Hey all, So I have been an exclusive PNW surfer and have never surfed in water over 60°f. I am taking a family trip to Kauai in April, and was planning on renting a board for the week. (I have no intrest in shipping one of my own, and they are all made for Washington waves anyway) I normally surf either 9’ x 23" nose rider or my “shorty” which is 7’2" x 22" swallow tail. Any thoughts on what might be a good rental board? I’m 5’6" / 175#. Been surfing for more years than not…
I am hoping to find some fun surf for me, and also something gentle I can take my 6 year old boy with me. Any locations you can advise?
Where are you going to be staying? The Poipu side is gentle. I took my kids there when they were about 10 and we had a lot of fun with inflatable mats. The harbor at Nawiliwili (Lihue) has some fun surf too. The north or east side would be more fun for you, maybe not for both of you.
FYI… I live on Oahu, not Kauai, so I’m not an expert on the best places to go. If you can surf, Hanalei (long rights), and Pakala’s (long lefts) on the west side are wonderful waves. I’m not sure where people park to go to Pakala these days. Been a long time since I surfed there.
April would probably be in between the North and South seasons, so you’d have a lot of choice. Look around and see what the waves are doing. A longboard may be more practical.
Pine Trees out on the North Shore(Hanalei) is gentle and fun. Near the Pier. All the spots mentioned are worth a look. Smile alot and show respect. A 12 pack and some Poke go a long way when attempting to make friends with the Locals. Former PNW shaper Tuel is rumored to be in exile there from Tillamook.
He’s probably over in Lawai. That’s where he lived when he was over there years before. Ask around. I bet someone will steer you onto him. Tell him that guy down in PC that sells materials says Aloha. Lowel
Pakala’s (long lefts) on the west side are wonderful waves. I’m not sure where people park to go to Pakala these days. Been a long time since I surfed there.
Ha! Now a days just look for all the cars parked at the bridge!
Your will sunburn faster than you ever thought possible. This can ruin the rest of your stay - get as much sun as you can before you go. If you see a spot that looks like a surf spot but no one is out, there is probably a good reason to avoid it. Be more careful getting in and out of the water than usual.
Yep. When I need to travel light this is all I need…If you think these are not legit you got a lot to learn. Surf hat white rasguard works for me in the Ecuadorian sun and water.
Ambrose could end up being your most lasting memory…Yes, there are quite a few boards and most likely surf mats available for rent… I am sure he has a multitude of tips as well…
looks like you’re staying in an upscale southside resort. The Kilihuna Shopping Center is total up scale for the rich only.
from what I hear the food is good at the plantation
the breaks at poipu and kalipaki will be closer and very family friendly.
You can rent at the board shop at Kalipaki or take lessons from the Marriot.
but like roger said don’t do yourself a disservice and not visit with Ambrose at Marta’s Boat.
and pick up a couple of shirts before you leave. He rents his hand made boards and sups as well
see if you can get a hold of PPK aka Peter Kahapea over in kilauea if you are heading up north to hanalei he’ll set you up if you need anything.
Also having a mat is a great idea for traveling, Ambrose mats quite a bit infront of his place.
if you can get to the board swap meet in hanalei over the weekend its well worth it you might find a gem.
and don’t be the typical clunky get-mine “tourist” just be a respectful out of town “visitor” and you find the magic everyone talks about.
water’s warm if the el-nino north winds continue it could get a little chilly nothing like suring the northwest though.
use a longsleeve lycra surfshirt and lots of sunscreen to prevent burning.
Some guys even wear hats these days to protect their face and eyes.
drink lots of coconut water and beer to prevent dehydration
enjoy and don’t try and cram too much in
make sure you get to waimea canyon if you are staying on that side and if you can afford it the helicopter ride around the island or a catamaran ride up to napali’s will be well worth it. Even paddling up the wailua or a boat ride to the falls will be memorable.
