Last updated on February 27th, 2024 at 08:53 pm
If you plan to surf in the Big Island of Hawaii, 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 the Big Island, Hawaii.
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About Surfing in the Big Island, Hawaii
When it comes to surfing, the Big Island of Hawaii has always been in the Shade of Oahu and Maui. It doesn’t have world-famous breaks such as Pipeline or Jaws, nor the prestige and the surf tradition. And yet, those who surf in the Big Island know it is way too underrated. It offers excellent surfing beaches, year-round consistency, and high-quality waves for any skill level.
The Big Island is the largest and the most southern one of the Hawaiian Islands. Moreover, it is also the most populated one. Due to its beautiful landscape, it attracts over 1 Million tourists a year from all over the world. It is primarily famous for its high mountains, waterfalls, volcanos, and spectacular beaches. Therefore, you will find here a great abundance of hotels, restaurants, and tourist activities of all kinds.
As for the surf in the Big Island, it is much better than people think. From beginner-friendly beach breaks to punchy barreling reef breaks, here you can find it all. Just remember to respect the local surfers and follow the surf etiquette, and you can have an unforgettable surf trip.
Surf Seasons in the Big Island
Generally, you can surf the Big Island of Hawaii at any time of the year. However, for a better surfing experience, remember the following guidelines:
During winter, from November to April, the beaches facing north are the ones that get the northern swells and work best.
During summer, from May to October, the beaches facing south are the ones that get the southern swells and produce the best surf.
As for the water temperature, it ranges from 77°F (25°C) in winter to 81°F (27°C) during summer. Therefore, when surfing in the big island, there is no need for a wetsuit, maybe just a vest if you are sensitive.
Surf Spots in the Big Island
The Hawaiian landscape is famous for its diverse coastline and variety of beaches. Therefore, when surfing in the Big Island, you can find many different breaks along the coast. So, in detail, these are the most famous surf spots in the Big Island:
Pine Trees:
This spot is on the island’s west side, just north of Kona. Luckily, it is a year-round spot that produces consistent waves, regardless of the season or the swell direction. Yes, it can get crowded, and the bottom is rocky, but this right-hand reef break is considered beginner-friendly and easy to ride.
Banyans:
Just next to downtown Kona, Banyans is one of the most popular surf spots in the Big Island. Actually, it is one of the best summer spots in Hawaii. This left-hand reef break is powerful, fast, and hollow. Therefore, it is primarily suitable for advanced surfers and not for beginners.
Lymans:
This one is another excellent summer spot that picks up any southern swell. It breaks to the left side over a sharp rocky bottom and is suitable for intermediate surfers and up.
Kahalu’u:
Keep heading south and you will get to Kahalu’u, one of the most beautiful surf beaches in the Big Island. Actually, it is famous mostly for its blue lagoons and great snorkeling opportunities. As for the surf, it is ideal for beginners, especially during summertime. However, if you paddle further to the outer reef, the waves get bigger and more challenging. Watch out for the sea urchins on the reef.
Honoli’i:
Can Beginners Surf in the Big Island?
The Big Island of Hawaii offers good waves for all skill levels, including beginners. For instance, the break at Kahalu’u is mellow and suitable for those who want to learn and practice. In contrast, spots like Banyans and Honoli’i are challenging and require higher surfing skills. In short, there is a wide variety of surf spots in the Big Island to suit any surfer.
Surf Camps in the Big Island
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 the Big Island at a surf camp. These are the most recommended ones on the island:
1. FBI Surf School.
2. Kona Town Surf Adventures.
3. Aloha Surf Adventures.
For more details about surf camps in Hawaii, please click here.
Surf Hotels in the Big Island
When coming to surf in the Big Island, you obviously want to stay as close as possible to the best surf spots. So, these are some of the most recommended surf hotels on the Island:
1. Kanaloa at Kona by Castle Resorts & Hotels– Situated on an 18-acre oceanfront property, these Kona apartments boast 3 swimming pools and 2 tennis courts on site. They offer fully equipped kitchens. Kahaluu Beach Park is 1.6 km away.
2. Kona Reef Resort by Latour Group– this tropical resort features an oceanfront sun deck, swimming pool, and hot tub on the beautiful Kona coast. The shops and restaurants of downtown Kailua Kona are just 1.6 km away.
3. Grand Naniloa Hotel, a Doubletree by Hilton– Situated on the coastline of Hilo Bay, the Grand Naniloa Hilo, a DoubleTree by Hilton is 48 km from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. All rooms have free WiFi.
For more surf hotels in the Big Island check out the best deals on Booking.com.
The Big Island- Travel Information
Language– Hawaiian, English.
Population– about 200,000.
Currency– U.S dollar.
Calling code– +1 808.
Time zone– GMT -10.
Pros– great waves, beautiful nature.
Cons– too crowded.
Conclusion- A Final Few Words
To sum up, the surf in the Big Island of Hawaii is surprisingly good. At any time of the year, you can rent a board and find fun waves to ride. It is not as popular as the other Islands, but if you hang out here for a week or two, you will not want to leave.
We hope you enjoyed reading this guide to surfing in the Big Island of Hawaii. Have a great surf trip!
Finally, for other surf opportunities in the Hawaiian Archipelago, check out the island of Kauai.
