The Royal Sport: Surfing on Kauai

Heʻe nalu, or "wave sliding," was once the exclusive sport of Hawaiian royalty (aliʻi). Today, that same thrill of gliding across the water's energy is accessible to everyone, and Kauai offers some of the world's best classrooms and playgrounds for surfers of all levels.

Your First Wave: Best Beaches & Schools for Beginners

Learning to surf is a highlight of any trip to Hawaii. The key is choosing the right location with gentle, rolling waves and a safe, sandy bottom.

Poʻipū (South Shore)

This is the most reliable year-round spot for beginners. Lessons typically take place at the sheltered beach near the Sheraton or Kiahuna Plantation, where the waves are soft and forgiving. The area is home to excellent, highly-rated schools like Poipu Beach Surf School, run by a local professional waterman, and Nukumoi Surf Co., which operates right across from Poipu Beach Park.

Hanalei Bay (North Shore)

In the summer months, the waters inside Hanalei Bay, particularly near the pier, are absolutely perfect for learning. The waves are long, gentle, and break over sand. This is the home base for legendary local surfers and their schools. Taking a lesson from a multi-generational Native Hawaiian-owned school like Titus Kinimaka's Hawaiian School of Surfing is more than just a lesson. It's a cultural experience. Note that the County of Kauai permits only a handful of schools to operate in the bay, ensuring it doesn't get overcrowded.

For the Experienced: Respecting the Lineup

Kauai is home to countless world-class, powerful reef breaks. However, surfing these waves comes with a tremendous responsibility to the ocean and to the local community. This is not a place to test your limits if you are unsure.

Well-Known Breaks

Experienced surfers will find challenging waves at spots like Shipwreck Beach in Poipu (a powerful shorebreak), Keālia Beach on the East Side (a consistent and often powerful beach break), and the various reef breaks within Hanalei Bay, such as Pine Trees and The Bowl, which come alive during big winter swells. More extreme breaks like Tunnels and Cannons are for experts only and should be approached with extreme caution, as they break over sharp, shallow reef.

Advanced Break Guide