Waikiki is synonymous with surfing, a place where the sport legends have been born and where beginners can catch their first wave. This article unpacks everything you need to know, from understanding Waikiki’s unique surf breaks through to advancing your skills like a pro. We will make sure you ride the waves confidently and safely, and will provide you with practical tips, local insights, and a detailed guide to making the most of your Waikiki surfing experience.
Understanding Waikiki’s Surf Breaks
Waikiki offers a variety of surf breaks, each with its own character and suited to different skill levels. Understanding these breaks is the key to having a successful and enjoyable surfing experience.
Canoes: Arguably the most famous break in Waikiki, Canoes is known for its gentle, rolling waves that are perfect for beginners. Located right in front of the Duke Kahanamoku statue, it’s easily accessible and supervised by numerous surf schools. The waves here are generally long and slow, allowing ample time to practice popping up and riding the face. Expect a crowded lineup, especially during peak hours, but don’t let that deter you. It’s a supportive environment where everyone is learning. For an idea of Canoes’ wave conditions, you can check the Surfline forecast which updates regularly.
Queens: Adjacent to Canoes, Queens offers slightly more challenging waves. While still generally mellow, the waves at Queens tend to break a bit faster and can offer longer rides. This makes it a good step up for surfers who have mastered Canoes and are looking to improve their skills. The crowd can be significant here as well but there’s usually enough room to catch a ride. Also, waves here hold up nicely even during strong winds.
Pop’s: Located further out from the beach, Pop’s offers larger and more powerful waves. This break is best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. The paddle out can be longer, and the waves can break further out, requiring good paddling stamina and wave judgement. Pop’s can be a rewarding break for those looking to challenge themselves with larger, faster waves.
Threes: Furthest out of the most popular Waikiki breaks, Threes typically provide the biggest waves in Waikiki. This break is for experienced surfers only, often attracting the local surfers looking to catch some powerful open ocean swells. The paddle out is lengthy and the waves break hard and far from shore. Only attempt this break if you are confident in your skills. It’s located off the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
Other Breaks: Beyond these main breaks, there are several other spots like Kaisers and Publics, mostly located towards Ala Moana Beach Park. These are less consistent and often require specific swell directions to work well. They tend to attract local surfers and offer a more secluded surfing experience.
Choosing the Right Surf School and Instructor
For beginners, taking lessons from a reputable surf school is invaluable. A good instructor will teach you the fundamentals of surfing while ensuring your safety and enjoyment. With the right guidance, you’ll be up and riding in no time. Here are key things to consider when choosing a surf school:
Accreditation and Certification: Look for surf schools with certified instructors. Certifications from organizations like the International Surfing Association (ISA) indicate that instructors have undergone proper training and are qualified to teach surfing safely and effectively. You’ll also want to make sure they’re properly insured. This covers them and you in case of any accidents happening during your lesson.
Experience and Reputation: Research the surf school’s experience and reputation. Read online reviews and testimonials to get an idea of their teaching quality and customer satisfaction. Experienced instructors will have a proven track record of helping beginners learn to surf successfully.
Class Size and Instructor-to-Student Ratio: Opt for surf schools that offer small class sizes and a low instructor-to-student ratio. This ensures that you receive personalized attention and guidance from your instructor. Smaller classes allow you to ask questions, receive feedback, and improve your technique more effectively.
Equipment Quality: A good surf school will provide high-quality surfboards and equipment. Beginners should start with a soft-top surfboard, which is more buoyant and forgiving, making it easier to learn. Make sure the surfboard is the right size for your height and weight.
Location and Accessibility: Choose a surf school that operates at a suitable surf break for beginners, such as Canoes or Queens. These breaks have gentle waves and are ideal for learning the basics. Also, consider the school’s location and accessibility. Choose a school that is conveniently located near your hotel or accommodation.
Specific School Recommendations: Here are a few surf schools with excellent reputations:
- Hans Hedemann Surf School: A Waikiki institution, known for experienced instructors and a focus on safety.
- Star Beachboys: Located right on Waikiki Beach, they offer a range of lessons for all skill levels.
- Waikiki Beach Services: A long-standing company offering surf lessons and outrigger canoe rides.
