Seasonal Guide — 2026
Best Time to Surf in Hawaii
Wave heights · Water temps · Crowd levels
Beginner Tip — Hawaii
Hawaii's surf depends on which way a shore faces. Hawaii Ocean Safety expects extremely high surf at many north- and west-shore beaches in winter (November to April), large swells on south shores in summer (May to October), and rough trade-wind waves on east shores in both seasons. There is no single beginner season statewide: learn with a local school, swim near a lifeguard, and check the National Weather Service Honolulu surf forecast (weather.gov/hfo).
Hawaii Surf Conditions by Season
Spring
Mar – May
Wave Height
Varies by shore
Water Temp
76–78°F
Still winter by Hawaii Ocean Safety's calendar until the end of April, so high-surf days on north and west shores still happen. Conditions vary by shore and by day.
Summer
Jun – Aug
Wave Height
Varies by shore
Water Temp
78–82°F
Typically flat to small on north shores. Hawaii Ocean Safety says large swells can arrive frequently on south shores, and north swells can still wrap around to west shores, so summer is not automatically beginner season everywhere.
Fall
Sep – Nov
Wave Height
Varies by shore
Water Temp
78–80°F
Summer ends in October; Hawaii Ocean Safety dates winter, with extremely high surf at many north- and west-shore beaches, from November. South shores, which take the big summer swells, typically go flat to small.
Winter
Dec – Feb
Wave Height
Varies by shore
Water Temp
74–76°F
Extremely high, dangerous surf on many north- and west-facing beaches. Hawaii Ocean Safety says novices and swimmers of any skill level should stay out of the water there during high surf.
Frequently Asked Questions
What month has the best waves in Hawaii for beginners?
Hawaii's surf depends on which way a shore faces. Hawaii Ocean Safety expects extremely high surf at many north- and west-shore beaches in winter (November to April), large swells on south shores in summer (May to October), and rough trade-wind waves on east shores in both seasons. There is no single beginner season statewide: learn with a local school, swim near a lifeguard, and check the National Weather Service Honolulu surf forecast (weather.gov/hfo).
When is the best time to surf in Hawaii?
The best overall time to surf in Hawaii is May – October on north shores. This period typically offers the best combination of wave quality, consistency, and manageable conditions.
Is Hawaii good for beginner surfers?
Hawaii can be excellent for beginners. The most beginner-friendly seasons are: check with a local surf school. Hawaii's surf depends on which way a shore faces. Hawaii Ocean Safety expects extremely high surf at many north- and west-shore beaches in winter (November to April), large swells on south shores in summer (May to October), and rough trade-wind waves on east shores in both seasons. There is no single beginner season statewide: learn with a local school, swim near a lifeguard, and check the National Weather Service Honolulu surf forecast (weather.gov/hfo).
What wetsuit do I need in Hawaii?
Wetsuit needs vary by season in Hawaii. Water below 60°F requires a 4/3mm wetsuit or thicker with hood and gloves in winter. Between 60–68°F, a 3/2mm suit works well. Above 68°F, a 2mm spring suit or boardshorts may be sufficient. Always check current water temperatures before your session.
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