Oahu Surfing Guide: When to Surf, Where to Learn & How to Choose the Best Surf School
Oahu Surfing
Oahu surfing is world-famous — the island is known as the surfing capital of the world, offering waves for every skill level. Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, you’ll find top-rated surf schools and some of the best surf lessons Oahu has to offer. But with so many options, where’s the best place to learn to surf in Oahu?
While Waikiki is a well-known beginner spot, North Shore offers a more authentic and rewarding surfing experience. Let’s explore where to take the best surf lessons in Oahu, and what you need to know before booking your first lesson.
Table of Contents
- When is the best time to learn to surf on Oahu?
- Which side of Oahu is best for surfing?
- Best surf spots for lessons in Oahu
- How to choose a surf school in Oahu
- What confidence level is needed for a surf lesson in Oahu?
- Do you need a wetsuit to surf in Oahu?
- What’s Better: Waikiki or North Shore for Surf Lessons?
When is the best time to learn to surf on Oahu?
Before we dive into the regions, it helps to understand that the energy of the ocean swells shifts across the island depending on the season. In general, swell power moves from the North Shore in the winter (roughly November to March) to the South Shore, including Waikiki, in the summer (roughly May to September).
These seasonal shifts impact where the waves show up most consistently, but beginners don’t need to worry. It’s always a great time to learn on the island no matter the time of year. You can surf in Oahu 365 days a year, thanks to the island’s year-round warm weather and consistent swells.
Which side of Oahu is best to learn surfing?
Oahu has two main surf lesson hubs: Waikiki and the North Shore. If you’re wondering where to learn to surf in Oahu, both areas offer great options depending on your goals. Here’s what makes them different — whether you’re looking for surf lessons Honolulu (Waikiki) or a more local North Shore vibe:
North Shore: Best for Learning Real Surfing Skills
- Less crowded than Waikiki
- Waves with more variety (gentle rollers for first-timers to fun-sized sets)
- Surf culture at its finest
- Surf schools focus on quality over quantity, offering smaller class sizes
💡 If you’re curious about North Shore surf spots, check out our complete North Shore Surfing Guide for deeper local insights.
Waikiki: Best for Convenience but Crowded Waves
- Consistent small waves
- Very easy for first-timers, but often crowded with the majority trying surfing on their first day
- Surf schools cater to tourists, with large group lessons and quick “stand-up” experiences, more like scratching the surface rather than offering an authentic experience
- Some Waikiki instructors were once tourists themselves who moved to Hawaii, so it’s often tourists teaching tourists rather than a deep, local surf culture experience
Best Surf Spots for Lessons in Oahu
If you’re wondering where is best for beginner surfing in Oahu, there are some consistent and beginner-friendly spots across the island.
Here are the top spots for learning to surf in Oahu, Hawaii, perfect for first-timers and those ready to build confidence on beginner-friendly waves:
Best spots and time for beginners
| Surf Spot | Best For | Wave Type | Beginners Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pua’ena Point (North Shore) | Small fun waves, uncrowded | Steady, long rides | Winter |
| Chun’s Reef (North Shore) | Great for beginners | Smooth, long rides | Summer |
| Duke’s (Waikiki) | Classic touristy spot | Small, consistent waves | Summer |
| Royal Hawaiian Hotel (Waikiki) | Very beginner-friendly | Gentle rolling waves | Summer |
Waikiki is great for pure beginners, but North Shore also offers beginner-friendly waves with fewer crowds, and it’s ideal if you want to progress beyond just standing on a board.
How to choose a surf school in Oahu
All surf schools in Oahu offer lessons for all levels. If you’re a beginner, you’re fine booking with any reputable school. If you’re intermediate, it only really counts if you’ve surfed in Hawaii before. Local waves are different, and ocean conditions here can surprise even experienced surfers from other regions. If you’re an advanced surfer, look for a surf safari or guided session. Some surf schools offer these for those who want to explore uncrowded breaks and chase better conditions.
With so many surf schools, how do you pick the right one for a beginner? Here’s what to consider:
Location – Are you looking for a true surf experience (North Shore) or a convenient spot (Waikiki)?
Class Size – Private lessons give more personal attention, while group lessons are more budget-friendly and social. Make sure there are no more than 3-4 students per instructor for safety. When class sizes get too large, it’s hard for instructors to give feedback or help in the water. Smaller groups offer more more support and a better opportunity to improve during the lesson.
Safety Measures – Look for certified CPR instructors, and make sure they provide proper surfboards, clear safety instructions, and a focus on ocean awareness.
