Best Oahu Beaches for Beginner Surfers

Surfing has been a big part of Hawaii’s culture for centuries. In this article, we'll share some of the best Oahu beaches for beginner surfers because it’s never too late to start!

After all, surfing is a fun activity that not only challenges you physically but also mentally.

By the way…

If you’re interested in more than surfing while you’re visiting Oahu, I invite you to check out our Shaka Guide audio tours.

They’ll guide you all over this magnificent island showing you some sweet expert and beginner surfer spots as well as other attractions too.

Now let’s get to it, shall we?

Where Did Surfing Get Its Start?

Did you know surfing originated in Polynesia? It doesn’t come as a surprise, really. In Hawaiian, surfing is called “He Nalu”, which literally means “to slide on waves”.

The art was perfected in ancient Hawaii, back in the 8th century. Both men and women took part to the activity, and their mastery of waves astonished the first Englishmen who set foot on the island, in the 18th century.

After more and more Westerners started moving to Hawaii, the tradition of surfing came under attack. Many of it saw it as a sign of immodesty.

What was so immodest about surfing?

Well, everyone surfed topless back then, including the women.

And, as you can imagine, it didn’t sit well with the missionaries’ conservative views.

Surfing became even more rare when diseases such as smallpox and measles killed more than 85% of the native population.

In fact, for a hundred years, this ancient and beautiful tradition died.

That is until the 20th century…

You see, when Hawaii turned into a popular tourist destination, everyone who visited the island was fascinated by the idea of riding the waves and practicing the “Sport of Kings”, as they called it.

surfers surfing in oahu Surfing during the south swell | Photo by Daniel Ramirez, CC BY 2.0, via Flickr

The Best Oahu Surf Spots For Beginners

As you probably know already, Oahu Island is the home to countless mesmerizing beaches. A lot of them make for perfect surfing spots.

Plus, they have surfing schools around for beginners who want to try out surfing on this legendary island.

Laie Beach Park

Also nicknamed Pounders’ Beach by the locals, Laie Beach Park offers a fun and enjoyable surfing experience for everyone.

It’s a looker too, with its white sand and turquoise water. Known for its year-round high waves,

Laie Beach Park is a great place to practice your surfing skills, especially during the winter season.

If you’re a beginner surfer who’s never tried the sport before, I recommend checking out some of the surf schools around the beach, such as North Shore Surf Lessons or Uncle Bryan’s Sunset Suratt Surf Academy.

family practicing surfing via Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach may be one of the most well-known beaches in the world, but did you know it's also one of the best beaches on Oahu for beginner surfers?

This long stretch of golden sand and gentle waves is the perfect surfing spot all year round.

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You can rent beginner-friendly foam longboards there, and try your chances with the waves.

As a staple of the island’s cultural and athletic history, Waikiki Beach is what I call a surfer’s paradise.

(And don’t miss out on the panoramic view of Oahu’s landscape while you’re there!)

Check out Moku Surf Shop or Ty Gurney Surf School for lessons.

sea coast Photo by Alicia0928 CC BY 2.0 via Flickr

Diamond Head

Diamond Head is the perfect beach for beginners. The waves are long and mellow, which will give you a relaxing and stress-free experience as someone who just started surfing. The aesthetics aren’t half bad either!

Check out some Mickey’s Surf Schools there and get ready to have some fun!

Where To Spot The Pro Surfers In Oahu

If you’re more of a watcher and less of a practitioner of the art, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

big waves with surfers riding on the beach

Banzai Pipeline Beach

This is a legendary surf beach, also known as Ehukai Beach. Famous for its waves that curl like a pipe, the local surfers decided to rename it the Banzai Pipeline Beach.

This is one of the deadliest surf beaches in the world. Yet, every winter, hundreds of professional surfers from all over the world flock there to surf their hearts out.

So, if you want to see some of the best in the world in the midst of real hardcore action, head to Pipeline.

Waimea Bay Beach Park

Another beach where you can spot experienced surfers taking on huge 30-foot waves is Waimea Beach Park.

Deemed for experts only, it can be quite dangerous, especially during the winter.

If you’re there during the summer months though, you can enjoy its mellow waters and go for a swim.

Sunset Beach

As its name suggests, Sunset Beach has some incredibly beautiful sunsets that will leave you in awe. But, it’s also famous for its surf scene.

Situated on the North Shore, this spot is definitely worth visiting -- especially if you’re a surfing enthusiast.

family sitting on the yellow surferboard Ben Ono via Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)

Surfing In Oahu – FAQ

Are there prerequisites for taking a surfing lesson?

You don’t need to have experience to take surfing lessons in Oahu. You can find lessons for beginners just about everywhere on the island.

Don’t have a surfboard?

No worries! You can just rent them at the surfing school.

Can young children take surfing lessons?

Absolutely! Some schools require them to take a one-on-one lesson or to be accompanied by an adult. But yes, everyone can learn how to surf, even kids.

Is it okay to surf if I don’t know how to swim?

Most surfing schools can provide you with life jackets. Still, it’s always a plus to learn how to swim, especially if you want to take surfing seriously.

What should I bring to a surfing lesson?

If you have your own board and equipment, you can bring them. But you don’t have to. What’s indispensable, though, is a swimming suit, a towel, and sunscreen. Always prepare those before your surfing lesson.

Do I have to take lessons?

No, but if you've never surfed before we highly recommend you do. Also, if you're planning to go at it alone, be sure to brush up on your surfing ettiquite.

Ready To Face The Waves?

I think so! Good thing we’ve discovered some great beaches together and learned more about the Sport of Kings and the history of surfing.

I hope you’ll take on the challenge and surf the waves of Oahu’s many beautiful beaches.

And if you want to learn more about surfing in Hawaii, check out Shaka Guide's Legendary North Shore Loop which takes you to famous surf spots and teaches you about the sport's history.