SUP Waikiki
Waikiki offers some of the best waves on Oahu for Standup Paddle Board Surfing ("SUP Surfing"). From beginner to advanced, there is something for everyone in Waikiki beach.
Intermediate and advanced paddle board surfers love the rolling surf that Waikiki provides. Outer reef breaks are easily accessible for SUPers and make for epic long rides that connect to the inside breaks. If you are planning a Standup Paddle Board surf trip, Waikiki is a great choice for consistent waves and accessibility. In this article, we share the best SUP Waikiki surf breaks and paddle board rental spots in Waikiki.
Waikiki is located on Oahu’s South Shore. If you want the best Standup Paddle Surfing in Waikiki, plan your trip during the summer months, when southern swells are the most common. Those looking for a more challenging wave will enjoy Ala Moana Beach Park and “Big Rights” that only breaks on the largest south swells.
Because of the consistently perfect 80 degree weather, Waikiki offers amazing SUP conditions year round. The trade winds provide off shore wind conditions most of the year but do occasionally change direction and blow on-shore. During these times the paddle boarding and surfing conditions are not very good and its best to find a different activity for the day, like hiking Diamond Head or going for a run in Waikiki.
In August the humidity can get pretty bad but the SUP conditions are still really good. If you can deal with the extra muggy conditions, there are usually travel deals you can find.
It is very easy to find SUP rental in Waikiki. Directly next to the Duke Statue, there are a few beach boy tents that rent SUP Boards by the hour. These boards are perfect for beginner to intermediate riders. Other paddle board rental Waikiki spots are:
Advanced riders will want to check out the shops on Kuhio Ave as they typically have a few more advanced boards. If visiting for more than a week it is worth checking Craigslist for used boards. The market for used boards is pretty hot so you shouldn’t have a problem selling it quickly after you get good use out of the board.
For most of the year Waikiki is an excellent spot for standup paddle boarding. There are multiple peaks throughout Waikiki Bay that give SUPers a variety of options depending on their ability level. The best surfing spots in Waikiki are all located along Kalakaua Ave – the Main Street that goes through Waikiki, parallel with the water.
Surfing and paddling is always more fun with friends. Use The Klubb app to connect with locals and other visitors of your similar ability. Connecting with a local is the best way to really experience what Waikiki is all about. From surfing secret spots to enjoying local ‘grinds’ post SUP, there are a lot of benefits of doing activities with friends.