Which side of Hawaii is best for surfing?

Honolii Beach Park The Island of Hawaii's best surfing spots are found on the east and west side, and Hilo's Honolii Beach Park is a classic east-side hangout. Novice wave-riders, beware; it takes an experienced surfer to navigate the rips and roiling swells.



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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.

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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.

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O?ahu is considered by many as the surfing mecca of the world. From the heavy-duty breaks located on the North Shore—which has even been given the flashy nickname of the “Seven Mile Miracle”—to the pristine fun-sized surf on O?ahu's southern shoreline, there's plenty of surf to go around.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Jaws Pe'ahi 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.

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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.

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It gets crazy crowded, and a lot of surfers in the water means more obstacles to hit and more people vying for the same wave. And it doesn't matter how good the waves are if you can't get a couple for yourself. An alternative not far from Waikiki is the surf at Diamond Head.

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The Banzai Pipeline (North Shore, Oahu) Pipeline is arguably the world's most famous and heaviest wave. A steep, intense left and right (when the sands right) it still to this day hosts the final event on the WSL tour and decides world champions.

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If it's your first time in Hawaii, your ideal island will depend on your travel style and to-do list. For most travelers visiting Hawaii for the first time, the Big Island of Hawaii should be the winner because it offers the most diverse experiences.

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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.

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With two days of travel, it is great to have 8 or more full days to explore the island you're staying on. If you are looking to hike, snorkel, or camp, we recommend taking even 14 days for your vacation.

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It may sound silly since Hawaii is synonymous with warm water surfing but it does get chilly sometimes. You won't need to pack your winter 4/3 full suit by any means but a nice 1 or 2mm wetsuit top will help keep your core warm and allow you to surf longer, especially if the trade winds start to pick up.

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