Heʻe nalu is the Hawaiian term for surfing and translates to “wave sliding.”

Did ancient Hawaiians surf?

Yes. Surfing was widely practiced in ancient Hawaiʻi and was part of cultural life for both chiefs and commoners.

Why is the North Shore of Oʻahu so famous for surfing?

The North Shore is known for powerful winter swells and iconic surf breaks that helped shape modern big-wave surfing and professional competition.

What are alaia and ʻolo boards?

Alaia and ʻolo are traditional Hawaiian surfboard styles. Alaia were typically smaller; ʻolo were typically longer and historically associated with chiefs.

Where should beginners surf on the North Shore?

Beginner-friendly locations depend on season and conditions. A local, certified instructor helps you choose a safe location and learn proper etiquette.

North Shore Archives - North Shore Surf Girls

Best Surfing Lessons in Oahu – Learn to Surf with Female Instructors

Oahu, Hawaii, is a paradise for surfers of all levels. With its stunning beaches and perfect waves, it’s a dream destination for those looking to ride the waves. If you’re a beginner searching for the best place to start your surfing journey in Oahu, you’re in the right place! In this blog post, we’ll answer […]

Best Shave Ice on the North Shore of Oahu After a Surf Lesson

Shave Ice is as synonymous with the North Shore as surfing itself. There’s no better way to cool down after a sun-soaked surf lesson than with a bowl of this Hawaiian specialty. The North Shore of Oahu is renowned for its shave ice offerings, with places like Matsumoto’s Shave Ice leading the pack. Situated in […]

North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii is the Surfing Capitol of the World In More Ways then One

North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii is the Surfing Capitol of the World In More Ways then One. Surfing lessons are offered daily in safe small wave coves. In the winter season would be surfers can watch spectacular waves crashing on white sand beaches in safety. Always, always consult a lifeguard or hire a water safety […]

Best Places to Eat Shave Ice on the North Shore After a Surfing Lesson

Matsumoto’s Shave Ice is the most popular place to eat shave ice on the North Shore especially after a surfing lesson. Another favorite and equally as good is Aoki’s Shave Ice. Sadly however Aoki’s shave ice is is slated to be torn down in a few short weeks to make way for a new shopping […]

North Shore Surf Scene Secrets

Surfs been super small….especially compared with the 10 plus 20ft swells the North Shore surf community enjoyed last Winter….No problem for the North Shore Surf Girls, we can teach surfing on small or big days because we know all the secret spots on the North Shore….Speaking of secrets there’s been some talk on the blogs […]

First Surf of the Season on the North Shore

The past few days of surfing on the North Shore has been awesome! It’s looking like an early Winter for sure. Today, yesterday and the day before we moved our surfing lessons to Puaena Point, because it was to big for Chun’s Reef. We love teaching surfing at Puaena Point because the wave is longer […]