Best Surfing Beaches in Hawaii
3 legendary Hawaii surf beaches — from Waikiki's gentle beginner waves and Hanalei Bay's winter rolls to the awe-inspiring 30-foot swells of Waimea Bay, birthplace of big-wave surfing.
Waikiki Beach
The birthplace of modern surfing — Duke Kahanamoku's home break offers longboard-friendly Canoes and Queens breaks, dozens of surf schools, and a tradition of riding waves that dates back to Hawaiian royalty.
Waimea Bay
The most hallowed arena in big-wave surfing — home of the Eddie Aikau Invitational, held only when waves exceed 10 metres. When swells cooperate, thousands of spectators line the shore to witness surfing's greatest event.
Hanalei Bay Beach
Kauai's premier surf destination — winter swells from the north Pacific create long, well-shaped waves across the bay's 3-kilometre sweep, set against the towering Na Pali mountain backdrop that has defined paradise imagery for generations.
Beach Comparison
| Beach | Sand | Water Clarity | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waikiki Beach | Golden | Clear | ★★★★☆ |
| Waimea Bay | Golden | Clear (summer) | ★★★☆☆ |
| Hanalei Bay Beach | Golden | Clear (summer) | ★★★★☆ |