Hawaii is world renowned for its pounding surf. World famous breaks include Pipeline, Waimea, and Sunset beaches, where wave heights can frequently climb to over twenty five feet. Maui and the Big Island have lots of spectacular breaks as well, including Jaws, and Hapuna Beach. If you are an adventurous traveler, you are likely to take your chances surfing at least some of the Island’s less bone cracking breaks. Please take some time to go over a few tips from us at Discover Hawaii Tours that ought to make your surfing attempts an all around safer and more fun experience.

First things first, if the waves look too big for you to handle you should probably trust your gut. If you are uncertain about the conditions you can always ask the lifeguards, or surfers fresh from a session. Unless you are a skilled swimmer, entering the fray without surfing experience can truly be a dangerous experience. You are going to have to contend with not only the relentless pounding of the waves, but the jagged coral below the water as well. The reefs can sometimes be located just a few feet below the water level. In addition to being razor sharp in some spots, they are also crawling with spiny sea urchins that will truly mess up your day if you land hard on one.

Speaking of equipment, a surfboard can at once be your most important surfing tool and a hindrance, if not handled properly. Chances are the first few times you try surfing you are going to be doing so on a nice big long board. A larger board makes it much easier for one to learn to balance, but it can also be cumbersome while maneuvering in the waves. If you happen to wipe out, you could have to worry about being dragged around by the hefty board strapped to your ankle. Also, you are likely not the only beginner surfer out there, and being hit by an out of control long board is surely going to leave a mark. Another tip when surfing with long boards is to be careful when returning to the surface of the water. If you shoot to the surface without looking up you might be met with a very surprising and spine crunching thud as you attempt to emerge from the water directly below your floating board.

Despite the risks, in general, having a surf board with you is a good thing for people trying to ride the waves. They provide a buoy that you can always cling to in times of distress, and make for exhilarating rides when mastered. When out there among other surfers, don’ be pushy, especially if you are truly inexperienced. Let the more skilled surfers have the waves they want, learn from them, and bide your time until your wave comes on through.