If you’ve ever had dreams of catching the perfect wave, your Hawaii vacation is the time to give it a try. Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing, and the locals have a knowledge and understanding of the sport that has been passed down through generations. There’s no better place to learn how to surf than where it all began, so here are some of the best places near your Oahu vacation rental to learn how to ride the waves.
Waikiki Beach
Oahu is home to one of the best beaches for beginner surfers. Waikiki Beach has gentle, long waves, which are perfect for people just learning how to balance on their boards. It’s also chock full of people who can teach you how to maneuver the wakes – you can take private or group lessons and learn from the experts. Once you’ve got the basics down, this is one of the best beaches to build your skills.
Waimea Bay
“Waimea Bay is the birthplace of big-wave surfing.”
Depending on the time of year, you may consider checking out the North Shore’s Waimea Bay as well. During the summer, this beach has relatively gentle surfs that are totally beginner-appropriate. However, during the winter, the waves get a little more serious – in the 50’s, this area became known as the birthplace of big-wave surfing. Don’t head out to this beach when the swells are big unless you’re very confident in your skills.
Beginner Tips
If it’s your first time surfing, you’re probably going to be uncertain for a little while. Here are some tips that should help you get better, faster:
- Practice popping up on your board on the beach before you try it in the water. Getting a feel for the motion when your board is still will help you be more confident when it’s not.
- Bending at the knees will give you more stability and balance than bending your back.
- Learn how to fall – it’s going to happen, so you may as well make sure you’re falling the right way. Don’t try to jump or dive off your board, simply follow the momentum of your fall. That said, it is a good idea to put your hands up in front of your face and head, just in case you come into contact with the board.
- Don’t be discouraged if it takes a while to click: Practice makes perfect.