Waikiki, located on the beautiful island of Oahu, is a legendary surfing destination with a rich history and vibrant culture. Made famous by surf icons like Duke Kahanamoku, Rabbit Kekai, and Tom Blake, the original Waikiki beach boys helped shape modern surf culture almost a century ago. Long hours spent in the surf were often capped off with ukulele jam sessions around a beach fire, where stories were shared about the day’s rides. This rich culture lives on today, welcoming a global wave of newbie surfers eager to ride the famous Waikiki waves.
Ideal Surf Conditions
Waikiki boasts ideal surf conditions, with trade winds blowing offshore 85% of the year, grooming the smooth blue tropical waters. Summer is the most consistent time for surfing, as the reefs rely on southern hemisphere swells to create perfect waves. The easy breaks at Queens, Populars, and Canoes are your best bets, with all three spots featuring soft, sloping waves that can break for up to 100 meters on the right day. However, be prepared for a flotilla of surf craft in the water, as it can get quite busy during peak summer months.
The water temperatures in Waikiki average in the 70s Fahrenheit year-round, while air temperatures range from 70 to 90 degrees. It’s warm enough for a bikini or board shorts, but the trade winds can blow hard sometimes, so you might need a light wetsuit vest or top to fend off the wind chill.
Best Surfing Spots in Waikiki
- Queens Beach: A great spot for beginners, offering gentle waves and a friendly atmosphere.
- Canoes: Known for its long, mellow rides, perfect for practicing your skills and enjoying the surf.
- Populars: Offers slightly bigger waves, suitable for surfers looking to advance their skills.
Surf Schools and Lessons
For those looking to learn or improve their surfing, Waikiki has several reputable surf schools:
- Mickey’s Surf School: This school is a great deal for the notoriously expensive sands of Waikiki, offering group beginner lessons starting at $55 per hour and private one-on-one tutorials for $75. All equipment, including boards, rash guards, and booties for coral protection, is provided. Mickey’s is also one of the few schools that accept students who don’t know how to swim.
- Pro Surf School Hawaii: Led by longboard champion Kai Sallas, this school offers personalized lessons focusing on paddling techniques, positioning, maneuvering, and stance. Waikiki can get crowded, so Kai takes his students to a less busy stretch, allowing more room to practice. Two-hour group lessons start at $89, while private lessons are available at $199.
Where to Stay in Waikiki
To make the most of your surfing experience, consider these accommodations:
- Surf n Sol: This unique option combines surf lessons with comfortable condo accommodations. Guests participate in private yoga and surf instruction while staying in a centrally located condo with full amenities. Prices start at around $100 per night, with packages varying based on accommodation type. A seven-night stay with five private surf lessons and three yoga classes averages around $2,850.
- SurfJack Hotel: A boutique hotel popular among the “see-and-be-seen” crowd, the SurfJack Hotel integrates local Honolulu artisans into its offerings. With mid-century Hawaiian design and curated local art, it provides a laid-back, modern experience. Rooms start at $187, depending on demand and season.
- Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki Hotel: This budget-friendly hotel features modern rooms and a retro vibe that captures the essence of Waikiki’s surfing history. Located near the beach and a variety of restaurants, it also offers amenities like a gym and swimming pool. Rates start at $100, making it an excellent choice for surfers.
Waikiki is a great vacation place for water sports activities. Most flight to Hawaii from Canada goes through LAX.
Waikiki surfing guide and tips prepared by Bryan Dickerson (wavepoolmag.com) for Dailystoke.com’s travel destination guides. Photo by Michael Olsen
