The North Shore of Oahu is famous for its giant winter waves — but here’s the local secret: summer is the perfect season to learn to surf here. From late spring through early fall, the big swells go to sleep and the North Shore transforms into one of the best beginner surf zones in Hawaii.
Who We Are
North Shore Surf Girls is a female-founded, family-owned surf school in Hale’iwa on Oahu’s North Shore. We teach everyone—men, women, couples, families, and kids ages 5 and up. We’ve been sharing our home waves with first-time surfers for decades, and summer is when the North Shore truly shines for beginners.
Why Summer Is Ideal for Learning to Surf on the North Shore
As winter moves to the Southern Hemisphere, the North Shore’s famous big waves quiet down. But the waves don’t disappear — Hawaii’s steady trade winds generate a wind swell that wraps around the island, delivering gentle, consistent waves that are just the right size for learning. Small, friendly waves nearly every day, all summer long.
Where We Teach: Chun’s Reef
In the summer months, we teach at a special beach called Chun’s Reef, located about two miles northeast of Hale’iwa town. It’s everything you want in a first surf experience:
- A mellow, beginner-friendly wave
- An uncrowded white sand beach
- Clear water
- Green sea turtles swimming all around — it’s common to share your lesson with honu!
- A lifeguarded beach (City & County of Honolulu lifeguards)
What About Winter? We Teach Year-Round
When the big winter surf arrives, we simply move our lessons to a cove that’s protected from the larger waves. So whatever season your trip falls in, you can learn to surf with us on the North Shore.
The North Shore Advantage
Most visitors assume Waikiki is the place for surf lessons, but the North Shore in summer offers clean, clear water, far fewer crowds, gentle waves nearly every day, free parking, and unforgettable sunsets. You’ll learn to surf the way it should be — on a beautiful, uncrowded beach.
Make a Day of It: Summer Fun Around Hale’iwa
A surf lesson is the must-do — but the North Shore in summer is packed with other adventures:
- Snorkeling, shell collecting & turtle viewing — summer’s calm water opens up miles of white sand beaches. Ask your instructor after your lesson for directions to some favorite off-the-beaten-path spots!
- Waimea Valley — just minutes from Hale’iwa, this ancient Hawaiian valley features world-class botanical gardens and a scenic walk to a beautiful waterfall and swimming hole (admission fee applies; lifeguards on duty)
- Ocean adventures from Hale’iwa Harbor — shark tours, deep-sea fishing, and sunset cruises all depart from the harbor on the northeast end of town
- Skydiving & glider rides — Dillingham Airfield, about 20 minutes west of Hale’iwa on Farrington Hwy, offers tandem skydives and scenic glider rides for the adventurous
- Sunset drinks at Turtle Bay — watch surfers riding into the sunset with a Mai Tai in hand; a favorite with locals too
FAQs
Q: When is summer surf season on the North Shore?
A: Roughly late spring through early fall. During these months the surf is small, friendly, and ideal for beginners.
Q: Are the waves big enough to actually surf in summer?
A: Yes! The trade-wind swell delivers gentle waves nearly every day — perfect for catching your first rides.
Q: Is it safe for kids?
A: Summer conditions at Chun’s Reef are ideal for young learners, and we teach kids ages 5 and up. The beach is also lifeguarded.
Q: Will we really see sea turtles?
A: Very likely! Green sea turtles (honu) are regulars at Chun’s Reef. Remember to admire them from a respectful distance — they’re protected in Hawaii.
Q: What if we visit in winter instead?
A: We teach year-round. In winter we move lessons to a protected cove away from the big surf.
Book Your Summer Surf Lesson
Clear water, gentle waves, sea turtles, and the most beautiful coastline on Oahu — summer on the North Shore is calling.
Questions? Call 808-637-2977 or contact us.