Cost of Surf Lessons: Expect to pay around $80-$120 for a 2-hour group lesson in Waikiki. Private lessons will be more expensive, ranging from $150-$250 per hour. Make sure to inquire about the cost of surfboard rentals if they are not included in the lesson fee.
Essential Gear and Equipment
Having the right gear is crucial for a safe and comfortable surfing experience. While surf schools typically provide surfboards, there are other essential items you’ll need:
Surfboard: As a beginner, it’s best to start with a soft-top surfboard, also known as a foam board. These boards are more buoyant, stable, and forgiving, making it easier to paddle, catch waves, and maintain your balance. Soft-top boards also minimize the risk of injury if you fall. As you progress, you can transition to a hard-top surfboard, such as a longboard or a funboard. Your instructor can advise you on the best type of board to use as you improve.
Leash: A surfboard leash is a cord that connects your surfboard to your ankle or calf. It’s essential for safety as it prevents your surfboard from drifting away after you fall off. Make sure the leash is the correct length for your surfboard. A leash that is too short can cause the surfboard to bounce back and hit you, while a leash that is too long can create drag and make it harder to paddle.
Rash Guard or Wetsuit Top: A rash guard or wetsuit top protects your skin from the sun and chafing. The Hawaiian sun can be intense, so it’s important to wear sun protection, even on cloudy days. A rash guard also prevents your skin from rubbing against the surfboard, which can cause irritation. In cooler months (December to February), a wetsuit top can provide extra warmth.
Sunscreen: Apply a generous amount of waterproof sunscreen with a high SPF (30 or higher) to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and the back of your hands. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Look for reef-safe sunscreens that do not contain harmful chemicals that can damage coral reefs.
Water Shoes or Reef Boots: Water shoes or reef boots protect your feet from sharp rocks, coral, and sea urchins. These are especially useful if you plan to surf at breaks with rocky bottoms. They also provide extra traction on the surfboard, which can help you maintain your balance.
Hat and Sunglasses: Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun. Choose polarized sunglasses that reduce glare and provide better visibility in the water.
Towel and Change of Clothes: Don’t forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes so you can dry off and change after your surfing session.
Where to Buy Gear: You can purchase surfing gear at various surf shops in Waikiki, such as:
- Hawaiian Island Creations (HIC): A legendary surf shop with a wide selection of surfboards, apparel, and accessories.
- Quiksilver Boardriders Club: Offers a range of surfing gear, clothing, and accessories from Quiksilver and Roxy.
- Local Motion: Features a good selection of surfboards and clothing with a local vibe.
Basic Surfing Techniques for Beginners
Mastering the basics is crucial for building a solid foundation and progressing in surfing. Here are some essential techniques to focus on:
Paddling: Efficient paddling is key to catching waves and conserving energy. Lie flat on your surfboard, with your chest positioned slightly forward. Use long, smooth strokes, reaching your arms forward and pulling them back through the water. Keep your head up and look forward to spot oncoming waves. Practice paddling in calm water to improve your technique and stamina.
Popping Up: The pop-up is the transition from lying down on your surfboard to standing up. Practice the pop-up on land before attempting it in the water. Start by lying on your chest, with your hands positioned on either side of your chest. Push up with your hands and quickly bring your feet underneath you, landing in a crouched stance with your feet shoulder-width apart. Keep your eyes focused forward and maintain your balance. In the water, paddle into a wave, and as you feel the wave lift you, perform the pop-up and stand up quickly.
Stance and Balance: Your stance is crucial for maintaining balance and controlling your surfboard. Determine your natural stance (regular or goofy) by having someone gently push you forward and see which foot you naturally put forward to catch yourself. If you put your left foot forward, you’re regular; if you put your right foot forward, you’re goofy. Once you’re standing on the surfboard, keep your feet shoulder-width apart, with your knees slightly bent. Distribute your weight evenly between your feet and keep your eyes focused forward. Use your arms to maintain balance and make small adjustments as needed.
Wave Selection and Positioning: Choosing the right wave and positioning yourself correctly are essential for catching waves. Look for waves that are unbroken or just starting to break. Position yourself in the lineup where the waves are breaking, but avoid being too far inside or outside. Watch the waves and observe how they are breaking. Paddle towards the wave at an angle, and as you feel the wave lift you, paddle harder to match its speed. Timing is key to catching waves successfully.
