Oahu, one of the top destinations in the world for surfing, offers beginner-friendly surfers the chance to hit the legendary waves on its North Shore. During the winter, swells can reach up to 50 feet, drawing thrill-seekers and surfing icons to the island’s epic shores, making it the ideal destination for surfing competitions like the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing and Billabong Pipe Masters. Whether you’re looking to watch the pros ride some of the biggest waves in the world, take a lesson in the protected waters of Waikiki or compete against some of the best in the world, here are some locations where you can surf, eat and sleep during Oahu’s legendary big wave winter.
Surf
© The LineUp at Wai Kai
A new surf-centric activity hub, this is the perfect day trip excursion for active travelers. The Wai Kai Wave, Hawai’i’s first deep-water standing wave, offers an unrivaled experience for surfers of all levels and hands-on instruction from the sport’s best including Shane Beschen, former world No. 2 ranked surfer and X-Games Champion. The LineUp at Wai Kai also has a 52-acre lagoon for water sports, delicious restaurants and a weekly dinner show featuring dancers, musicians and surfers.
© The Twin Fin Hotel
With a new partnership between The Fin Hotel and Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience, the hotel launches the Jamie O’Brien School of Surf Waikiki, an experiential surf concept and storefront. Set to launch in November, the new school offers private and group surf lessons for all levels.
Sleep
© Romer Waikiki at The Ambassador
Romer Waikiki at The Ambassador
Opening its door earlier this month after a full top-to-bottom renovation, the neighborhood hotel features an array of room types, creative designs, unique programming and easy access to the island’s best outdoor activities. Guests can redeem credits included with their stay for a selection of surfboard and watercraft rentals to further enhance their ocean experience.
© Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa
Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa
Set to open in early 2024, this new luxury hotel is situated in the heart of Honolulu on white sandy beaches. The 39-story “Sanctuary in the Sky” includes new rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and contemporary design. Amenities include state-of-the-art wellness facilities, a heated saltwater pool with luxury cabanas, Hawai‘i’s first traditional Japanese Onsen baths, Himalayan salt saunas, steam rooms and cold plunge baths.
© Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach offers guests access to a reimagined wellness center called Fit Waikiki, the perfect hub for surfers to cross-train on off days. Luxurious facilities offer new weight training equipment, locker rooms, personal coaching sessions and group classes. Recovery options include pampering at Spa U’ilani and innovative treatments at the on-site IV lounge, Drip Hawaii. ‘Alohilani Resort is also home to one of the world’s best destination pool decks with a saltwater infinity pool, cabanas, fire pits and dining options at SWELL Pool Restaurant Bar.
Eat
© La Bettola Waikiki
One of Oahu’s best new restaurants, La Bettola Waikiki recently made its debut at ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach. Perfect for those looking to carbo-load before hitting the waves, La Bettola features authentic Italian fare while highlighting the island’s local ingredients and fresh seafood.
© The LookOut Food & Drink
The Surfrider Foundation Ocean Friendly Restaurant provides front-row views of the Wai Kai Wave surf action from its expansive lanai and wave deck, as well as views of the Wai Kai Lagoon and the Pacific Ocean. The LookOut features live entertainment and a menu inspired by famous surf spots around the world.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDining/Entertainment
Oct 8, 2026Fourth Annual Mexology Fest Coming to Riviera Nayarit
Make plans for the Nov. 2–3 Mexology Fest at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. The celebration blends Day of the Dead traditions and Mexican spirits, with resort guests enjoying tasting, workshops and more, for four years and counting.
Sponsored Content
12 Reasons to Visit Gozo, Malta’s Slower Sister Island
Gozo may be small in size, but Malta’s charming sister island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, deep-rooted history, rich culture and adventure. Gozo offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. From picturesque villages and cliffside views to ancient temples and festive celebrations, the island invites visitors to slow down and savor the true Mediterranean lifestyle.
Hotel
Oct 7, 2026Hyatt Vivid Cancun Ushers in New Era of Social Travel
Wellness tourism continues to grow, and more and more tropical resorts shy away from traditional amenities like swim-up bars, late-night activities and traditional happy hours, instead opting for more immersive and community-driven experiences. A new kind of resort travel is emerging where connection, movement and shared experiences take center stage.
Cruises
Oct 7, 2026MSC Cruises Continues Coral Restoration Efforts
MSC Foundation — part of MSC Group, parent company of MSC Cruises — continues its coral restoration efforts in the Bahamas. Most recently, the foundation outplanted more than 30 nursery-grown fragments of elkhorn coral. Elkhorn coral is a critically endangered species, with the population declining by as much as 97 percent in the Caribbean since the 1980s.
Sponsored Content
The Province That Surrounds Seoul — And Outshines It
Skip the Seoul Crowds. The Real Korea is in Gyeonggi.
Hotel
Oct 6, 2026Embrace Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Special Programming at This NYC Hotel
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and The Algonquin Hotel is going above and beyond to show support through a series of events, performances and special programming benefiting American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.
ShareThis