Surfing is a centuries-old practice that is highly honored in the Hawaiian culture. While the origins of this exhilarating wave sliding, or he’e nalu, remain unclear, its huge popularity is clearly evident by the thousands of surfers heading to the exotic islands to conquer some towering waves. What is now freely enjoyed by all competent surfers, once used to be strictly confined to the chiefs’ enjoyment and their own surf breaks, that was out of bounds to the commoners. While the sport was greatly discouraged by the missionaries in the 19h century and went through a period of decline, it was revived when Waikiki came to international attention in the early 20th century. This was also thanks to the father of modern surfing, Duke Kahanamoku’s worldwide demonstrations, and now the holy grail for surfing are the Hawaii Islands.

The North Shore

The surfing capital of the world is indisputably Oahu’s North Shore. During one of Hawaii’s distinct surfing seasons, thanks to the Alaskan winter storms, the biggest of the surfing waves hit the first landmass, after a journey of more than 5000km, gaining momentum and increasing energy. The geography of Oahu’s North shore is such that that the land lie and ocean floor are advantageous in welcoming the towering waves and unceasing barrels. The powerful swell lines hitting Waimea Bay, in Oahu’s North Shore attract surfers from all around the world to these northern shores during winter. Waikiki beach is actually excellent starting point for beginner surfers as it provides excellent breaks throughout the year and the summertime tame waves are especially great for beginners.

Surfing carnival

Every year, for three weeks, starting from late November, it is surfing carnival at Oahu’s North Shore. The world’s most prestigious series of surfing competitions, the Triple Crown of Surfing takes place at Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach at Waimea and the Ali’i Beach park in Hale’iwa. The enthralling excitement in the atmosphere is inexplicable and can only be experienced along with surfers from all over the world, who gather to compete and watch the crowning of the world champion of surfing.

During summertime, surfers head to the south shores for favourable waves for surfing and boogie boarding. The Waikiki beach in Oahu and Poipu Beach in Kauai are popular summer hangouts for surfers. In Maui, excellent surfing spots are at Hookipa Beach and Napili Bay, summer surfing is good at Baldwin Park. The biggest island, Hawaii Island may not have spectacular waves as its neighbours but there are some excellent breaks found at Waipo and Papeekeo, among other beaches.