Beginner Surf Spots in Honolulu
Honolulu, Hawaii · 3 beginner-friendly breaks
Challenging Today
1 ft · 21 mph ne · 78°F
Based on conditions at Waikiki Beach
Right Now at Waikiki Beach
1 ft
Ideal for learning
21 mph ne
Choppy - not ideal
78°F
Warm
Rising (0.9 ft)
Rising
Moderate
Moderate
Consider waiting for conditions to improve
Best Beginner Breaks in Honolulu
Best Months for Beginner Surfing
Spring
GreatMar-May
Gentle 2-8 ft waves with 75-77°F water. boardshorts conditions. Ideal for learning.
Summer
DecentJun-Aug
Mixed 3-6 ft waves — look for calmer days. 78-80°F water, boardshorts recommended.
Fall
DecentSep-Nov
Mixed 2-12 ft waves — look for calmer days. 77-80°F water, boardshorts recommended.
Winter
DecentDec-Feb
Mixed 6-15 ft waves — look for calmer days. 74-76°F water, boardshorts recommended.
Safety Tips for Honolulu
Rip Currents
Look for channels of darker, choppy water. If caught, swim parallel to shore - never fight the current.
Marine Life
Shuffle your feet when entering shallow water to avoid stingrays, especially in summer months.
Rocks & Reef
Stick to sandy beach breaks as a beginner. Check with locals or lifeguards about underwater hazards.
Etiquette
Stay on the inside as a beginner. Don't paddle into the lineup. Give right of way to surfers already riding.
Gear & Lessons
Board Guide
- Soft-top foam board, 8-9 ft for adults
- 7-8 ft for teens and smaller adults
- Avoid fiberglass boards until you can consistently pop up
Wetsuit Guide
- Check the water temperature above for today's recommendation
- Boardshorts/bikini for water above 70°F
- 3/2mm fullsuit for water below 60°F
Recent Beginner Sessions
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Frequently Asked Questions
About surfing in Honolulu
- 1-3 foot waves are ideal for beginners in Honolulu. Most beginner spots here consistently have these conditions, especially during summer months.
- It depends on the season. Water temperatures in Honolulu range throughout the year. Check the current conditions above for today's water temperature and wetsuit recommendation.
- Honolulu has multiple surf schools operating at beginner-friendly beaches. Look for schools near the top-rated beginner spots listed above.
- Summer typically offers the most beginner-friendly conditions in Honolulu with smaller, cleaner waves and warmer water. Spring and fall can also be good on smaller swell days.
- Start with a soft-top foam board, 8-9 feet long for adults. These boards provide maximum stability and are forgiving for learning. Most rental shops near Honolulu beaches carry them.
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