Falling Safely: Falling is inevitable in surfing, so it’s important to learn how to fall safely to minimize the risk of injury. When you feel like you’re going to fall, try to fall away from your surfboard. Cover your head with your arms to protect yourself from the surfboard. After you fall, surface away from the breaking wave and quickly retrieve your surfboard.
Advancing Your Skills: Intermediate and Advanced Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to challenge yourself with more advanced techniques. Here are some skills to work on as you progress:
Turning: Turning allows you to control your surfboard and ride along the face of the wave. Start with basic turns by shifting your weight towards your heels or toes. To turn towards the wave (frontside turn), shift your weight towards your toes and look in the direction you want to go. To turn away from the wave (backside turn), shift your weight towards your heels and look in the direction you want to go. As you progress, you can learn more advanced turns, such as cutbacks and floaters.
Reading Waves: Being able to read waves allows you to anticipate how they will break and position yourself accordingly. Pay attention to the shape, size, and speed of the waves. Look for peaks, shoulders, and barrels. Practice reading waves from the beach before paddling out. Watch experienced surfers and observe how they position themselves and ride the waves.
Paddling Out Through the Break: Paddling out through the breaking waves can be challenging, but it’s a necessary skill for surfing further out. There are several techniques you can use to paddle out through the break, including duck diving, turtle rolling, and paddling around the break. Duck diving involves pushing the nose of your surfboard under the water and diving underneath the breaking wave. Turtle rolling involves flipping your surfboard over and holding onto it while the wave passes over you. Paddling around the break involves paddling further out to avoid the breaking waves. Choose the technique that works best for you and the conditions.
Riding Different Types of Waves: As you progress, experiment with riding different types of waves, such as point breaks, reef breaks, and beach breaks. Each type of wave has its own characteristics and challenges. Point breaks offer long, consistent rides along a rocky point. Reef breaks break over a coral reef and can produce powerful, hollow waves. Beach breaks break over a sandy bottom and are often more unpredictable.
Practicing in Different Conditions: Surfing in different conditions will help you become a more versatile and adaptable surfer. Try surfing in small waves, large waves, windy conditions, and calm conditions. Each condition presents its own challenges and opportunities for improvement. Always be aware of the conditions and your own abilities, and avoid surfing in conditions that are beyond your skill level.
Staying Safe in the Water
Safety should always be your top priority when surfing. Here are some tips for staying safe in the water:
Assess the Conditions: Before paddling out, take the time to assess the conditions. Check the surf report for wave height, swell direction, wind conditions, and tides. Observe the waves and the currents. Avoid surfing in conditions that are beyond your skill level. If you’re unsure about the conditions, ask a lifeguard or an experienced surfer for advice.
Know Your Limits: Be realistic about your abilities and avoid pushing yourself too hard. Don’t surf in conditions that are beyond your skill level. If you start to feel tired or uncomfortable, take a break. Listen to your body and don’t hesitate to paddle in if you need to.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of other surfers, swimmers, and boats. Maintain a safe distance from others and avoid dropping in on other surfers. Look out for hazards, such as rocks, coral, and marine life.
Use Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The Hawaiian sun can be intense, so it’s important to protect your skin and eyes. Reapply sunscreen frequently, especially after swimming or sweating.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially on hot days. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, muscle cramps, and dizziness. Bring a water bottle with you and drink regularly throughout your surfing session.
Know the Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the local surfing regulations and guidelines. Respect the local surfers and the environment. Follow the rules of the lineup and avoid causing any harm to the coral reefs or marine life. Check with lifeguards if there are any specific hazards or areas to avoid.
Swim Skills: Very importantly, you should practice your swimming skills. If you are not a strong swimmer, take beginner classes before attempting any surfing, as it involves being in deep waters where your feet can’t touch the ground.
Respecting the Ocean and Local Culture
Surfing is deeply intertwined with Hawaiian culture, and it’s important to respect the ocean and the local community. Here are some ways to show respect:
Learn About Hawaiian Culture: Take the time to learn about the history and significance of surfing in Hawaiian culture. Surfing originated in Hawaii and was an integral part of ancient Hawaiian society. Respect the cultural traditions and practices associated with surfing.
