Hawaiʻi is a world-renowned surf destination, drawing wave riders from around the globe to its legendary breaks and warm waters. Whether you're an advanced surfer chasing massive winter swells or a beginner looking for gentle summer waves, Hawaiʻi's islands offer the perfect year-round surfing conditions.
Finding the right place to stay is as important as picking the right wave! That's where Hawaiʻi Lifecomes in. As a leading real estate, property management, and vacation rental booking company, we provide top-tier accommodations across Oahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, and the Big Island, ensuring surfers (and their families and friends) have the best access to world-class waves.
Throughout all islands, Vacations Hawaiʻi Life has beachfront rentals near top surf breaks, making it easy for surfers to experience the magic of Hawaiʻi's ocean while enjoying the comfort of a well-appointed and cozy vacation home.
This guide highlights the best vacation rentals near Hawaiʻi's top surf spots, each offering a unique island experience. Discover the charm of every island and find the perfect destination for your next Hawaiʻi getaway. Whether you're chasing epic waves or a relaxing retreat, your ideal vacation home awaits.
Oahu: The Gathering Place
Oahu is the epicenter of Hawaiʻi's surf scene, drawing surfers from around the world to its legendary breaks. The island is home to the famous North Shore, a mecca for professional surfers. It hosts some of the most prestigious surf competitions, including the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing and the infamous Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational. This stretch of coastline features powerful waves, challenging barrels, and world-class surf conditions that attract top athletes and dedicated wave riders year after year.
Beyond the North Shore, Oahu offers a diverse range of surf experiences suitable for all skill levels. The rolling waves of Waikiki provide an ideal setting for beginners and longboarders, while breaks like Ala Moana Bowls and Makaha Beach cater to more experienced surfers. Whether chasing adrenaline-pumping swells or looking for a mellow surf session, Oahu delivers an unmatched variety of epic surf spots.
Where to Surf on Oahu
North Shore: Pipeline, Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay (for advanced surfers)
South Shore: Waikiki, Ala Moana Bowls (great for beginners and intermediate surfers)
West Side: Makaha Beach
East Side: Sandy Beach, Makapu'u
Best Seasons to Surf on Oahu
Winter (November – March): Best for advanced surfers due to large swells on the North Shore.
Spring & Summer (April – September): Ideal for beginners, with gentler waves on the South Shore.
Best Beginner Surf Spots on Oahu
Waikiki Beach
White Plains Beach
Chun's Reef
Best Vacation Rentals Near Surf Spots on Oahu
Waialua Beachfront Cottage: This is a super charming beachfront cottage on the North Shore, offering direct access to quiet surf spots. It's perfect for relaxation after a day of riding waves and enjoying the island's beauty.
Modern Mokuleia Beachfront: A luxurious modern escape located on the beach, ideal for surf lovers looking for adventure and comfort. The home features stunning ocean views and a peaceful setting to unwind after catching waves and exploring the North Shore.
Sea Turtle Ranch: A private estate offering breathtaking ocean views and close access to top North Shore breaks. With spacious accommodations and a serene atmosphere, it's a perfect getaway for surfers and ocean lovers alike.
Blue Mahina Sunset Beach: Located near Sunset Beach, this rental is perfect for surfers chasing big waves in winter. The home provides a comfortable retreat with incredible sunset views and easy beach access.
Maui: The Valley Isle
Maui offers a unique blend of surf conditions, making it an excellent destination for surfers of all levels. On the island's northwest coast, Honolua Bay is famous for its powerful, hollow waves that attract experienced surfers looking for a thrilling ride. In contrast, the North Shore's Ho'okipa Beach is known for its consistent surf and strong winds, making it a favorite among shortboarders and windsurfers. The varied coastline provides numerous options for adrenaline-pumping swells or relaxed, scenic surf sessions.
For those who prefer a more mellow surf experience, Lahaina's long rolling waves offer the perfect conditions for beginners and longboarders. The South Shore's Launiupoko Beach Park and Kihei's Cove are awesome spots for those looking to ease into the sport. With its year-round surf appeal, warm waters, and breathtaking landscapes, Maui is a dream destination for surfers looking to experience Hawaiʻi's diverse wave conditions.
Where to Surf on Maui
North Shore: Ho'okipa Beach, Pe'ahi (Jaws for big-wave surfers)
South Shore: Launiupoko, The Cove (great for beginners)
West Maui: Honolua Bay, Launiupoko Beach Park
Best Seasons to Surf on Maui
Winter (November – March): Big swells hit the North Shore.
Summer (April – September): Smaller waves make South Maui ideal for beginners.
Best Beginner Surf Spots on Maui
The Cove (Kihei)
Launiupoko Beach Park
Puamana
Best Vacation Rentals Near Surf Spots on Maui
Island Breeze: Steps from the beach, perfect for catching waves on Maui's South Shore. This cozy and well-appointed rental offers easy access to surf spots and a relaxing retreat after a long day in the water.
Kanai Nalu 105: Here's an oceanfront condo near Maʻalaea. Enjoy stunning ocean views and a convenient location central to Maui's best waves.
Papakea A403: Close to Kaanapali's waves and great for beginner surfers. This oceanfront condo provides a peaceful escape with modern amenities and easy beach access.
Kamaole Sands 5-208: Near Kihei's best surf spots for all skill levels. This spacious rental features resort-style amenities, making it an excellent choice for surfers and all Maui visitors.
