Riding along the shoreline at sunset, or through majestic mountain trails, every option is a horseback riding experience that makes your Oahu trip unforgettable.
If you visit Hawaii but don't try surfing in the ocean, you've missed out on an amazing experience. Oʻahu, an island known for its beautiful beaches and perfect waves, is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to start learning how to surf. If you’ve never tried this sport before, don't worry, Hawaii offers many beaches with small, easy waves that are ideal for beginners. Don’t hesitate or be afraid because there are many people, just like you, learning to surf for the first time in Hawaii.
Below are some of the best spots in Oʻahu for beginners, where you can learn everything from the basics to more advanced techniques in a safe and comfortable environment.
Surfing Locations in Oʻahu
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is not only one of the most famous beaches in Oʻahu but also an ideal place for those wanting to start surfing. The waves at Waikiki are gentle and easy to control, which helps beginners feel more confident in balancing and controlling the board. With warm waters and calm waves, this is the perfect place to get used to the feeling of surfing without worrying too much about the strength of the waves.
Surfing is so popular at Waikiki Beach
In particular, Waikiki Beach is home to many surf schools offering lessons for beginners. The instructors here are not only highly experienced but also very dedicated, helping you quickly grasp basic skills like standing on the board, catching waves, and balancing. Additionally, the surf equipment at Waikiki is high-quality and suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to those looking to improve their abilities.
Ala Moana Bowls
Ala Moana Bowls is one of the best surf spots for beginners in Oʻahu, located near Ala Moana Park, with a convenient location and open space.
Ala Moana Bowls is one of the best surf spots for beginners in Oʻahu
Lessons at Ala Moana Bowls typically focus on helping students get comfortable with the waves, improving basic skills, and building confidence when heading out into the ocean. Students not only learn how to balance on the board but also get instructions on reading the waves, adjusting posture, and enhancing paddling skills. The instructors here are enthusiastic and experienced, helping you quickly and effectively absorb the basic techniques.
Kailua Beach
Kailua Beach, located on the eastern side of Oʻahu, is another great spot for beginners to learn surfing. Known for its soft white sand and clear waters, Kailua not only attracts visitors with its natural beauty but also serves as a perfect place to practice surfing. The waves at Kailua are gentle and steady, making it easy for beginners to practice basic skills.
If you have children, Kailua Beach is the safest choice
One of the major advantages of Kailua Beach is its peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, ideal for those new to surfing. The beach offers surf lessons organized by local surf schools, where you can learn from experienced instructors. These lessons will help you get familiar with the surfboard, learn how to control the waves, balance, and improve your paddling skills in a safe and comfortable environment.
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach, located on the northern shore of Oʻahu, is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches on the island. With gentle waves during the summer, this is an ideal place for beginners to learn surfing. The waves at Sunset Beach are consistent and easy to control during this time, making it easier to get accustomed to the surfboard and improve basic skills. The expansive beach, along with breathtaking natural scenery, provides the perfect space for practicing and relaxing.
The waves at Sunset Beach in winter will be stronger
However, one thing to note is that the waves at Sunset Beach can become powerful in the winter, when this area attracts professional surfers challenging the big waves. Therefore, if you are a beginner, be sure to take surf lessons during the summer or when the waves are light to ensure safety and have the best learning experience.
Laniakea Beach
Laniakea Beach, located on the northern shore of Oʻahu, is a beach with moderate waves, perfect for beginners to learn surfing. The waves here are not too strong but enough to help you practice and get used to the sensation of surfing.
What makes Laniakea Beach special is that it is less crowded compared to more famous spots like Waikiki, creating a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere for beginners.
Laniakea Beach is not only great for surfing but also for sightseeing
Laniakea Beach also has local surf schools that offer lessons specifically for beginners. Here, you will be guided on how to get familiar with the board, basic techniques for balancing, and how to catch waves safely and effectively. With experienced instructors, you’ll receive support to quickly improve your skills and feel more confident when surfing.
Makaha Beach
Makaha Beach, located on the western side of Oʻahu, is known for its gentle and consistent waves, making it one of the ideal spots for beginners to learn surfing. The waves at Makaha are not too strong, providing an excellent opportunity for you to get familiar with the surfboard and practice basic techniques. With its spacious environment and stable waves, it’s a great place to practice and improve your surfing skills in a safe and relaxing atmosphere.
Makaha is the choice of many beginner surfers
Makaha Beach also offers surf lessons with professional instructors who will help you get used to the surfboard, learn how to balance, and catch waves effectively. The instructors here are very dedicated and experienced, ready to support you every step of the way throughout the learning process. You’ll learn basic techniques such as standing on the board, controlling the surfboard, and reading the waves, which will help you gain more confidence when you head out into the ocean.
Beginner Surf Spots on Oʻahu North Shore
In addition to famous beaches like Sunset Beach and Laniakea, Oʻahu’s North Shore offers many other great spots for beginners to learn surfing. Beaches like Puaena Point, Chun’s Reef, and Kawela Bay offer gentle waves and a peaceful environment, ideal for those getting acquainted with the sport.
Puaena Point
Puaena Point, located near Haleʻiwa, is one of the popular beginner surf spots on Oʻahu’s North Shore. The waves here are usually light, consistent, and easy to control, making it perfect for those wanting to learn how to stand steady on the board and catch waves safely. Most surf lessons at Puaena Point focus on improving basic skills, from controlling the surfboard to reading the waves. The professional instructors here will help you learn how to balance on the board and get familiar with gentle waves, laying a solid foundation for your surfing journey.
A family with children learning to surf at Puaena Point
Chun’s Reef
Chun’s Reef, also located on the North Shore of Oʻahu, is a surf spot known for its gentle and consistent waves. This is an ideal beach for beginners, as the waves here are not too strong, making it easier for learners to get comfortable with the surfboard and improve their basic techniques. Surf lessons at Chun’s Reef are highly popular, with dedicated instructors and top-quality equipment, ensuring a safe and effective surfing experience.
The waves at Chun's Reef are gentle
Kawela Bay
Kawela Bay, located on the northeastern part of Oʻahu, is a pristine and peaceful beach, perfect for beginners to learn surfing. What makes Kawela Bay special is its relaxed atmosphere and clean environment, ideal for those wanting to learn surfing in a natural, tranquil setting. In addition to surfing, Kawela Bay is a great place to relax after training, with its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Oʻahu is a surfing paradise not only for professional surfers but also for beginners. With beaches like Waikiki, Kailua, and Sunset Beach, you'll have the opportunity to experience wonderful waves and learn from experienced instructors. Surfing in Oʻahu will definitely be a memorable experience, allowing you to not only improve your skills but also relax and enjoy the incredible natural beauty of the island.
