Discover the Top Surfing Locations in Hawai‘i

Whether you're a seasoned surfer seeking massive 20-foot waves or a beginner wanting just enough balance for a shaka photo, surfing in Hawai‘i is a year-round activity. During summer, the waves are generally smaller, perfect for newcomers, while the larger winter swells—mostly found on the north shores of O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, Maui, and the Big Island—begin in November and often last until February. These swells draw professional surfers to major competitions like the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, and Billabong Pipe Masters.

Are you ready to ride the waves? The surf is calling and the ocean invites you—check out these eight prime surfing spots in Hawai‘i.

Important: Maui and the Big Island experienced significant wildfires in August 2023. The areas are open and welcoming back respectful visitors as they continue their recovery and rebuilding efforts.

1. Waikīkī Beach, O‘ahu

Yes, it can get quite busy from mid-December to April and during the summer months. However, the stunning beach—featuring crystal-clear waters framed by the towering Honolulu skyline and the majestic Diamond Head (Lēʻahi) crater—justifies the crowds. To enhance your surfing experience here, head out during the golden hour, just before sunset, when the sky is painted in vibrant shades of orange and purple.

You can rent boards starting at $20 per hour or enroll in private or group classes (beginning at $100 for a 90-minute lesson) with Moniz Family Surf, a renowned surfing family in Hawai‘i.

2. Launiupoko Beach Park, Maui

Launiupoko Beach Park is a favored surfing destination in Maui, ideal for both novice surfers and intermediate longboarders looking to practice their nose-riding skills. The waves are rideable throughout the day, providing stunning views of Lānaʻi and the West Maui mountains. Additionally, Launiupoko features shaded trees, picnic tables, grills, and a family-friendly lagoon shielded by a rock wall.

The parking area is limited, so it's best to arrive early to secure a space. You can rent surfboards from Skim Hawaii and Island Surfboard Rentals, both of which offer delivery services in southern and western Maui. (Note: Island Surfboard Rentals does not deliver to Hana.)

3. Ukumehame Beach Park, Maui

Surfers in Maui cherish Ukumehame Beach, where nearly 1,000 people paddled out last September to honor Lāhainā and those lost in the Maui fires. Known as “Thousand Peaks,” Ukumehame Beach features a series of surf breaks with consistent waves, ideal for beginners and intermediates eager to catch numerous waves in one session. The best time to surf is in the morning before the trade winds kick in; visit between November and April for a chance to see humpback whales breaching.

The park provides a small parking area by the shore, complete with a restroom and picnic tables. The surf school Maui Surfer Girls, which is female-owned, offers surfing lessons for $99 and also hosts one-week surf camps for women.

4. Poʻipū Beach, Kaua‘i

Kaua‘i’s south shore experiences its largest waves during summer, reaching heights of 5 to 10 feet. In contrast, winter brings more manageable swells compared to the island’s north shore. The barrier reef at Poʻipū Beach softens these powerful swells, shielding surfers from high surf and rip currents, making it an ideal surf spot year-round.

For thrill-seekers seeking a challenge, the western end of the beach offers more intense waves. Rentals for epoxy boards at Nukumoi start at just $12 per hour, while Poipu Beach Surf School provides surf lessons for all levels, ranging from $75 for a 90-minute session.

5. Kalapakī Beach in Kaua‘i

Just a short walk from the Kauai Marriott Beach Resort, Kalapakī Beach features a crescent of golden sand with gentle waves, safeguarded from the open ocean by a substantial break wall. This location is perfect for longboarders, as its two- to four-foot waves break both to the left and right.

The calm waters provide an ideal environment for those looking to learn how to surf. One of the top schools in the area is Kauai Beach Boys, which has been offering lessons for over forty years, starting at $99 for a 1.5-hour session.

6. Kahalu‘u Beach, Hawai‘i Island

Kahalu‘u Beach consists of two sections: the southern part features a large reef that is ideal for snorkeling, while the northern section is more suited for surfing. The exposed reef break at Kahalu‘u produces clean, rideable waves ranging from one to three feet, consistently throughout the day. Surfers can select from various surf breaks based on their skill levels, with the northernmost peak being best for advanced surfers. The beach is also equipped with a lifeguard station, covered picnic areas, and showers.

Kahalu‘u Bay Surf & Sea is a comprehensive surf shop located just steps from the beach, offering rentals starting at $20 for two hours and group lessons from $99.

7. Kohanaiki Beach Park (also known as Pine Trees Beach), Hawai‘i Island

Before being officially designated as a park in 2013, Kohanaiki Beach was a hidden gem for Big Island surfers. Its reef break and consistent northwest swells make it a year-round destination for surfers of all abilities. Beginners should head to the bay at the southern end, where the waves are milder. Caution is advised due to the sharp reefs, which are thankfully visible through the clear emerald waters. Kohanaiki Beach is one of the rare beaches that allows overnight camping, so if you plan to stay the night, be sure to make a reservation online.

You can rent boards from Kona Boys for $39 for a full day, with their shop located about six miles south of Kohanaiki.

8. Puaʻena Point Beach Park, O‘ahu

The North Shore of O‘ahu is famous for its massive waves, reaching heights of 15 to 30 feet, particularly the steep, hollow barreling waves at ʻEhukai Beach Park, known as the “Banzai Pipeline.” However, Puaʻena Point Beach Park, located about six miles south of the Pipeline, offers more forgiving waves that are ideal for beginners throughout the year. This naturally sheltered cove features long, rideable swells, and you may even spot green sea turtles swimming nearby.

Several surf shops in the nearby town of Haleʻiwa offer board rentals, including Surf N Sea (starting at $30 per day) and Hale‘iwa Surf Shop (also from $30). For personalized lessons, consider a class with North Shore Surf Girls, a surf school owned and operated by women, featuring instructors who are former professional surfers and lifeguards. One-hour group classes begin at $66.