Hey there my fellow surfing enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 10 best beaches in Hawaii for surfing this year. When we were kids here in Australia, we used to wag school and watch videos of Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay.
Hawaii surfing beaches were always the mecca of surfing for us and luckily, I eventually got to stand on these hallowed beaches and watch the 2 ft waves crash in – haha. Regardless, the surf beaches of Hawaii are a must visit for many surfing fanatics around the world
- Banzai Pipeline, Oahu
- Waimea Bay, Oahu
- Sunset Beach, Oahu
- Makaha, Oahu
- Honolua Bay, Maui
- Jaws (Peahi), Maui
- Ho’okipa, Maui
- Hapuna Beach, Big Island
- Hanalei Bay, Kauai
- Diamond Head, Oahu
Map Of Hawaii’s Best Surfing Beaches
Use this map to identify the location of the best surfing beaches in Hawaii listed below:
Best Beaches in Hawaii for Surfing
As above, Hawaii is renowned for its world-class surf spots. And whilst when it comes to surfing, the word “best” can be subjective and depends on what you’re looking for (e.g., beginner waves, big wave riding, consistency etc.), here are ten of the most famous and respected surf beaches in Hawaii:
1. Banzai Pipeline, Oahu
The Banzai Pipeline, located on Oahu’s fabled North Shore and commonly referred to as “Pipeline,” is one of the most iconic and revered surf spots in the world. This beach boasts a coral reef break that produces some of the most powerful and hollow waves, leading to its reputation for both beauty and danger.
The break itself consists of several sections: the main Pipeline which is a left-hander, and Backdoor, its right-hand counterpart. These waves are renowned for their perfect barrels, where surfers can get “tubed” – riding inside the curl of the wave. However, the shallow reef and the wave’s power make it a spot for experienced surfers only as wipeouts can be perilous.
The beach is a sandy stretch making it perfect for spectators ( I stood there for hours) in the winter months (November to February) when swells can reach upwards of 20 feet or more. Nearby amenities include a range of accommodations from vacation rentals to resorts, local food trucks offering Hawaiian delicacies and small shops.
The town of Haleiwa, just a short drive away, also provides a broader range of restaurants, shops and other services. Pipeline also often hosts prestigious surf competitions like the Billabong Pipe Masters as well.
2. Waimea Bay, Oahu
The second beach on our surf watch video list was Waimea Bay. Also situated on the North Shore of Oahu, this famous surfing beach in Hawaii is renowned for its massive waves, especially during the winter months when swells can soar to over 30 feet. Expect for when I went there – of course that day as you can see in the photo below, there was no surf to speak of… haha.
Anyway, on a good day, the bay features a deep-water break, which when combined with the right swell direction, produces these towering waves that break with thunderous power. In contrast, during the summer months, the bay often transforms into a peaceful haven with calm, crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
The beach itself is a wide, golden-sand crescent, bordered by the lush Waimea Valley and its cascading waterfall. Historically, Waimea Bay was a pivotal location where big wave riding was pioneered in the 1950s, and it continues to host the prestigious Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational in memory of Eddie Aikau, a legendary Hawaiian lifeguard and surfer.
Nearby amenities include a spacious parking lot, though it can fill up quickly on big wave days, restrooms and showers. Just a short drive away is the charming town of Haleiwa offering plenty of dining options, shops, art galleries and other services as well.
Check out these: 10 Best Beaches in Hawaii for Families
3. Sunset Beach, Oahu
Sunset Beach, stretching over two miles along Oahu’s North Shore, is another Hawaiian surf spot known for its powerful waves, stunning sunsets and rich surfing heritage. The beach boasts a coral reef break that varies in intensity as it spans the length of the coast.
During the winter months, Sunset Beach becomes a magnet for surfers with waves that can reach heights of 15 to 20 feet or more. These waves are not just large, but they’re also known for their shifting peaks and long, rolling faces, making it a challenging spot even for seasoned surfers. In contrast, the summer months often bring calmer waters, making it more suitable for swimming and sunbathing. Sunset Beach is also a regular venue for world-class surfing competitions, including the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing.
As for amenities, there’s a parking lot adjacent to the beach, though it can get crowded during peak times. Restrooms and showers are available for beachgoers and nearby you’ll find a smattering of local food trucks, cafes and small shops.
The town of Haleiwa however is just a short drive south providing a broader range of restaurants, shopping and other essential services.
