Which Hawaiian island has best surfing?

Oahu is the proverbial heartbeat of surfing in Hawaii. The island's North Shore is the place to catch the perfect wave, regardless of your skill level.



People Also Ask

If you're looking for an epic, big-wave surf trip (and you've got the experience to handle it!), Oahu is probably your best bet. However, you'll find plenty of surf breaks all around Maui to enjoy for all levels of surfers.

MORE DETAILS

Located on the North Shore of Maui, Jaws is the biggest, heaviest, gnarliest wave in Hawaii. Winter storms bring waves as big as 100+ feet, creating insane conditions for the brave souls who paddle out.

MORE DETAILS

Best Neighborhood in Hawaii for Surfers
  • Paia. The North Maui community of Paia brings you close to great surfing and windsurfing. ...
  • Haiku. Also close to Peahi aka Jaws, Haiku is another great North Shore neighborhood for surfers. ...
  • Lahaina. ...
  • Kapalua.


MORE DETAILS

Because in pro surfing Hawaii is a sovereign nation, separate from the United States, and each of its citizens carries the proud suffix after his or her surname: HAW. While there is an actual reason for this designation, sometimes it does seem like a free-for-all in the global pro surfing community.

MORE DETAILS

Take A Surf Lesson If You Are A Beginner For beginners, winter is a perfect time to take surf lessons and visit the southern shores as the waves are much tamer there. Hawaii has tropical warm weather with water temperatures of 22-27ºC throughout the year. And so, you don't need a wetsuit to surf in here.

MORE DETAILS

The months between November and February are the best times to see big wave surfing. The massive waves can sometimes swell up to thirty feet or more—dangerous even for experienced surfers—so always heed warning signs.

MORE DETAILS

Most newcomers to surfing stick to the area adjacent to the Hanalei Pier. As the youngest island in the chain, Hawaii Island has fewer sandy beaches than the others and not as many established surf locations. Kahaluu Beach Park south of Kona is one of the most popular spots for surf schools and beginners on the island.

MORE DETAILS

It's generally accepted that winter is the best time of year to surf in Hawaii. From late October to early March, mighty winter storms form in the Artic send swell towards the Hawaiian island chain.

MORE DETAILS

The large waves, or swells, are typically generated in the southern hemisphere during winter, when large storms brew in the southern Pacific Ocean. The waves can travel thousands of miles, crossing the equator and eventually reaching Maui's southern shore, where it is summer.

MORE DETAILS

Big wave season in Hawai?i happens roughly between November and February on Hawai?i's north shores. You can watch surfers on every island, but some of the best surfing competitions in the world are held on O?ahu's North Shore in November and December, including the biggest them of all, the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing.

MORE DETAILS

Waves in Hawaii can include powerful surf, crushing shorebreaks and even tsunamis. These waves can create even more dangerous situations with jagged rocks and reefs, and strong currents along remote, unguarded beaches.

MORE DETAILS

Hawaii: Hawaii is often regarded as the birthplace of modern surfing, and it's a global surfing mecca. The islands offer world-class waves, warm water, and a deep historical connection to the sport. While California has its share of great surf, Hawaii remains a top-tier destination for experienced surfers.

MORE DETAILS

5 Reasons to Choose Kaua?i over the Big Island: Breathtaking scenery: Kaua?i is known for its stunning natural scenery, including lush greenery, towering waterfalls, and stunning beaches.

MORE DETAILS