With Love From Hanalei
Blog 6 - Top 5 Surfing Tips for Beginners Visiting Hanalei
Let’s be honest, surfing can be intimidating and surfing on Kauai holds its own set of uncertainties. While it can be frighting, one good thing to remember is that Hanalei Bay is a great spot for all levels of skill, whether you’ve never surfed or you surf everyday. In order to make sure you are ready to take on the Kauai Surf, one of our amazing instructors Evan Kaahea has written some helpful tips to get the most from your surf experience in Hanalei!
1. Know Your Skill Level (And Be Honest About It)
Hanalei can be mellow one day and powerful the next. The ocean here changes quickly, and even small waves can carry serious power. Be honest with yourself about your ability, and don’t paddle out just because it looks fun. If you're unsure, talk to a knowledgeable local or book a lesson with one of our talented instructors — they know the conditions and where to go based on your skill level.
2. Learn the Breaks Before You Paddle Out
Hanalei Bay has a variety of surf spots — from soft beach breaks to faster reef waves — and each one works differently depending on the swell, tide, and wind. Some spots are perfect for beginners, while others are best left to more advanced surfers. Spend time watching the waves from the beach, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to sit out a session if conditions aren’t right. Feel free to refer to our blog Why Surfers Love Hanalei Bay - A Guide to Kauai’s Best Waves for some insights on what you can expect from our best surf spots.
3. Respect the Locals & Follow Surf Etiquette
Always show respect to locals and other surfers out there in the water. The main tips would be to not drop in on someone’s wave, and to respect the pecking order. Don’t be a kook. When in doubt, hang back and observe how others are moving in the lineup. Don’t be in a rush to get a wave when you first paddle out, the best thing to do is observe the waves and the lineup, and to make sure to get comfortable out there.
4. Focus on the Fundamentals
Surfing has a long learning curve — and that’s part of what makes it so rewarding. Don’t rush into turns or tricks before you’ve nailed the basics. Focus on having a solid paddling technique, reading waves and understanding timing, and your pop up. We start our lessons on the sand understanding the fundamentals of getting up on the board, then we take it out to the water, this is always a great way to get started!
5. Don’t Forget to Have Fun :)
At the end of the day, surfing is all about having fun and enjoying working with the ocean. Don’t let frustration take over. The more fun you’re having, the more natural your surfing will become.
When we say that surfing in Hanalei Bay is for all levels we mean it and if you are looking for a place to start out your surf journey there is no better place. There are plenty of resources that are available to help you catch your first wave. We’ve written a blog about it, but there are so many great benefits towards starting your surf journey with a lesson and if you feel like you would appreciate the expert guidance of a surf instructor, you’ve come to the right place!
Instructor Highlight
Meet Nathan “Nate” Neikter, one of our experienced surf instructors here at Hawaiian Surfing Adventures in beautiful Hanalei Bay, Kauai. Born and raised on the North Shore, Nate has been surfing for 27 years and brings a lifetime of ocean knowledge to every surf lesson.
Meet Nate:
Age: 32
From: North Shore, Kauai
Surfing Since: Age 5
Spirit Animal: Liger
Vibe in Three Words: Cool, calm, collective
Why He Loves Teaching Surf Lessons in Hanalei Bay
For Nate, the best part of teaching surf lessons is seeing the pure stoke on students’ faces. Whether someone is standing up on a board for the very first time or finally catching a long, clean ride, he loves being part of those moments. His #1 tip for visitors? Try surfing in Hanalei Bay—it’s one of the easiest and most beginner-friendly places to learn on Kauai.
A True North Shore Local
On his days off, Nate is either surfing or playing music—two passions that keep him grounded and inspired. People are often surprised to learn that despite growing up on an island, he’s never seen snow.
Inspired by the legendary Irons brothers, Nate’s surf style reflects power, flow, and a deep connection to the ocean. What he loves most about living on Kauai is simple: “The beautiful landscapes and beautiful people.”
He describes Kauai in one word: Special.
A Surf Story You Won’t Forget
Nate has had his fair share of wipeouts, but the most memorable might be the day a powerful wave ripped his board shorts right off—an unforgettable “lesson from the ocean” moment that still makes him laugh.
Want to surf with Nate? Book your next lesson with us by visiting the surf lessons page or click book a lesson at the top of the page!
