Hawaii is the birthplace and spiritual home of surfing. The North Shore of Oahu remains the ultimate testing ground and nowhere on Earth can boast a higher density of world class surf breaks within such a short distance. Meanwhile Waikiki on the south shore of Oahu and its gentle, sloping waves offer the perfect antidote to the power of the North Shore and a great place to learn to surf.

Quick Facts

Breaks best in the Northern Hemisphere winter

Waves like Pipeline, Waimea and Sunset are the big-wave gold standard

Crowds are an issue, but empty(ish) spots do exist

Warm water, great weather and incredible surf culture.

Where to surf

The North Shore of Oahu, aka the “Seven-Mile-Miracle” is obviously Hawaii’s biggest drawcard, yet the outer islands of Kauai, Maui and Big Island all offer some quality uncrowded options for more mellow adventurers. Along the seven-mile stretch of coast on the North Shore there are some 40 surf breaks, some being the best known in the world. 

When to go

Located smack bang in the middle of the North Pacific Ocean the North Shore of Oahu is wide open to the powerful winter west and north swells. The best time to visit the North Shore is between October and March. November and December are however the most crowded months as hundreds of professional surfers decamp to “The Rock” from all over the world. February, March and October is better for holidaying surfers just looking to surf without the the contests and crowds. The Southern Shore of Oahu also gets its fair share of fun mostly In the summer surf months from May through August when the waves around Waikiki or “Town” come to life.

Attractions

Explore off-the-beaten-track destinations, whether they are hidden beaches or towns that you won’t find on a postcard. Learn to surf or kayak or go to an authentic luau where you can get a taste of Hawaiian culture and watch the art of hula. From romantic escapades, whale watching, volcano hikes, family fun or buying gifts at countless Hawaii surf shops it’s possible to do it all or simply sit back and enjoy Island time.

The Country

Hawaii was an independent republic until first became a territory of the United States and then a state in 1959. The state encompasses nearly the entire Hawaiian archipelago, 137 islands spread over 2,400 kilometres. Hawaii’s diverse natural scenery, warm tropical climate, abundance of public beaches, oceanic surroundings, and active volcanoes make it a popular destination for tourists, surfers, biologists, and volcanologists. Because of its central location in the Pacific and 19th-century labour migration, Hawaii’s culture is strongly influenced by North American and East Asian cultures, in addition to its indigenous Hawaiian culture.

Getting There

The Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oahu is the major point of entry, while and short, 40-minute domestic flights are available to the outer islands.

Travel Information

Time Zone

UTC -10:00

Currency

USD

Calling code

+1

Electric

120V – Plug A, B