Surfing is More than Wave Meets Board

Surfing has a special aura about it, whether you’re on the shore or on the board. There’s just something about the way the ocean moves and surfers know that first-hand. In early times, Hawaiians carefully selected the trees that were to be meticulously crafted into surf boards. This was a way of life, not just a sport. Legendary surfing contests would be held for the ali’I, or the chiefs. Every part of life was touched by surfing, from religion to music and language.

The surfers you find scouring the beach today are just as mesmerized. There’s nothing else in the world more important when the surf’s up. Soaring amidst the waves grabs your most inner essence and holds on tight. That feeling is never lost.

If you’re new to surfing, Waikiki is a great area to get started. There are consistently waves to be found here to test your newly learned skills. During the 1930s, the “beach boys” conquered the beach along with waves. Today, beach boys are always licensed lifeguards. They even give lessons.
Ferocious winter surfs are the notorious mark of Makaha on the northwest side of the island. Brave surfers head here to tackle the large, hanging waves. Head north from Makaha and you’ll find Yokohama Bay. Here, the exposed reef challenges the rocky shelf amidst the waves.

Along Oahu’s North Shore you’ll find the “Seven Mile Miracle”. It lies between Hale’iwa and Sunset Beach and is home to a number of premiere surfing locations on this coast, which is known for its large waves. Some of these spots include Banzai Pipeline, Chun’s Reef, Rocky Point, Laniakea, Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach. It’s common to find men and women, who are surfing pro’s themselves, giving lessons across the many surfing areas on the island.