4. Makaha, Oahu
Unlike the more internationally recognized North Shore, Makaha, located on the West Shore of Oahu, offers a more laid-back, authentic Hawaiian beach ideal for surfing. The surf break at Makaha is versatile, with both left and right waves breaking over a coral reef. During the winter months, Makaha can produce big, powerful waves that rival those of the North Shore, making it a favorite spot for big wave riders and longboarders alike.
The inside section of the break is more mellow, often suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers as well. In addition to its surfing appeal, Makaha is also a popular spot for diving and spotting marine life, including dolphins.
As for amenities, Makaha Beach Park provides a parking lot, restrooms and showers for visitors. The immediate vicinity has a few local eateries and stores but for a broader range of services, the nearby town of Waianae offers restaurants, shop, and other conveniences.
Makaha’s significance goes beyond its waves as well as it was here that the Makaha International Surfing Championships began in the 1950s, one of the first major surf competitions in the world.
Check out these: Best Scuba Diving Spots in Hawaii
5. Honolua Bay, Maui
Ok, let’s change islands now and head to the northwest coast of Maui and Honolua Bay, which is a marine conservation district that is as renowned for its vibrant marine life as it is for its world-class surf. The surf break at Honolua is a right-hand point break that peels over a coral reef producing long, wrapping waves that can offer rides of several hundred yards when conditions align.
The wave has multiple sections, with the most coveted being “The Cave,” known for its hollow, barreling character. Winter months, particularly from November to March, bring the most consistent swells turning the bay into a playground for experienced surfers. Beyond its surf, the clear waters are a haven for snorkelers during the calmer summer months, with an abundance of tropical fish, sea turtles and coral formations as well.
As for amenities, there’s a small parking area along the road overlooking the bay which can fill up quickly, especially on good surf days. There aren’t many facilities directly at the bay, so visitors often bring their supplies however, a short drive away the Kapalua resort area offers a range of dining options, shops and other services.
Book your surfing trip to Hawaii here!
6. Jaws (Peahi), Maui
Jaws, locally known as Peahi, on the north shore of Maui, is the stuff of legends in the world of big wave surfing. This colossal wave has etched its name into surfing history as one of the most powerful and challenging breaks on the planet.
The wave at Jaws can reach staggering heights, often exceeding 60 feet, and is characterized by its ferocious energy, massive barrels and thunderous roar. The break is a deep-water reef break and due to its sheer size and power, it’s primarily a domain for tow-in surfing where surfers are towed into the wave by jet skis. However, in recent years, some daring individuals have taken to paddling into these monstrous waves, showcasing the pinnacle of human skill and bravery.
The cliff-top vantage point offers spectators a breathtaking, albeit distant, view of the awe-inspiring spectacle below. It’s worth noting that the actual beach at Jaws is rocky and not easily accessible, especially during big swells, making the cliff the preferred viewing spot.
In terms of amenities, Jaws is relatively remote. There’s no official parking lot and the dirt road leading to the overlook can be challenging for non-4WD vehicles, especially after rains. There are no facilities or shops at the site either so visitors should come prepared. However, the nearby town of Haiku provides a range of services, including eateries, stores and other conveniences.
7. Ho’okipa, Maui
Ho’okipa Beach Park, located on the north shore of Maui, is a mecca for wave enthusiasts and celebrated globally for both its surfing and windsurfing conditions. The surf break at Ho’okipa is a reef break offering multiple peaks that cater to both surfers and windsurfers alike. The waves here are consistent and can range from playful to powerful, depending on the swell and wind conditions.
Morning hours typically see surfers catching waves, while the afternoons, especially when the trade winds pick up, transform the beach into a windsurfing paradise. Ho’okipa is also a venue for various international windsurfing competitions, drawing athletes from around the world.
The beach park itself is equipped with amenities such as a paved parking lot, restrooms, showers, picnic tables and the Ho’okipa Lookout, a popular spot for spectators, photographers, and those simply wishing to soak in the panoramic ocean views. Also, just a short drive away is the town of Paia, a charming bohemian enclave known for its eclectic shops, restaurants, art galleries and a laid-back vibe.
8. Hapuna Beach, Big Island
Hapuna Beach, gracing the Kohala Coast of the Big Island, is often hailed as one of Hawaii’s finest white-sand beaches. Stretching over half a mile and framed by the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean on one side and the backdrop of volcanic rock and greenery on the other, Hapuna offers a quintessential Hawaiian beach experience. The beach boasts a sandy bottom, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors looking for a day of sun, swim, and relaxation.
