Waikiki Beach, Oahu
Waikiki Beach starts at the foot of Diamond Head and stretches for 1 mile (approximately 1.6 kilometers). It attracts countless visitors every day. The gentle waves of Waikiki Beach make it one of the best places in the world to learn surfing. Surfing lessons are conducted at Ala Moana Beach with surfing instructors, where you can learn surfing techniques and understand the history of surfing in Hawaii.
North Shore of Oahu
If there is a 'perfect wave' in the world, you are very likely to find it on the North Shore of Oahu. It takes only an hour's drive from Waikiki to reach the North Shore, and the best time to watch big wave surfing is from November to February each year. These waves can reach heights of up to 30 feet (about 9 meters) and are very dangerous even for experienced surfers, so be sure to heed warning signs. During the summer (May to September), the waves subside, making the North Shore the best place for swimming and sunbathing, and even beginners can learn to 'walk on water'.
Maui Island Lahaina and Kihei
In the sunny west Maui, the surf schools in Lahaina will help surfing learners find their footing, avoid reefs, and ride the waves with ease. The waves at Launiupoko State Park, south of Lahaina, are best suited for beginners. Further south from Lahaina, the waves at Kihei Beach are also relatively small, making it a great spot for first-timers.
Kahaluu Beach Park, Big Island of Hawaii
Kahaluu Beach Park is located on the Alii Drive route south of the historic town of Kailua (Kailua-Kona). This beach is sometimes referred to as 'Turtle Beach' because Hawaiian green sea turtles are often seen here. For visitors staying in Kona, this is a popular spot to take surfing lessons when the waves are relatively calm, right near the snorkeling lagoon.
Hanalei, Kauai
The lush 'Garden Isle' of Kauai offers many opportunities to learn surfing. In winter, you can see professional surfers tackling giant waves in Hanalei Bay, while the waters closer to the shore have gentler waves, making them ideal for beginners. On the rare days when there are no waves or stormy weather, you will be taken to other nearby areas to learn surfing. In short, you can always find a suitable place to learn surfing on Kauai!
Poipu Beach Park, Kauai
If you are on the south coast of Kauai, you can also learn to surf at the sunny Poipu Beach. The 'Travel Channel' once named Poipu Beach the best beach in the United States. Nestled within the Poipu Resort, Poipu Beach is one of the most famous and safest beaches on Kauai. The beach's charming waters are greatly favored by surfers and even local marine life.
