Where to Surf in Oahu for Beginners
Where to surf in Oahu for beginners is one of the most important questions for those looking to ease into their surf journey. Nothing puts you off this incredible sport like being crushed and coming up desperate for air (we know because we’ve been there).
Oahu is the heart of surfing. But before you launch yourself into monstrous barrels on the North Shore (save that for later), you gotta find the sweet spots that welcome beginners with open arms and gentle waves. You’ve gotta find where to surf in Oahu for beginners.
Oʻahu’s got a lineup of beginner-friendly breaks that make it easy to fall in love with surfing—and more importantly, not get your face smashed on coral reefs or tangled in 10-foot tubes before you even stand up. We’re here to break down the best places for newbies to get their feet wet, paddle out, and maybe even ride their first wave all the way to shore without wiping out.
Where to Surf in Oahu for Beginners: Our Top Picks
Waikiki Beach — The OG Beginner’s Playground
Let’s get this out of the way first: Waikiki is where almost everyone takes their first surf lesson and the who’s who of where to surf in Oahu for beginners. And for good reason. This stretch of beach is iconic, sure, but it’s also gentle, warm, and packed with mellow rolling waves perfect for newbies.
Why Waikiki rocks for beginners:
Consistent small waves: The break at spots like Canoes, Queen’s, and Pop’s tends to be waist to chest high on average during summer, making it super manageable.
Soft, sandy bottom: No scary rocks or reefs, which means when you fall (and you will), it’s more like a splash than a smackdown.
Tons of surf schools: If you want a lesson or rental gear, Waikiki has no shortage of friendly instructors ready to get you standing and paddling in no time.
Crowds, but in a good way: There’s a mix of beginners and locals, so you’ll find people at your level, and the vibe’s chill and supportive.
The key here is to pick your spot carefully. Canoes is perfect for longboard lovers, with its slow, rolling waves (but more on that in a second).
Pro tip: Get out early in the morning to dodge the crowds and catch those silky glassy waves before the afternoon trade winds kick in.
Canoes (Waikiki) — Longboarders’ Heaven
If you’re psyched about longboarding, Canoes is your best friend. It’s named after the old Hawaiian outrigger canoes that used to paddle through the area, but now it’s mostly about easy, rolling waves perfect for that classic, cruisy style.
Why Canoes is a paradise and where to surf in Oahu for beginners:
Long, slow rides: Great for practicing balance and standing up without rushing.
Gentle takeoffs: The waves peel super slowly, so you have time to pop up and get comfy.
Shallow and sandy: So wiping out is less intimidating.
Consistent swell: South swells from May through September light up Canoes almost daily.
If you want to master your pop-up or just soak in the vibe of surfing like a local, Canoes is where you wanna start.
White Plains Beach — Eastside Gem for Beginners
Not as famous as Waikiki, but definitely a hidden gem and a perfect option for where to surf in Oahu for beginners, White Plains on the southeast shore is a mellow, sandy beach break that’s excellent for beginners wanting a quieter spot away from the busier crowds.
Here’s why White Plains is a top pick:
Small, forgiving waves: Waist-high rollers that make standing up feel natural.
Less crowded: Fewer tourists and surf schools means more space for you to practice.
Sandy bottom: No reefs, which means safer wipeouts.
Consistent: Reliable small surf year-round.
It’s also a beautiful beach with less hustle, so it’s great if you want to pair surfing with a chill day in the sun.
Bonus Tips for Beginner Surfers on Oʻahu
Take a lesson — Don’t be shy! Local surf schools like Big Wave Dave’s will hook you up with gear, coaching, and insider tips. It’s the fastest way to get stoked and stay safe.
Get the right board — Big, soft, and stable boards like longboards or foamies are your best friends starting out. They make catching waves easier and wipeouts less scary.
Respect the locals and lineup — Surf etiquette isn’t just a suggestion; it’s the aloha way. Wait your turn, don’t drop in, and be friendly.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen — Protect your skin and the ocean ecosystem at the same time.
Paddle out early — Mornings usually offer calmer winds and smaller crowds.
Have fun and be patient — Learning to surf takes time, and every wipeout is a step closer to your next epic ride.