Learn to Surf

Waikiki, with reliable waves almost all year round, is a good choice for the beginner. Waikiki's "beach boys" rose to fame in the 1930s when they took charge of the beach, the waves, and the fun. Beach boys, who are required to be licensed lifeguards, still give lessons.

Makaha, on the island's northwest coast, is famous for its raging winter surf and towering waves. North of Makaha is Yokohama Bay where the waves meet a rocky shelf and exposed reef. The "Seven Mile Miracle," which stretches from Haleiwa to Sunset Beach on Oahu's North Shore, contains many of the major surf spots on this big wave coast, including Rocky Point, Banzai Pipeline, Ehukai, Waimea Bay, Chun's Reef, Laniakea, and Sunset Beach.

Surfing pros, male and female, offer lessons throughout the island.