How to Surf Waves in Hawaii

Hawaii, known for lush landscapes, ample beaches and big waves, is a vacation destination suitable for everyone: from low-key vacationers to high-energy sports enthusiasts. For those seeking to surf while in Hawaii, you will have plenty of chances while on the islands, as you can find surfing opportunities throughout the majority of the state.

Things You'll Need

  • Wet suit
  • Surfboard
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Instructions

    • 1

      Practice on smaller waves to get started in the sport if you are a beginner. Intermediate surfers can surf larger waves and advanced surfers can tackle legendary surfing sports such as Diamond Head and Oahu's North Shore. Start by paddling out on the surf board, laying on your stomach. Pop up onto your feet slowly to avoid falling off. Place your feet six to 12 inches apart to find your center of gravity. Move closer to the front of the board until the board rests flat on the water. Use your arms to gain balance. Ride waves in on your stomach and begin standing up as the wave begins to crest. Surf the wave onto shore where the wave breaks.

    • 2

      Watch surfers, both advanced and professionals, by getting to a beach early in the morning to watch the surfers ride the waves. Pay attention to how they move their bodies when surfing waves. If you have the right timing, attend a surfing competition such as Van's Triple Crown of Surfing, held in Oahu's North Shore every December, to watch the world's best surfers compete.

    • 3

      Sign up for surfing lessons. Throughout Hawaii, you can hire individual surfers to teach you how to ride the waves or opt for a more formal and organized learning environment by attending sessions and classes at a surfing school. While in Hawaii visiting, you can simply ask your hotel's concierge, locals walking around or anyone on the beach for recommendations on where to find surfing lessons.

    • 4

      Make plans to be at a beach, known for having waves suitable for surfing, just as dawn breaks the morning you want to surf. Make sure to take along your wet suit, surfboard, a change of clothing and a cell phone. You should have a phone handy in case you need to call for assistance, especially if you are a novice surfer and new to surfing in Hawaii. The jagged coastline can cause surfers to become disoriented at times when viewing the coastline while riding waves in to shore.

    • 5

      Consider surfing in Waikiki to start, as the waves are shorter and not as aggressive. Make sure to use a long board to begin, as balancing on top will be easier compared to a shorter length surf board. Try different surfing spots throughout Hawaii as both your skill and comfort level increase.