Respect the Ocean: The ocean is a precious resource that should be treated with respect. Avoid littering or polluting the ocean. Dispose of your trash properly and recycle whenever possible. Be mindful of your impact on the environment and avoid causing any harm to the coral reefs or marine life.
Respect Local Surfers: Local surfers often have a deep connection to the ocean and the surf breaks. Respect their knowledge and experience. Follow the rules of the lineup and avoid dropping in on other surfers. Be courteous and friendly to local surfers and show them that you appreciate their culture.
Support Local Businesses: Support local surf shops, restaurants, and businesses. By supporting the local economy, you can help preserve the Hawaiian culture and community.
Beyond Surfing: Other Activities in Waikiki
While surfing is the main attraction, Waikiki offers a wide range of other activities to enjoy. Here are some suggestions:
Diamond Head Hike: Hike to the top of Diamond Head Crater for stunning panoramic views of Waikiki and the surrounding coastline. The hike is relatively easy and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. There is a $5 entrance fee per vehicle or $1 per pedestrian.
Pearl Harbor Visit: Pay your respects to the victims of the Pearl Harbor attack and learn about this pivotal moment in history. Visit the USS Arizona Memorial, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and the USS Missouri battleship. Reservations are required for the USS Arizona Memorial.
Honolulu Zoo: Explore the Honolulu Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world. The zoo is a great place to spend a day with the family. Admission is around $19 for adults and $12 for children.
Waikiki Aquarium: Discover the marine life of Hawaii and the Pacific at the Waikiki Aquarium. See colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating creatures. Admission is about $12 for adults and $5 for children.
Shopping and Dining: Waikiki offers a wide variety of shopping and dining options. Explore the luxury boutiques at the T Galleria by DFS, or browse the local shops along Kalakaua Avenue. Sample the local cuisine at restaurants like Duke’s Waikiki or the House Without a Key.
Luau: Attend a traditional Hawaiian luau for an evening of food, music, and dance. Enjoy a feast of kalua pig, poi, and other Hawaiian delicacies while watching hula dancers and fire dancers. Popular luaus in Waikiki include the Royal Hawaiian Luau and the Polynesian Cultural Center Luau.
The Royal Hawaiian
FAQ
What is the best time of year to surf in Waikiki?
The best time to surf in Waikiki is generally during the summer months (May to September) when the waves are smaller and more consistent, making it ideal for beginners. Winter months (October to April) can bring larger swells, more suitable for experienced surfers.
Do I need to bring my own surfboard?
If you are just starting out, it’s usually easier to rent surfboards from surf schools or rental shops. These shops offer a variety of boards suitable for beginners. If you are an experienced surfer and prefer your own board, you can bring it with you, but be mindful of airline baggage fees and handling.
How much does it cost to rent a surfboard in Waikiki?
Surfboard rentals in Waikiki typically range from $15 to $30 per day, depending on the type of board and the rental shop. Some shops offer discounts for multi-day rentals.
Are there lifeguards on Waikiki Beach?
Yes, there are lifeguards stationed along Waikiki Beach, particularly in the popular surfing areas. Always surf near a lifeguard station and heed their warnings and advice.
What should I do if I see a shark?
While shark sightings are rare in Waikiki, it’s important to be aware of the possibility. If you see a shark, remain calm and slowly paddle towards the shore. Avoid splashing or making sudden movements. Report the sighting to a lifeguard or other beach official.
Can I swim in Waikiki if I don’t surf?
Yes, Waikiki Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities. Choose a spot away from the main surfing areas and be aware of the currents and waves.
References
Surfline. (n.d.). Canoes Surf Report. Retrieved from Surfline
International Surfing Association (ISA). (n.d.). Retrieved from official website
Official Waikiki Beach Website.
Honolulu Zoo Website.
Waikiki Aquarium Website.
Ready to Ride?
Waikiki awaits! You’ve got the knowledge, the tips, and the inspiration – now it’s time to dive in. Book your surf lessons, gather your gear, and prepare for unforgettable moments riding the waves. Whether you’re a complete beginner or aiming to carve like a pro, Waikiki offers an unparalleled surfing experience. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your surf adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime. Aloha and happy surfing!
