Surfing in Hawaiʻi: History, Culture and How Visitors Can Try It
A short introduction to surfing’s Hawaiian roots, why Oʻahu is surfing’s capital, and how to try it respectfully.
Surfing
Surfing
Surfing and surf watching on Oʻahu — from beginner lessons in Waikīkī to the North Shore’s legendary winter waves.
Latest Surfing guides
Surfing on Oʻahu: Where to Learn, When to Go and Where to Watch
Where beginners learn to surf on Oʻahu, how the surf seasons work, where to watch big…
Watching Big-Wave Surf on Oʻahu’s North Shore (Safely)
When the winter swells arrive, where to watch them from the sand, and how to stay…
Place guides
North Shore Day Trip: A Realistic One-Day Loop
Haleʻiwa, the big-wave beaches and a shrimp-truck lunch in one well-paced day.
Packing for a beach day
Shade is scarce on many beaches and the sun is strong year-round.
- Mineral (non-nano zinc) sunscreen
- Quick-dry towel or sand-shedding blanket
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Insulated water bottle
- Light sun shirt or rash guard
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