During the summer months, the calm, crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling and bodyboarding. However, the winter months can bring larger swells, turning Hapuna into a playground for more experienced bodyboarders and surfers. It’s worth noting that like many Hawaiian beaches, the conditions can change rapidly, so it’s always essential to be cautious and aware of the ocean’s mood.
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area provides a host of amenities for visitors inlcuding a spacious parking lot, though it can get crowded on weekends and holidays. The park also offers picnic pavilions, restrooms, showers and even some lodging facilities in the form of A-frame cabins.
Lifeguards are typically on duty, ensuring the safety of beachgoers and nearby, the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel and its surrounding area offer dining options, shops and other services as well.
9. Hanalei Bay, Kauai
Nestled on the North Shore of Kauai, Hanalei Bay is encircled by a coral reef, creating a variety of surf breaks that cater to all levels of surfers. The center of the bay, known as “The Bowl,” is popular for its consistent waves whilst other parts of the bay offer milder waves, making it suitable for beginners as well.
Beyond its water sports allure, Hanalei Bay is a place of serene beauty and rich history with the Hanalei Pier forming a favorite spot for fishing, picnicking and simply soaking in the panoramic views. The pier and its surroundings have also been featured in various films, adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to its charm.
Amenities around Hanalei Bay include a large park area with picnic tables, a basketball court and a spacious parking lot, though it can get busy during peak times. Restrooms and showers are available for beachgoers as well.
The nearby town of Hanalei offers a delightful mix of restaurants, cafes, boutiques and art galleries with the iconic Hanalei Bridge, leading into the town, serving as a gateway to this enchanting bay and its surroundings.
10. Diamond Head, Oahu
Diamond Head, or “Le’ahi” in Hawaiian, is one of Oahu’s most iconic landmarks and whilst many recognize it for the majestic volcanic tuff cone that rises dramatically from the landscape, the area around Diamond Head also boasts a beach with a surf break that has its own unique charm.
The surf break at Diamond Head is a reef break, producing waves that are popular among longboarders and funboarders. The waves here are typically mellow and long-riding making it suitable for intermediate surfers, though the reef can be shallow at low tide. The multiple peaks along the stretch also cater to a variety of surfers, ensuring it’s seldom overly crowded.
Beyond the beach and surf, the Diamond Head State Monument offers a popular hiking trail that leads to the summit of the crater providing panoramic views of Honolulu, Waikiki and the vast Pacific Ocean. It’s a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty and history.
In terms of amenities, the immediate vicinity of Diamond Head Beach has limited facilities. However, a short drive towards Waikiki offers a huge array of options including restaurants, shops, hotels and other conveniences. There’s a parking lot near the beach, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Book your surfing trip to Hawaii here!
Best Time for Surfing in Hawaii
When planning a surfing trip to Hawaii, it’s essential to know the best time to catch the waves. Hawaii is known for its consistent surf all year round, but each season offers different wave conditions and experiences. Here are the best times to surf in Hawaii:
Winter Season
If you’re an experienced surfer looking for big waves, then the winter season is the best time to visit Hawaii. The winter season in Hawaii runs from November to February and during this time, the North Shore of Oahu experiences consistent, large waves. Waves can reach up to 50 feet high, making it a perfect spot for advanced surfers. The Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay are two of the most famous surf spots on the North Shore.
Summer Season
For beginners and intermediate surfers, the summer season is the ideal time to visit Hawaii. The summer season runs from May to Septembe, and during this time, the South Shore of Oahu offers smaller, more manageable waves. The water is also warmer, making it perfect for long surfing sessions where Waikiki Beach is a popular surf spot on the South Shore and offers beginner-friendly waves.
Spring and Fall
Spring and fall are the shoulder seasons in Hawaii and during this time,the waves are still consistent, but not as big as they are during the winter season. The water temperature is also cooler, making it ideal for those who don’t mind surfing in colder water. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, then spring and fall are the best times to visit Hawaii.
FAQs
Which Hawaiian island is known for having the best surfing?
Oahu is known for having some of the best surfing in Hawaii, particularly on the North Shore where the waves can reach heights of 30 feet or more during the winter months.
What are some of the best surf spots in Hawaii besides Waikiki?
Waikiki is a popular surf spot, but there are plenty of other great options in Hawaii. Some of the best surf spots include Sunset Beach and Pipeline on Oahu’s North Shore, Honolua Bay in Maui, and Hanalei Bay on Kauai.
Conclusion
There you have it, 10 of the best best surfing beaches Hawaii has to offer. As usual, let me know of your experiences here or if there is any other course you think I need to add.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
