Located on the west coast of Hawaii's Big Island, Kona offers surfing for enthusiasts at all levels. Beginners can learn the sport on Kona's golden beaches, while advanced surfers can find beaches and conditions to provide them with a challenge. The coast is a tourist destination and you will find a number of resort hotels if you are looking for accommodations.
Check the weather and the surfing conditions. The best swells on the west coast are found November to March. If you prefer the beaches a bit quieter, the visiting pro surfers move elsewhere in the spring and there are still plenty of waves, albeit smaller than in winter. You can obtain daily surf guides at the Wannasurf website
Brush up on your surfing skills at the Kona Surf Co. Lessons are available for both beginners and experienced surfers covering topics such as environmental and ocean awareness, stretching exercises and safety. The surf school runs four sessions daily depending on wind and tidal conditions.
Head for Anaeho'amalu, known locally as A-Bay and you are at the heart of Kona's surfing community. Described by Konaweb as "the windsurfing capital of the Big Island," the beach is host to a range of water sports. Overlooked by hundreds of palm trees, you will also find some of Hawaii's best sunsets at this spot.
Explore the area on Alii Drive between Kailua and Keauhou. You will find small, secluded beaches that offer decent surfing and are suitable for beginners. Try the Kahalu'u Beach Park which offers safe family surfing as well as one of the best snorkeling locations on the island.
Move along Alii Drive to Banyans where you will find some fast waves and plenty of space to maneuver for advanced surfers. The best surfing conditions here are found during incoming tides. Youth surfing contests are held at this location.
