The Big Island has fewer surf breaks than Oʻahu or Maui. What it does have is Kahaluʻu Bay, a protected bay in Kona with consistent small waves that is one of the more practical spots in the state to learn.
This guide covers lesson and rental options in Kona and Hilo, four surf spots organized by skill level, and what to know before paddling out for the first time.
Table of contents
- Good local surf rentals & surf classes
- 4 Popular Big Island surf spots
- Surfing safety tips
The Big Island’s breaks suit beginners and intermediate surfers well. Experienced surfers looking for big wave access will need to plan a separate trip to Oʻahu’s North Shore.
Surf Lessons and Board Rentals on the Big Island
A two-hour group lesson at Kahaluʻu Bay starts at $139 and covers standing up on the board and reading waves. Depending on how much you pay you can get a private class or be taught as part of a small group. Group lessons are the most affordable entry point. Private and semi-private lessons are worth the price difference if you want closer attention throughout, or if you are returning to surfing after a long break.
Most surf schools and beginner surf spots can be found on the Kona (west) side of the Big Island.
Surf Lessons and Rentals in Kona
Located just 5 miles south of the Kona pier, Kahaluʻu Bay is the best beginner surf spot close to Kona (it is also great for snorkeling!). Kahaluʻu Bay Surf and Sea has been operating on this spot for over 25 years, and is the place to go for board rentals and surf classes close to Kona:
Surf Lessons in Kona at Kahaluʻu Bay
Two-hour surf lessons at Kahaluʻu Bay, one of the more forgiving breaks on the Kona coast. CPR-certified instructors work in the water alongside you, timing waves and helping you catch them
from:
$139
What is a suggested tour?Our suggested tours are hand-picked tours that receive consistent good reviews, give back to the community, and work hard to minimize their impact on the environment. Read more about these tours on our website.Srf lessons and rentals in the Kohala resort area
Hulakai at the King’s Shops (booking link) rents out boards but doesn’t organize classes.
Surf Lessons and Rentals in Hilo
The Hilo side is wetter, windier, and more exposed to northeast swell than Kona. Honoliʻi, just north of town, is the main local spot, with a river-mouth break with sharp rocks and a strong local scene that is not suited to beginners. If you are staying in Hilo and want a first lesson, the two-hour drive to Kahaluʻu Bay is worth it. For board rentals in Hilo, Hilo Ocean Adventures has gear.
The Surf Cottage (website) organizes lessons at Honoliʻi starting at $100/person. Keep in mind though that Honoliʻi is not an easy surf spot, and that complete beginners are better of taking a class at Kahaluʻu Bay.
Big Island Surf Spots: Four Breaks by Skill Level
The most important thing you can do to find a good surf spot is looking up the local conditions, which can change on a daily basis! Finding a good spot depends on ever changing local conditions that influence the quality of the waves such as wind and swell direction. Current conditions for each break are tracked on e.g Surfline.
If you are not the only one out in the water please remember that you are a guest and show the proper respect to people that think of the break as their own local spot. Following surf etiquette is a good place to start and when in doubt, let the other person take the wave.
Four spots are worth watching:
| Spot | Location | Skill Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kahaluʻu Bay | Kona coast | Beginner | Great snorkeling spot too. Surf lessons and board rentals available on-site. Surf forecast |
| Banyans | Kona coast | Experienced only | Popular local spot a few miles from downtown Kona. Respect the locals. |
| Honoliʻi | Hilo | Experienced only | River mouth break with sharp rocks. Local spot, take care and respect the locals. |
| Pine Trees | North Kona | All levels | Exposed reef break with consistent year-round surf. Can get crowded, so respect others in the water. |
This video covers 12 Big Island surf spots.
Surfing Safety: What to Know Before You Paddle Out
- Respect the Ocean. Surfing is a sport that claims casualties, so be sure to only put yourself in situations where you are still in control.
- Be aware of the currents. Never go surfing alone.
- Use plenty of sunscreen. The sunlight reflected off the water and the constant cooling effect of the ocean make it easy to forget you are burning.
- Mind the underwater sea life. Sea urchins and coral often hide under the water surface.
- Respect the locals! The most important rule when surfing is not to get in anyone’s way. The person closest to the peak of the wave has the “right” to surf that wave. Most locals are friendly if you surf with respect and stick to spots you can handle.
Surfboards on the beach. Photo by tatonomusic on Unsplash