Your Guide to Surfing in Waikiki: Top Beaches, Rentals & Lessons

What started as wave riding centuries ago in Polynesia has become a worldwide obsession, compelling surfers to chase waves across the globe.

While there’s no consensus as to exactly which island it began, there’s no doubt that Hawaii is its birthplace with surfing now synonymous with Waikiki.

Olympic gold-medal swimmer and the father of modern-day surfing Duke Kahanamoku hailed from Waikiki and introduced the sport to the world.

In more recent times, countless surf-curious visitors have gotten their first introduction to surfing, taking lessons here with notoriously calm conditions ideal for beginners.

While Waikiki is a great place to learn, there are also options for intermediate to advanced surfers.

Whether you’re looking to try out the sport or have plenty of experience, this guide compiled using local insight reveals the top surfing beaches in Waikiki for every level, along with where to rent your gear or take surfing lessons.

Best Surf Spots in Waikiki

Queen’s Surf

Located east of Kuhio Beach Park in the heart of Waikiki just a half-mile from Waikiki Business Plaza, ideal for guests staying at FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII HOTEL, Queen’s Surf is ideal for learning.

The waves here are typically small and consistent although long-boarders will find great waves farther out.

The closer the waves are to the shore, the better they are for beginners.

As it can be quite busy, if you’re new to the sport and see that it’s jam-packed with surfers, consider one of the other top surfing spots until you have more experience riding bigger waves.

Canoes

Canoes is another one of the top beginner-friendly surfing spots in Waikiki, and the world.

It’s straight out from the west end of Kuhio Beach Park, allowing newbies to build up time in the ocean, learning how to paddle and stand on a board.

It’s an outstanding surf break for longboarders and new surfers who can start slowly on the inside, catching the whitewater to practice standing and balancing.

Once you’ve got the hang of it you’ll be surfing among locals and visitors from around the world.

Just keep in mind that it can be quite crowded with everything from catamarans and canoes to the longboards, so you’ll need to stay aware of your surroundings.

Keep your head low if you see someone coming your way, and when in doubt, don’t paddle out.

Populars

Located behind the Moana Surfrider Hotel in front of the Duke Kahanamoku statue, Populars is a great spot for shortboard and longboard beginners.

It offers a super fun and easy wave along with the chance to spot green sea turtles.

There’s a long paddle out but that can be a big benefit as it helps you build strength and endurance while being able to avoid other surfers.

It manages to pick up a swell a bit better than Queen’s or Canoes as it’s a little more exposed, providing a good time for surfers with more experience too.

Tonggs

Nestled at the east end of Waikiki, Tonggs Beach has a sheltered break that offers a fun lefthanded wave, ideal for both shortboard and longboard surfers.

There is no beach which means you’ll need to ascend a set of stairs to access the water and paddle to the outer reef where the waves break.

As it’s a little harder to find the access point, it’s a good place to avoid the crowds while enjoying soft, sloping waves.

Publics

Those who’ve been out on a board a few times to develop some confidence for stepping up from beginner conditions should head to Publics.

If you don’t mind paddling out a little further than usual, due to the sharp coral reef, you can enjoy the smaller swells and typically more room to surf.

Due to the razor-sharp coral heads, it’s best to ride when the reef is submerged at high tide.

Diamond Head

You can enjoy a challenge for experts only at the west end of Diamond Head off Makalei Beach Park called Suicides.

It’s subject to strong currents and winds while being quite a ways from shore.

Just below the Diamond Head Lookout parking lots to the left of the channel from the beach is Cliffs which offers several peaks along the reef breaking left and right, suitable for all types of riders.

To the right of the channel is Lighthouse, for advanced surfers only.

Now that you know where to find the top surfing beaches suitable for your experience level, it’s time to learn more about the overall surfing conditions and when to go.

Waikiki Surf Conditions & Best Time to Go

Surfing conditions in Waikiki vary throughout the year, influenced by the weather and seasonal swells.

The waves will be more manageable, ideal for beginners, from May through September. This is when the smaller swells and typically lighter winds provide excellent conditions for both first-timers and casual surfers.

Winter, stretching from November through March, is the best time to go for more experienced surfers.

It provides a significant contrast to the rest of the year with larger swells that draw many to ride Waikiki’s waves.

That means it can also be crowded, particularly around the famous breaks like Queens.

No matter when you visit Waikiki, it’s a must to check the local surf reports before heading out to ensure the safest, positive surfing experience.

Ready to book that trip that includes surfing in Waikiki? Now all you’ll need to know is where to take lessons or rent a surfboard unless you plan on bringing your own.

Note: You can bring a surfboard onto your flight as checked baggage but you’ll probably have to pay an additional fee. Check the specific policy with your airline.

Surfboard Rentals & Lessons in Waikiki

Where to Rent a Surfboard in Waikiki

If you plan to take surfing lessons, there’s no need to rent a board as it will be included.

Of course, you might want to rent one after building your confidence with an instructor.

More experienced surfers will want to bring their own or rent one.

You’ll find many places to rent a surfboard in Waikiki, including:

• Hawaii Surfboard Rentals: One of the highest-rated outfitters for rentals in Waikiki, this mobile surfboard rental shop offers free delivery and pick-up at competitive prices.
• Gone Surfing Hawaii: A surfboard rental shop that also offers lessons, Gone Surfing Hawaii is located on the beachside of the Outrigger Reef Hotel providing a convenient place to rent your board with an outstanding reputation.
• Moniz Family Surf: Moniz is a family-run outfit offering friendly service, affordable prices, and an ideal location for renting your board at the Billabong flagship store across from the famous Canoes and Queen’s surfing spots.

Best Surf Schools for Beginners

• Jamie O’Brien School of Surf Waikiki: Private surfing lessons available with friendly, motivating, and patient instructors.
• Hans Hedemann Surf School Waikiki: Caters to various preferences, with semi-private and group lessons led by experienced instructors focusing on fun learning with photos to capture the moments.
• Hawaii Surf Guru: Offering private surf lessons with a Waikiki professional who can get you up on a board and riding the waves in no time.
• Stoke Drift: Founded by DLNR Certified Surf Instructors, Surf Drift offers group and private lessons with personalized instructions covering paddling, wave catching, and riding techniques.

Waikiki Surfing 101

Armed with all the knowledge you need to surf the famous beaches in Waikiki, there’s just one more thing we’d like to add for those who are new to the sport.

Don’t try it without a lesson. From varying currents to undertows and other sudden, unpredictable elements, learning the basics is a must to ensure your safety and a good time in Waikiki.