[Surf in Hawaii] 10 Best Surf Spots in Hawaii

Hawaii is a surfing mecca. The islands’ ideal location so far from any other landmass results in truly unique wave patterns that cannot be found anywhere else. With swells suitable for beginners to professionals, Hawaii is the ideal place to catch a wave regardless of your skill level.

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Oahu

Oahu is well-known for its insane North Shore beaches and roller coasters. It’s the ultimate surfing destination, with breathtaking views and dangerous waves. The Volcom Pipe Pro surfing competition is held annually along this stunning stretch of beaches. Oahu also produces surfing legends such as Eddie Aikau and Ha’a Keaulana.

1. Ehukai Beach Park

Ehukai Beach, home to the famous Banzai Pipeline, is impressive, but it’s extremely dangerous for those unfamiliar with North Shore surfing. You might catch a glimpse of Tom Curren doing a 360 if you’re lucky.

Local attractions: A couple of surf shops, restaurants, and water adventure companies are just up the road from Ehukai.

When walking out to the beach, the pipeline is to the left. From an eastern windswell wrap to shifting western peaks, the waves have it all.

Ehukai’s shifting conditions and massive pipeline make it best suited for experienced or pro surfers.

2. Backyards

Backyards is a brutal yet rewarding stretch of reef-filled surf on Oahu’s North Shore, nestled between Sunset Beach and Velzyland.

Backyards is close to all of the classic North Shore surf shops and restaurants.

The waves are extremely fast. Keep an eye out for the shallow reef and the steep wall, which can reach heights of more than 50 feet.

Level of experience: Before tackling Backyards, you should have some solid experience. It’s best suited to experienced surfers or pros.

3. Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach is a North Shore surfing landmark. Sunset Beach, which has hosted numerous competitions in the past with notable surfers such as Johnny-Boy Gomes and Pancho Sullivan, continues to awe and amaze locals and visitors alike.

Sunset is very close to North Shore favorites such as North Shore Surf Shop.

Conditions: Watch out for rogue western waves, but there’s a reason Sunset is a fan favorite. It has lovely hollow swells from the inside bowl.

Sunset Beach, like other North Shore surf spots, is best if you have some experience and are a strong paddler.

4. Diamond Head Cliffs

Diamond Head, the famed volcano on Oahu’s south shore, dominates the horizon. Surfers of all skill levels can enjoy the waves at its base.

Diamond Head State Monument is right behind the beach, and Honolulu is just up the road.

The swells are relatively calm early in the morning and late in the afternoon, with some larger, faster moving bombs midday.

Diamond Head Cliffs is one of those rare spots that caters to both beginners and advanced surfers.

Maui

While the North Shore of Oahu is the big name in Hawaiian surfing, Maui has a few great beaches and surf spots to enjoy. Matt Kinoshita and Justin Roberson are two well-known Maui surfers.

1. Honolua Bay

Honolua is without a doubt Maui’s most popular surf spot. It’s usually crowded with both tourists and locals, so plan accordingly when you go.

The beautiful Kapalua Golf Course is just down the coast from the bay, as is the 808 Boards surf shop.

Conditions: These large swells have great barrel sections, but be wary of the sharp reef.

Experience level: This spot is best suited for advanced surfers who are willing to battle a strong current and a shallow reef line.

2. State Wayside Park of Launiupoko

Beginners unite! Launiupoko State Wayside Park is an excellent location for getting your suit wet for the first time. It’s a popular spot for beginners learning to surf.

Launiupoko is located on the west coast of the island, just down the road from Goofy Surf and Stand Up Paddle School.

Long reef waves break right and left, providing relatively consistent lines and lips.

Experience level: This surf spot is ideal for both new and experienced surfers looking for a relaxing day on the water.

3. Kalama Beach Park’s Cove

This lovely, well-protected cove provides relatively consistent and dependable swells, ideal for beginners. It’s a popular spot on the island’s western side.

The Cove is located just up the beach from Hawaiian Paddle Sports and Kalama Skate Park.

Year round, the shallow cove has low, easy-to-manage waves that break both right and left.

Experience level: The Cove is best for brand new surfers or beginners since the waves are small and the water is shallow.

Kauai

The best surfing spots on Kauai are seasonal, with the north end of the island ideal for winter and the south end ideal for summer. Andy Irons is among the top surfers from Kauai.

1. Kiahuna Beach

Kiahuna Beach is located on the south end of the island and is part of the larger Poipu Beach. Because the surf changes past the reef, it’s ideal for surfers of all skill levels.

Local attractions: With a number of restaurants, resorts, and other attractions just blocks away, there’s plenty to do after you’ve finished surfing for the day.

Conditions: Just off the beach, a large reef runs along the coastline. The waves are small and consistent between the beach and the reef, but they become more intense beyond the reef.

Experience level: Beginners should stay in the shallower areas, while advanced surfers can ride large swells past the reef.

2. Hanalei Bay

Hanalei Bay, with its varied waves, beautiful backdrop, and bay-protected wave consistency, should be at the top of your list of Kauai surf spots.

Local attractions: Several bars and restaurants are within walking distance of the large half-moon bay.

Hanalei has three distinct areas, each suitable for a different type of surfer. You can ride a variety of curls and barrels depending on where you are in the water.

Because the waves are so varied, this is an ideal spot for all levels of surfers.

3. Shipwreck Beach

Shipwreck Beach, located on the island’s south side, provides stunning views as well as some gnarly surfing opportunities.

Attractions in the area: This beach is directly in front of the opulent Grand Hyatt Hotel.

Because of its harsh, rocky terrain, Shipwreck Beach is much less crowded than some of Kauai’s other beaches. The waves are large and powerful.

Shipwreck is best for intermediate to advanced surfers who are prepared for a pounding surf.

Hawaiian surfing is nearly impossible to top. Have fun on the swells, breaks, and curls!

Topic: [Surf in Hawaii] 10 Best Surf Spots in Hawaii

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