Last updated on March 2nd, 2024 at 08:21 pm
If you plan to surf in Kauai, you came to the right place. In this surf guide, you will find all the information you need for your next surf trip, including surf seasons, surfer tips, and the best surf spots in Kauai, Hawaii.
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About Surfing in Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai is the most northern one of the Hawaiian Islands. Due to its natural beauty and magical beaches, it earned its nickname “The Garden Island”. Although it doesn’t have world-famous surf spots like its neighbor island, Oahu, this island hosts some of the best breaks in Hawaii. In fact, when surfing in Kauai, you can find incredible waves for all skill levels at any time of the year.
Just like in other Hawaiian Islands, such as Maui or the Big Island, surfing is part of the culture in Kauai. For that reason, the locals actually call it “the sport of the kings”. There is a pretty developed surf scene on the island and a huge abundance of surf schools and surf shops. In fact, throughout the years, Kauai produced some of the best pro surfers on the planet, including former world champion Andy Irons.
Surfers from all over the world come each year to surf in Kauai. Some are newbies on a surf camp, and some are experts searching for the winter’s challenging barrels of the North Shore. Therefore, regardless of your skill level, Kauai is definitely a surf paradise for any surfer.
Surf Seasons in Kauai
Like in all the Hawaiian Islands, you can surf in Kauai year-round. Just remember, the North Shore is best during winter, between November and April, and the South Shore is best in summer, between May and October.
During winter, the north swells are huge and consistent. Therefore, this season is the best time for experienced surfers to surf in Kauai. This is when the north-facing beaches produce giant waves and attract the best surfers from all over the world. The water temperature is about 73°F (23°C), and a short vest is usually enough (or a spring suit if you are sensitive).
The summertime, on the other hand, is when the south swell hits the island of Kauai. During this time of year, the waves are smaller, and therefore, it is a perfect time for beginner and intermediate surfers to explore the different surf spots in Kauai. The water temperature in summer is about 81°F (27°C), and there is no need for a wetsuit.
Surf Spots in Kauai
When surfing in Kauai, you can choose between a few types of breaks. From challenging barrels to user-friendly and mushy waves, Kauai has something for everyone. So, in detail, these are the most famous surf spots in Kauai:
Surf Spots on Kauai’s North Shore
Hanalei Bay:
This is probably the best surf spot in Kauai. Situated on the North Shore, this stunning beach receives massive north swells and produces fantastic waves with great shape. In summer, anyone can surf here, but during winter, it is pretty aggressive and suitable only for experienced surfers. Hanalei Bay offers several peaks. The best ones are the shore break in front of Princeville Resort and Tunnels Beach, which has a massive break over a shallow reef.
Kahili Beach:
Situated inside Kilauea Bay on the North Shore of Kauai, this break is also called “Rock Quarry”. Due to its remote location, it is never as crowded as the other beaches. The waves here are soft during summer but get powerful and aggressive in winter.
Anahola Bay:
Although it is located on the North Shore, this spot is actually great for beginners and intermediates who come to surf in Kauai during winter. The reason for that is the outer reef, which blocks most of the swell. The waves that make it to shore after hitting the reef are soft and mellow.
Kealia Beach:
This spot on the East Coast of Kauai offers year-round consistency. It is exposed to all swell directions, and it is very unpredictable. Due to the strong riptides and the power of the waves, this beach is recommended for advanced surfers. However, if you go to the northern part of the beach, where it is more protected by the rocks, the conditions are much more user-friendly.
Surf Spots on Kauai’s South Shore
Kalapaki Beach:
This beach in front of Marriott Resort is one of the best surf spots in Kauai for beginners. It is also popular among longboards and paddleboards. Due to the harbor wall’s protection, the conditions here are easy to handle and perfect for surf lessons.
Shipwreck:
This beach in front of Hyatt Resort is a bodyboarders’ paradise. The waves here can get very hollow and break over a shallow reef.
Kiahuna Beach:
During summer, this beach offers excellent surfing for any type of surfer. Beginners can ride small waves over a sandy bottom on the shore break, while the advanced ones can paddle out to the outer reef, where the waves are much bigger.
Kekaha Beach:
Can Beginners Surf in Kauai?
The Island of Kauai offers beautiful waves for surfers of all skill levels, including beginners. For instance, Anahola Bay on the North Shore and Kalapaki Beach on the South Shore offer mellow waves, ideal for those who want to learn and practice. In contrast, the waves on beaches like Hanalei Bay and Kekaha Beach are more challenging and require higher surfing skills. To sum up, there is a wide selection of surf spots in Kauai that suit any surfer.
Surf Camps in Kauai
If you are a beginner taking your first steps in the surfing world or even an intermediate seeking improvement, you can explore the surf beaches of Kauai at a surf camp. These are the most recommended ones on the island:
1. Kauai Surf Camp, Hanalei Bay.
2. Kauai Surf School- Surfing Lessons in Kauai.
3. Endless Summer Surf School Kauai.
4. Poipu Beach Surf School.
For more information about surf camps in Hawaii, please click here.
Surf Hotels in Kauai
When coming to surf in Kauai, you obviously want to stay as close as possible to the best waves. So, these are some of the most recommended surf hotels on the Island:
1. 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.
2. Hale Nanea home– Situated in Kilauea, within 33 km of Lydgate State Park and 45 km of Wailua Falls, Hale Nanea home offers accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a garden. The property is 13 km from Princeville Golf Club Prince Course and 35 km from Opaekaa Falls.
3. Kauai Shores Hotel– Situated in Kapaa, Kauai Shores Hotel is an oceanfront hotel with a private beach, a beachfront restaurant, and a 6-acre tropical courtyard complete with 2 outdoor pools.
For more surf hotels in Kauai, check out the best deals on Booking.com.
Kauai- Travel Information
Language– Hawaiian, English.
Population– about 75,000.
Currency– U.S dollar.
Calling code– +1 808.
Time zone– GMT -10.
Pros– great waves, incredible nature.
Cons– overcrowded.
Conclusion- A Final Few Words
In Summary, when it comes to surfing, Kauai has something for everyone. From powerful reef breaks to mellow beach breaks, anyone can enjoy this beautiful surf paradise. Therefore, if you are looking for a destination for your next surf trip, Kauai is definitely a great choice.
We hope you enjoyed reading this surf guide to Kauai. Have an awesome surf trip!