Instructor Experience – Look for instructors who know the local surf breaks. It’s good if they’re former or current surf professionals, but keep in mind that not every athlete makes a great teacher. Big names can be impressive, but they don’t always translate to better lessons, especially since some pros don’t teach classes themselves. Also, remember that surfing was born in Hawaii, it’s more than a sport here, it’s a way of life. Whenever possible, support local instructors who grew up in the waves and carry on the cultural heritage of surfing.
Reviews – Check both positive and negative reviews
Cancellation Policies – Some schools offer free cancellations with advance notice, typically 24 to 48 hours before the lesson.
Satisfaction Guarantees – Some schools offer satisfaction guarantees, meaning if the lesson doesn’t meet expectations, they’ll either refund or offer a makeup session.
Lesson Timing – Most surf lessons run for 1 hour, 1 hour 30 minutes, or 2 hours. Some schools offer flexible start times, while others have set lesson times scheduled throughout the day. Be sure to choose what fits your itinerary best.
Pricing – We saved you some time and already compared several schools for you in the table below.
Top Surf Schools in Oahu
To make things easier to compare, we’ve split the schools into two groups based on location: Waikiki and North Shore. Each one includes time slots, lesson lengths, base pricing, and cancellation info so you can pick what works for your schedule and budget.
Waikiki Surf Schools
| Surf School | Moniz Family Surf | Faith Surf School | Pro Surf School Hawaii Kai Sallas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time Slots | 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm | 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm | 9am, 12pm, 3pm |
| Durations Offered | 1 hr 30 min | 1 hr 20 min | 2 hr |
| Compared Duration | 1 hr 30 min | 1 hr 20 min | 2 hr |
| 1 Person | $200 | $190 | $199 |
| 2 People | $300 | $280 | $298 |
| 3 People | $390 | $375 | $387 |
| Cancellation | 48 hrs | 48 hrs | 48 hrs |
| Parking | $ | $ | $ |
North Shore Surf Schools
| Surf School | North Shore Ohana School of Surfing | Uncle Brian | Jamie O’Brien |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time Slots | Flexible 8am to 5pm | 8:30am, 11am, 2pm | 9am, 10:15am, 11:30am, 12:45pm, 2pm, 3pm |
| Durations Offered | 1 hr / 2 hr | 2 hr | 1 hr 30 min |
| Compared Duration | 2 hr | 2 hr | 1 hr 30 min |
| 1 Person | $250 | $300 | $309 |
| 2 People | $340 | $350 | $407 |
| 3 People | $375 | $375 | $610 |
| Cancellation | 24 hrs | 24 hrs | 48 hrs |
| Parking | Street (free) | Street (free) | Hotel (free) |
Based on flexibility, local knowledge, and overall value, North Shore Ohana School of Surfing is a great option for those wanting a more personal experience.
What confidence level is needed for a surf lesson in Oahu?
Many first-time surfers worry about their swimming skills. If you’re booking a lesson for a child or person who doesn’t swim well, here’s what to know:
- If they can swim freestyle and tread for 20+ seconds, they should be fine on a private surf lesson
- If your child or you haven’t swum in the ocean before, a private lesson is a great choice for extra safety and comfort
- Tandem surf lessons are also available for children ages 3–9 (instructor and a child on the same board)
- Some schools provide safety vests, on request
- Lessons start in shallow water, and instructors stay close by, always doing their best to create a safe and manageable environment
Local instructors often have decades of experience in Hawaii’s more dynamic ocean conditions, and they keep all eyes on the students.
Do you need a wetsuit to surf in Oahu?
Oahu’s water stays warm year-round (about 75–80°F). A simple rash guard or surf top is enough to protect against sunburn and board rash. Surf schools typically provide rash guards.
Small children tend to get cold faster, so if you have one joining a lesson, ask your school or bring a thicker personal wetsuit (around 1.5 mm) is a good idea, though usually only necessary in winter.
What’s Better: Waikiki or North Shore for Surf Lessons?
If you’re just looking for a quick “I stood up!” experience, Waikiki is great. It’s iconic, with rich surf history and an introduction to the wave culture that Duke Kahanamoku helped shape.
But if you want to truly learn surfing, North Shore is the way to go. It’s where you can ride fun, clean waves surrounded by rich marine life, including turtles and the occasional monk seal. You’ll sunbathe on uncrowded beaches and enjoy a scenic island view framed by the dramatic backdrop of Mt. Ka’ala, far from the bustling city buildings.
Ready to Book Your Surf Lesson?
Now that you know where to take surf lessons in Oahu, it’s time to book your first session! North Shore Ohana School of Surfing offers small-group and private lessons designed to give you the best surfing experience in Hawaii.
