Best Time to Surf in Waikīkī: Hawaii Surf 101
The best time to surf in Waikiki is summer. But, really, it’s also whenever you're ready to catch a wave. If you're aiming for the best of the best, a little seasonal insight goes a long way.
Waikiki is not your typical surf spot with a narrow window of swell. It offers consistent, beginner-friendly waves all year long, paired with warm water, sunny skies, and a relaxed island vibe. This makes it one of the most accessible and inviting surf destinations in the world.
However, if you're looking for ideal surf conditions — think glassy waves, light winds, and fewer crowds — timing matters. Summer (May to September) typically brings in south swells that light up Waikiki’s breaks with long, rolling waves perfect for longboarding and smooth rides. Winter (November to March) tends to be quieter on the south shore, offering smaller waves but still plenty of opportunity to paddle out and enjoy the ocean.
Whether you're a first-timer or just chasing that perfect Waikiki set, knowing the seasonal patterns helps you make the most of your session.
The Best Time to Surf in Waikiki: Know the Seasons
May to September Are Ideal Months for Waikiki Surfing
Let’s just call it what it is—summer is prime time and the best time to surf in Waikiki. The south swells roll in with perfect rhythm, the trade winds do their thing (most of the time), and the ocean throws out the kind of waves you daydream about when you're stuck in traffic or stuck in Zoom meetings.
During these months, Waikiki becomes a south swell magnet. Those swells travel all the way from the Southern Hemisphere, powered by storms near New Zealand and Tahiti. By the time they reach Oʻahu’s southern shores, they’ve mellowed out into long-period, rolling waves that are practically begging to be longboarded.
Why Summer:
Consistent surf: There’s almost always something rideable, from waist-high peelers to chest-high glass.
Epic longboarding: This is the time for Canoes, Queen’s, and Pop’s. You’ll see locals just styling for hours out there.
Warm water: Like, no-suit, surf-until-sunset warm.
Sunsets after surf: Golden hour hits different when your hair’s still salty and your board’s tucked under your arm.
The only downside? Summer’s not a secret. The beach is busy, the lineups can get crowded, and parking can feel like a competitive sport. But if you’re chill, patient, and maybe paddle out early, you’ll still score waves—and probably make a few friends along the way.
Shoulder Seasons For Surfing in Waikiki: April & October
You want sneaky good? You want uncrowded perfection?
April and October are where the real magic hides.
These months live in that delicious in-between space. You still get those southern swells from the tail ends of summer, and you start to catch the early hints of north swells bending around the island. The weather’s still warm (obviously), but there’s a noticeable drop in the number of tourists. Kids are in school, the beaches are quieter, and the ocean feels… less rushed.
Why Shoulder Season:
Less crowded
Still warm: No wetsuit necessary.
Mellow swells: Not too big, not too flat—just right for improving your game or staying in flow state.
Surf in Waikiki in Winter: November to March
Now here’s where it gets interesting.
When winter hits the North Shore with monster swells and triple-overhead madness, Waikiki does a little shuffle of its own. It’s not technically the surf season for the south shore, but that doesn’t mean it’s flat. In fact, some of the cleanest, most user-friendly waves happen in winter. They’re just sneakier.
What You’ll Get in Winter:
Smaller, cleaner days: Winter’s got long stretches of knee- to waist-high waves—perfect for learning, mellow sessions, and cruisey logging.
Wrap-around north swells: Every now and then, a solid North Shore swell will bend around the island just right and light up certain south-facing reefs in Waikīkī. It’s rare. It’s beautiful. It’s worth checking the charts.
Less crowded (ish): Depends on the day. But with the spotlight on the North Shore, a lot of local rippers are upcountry, leaving Waikiki a little more mellow.
Winds can be a wildcard during these months. You’ll want to surf early mornings before the trades pick up and turn things choppy.
When’s the Best Time for Waikiki Surfing?
If we’re talking best of the best—like “drop everything and book a flight” kind of good—I’d say June or July, first light, Queen’s or Canoes, waist-high on the sets, no wind, and a board that glides like butter.
But really? The best time to surf in Waikiki is whenever you can.
Final Tips for Surfing Waikiki
Respect the lineup. Wait your turn, smile, don’t snake. You’ll catch more waves that way.
Check the forecast. Use sites like Surfline or MagicSeaweed to see what’s coming.
Rent the right board. Longboards rule Waikiki. Don’t fight it. Embrace it.
Use reef-safe sunscreen. Protect your skin and the ocean.
Stay stoked. Even if it’s small. Even if it’s crowded. You’re surfing. In Hawaiʻi.
Want to improve your skills or get local insight on the lineup? Book a private lesson to learn how to surf in Waikiki, for personalized guidance, or join the fun with group surf lessons from Big Wave Dave to share the stoke with others.
Now that you know the best time to surf in Waikiki, go get wet. For everything from lessons to gear make sure to reach out to Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee.