a guy surfing a light blue wave as waves crash around him

The Best Beginner Surfing Spots On Oahu

Oahu is often called "The Gathering Place," and for surfers, it's also the ultimate destination to catch waves, especially for beginners. With warm tropical waters, year-round surf, and a wide variety of surf breaks, Oahu is one of the best places in the world to learn how to surf.  

In this guide, we'll highlight the best beginner surfing spots on Oahu, what makes each one ideal for learning, and tips to help you get started. So grab your board, wax up, and let's dive in! 

Why Oahu Is Great for Beginner Surfers 

Before we get into the specific spots, here's why Oahu is such a fantastic place for beginner surfers: 

  • Warm Water Year-Round: With ocean temperatures ranging from 76°F to 82°F, you can comfortably surf without a wetsuit. 

  • Consistent Waves: Whether it's winter or summer, you'll find surfable waves nearly every day. 

  • Surf Schools and Rentals: Oahu is home to world-class surf schools (like Surf N Sea!) and shops offering top-notch rental equipment. 

  • Wide Variety of Breaks: From mellow beach breaks to gentle reef waves, there's something for every skill level. 

Now, let's explore the top beginner surfing spots on Oahu. 

1. Waikiki Beach (Honolulu) 

Why It's Great: 

Waikiki is the most iconic surfing beach in Hawaii—and for good reason. The long, rolling waves here break gently over a sandy bottom, offering a safe and forgiving environment for first-timers. 

Conditions: 

  • Gentle, long waves 

  • Consistent swell year-round 

  • Crowds are common, but the vibe is friendly 

Tips: 

  • Arrive early to beat the crowds 

  • It is an excellent spot for surf lessons and rentals right on the beach 

  •  Stick to the inside section if you’re just starting out. 

2. White Plains Beach (Ewa Beach) 

Why It's Great: 

Located on Oahu's southwest shore, White Plains is a hidden gem for beginner surfers. The beach features small, slow waves that are perfect for learning. 

Conditions: 

  • Mellow reef break 

  • It is less crowded than Waikiki 

  • Sandy bottom in most areas 

Tips: 

  • Weekdays are the best time to avoid crowds 

  • Watch out for occasional military activity nearby (it's near a base) 

  • Bring reef booties for extra protection 

3. Canoes (Waikiki) 

Why It's Great: 

Technically, a section of Waikiki Beach, Canoes is one of the best places to catch a long ride. As the name suggests, this break is also used for outrigger canoe surfing, but surfers and paddlers generally coexist peacefully. 

Conditions: 

  • Rolling waves are perfect for longboards 

  • Soft, sandy bottom 

  • Friendly surf vibe 

Tips: 

  • It is ideal for renting a longboard and practicing pop-ups 

  • Watch out for outrigger canoes—stay in your lane! 

4. Ala Moana Bowls (Inside Section) 

Why It's Great: 

Ala Moana Bowls is known for being an advanced spot, but the inside reform waves closer to shore can be ideal for beginners when the swell is small. 

Conditions: 

  • Best on smaller days (1–2 ft) 

  • Reef bottom, but manageable 

  • Less crowded in the inside section 

Tips: 

  • Stay clear of the outer reef break, which is better left to experienced surfers. 

  • Go with a friend or guide to help spot safer takeoff zones 

5. Chun's Reef (North Shore) 

Why It's Great: 

The North Shore is famous for monster winter waves, but during the summer, Chun's Reef can be a surprisingly beginner-friendly spot. It has a long, clean right-hander that breaks over a reef with a deep channel for easy paddle-outs. 

Conditions: 

  • It is best in the summer with a slight swell 

  • Reef break but generally mellow 

  • Parking nearby 

Tips: 

  • Surf early in the day for glassy conditions 

  • Wear reef booties for safety 

  • Check the forecast—avoid winter swells 

6. Puaʻena Point (Haleiwa) 

Why It's Great: 

Just outside of Haleiwa Harbor and close to Surf N Sea, Puaʻena Point is a fantastic place for beginner surfers. The waves here break gently over a mix of sand and reef, offering soft, rolling surf on most days. 

Conditions: 

  • Reliable small waves in summer 

  • Some rocky areas—booties recommended 

  • Easy access and parking 

Tips: 

  • Book a surf lesson with Surf N Sea—it's just steps away! 

  • Great for improving your turns and paddling 

  • Watch out for turtles cruising through the lineup 

7. Old Man's (South Shore near Diamond Head) 

Why It's Great: 

As the name implies, this spot is perfect for slower, more relaxed waves. It's located near Kapiolani Park and offers plenty of space for beginners to spread out and learn. 

