Queen's Surf Beach Honolulu
Waikiki's iconic surf spot for beginners, offering gentle waves and a classic Hawaiian beach experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calmer waves, fewer crowds
Queen's Surf Beach Honolulu
Best Time
Calmer waves, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Waikiki's iconic surf spot for beginners, offering gentle waves and a classic Hawaiian beach experience.
"Gorgeous beach with shallow areas perfect for families and gentle waves ideal for learning to surf."
🎯 Beginner Surf Etiquette
Stay inside the main lineup and avoid dropping in on others. Respect local surfers and conditions .
🏄♀️ Surf Lesson Recommendations
Consider local instructors like Larry Rios or Sparky's Surf School for personalized guidance .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Queen's Surf Break
Waikiki Beach
Gentle, consistent waves perfect for learning to surf. A classic Waikiki experience for beginners.
Waikiki Beachfront
Along the shore
Stunning ocean views, soft sand, and a vibrant atmosphere. Ideal for relaxing after a surf session.
Duke Kahanamoku Statue
Near the Royal Hawaiian Hotel
A tribute to the father of modern surfing. A great photo op and landmark in Waikiki.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Waikiki's Gentle Waves for Beginners
Best Time for Surf Lessons
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beginner Surf Etiquette
Stay inside the main lineup and avoid dropping in on others. Respect local surfers and conditions.+1
🏄♀️ Surf Lesson Recommendations
Consider local instructors like Larry Rios or Sparky's Surf School for personalized guidance.+1
💰 Budget-Friendly Souvenirs
Skip the ABC stores; check out the Swap Meet for cheaper souvenirs and bargain deals.
🏖️ Quieter Beach Experience
Queen's Surf Beach is often less crowded than the main Waikiki strip, offering a more relaxed vibe.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beginner Surf Etiquette
Stay inside the main lineup and avoid dropping in on others. Respect local surfers and conditions.+1
🏄♀️ Surf Lesson Recommendations
Consider local instructors like Larry Rios or Sparky's Surf School for personalized guidance.+1
💰 Budget-Friendly Souvenirs
Skip the ABC stores; check out the Swap Meet for cheaper souvenirs and bargain deals.
🏖️ Quieter Beach Experience
Queen's Surf Beach is often less crowded than the main Waikiki strip, offering a more relaxed vibe.
⚠️ Coral Caution
Be mindful of sharp coral and broken coral in the water, especially on this side of the Waikiki wall [^Review].
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Queen's Surf Beach is praised for its gentle waves, making it a top spot for beginner surfers and families. Visitors appreciate its convenient location in Waikiki and the beautiful beachfront. However, some note the presence of sharp coral and the potential for crowds during peak times.
"Gorgeous beach. There’s a wall that creates this shallow area that you are able to walk fairly far out. There’s also a pier that juts out. Great place to bring the family!"
Rhodes Family
"Great beach! It's right by the Honolulu zoo parking lot which is super nice, and it's also very close to Waikiki. There's a nice outlook spot that a lot of kids jump off of with boogie boards. The swimming is great too!"
Theo Wiggin
"Great beach at a great location. Walking distance to an abundance of entertainment, shopping and dining. Picturesque views in all directions. Plenty of shade under the gorgeous trees."
Dodd Berry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Queen's Surf Beach is located in Waikiki, Honolulu. You can easily reach it by walking from most Waikiki hotels, taking a bus, or using ride-sharing services. Parking is available nearby, though it can be limited and costly.
Yes, TheBus operates numerous routes that serve Waikiki, making it accessible from various parts of Honolulu and Oahu. Consider using a Biki bicycle for a scenic ride along the coast.
Waikiki is very walkable, and many visitors opt to explore on foot. Biki bicycles are also a popular and convenient option for getting around the area.
Limited public parking is available, particularly near the Honolulu Zoo. However, it's often recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing due to potential congestion and high parking fees.
Yes, you can take a taxi, ride-share service, or shuttle from Honolulu International Airport (HNL) to Waikiki. The journey typically takes about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Queen's Surf Beach is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee. You can access it freely to enjoy the sand, sun, and surf.
Surf lessons typically involve a fee, which varies by school and lesson type (group vs. private). Expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $150+ for a lesson.+1
Most surf schools operate daily from early morning until late afternoon, aligning with optimal surfing conditions. It's best to book lessons in advance, especially during peak season.
Beach access to Queen's Surf Beach is free for everyone. You can enjoy the shoreline and ocean without any admission charges.
Generally, no special permits are required for casual beach activities like swimming, sunbathing, or beginner surfing. However, organized events might require permits.
🎫 🏄♀️ Onsite Experience
Queen's Surf Beach is known for its gentle, rolling waves, making it ideal for beginners. Mornings often provide the calmest conditions.+1
Yes, there are numerous surf schools and rental shops along Waikiki Beach, including near Queen's Surf Beach, where you can rent surfboards and other beach gear.
Lifeguards are typically on duty at Waikiki Beach, including areas near Queen's Surf Beach, to ensure visitor safety. However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
Amenities can include public restrooms, showers, and nearby food vendors. The beach offers plenty of space to sit and relax under the shade of trees [^Review].
Yes, the shallow areas created by a wall make it a great spot for families. However, be cautious of sharp coral and broken coral in some sections [^Review].
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Golden hour provides beautiful warm tones, while the early morning light is softer.
Besides Queen's Surf Beach, consider the iconic Duke Kahanamoku statue, the colorful hotels, and panoramic views from Diamond Head for stunning photos.
Drone usage is restricted in many public areas in Hawaii, including beaches. Check local regulations before flying a drone to avoid fines.
Capture surfers catching waves, families enjoying the water, scenic ocean vistas, and the vibrant Waikiki skyline in the background.
While specific photography tours might be limited, many local guides offer personalized tours that can incorporate scenic photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the beach itself is family-friendly, parents should still be aware of the potential for sharp coral and broken coral in certain areas [^Review]. It's advisable to wear water shoes for added protection. The proximity to the Honolulu Zoo and other Waikiki attractions also makes it a convenient location for a day of family fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food and souvenirs, consider visiting the Swap Meet held on Wednesdays and Saturdays for discounted items.
🏄♀️ Solo Surfers
If you're new to surfing, booking a lesson can be a great way to gain confidence and learn proper technique from experienced instructors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Learning to Surf at Queen's
When choosing a surf school, consider local recommendations. Larry Rios (lbsurfschool) and Sparky's Surf School are frequently praised for their patient instructors and effective teaching methods.
Even if you're an experienced surfer, Queen's can offer a fun, relaxed session. However, if you're seeking more challenging breaks, other spots on Oahu might be more suitable. For beginners, the key is to have fun and enjoy the process of learning in a beautiful setting.
Waikiki Beach Experience
The beach is conveniently located near many hotels, shops, and restaurants, making it easy to access. You can find plenty of places to sit and relax, with shade provided by palm trees [^Review]. The area is also close to attractions like the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium, making it a great base for exploring the city.
For those looking to experience more than just surfing, Waikiki offers catamaran sails, sunset cruises, and a lively nightlife. It's a hub of activity, perfect for travelers who want a mix of relaxation and entertainment. Remember to be mindful of the sand and water conditions, as some areas can have sharp coral [^Review].
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit