Surfing has been a part of Hawaiian culture for many generations. It existed on the Islands before Hawaii was settled by Europeans and missionaries. The sport eventually made its way to California in the early 1900s. There are many excellent places to learn to surf in Hawaii. Here are six tips and tricks for beginners who are learning how to surf for the first time.
1. Don't go by yourself
If you have never surfed before, you should find an experienced teacher or coach who knows the perfect beginner waves. They will also help you discover good places to go surfing. It may also be fun to go with a family member or friend to experience the lesson together.2. Use a big surfboard or a soft-top
Bigger boards are best for catching waves easily and for helping you keep your balance. Soft-tops are foam boards such as the Wavestorm which can be purchased at Costco. These types of boards are more buoyant and softer to sit on while you are paddling. Also, if you fall off of a soft-top and your board runs into you it won’t hurt as badly.3. Surf a beginner’s wave
Usually, your teacher or coach will take you to places where the waves are small and good for learning. The best locations for learning depend on the time of year. During the winter, the northern facing shores will have bigger waves if there is a swell. On the other hand, during the summer the southern and western facing shores are subject to some south swells. These summer swells are not usually as big as winter swells.4. Get used to wiping out
Wiping out is part of the process for everyone while learning to surf. You will get salt water up your nose, your bathing suit will move around, and you might hit the reef. It is best to wear a rash guard to keep your bathing suit in place. Rash guards also double as sun protection. Most of the breaks around Hawaii do not have a sandy bottom. Because of this, it is important to fall off your board like starfish. Do not jump off your board because you could land on sharp coral or sea urchins.5. Paddle, paddle, paddle
About 80% of surfing is paddling. Whether you are paddling out past the break, into a wave, or to adjust your position, you will feel like you are always paddling. Some may not be a fan of paddling, but it is a great workout that builds endurance. If you want a break, you can always rest while you are waiting for the next set of waves to come in.6. Have fun
Remember, if this is your first time surfing it probably won’t be perfect. Surfing is difficult, so remember to laugh it off and enjoy the historic sport. It is a huge part of Hawaiian culture and connecting with the ocean. While you are out on the water, take a moment to be thankful for where you are and for the sport of surfing.Beginner spots
Maui
- The Cove- Kihei (south side)
- Launiupoko Beach Park- Lahaina (west side)
- Puamana Beach Park- Lahaina (west side)
- Thousand Peaks- In between Lahaina and Maalaea Harbor (west side)
Kauai
- Hanalei Bay- Hanalei (north shore)
- Kalapaki Bay- near Lihue (south shore)
- Kiahuna Beach- (south shore)
Hawaii
- Banyans- south of downtown Kona (west side)
- Pine Trees- north of Kona airport (west side)
- Lymans- between Magic Sands and Kahaluu Beach Park (west side)
Oahu
- White Plain’s Beach- Southwest
- Old Man’s- out from Elk’s Lodge in Waikiki
- Canoes- Heart of Waikiki, most popular