Conditions: 

  • Long, slow waves 

  • Great for longboards 

  • A beautiful backdrop of Diamond Head 

Tips: 

  • Accessible by bike or walking from Waikiki 

  • Best in summer with a south swell 

  • Bring a board leash—the paddle out is long 

8. Tonggs (South Shore) 

Why It's Great: 

Tonggs is a mellow reef break perfect for beginners with some experience. The wave here peels nicely and offers long rides when the swell is right. 

Conditions: 

  • Reef break, but waves are typically small 

  • Best in south swell season (April to October) 

  • Beautiful clear water and turtle sightings 

Tips: 

  • Bring a longboard for maximum fun 

  • Enter and exit at the designated sandy channels 

  • Respect the lineup—it’s a well-loved local break. 

Tips for First-Time Surfers on Oahu 

Learning to surf is exciting, but a few key tips will help make your experience more enjoyable: 

Take a Lesson 

Even a single lesson with a professional surf instructor can significantly speed up your learning curve. Surf N Sea offers beginner-friendly lessons right in Haleiwa, led by certified instructors who are familiar with the local breaks. 

Wear the Right Gear 

  • Rash guards to prevent board rash and sunburn 

  • Reef-safe sunscreen 

  • Booties if you're surfing over the reef 

Respect the Ocean 

  • Learn about currents, tides, and swell 

  • Always observe before entering the water 

  • Give respect to locals and other surfers in the lineup 

Check the Forecast 

Use apps like Surfline or Magicseaweed to check, or use the official NOAA website for local surf forecasts: 

  • Wave height 

  • Wind conditions 

  • Tides and swell direction 

Frequently Asked Questions About Beginner Surfing on Oahu 

What is the best time of year to learn to surf on Oahu? 

The best time for beginners to learn to surf on Oahu is during the summer months (May to September). During this time, the south shore gets consistent, smaller swells that are perfect for learning.

The winter months can bring larger and more powerful waves, especially on the North Shore, which are better suited for experienced surfers. 

Do I need to bring my surfboard to Oahu? 

Not at all! Oahu is filled with surf shops and rental options, including Surf N Sea in Haleiwa. Whether you need a beginner soft-top board or a longboard, you can easily rent everything you need. Many surf schools also offer board rentals along with their lessons. 

Is Waikiki too crowded for beginner surfers? 

Waikiki can get crowded, especially mid-day, but it remains one of the safest and most beginner-friendly surf spots on the island. The waves are long and mellow, and there are plenty of instructors nearby. To avoid crowds, try going early in the morning or on a weekday. 

Are there sharks at Oahu's surf spots? 

Sharks live in Hawaiian waters, but encounters are extremely rare—especially at popular surf spots. Stick to well-trafficked beaches during daylight hours, avoid murky water, and follow local safety guidelines to minimize any risk. 

What should I wear when surfing in Hawaii? 

You typically don't need a wetsuit, thanks to Oahu's warm ocean temperatures. Most beginners wear: 

  • Rash guards or surf shirts for sun and skin protection 

  • Board shorts or swimwear 

  • Reef booties if surfing over reef breaks 

How long does it take to learn to surf? 

With the right conditions and a good instructor, most people can stand up on their first wave within a single 1–2 hour lesson. Like any sport, it takes time to master, but Oahu's calm beginner spots help make the learning curve fun and rewarding. 

What's the easiest surf break on the North Shore? 

Puaʻena Point in Haleiwa is widely considered the best beginner spot on the North Shore. It's just steps from Surf N Sea, has consistently mellow waves, and offers a safe place to practice pop-ups and turns. 

Why Surf N Sea Is Your Go-To Surf Shop on Oahu 

Located in the historic surf town of Haleiwa, Surf N Sea has been serving locals and visitors since 1965. Whether you're looking to rent a board, take a lesson, or stock up on surf gear, Surf N Sea is the trusted name on the North Shore. Explore our Oahu surf lessons now! 

Here's what makes Surf N Sea the best place for beginners: 

  • Beginner-Friendly Rentals: A wide selection of soft-tops and longboards, perfect for first-timers. 

  • Expert Instruction: Professional instructors offer group and private lessons tailored to your skill level. 

  • Gear & Apparel: Everything from wax and leashes to rash guards and sun hats—all in one place. 

  • Perfect Location: Just steps from Puaʻena Point, one of the best beginner surf spots on the island. 

Oʻahu Offers Some of the Best Beginner Surfing in Hawaiʻi 

Whether you dream of riding your first wave or just want to experience Hawaii from a new perspective, Oahu is the perfect place to start your surfing journey. With its warm waters, friendly surf culture, and beginner-friendly breaks, you'll be hanging ten in no time. 

So what are you waiting for? Stop by Surf N Sea in Haleiwa, grab a board, and hit the waves. The surf's up, and your beginner surf adventure starts now! 

 

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