the South Shore, this is a perfect summer spot. Just next to the harbor wall, you can expect some super-fast rides.
Launiupoko:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Beginner to intermediate.
Description- Here, you will find long and mellow waves breaking over a forgiving reef. Therefore, this spot is excellent for beginners and intermediates.
Kihei Cove:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Beginner to intermediate.
Description- Longboards and paddleboards love this spot. Actually, on a good day, you can get extremely long rides here. Super fun break.
Lahaina:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- All levels.
Description- As one of the most consistent spots on the island, you can surf here even when the swell is tiny. This wave suits any skill level; just be aware of the reef during low tide.
Surf Spots in Kauai
This is the most northern one of the Hawaiian Islands. Due to its natural beauty, it is also known as “the Garden Island”. As for the surf, Kauai offers good conditions year-round. In fact, the reason surfers love it so much is that the waves tend to come in sets. Therefore, you can sit on your board for minutes and feel like you are in the middle of a pool, then a 3-5 wave set comes, and then it is quiet again.
These are the main surf spots in Kauai:
Hanalei Bay:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- All levels.
Description- Situated on the North Shore, this is probably the best spot on the island. It is a stunning-looking bay that offers consistent waves for all skill levels.
Kealia:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- On the eastern part of the island, this spot is suitable for advanced surfers and performs well even on the smallest days.
Kiahuna Beach:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- All levels.
Description- You will find this break on the southern part of the island. This wave is suitable for any surfer, and it is very popular during summer.
Shipwreck:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- Just in front of Grand Hyatt Resort, this wave breaks over a sharp reef and is the favorite among the boogie boarders.
Kalapaki Beach:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Beginner to intermediate.
Description- On the Eastern Shore, this is a soft wave with a mellow break. For that reason, Longboards and paddle boards love this spot.
Surf Spots on Hawaii’s Big Island
As revealed by its name, this is the biggest one of the Hawaiian Islands and also the most southern one. Due to its location, it doesn’t get much of the north swell, as the other Islands block it. However, the south swell hits the shore with a perfect angle and turns this island into a great summer destination.
In detail, these are the main surf spots on Hawaii’s Big Island:
Kahaluu Beach:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Beginner.
Description- This is a typical beginner’s spot and a great place to take some surf lessons.
Pine Trees:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- All levels.
Description- No, there are no pine trees here. However, there is a beautiful bay with great waves for all skill levels.
Honolii Beach Park:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- Situated on the East Coast, this is a very consistent spot with a powerful break. Therefore, you will see mainly locals and advanced surfers in the lineup.
If you are new to surfing and looking for beginner waves, check out our post about the best beginner surf beaches in Hawaii.
Surf Seasons in Hawaii
Luckily, you can surf in Hawaii 365 days a year. Since it is an archipelago, with 8 different Islands facing all directions, some beaches always pick up the swell. However, there are 2 major surf seasons in Hawaii.
The winter, between November and April, is the time to surf the Northern Shores. This season is the best time to surf in Hawaii due to huge swells and excellent consistency. Actually, it is also the rainy and windy season, but some beaches are more protected than others. If you are after big waves and massive barrels, this is the perfect time for you to surf in Hawaii.
The summer, between May and October, is when the Southern beaches receive all the swell. This time of the year is also the dry season, and even though the waves are smaller than in winter, the surf conditions are still super fun.
As for the weather in Hawaii, it is always warm and tropical. Moreover, the water temp ranges from 22°C (72°F) in winter to 27°C (82°F) in summer. Therefore, no wetsuit is required (maybe a vest in winter if you are sensitive).
Surf Camps in Hawaii
If you are a beginner making his first steps in the surfing world, the best way to explore the surf beaches of Hawaii is at a surf camp. So, these are the most recommended surf camps in Hawaii:
1. Pata Sudaka Surf Camp, Oahu– Only 5 minutes away from Haleiwa town and surrounded by stunning nature, this is a perfect getaway where you can relax, travel, and learn to surf.
For more details about surf camps in Oahu, please click here.
2. Ty Gurney Surf School– Situated in the heart of Waikiki, Ty Gurney Surf School is one of Oahu’s premier locations for surf lessons, surf tours, and rentals for all ages and surf abilities.
For more information about surf camps in the Hawaiian Islands, please click here.
3. Maui Wave Riders– This family-owned and operated business provides surfing lessons to each student with a fun, safe, and professional attitude.
For more information about surf camps in Hawaii, please click here.
Surf Hotels in Hawaii
When coming to surf in Hawaii, you want to stay as close as possible to the best surf spots. So, these are some of the most recommended surf hotels in the Hawaiian Islands:
1. The Twin Fin Hotel, Oahu– The Twin Fin Hotel is steps from Waikiki Beach and adjacent to the Honolulu Zoo. It features an on-site restaurant, poolside bar, and spacious guest rooms with a private balcony.
2. Kalani Hawaii Private Lodging– Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Kalani Hawaii Private Lodging offers accommodation in Pupukea. Banzai Pipeline is 1.2 km away. Free WiFi is available throughout the property, and free private parking is available on-site.
3. Hanalei Colony Resort– Located on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, this beachfront resort features a restaurant and bar. Free WiFi is available in all apartments.
For more surf hotels in Hawaii, check out our post about the best surf resorts in Hawaii, or simply look for deals on Booking.com.
What Skill Level is Required to Surf in Hawaii
There is an outstanding selection of surf spots in Hawaii. Although most breaks are challenging, there are beginner-friendly ones, too, so surfers of all levels can find waves that suit their skills. For instance, beginners can surf mellow waves in spots like Kahaluu Beach. Intermediate surfers, though, will find more challenging waves in spots like Chun’s Reef or Turtle Beach. And finally, if you are an advanced surfer, you can ride massive barrels at Pipeline or Sunset Beach.
Which Hawaiian Island is Best to Stay At
On a surf trip, it is best to focus on one area to spend more time surfing and less traveling. However, there are many great surf beaches in Hawaii, and sometimes, it can be hard to choose where to stay. Each one of the islands offers fantastic surf conditions, so at the end of the day, it is a matter of personal preference. These are your best options:
1. North Shore, Oahu– If you are an advanced surfer, this is where you will find the best surf spots in Hawaii during winter.
2. South Shore, Oahu– The Waikiki area is full of great surf beaches, including for beginners. This is a fantastic location for a summer surf vacation.
3. North Shore, Maui– In winter, Honolua Bay, Jaws, and Ho’okipa are great for advanced surfers.
4. South Shore, Maui– Lahaina and Ma’alaea produce amazing summer waves.
5. Kauai– Whether you go to the North Shore in winter or to the South one in summer, you will score beautiful waves.
6. The Big Island– Although it is not as good as the other islands, you can still find decent surf here, especially in Kahalu’u Beach and Pine Trees during summer.
Hawaii– Travel Information
Language– English, Hawaiian.
Population– about 1.5 Million.
Currency– U.S dollar.
Calling code– +1 808.
Time zone– GMT -10.
Pros– consistent swells, big waves, warm water.
Cons– crowded as hell.
Conclusion- Final Thought
To sum up, if you want a piece of the world’s surf capital, surfing in Hawaii will give you just that. These beautiful “Aloha” Islands embraced surfing as part of their tradition. With huge swells and great barrels, any surfer can feel at home in Hawaii. We hope you enjoyed reading this guide to the best surf spots in Hawaii. Have a great surf trip!
Finally, if you are looking for other surf destinations in the Pacific Ocean, check out Fiji and Tahiti, where the waves are no less than perfect.
