Added on February 21, 2023  Vanessa Hathaway   ,

Riding the Waves: Best Surf Spots on O’ahu’s South Shore

Riding the Waves: Best Surf Spots on O’ahu’s South Shore
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O’ahu is a surfing capital of the world, known for iconic big-wave spots like the legendary Pipeline and Hale’iwa on the North Shore. It is no wonder that this island attracts world class surfers hoping to catch the waves of their life, but what about those in search of a smaller thrill? The south shores of O’ahu are perfect for beginner and more experienced surfers seeking a calmer cruise. 

surfers on the water in waikiki with diamond head in background
The surf break of Waikiki on Oahu’s south shore almost always have waves that make them a great place for new surfers to cut their teeth. (photo Ronen Zilberman)

Canoes Surf

The most popular surf spot along the south shore are the waters right off of Waikīkī beach across from Uluniu avenue, known as “Canoes” to locals. Canoes’ break is a short paddle from the sand, making the residual soreness on your shoulders a little easier to endure for the next day. The waves are typically between 1-3 feet tall, but can reach up to around 5 feet on special days. 

many people gather in the water to surf at the canoes surf break in waikiki hawaii
The gentle waves at the Canoes surf break make it an ideal spot for learning and also one of the most crowded breaks. (photo Ronen Zilberman)

Queen’s Break

A hidden gem to the east of Canoes is Queen’s break. If you walk to Kapi’olani beach park, the very edge touching Waikīkī holds this special spot. The break is about the same distance from the sand as Canoes, but it is much less busy. Queen’s break is a chill spot for beginner surfers, but since this is typically a local spot, the surf etiquette is a little stricter here. 

The surf break of Waikiki on Oahu’s south shore almost always have waves that make them a great place for new surfers to cut their teeth. (photo Ronen Zilberman)

Baby Maks

Another underrated local longboarding spot is located right next to Makapu’u lighthouse, known as “Baby Maks”. A lot of locals go here to learn and catch the smaller O’ahu waves, but it is known for being a particularly rocky spot. Use surf etiquette and be careful to not knick, or even break your board! 

a young girls rides a wave on a surfboard at the baby makapuu surf break on Oahu hawaii
A surfer rides small waves at the Baby Maks surf break in Waimanalo on the southeast side of O’ahu. (photo Ronen Zilberman)

Bowls Surf

The last spot on the south shore is on the east side of the docks at Ala Moana beach. This spot is known as “Bowls” and is a nice spot for longboarding smaller waves, but it is recommended for slightly more experienced surfers. The waves can be as tall as 1-3 feet, but on good days, they can be 5-7 feet. The break is quite a far paddle from the shore, and the wind often pulls you west, forcing you to paddle further when you’re ready to leave the sea. Although challenging, Bowls is an easily accessible thrill for intermediate surfers looking to level up. 

surfer catches a wave on his head in waikiki
A surfer stands on his head while riding a wave in front of the Duke Kahanamoku statue, during the 116th birthday celebration for the late surfing legend, in Waikiki. (Photo/Ronen Zilberman)

Whether you want an easily accessible spot just a few minutes from your Waikīkī resort, or a more secluded session with a beautiful view of a lighthouse, O’ahu’s surf offers more than just big waves fit for world renown competitions. This island is rich with a variety of surf culture that can fit any type of of surfer. Be brave, and enjoy the waves!

A young girl carries her board on the beach at Baby Makapu'u on the southeast shores of O'ahu.
A young girl carries her board on the beach at Baby Makapu’u on the southeast shores of O’ahu. (photo Ronen Zilberman)

Here are some tips for surfing at Canoes:

  • Check the surf report before you go. Canoes can get crowded, so it’s important to know what the conditions are like before you head out. You can check the surf report online or ask a local surfer for advice.
  • Arrive early. Canoes is a popular spot, so it’s important to arrive early if you want to get a good spot. The waves are usually best in the morning, so try to get there before 9am.
  • Be aware of the other surfers. Canoes is a crowded spot, so it’s important to be aware of the other surfers around you. Be respectful of their space and don’t cut them off.
  • Have fun! Surfing is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors. Soak up the sun, enjoy the waves, and have some fun.

by Vanessa Hathaway

As a writing intern for Honolulu Vibes, Vanessa Hathaway is passionate about creating quality content that allows audiences across oceans to collectively share her zest for adventure. Raised in Washington D.C and Las Vegas, Vanessa moved to O’ahu to pursue a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in English at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. She spends her free time playing gigs with her band, Blue Tuesday, and surfing at the local longboard spots in Honolulu.

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