Kauaʻi: The Garden Isle
Kauaʻi's surf scene is both untamed and breathtaking, offering something for every level of surfer. The island's North Shore is home to Hanalei Bay, a picturesque spot with waves that vary from gentle rollers in the summer to powerful and unpredictable swells in the winter. Experienced surfers flock to Tunnels Beach for its challenging reef breaks, while Kealia Beach on the East Side provides consistent waves for those looking to sharpen their skills. Kauaʻi's surf culture is deeply rooted in its community, with a relaxed atmosphere that makes it a favorite destination for wave riders.
For beginners, Kauaʻi offers plenty of surf-friendly beaches to ease into the sport. Poipu Beach on the South Shore is nice for novice surfers, providing gentle waves and warm, clear waters. The Hanalei Pier area is also a great option, with soft waves ideal for learning. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started, Kauaʻi's stunning coastlines and varied surf breaks promise an unforgettable experience. Just remember, never turn your back on the ocean!
Where to Surf on Kauaʻi
North Shore: Hanalei Bay (great for all levels)
East Side: Kealia Beach
South Shore: Poipu Beach
Best Seasons to Surf on Kauaʻi
Winter: Best on the North Shore
Summer: Best on the South Shore
Best Beginner Surf Spots on Kauaʻi
Hanalei Pier
Poipu Beach
Best Vacation Rentals Near Surf Spots on Kauaʻi
Hale Hanalei: Here is a stunning beachfront home in Hanalei Bay. This spacious retreat offers breathtaking ocean views and easy access to some of Kauaʻi's best surf spots.
Makana Nui: Near Hanalei surf breaks, this charming home provides comfort and convenience. With a serene tropical setting, it's a great spot to unwind after a long day on the waves.
Hale Kahanalu: Steps from Poipu's waves, this cozy rental is ideal for surfers looking for quick beach access. Its prime location also offers proximity to local dining and shopping.
Poipu Palms 102: Oceanfront with epic views, this condo provides a relaxing escape with breathtaking sunsets. Enjoy a private lanai and the soothing sound of waves just steps from your door.
Hawaiʻi Island: The Big Island
Hawaiʻi Island, commonly known as Big Island, is the largest and most geologically diverse of Hawaiʻi's islands. Its expansive coastline offers an impressive variety of surf spots for all skill levels. The island's west side, particularly around Kona, is home to several excellent breaks with consistent waves and warm, sunny weather. Meanwhile, the east side, particularly Hilo, boasts powerful waves influenced by the island's volcanic activity and trade winds. Unlike the crowded breaks of Oahu, surfing on the Big Island often comes with fewer crowds and a more laid-back vibe.
Due to the island's large size, surfers can find waves year-round depending on the location. Winter months (November – March) bring larger swells to the west and north shores, making them ideal for advanced surfers. During the spring and summer (April – September), the east side and southern breaks become more favorable, offering smaller but consistent waves perfect for beginners and intermediates.
With a mix of reef, point, and beach breaks, the Big Island delivers a unique surf experience that blends adventure with the island's innate natural beauty.
Where to Surf on the Big Island
Kona Side: Banyans, Honl’s, Kahalu’u Beach
Hilo Side: Honoli’i, Pohoiki Bay
South Point: Kaʻaluʻalu Bay (remote, advanced surfers only)
Best Seasons to Surf on the Big Island
Winter (November – March): Bigger swells on the west and north shores.
Spring & Summer (April – September): Mellow waves are better for beginners on the east and south shores.
Best Beginner Surf Spots on the Big Island
Kahaluʻu Beach Park (Kona)
Pine Trees (Kona)
Honoliʻi (Hilo, inside section)
Best Vacation Rentals Near Surf Spots on the Big Island
Kona Sunshine: This bright and airy retreat is located near Kona's best surf breaks. This rental features a spacious lanai, ocean views, and easy access to top surf spots.
Kona Palms 304: A stylish oceanfront condo with panoramic views of the Pacific. Perfect for surfers looking to catch morning waves at Banyans or relax in a luxurious setting after a day in the water.
Kai Vista: Nestled along the Kona coastline, this rental offers a private and peaceful escape. With modern amenities and proximity to surf breaks, it's an ideal place to stay for those chasing and watching waves.
Jewel Box Kehena Beach: Located on the east side, this unique retreat is steps from Kehena Black Sand Beach. This is a great option for those looking to check out Hilo's surf scene and experience a more off-the-beaten-path side of the Big Island.
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We've learned that Hawaiʻi is undeniably a surfer's paradise, offering a wave for every skill level and a breathtaking backdrop for every adventure. Whether you dream of riding the legendary swells of Oahu's North Shore, gliding through the crystal-clear waves of Hanalei Bay, or catching a mellow sunset surf on Maui, Hawaiʻi's islands deliver an unforgettable experience.
But the magic of a surf trip isn't just about the waves—it's also about where you stay. With Vacations Hawaiʻi Life’sstunning beachfront rentals, top-tier service, and unparalleled local expertise, we ensure your Hawaiʻi surf escape is seamless, luxurious, and unforgettable.
Ready to turn your surf dreams into reality? Contact Vacations Hawaiʻi Lifetoday to book the perfect stay for your next Hawaiʻi surf trip—or any island getaway. The waves are rolling, and the islands are calling!