Hawaii Big Island’s Top Surf Spots for All Levels

Before you wax up your board, let’s get you prepped with some need-to-know info about surfing on the Big Island.

When to Catch a Wave: Understanding the Big Island’s Surf Seasons

The Big Island, like most Hawaiian islands, has two main surf seasons offering good surfing for various skill levels.

Winter (October – April): Hang Ten with the Big Boys

Winter is when the North Pacific really comes alive. The northern shores, while less accessible and recommended for experienced surfers, are where you’ll find those big-wave thrills. This is the perfect time to surf wave for the experienced surfer. Winter time offers some of the best surf on the Big Island.

Summer (May – September): Perfect for Beginners and Longboarders

During the summer, South Pacific swells grace the shores, particularly hitting the west side of the island nicely. Expect smaller, mellower waves, which are perfect for learning and practicing.

But remember, the ocean is a fickle beast. Even if it’s not peak season, you can still get lucky with some epic swells, so it’s always worth checking surf reports before heading out. You can usually find updated info online or even in the local paper.

There are a few go-to spots on the island where you can either rent a board for a day or even invest in some sweet new gear.

• Kona Side (West Side): Kona is the place to be if you’re looking to rent a board or snag some new surf apparel. They’re located in downtown Kona.
• Hilo Side (East Side): If you’re hanging out on the Hilo side of the island, head over to Hilo Ocean Adventures; they’ve got you covered for all your rental needs. For something closer to downtown Hilo, check out Orchidland Surfboards on the bayfront.

Respect the Waves, Respect the Locals

The Big Island, with its rich history of surfing, holds a special reverence for the ocean and those who ride its waves. Remember you are a visitor here. Following simple surf etiquette goes a long way:

• Don’t Drop In: The surfer closest to the peak of the wave has priority. Dropping in front of someone is a major no-no in any surf lineup.
• Paddle Wide: When paddling back out, paddle wide around the breaking waves, not directly in front of surfers who are up and riding.
• Respect the Locals: The Big Island’s surf spots have a strong local presence. Be respectful, share waves, and be mindful of their space. You’re a guest in their home. You catch more waves with honey than vinegar.

It’s time to break down those Big Island’s top surf spots for everyone from the newbie to the seasoned pro:

Beginner Waves: Where to Learn and Gain Confidence

First-timers, this section is for you. The Big Island has some mellow breaks. They’re ideal for getting comfortable on a board and learning the basics.

Kahalu’u Beach Park

Kahalu’u is like the training ground of The Big Island surf spots. Kahalu’u Beach is famous for its gentle, rolling waves and sandy bottom, making it super beginner-friendly. Plus, there’s a cool breakwater wall that creates an extra-protected area.

Pine Trees

Pine Trees (officially known as Kohanaiki Beach Park) is another crowd favorite. The waves here are mellower and perfect for newbies and longboarders looking for those cruisey rides. But, it can get a bit crowded here. Just be sure to share those waves. It’s a great spot to surf.

Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay)

Although this spot is often visited for its stunning turquoise waters and snorkeling opportunities, it actually produces gentle waves during the summer months. You can usually escape the crowds by heading to the north end. Keep in mind that the ocean bottom is mostly reef here, so it’s best to surf at high tide to avoid any mishaps.

Alright, you’ve caught a few waves and you’re ready for a challenge. Here’s where to find those intermediate breaks:

Banyans

Just a stone’s throw from downtown Kona, this iconic surf spot pumps out both left and right-handers that are a blast to ride. The vibe here is definitely more local. If you can handle yourself in the water, Banyans should be on your must-surf list. Banyans is a popular surf spot, but be cautious of sea urchins while in and out of the water.

Lyman’s

If you’re a goofy-footer (surf with your right foot forward), then Lyman’s is about to be your new happy place. Situated just south of Banyans, this spot boasts one of Kona’s most fun and fast waves, often described as a high-performance dream wave. Lyman’s is an excellent choice for those with experience riding waves.

Okay, thrill-seekers, it’s time to tackle The Big Island’s expert-level waves. Brace yourselves.

Honl’s Beach Park

This is a super consistent reef break near downtown Kona. The fast and often hollow right-hand barrels get experienced surfers stoked. Honl’s can get powerful and shallow, particularly in winter with bigger swells. So, if you are not comfortable with this kind of surfing, admire this break from afar and stick to the beginner spots.

Remember, The Big Island’s expert-level surf breaks should only be surfed by those with serious experience. These spots can be extremely dangerous. Always check the surf conditions and swell direction before entering the water. It’s best to watch the break from the beach to assess the ocean conditions before entering the water.