Last Updated on October 18, 2026 by Katrina
Hawaii is a surfer’s paradise, with world-class waves and rich surf culture across the islands. While you can find great surf hotels on Kauai or Maui, you also can’t go wrong focusing on the island of Oahu, with its mix of legendary surf breaks and beginner-friendly beaches, plus a wide selection of nearby resorts. Here are the best surf hotels in Hawaii.
The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay (57-091 Kamehameha Hwy; 808-293-6000) Kahuku
“Located on the famed North Shore of Oahu, where surfers flock to catch some of the best waves in the world, this five-star resort offers direct access to tranquil beaches, nature trails, and refined digs,” writes Condé Nast Traveler. The calendar of free experiences includes lei-making, ukulele lessons, and introductory surf lessons from the Jamie O’Brien Experience, the onsite surf school that also offers paid lessons on the water. “The surf team was excellent,” writes a Google reviewer. “We’re first timers and had a successful first time out. We also appreciated the ‘Ritz’ touches like the lei at check-in and complimentary sunscreen by the pool.” >> Book this hotel for less
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort (2005 Kālia Rd.; 808- 949-4321) Honolulu
Stay right at the edge of Waikiki Beach at this bustling 22-acre Hilton that offers easy access to surf waves and the Waikiki neighborhood. U.S. News & World Report likes that the hotel’s tropical gardens are “reminiscent of a remote Hawaiian jungle, but if you’re looking for peace and quiet, you’ve come to the wrong place.” Indeed, the resort has 20 restaurants and activities such as snorkeling, catamaran rides, and a big onsite luau. “Plenty of pool space for the kiddos,” writes a Google reviewer. “You’re right on top of perfect surfing breaks and tons of beach space.” >> Book this hotel for less
Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort (2169 Kālia Rd.; 808-923-3111) Honolulu
Condé Nast Traveler likes that this 635-room Waikiki Beach hotel is “right where the action is—whether you want to shop or surf. Feel like staying put? The resort has three restaurants, a Starbucks, a spa, and nightly musical performances, so you’ll never be bored.” Rooms and public spaces feature local art and the hotel’s Kani Ka Pila Grille offers authentic Hawaiian music. A Tripadvisor user likes that “surfing lessons launch from this location and snorkeling is great—I observed large sea turtles. The beach seems busy but there is plenty of space for everyone.” >> Book this hotel for less
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach (2365 Kalākaua Ave.; 808- 922-3111) Honolulu
Enjoy front-row access to surf lessons on Waikiki Beach and a rich sense of history at this grande dame hotel that first opened in 1901and is home to a 116-year-old banyan tree. “Rooms in the historic wing tend to be small and full of character, and those in the modern tower have the best views of Diamond Head,” writes Condé Nast Traveler. “Be sure to reserve your umbrella on the sand at least a day in advance.” You can also stay in the Surfrider Wing, whose décor honors the local surf history. Onsite you can also enjoy a spa and resort activities such as a beach sunrise ceremony. A Google reviewer writes that “I did a surfing lesson off property with my 13-year-old, and after my lesson, I watched the surfers from my balcony.” >> Book this hotel for less
Koʻa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach (2251 Poipu Rd.; 808-742-4200) Koloa
Stay right on Kauai’s surfer-friendly Poipu Beach at this 121-room boutique resort with its own onsite surf shop where you can sign up for a lesson or just rent gear. “Eschewing waterslides and swim-up bars, Ko‘a Kea has more sedate pleasures,” writes Condé Nast Traveler, like its “expansive lawn where guests sit at sunset” and that all rooms come with “balconies or lanais and within earshot of the waves.” A Google reviewer calls it a “quaint facility but top-notch overall. Pool, turtles, seals, whales, surfing, and snorkeling. You can do it all.” >> Book this hotel for less
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