Best Longboard Waves in Kauai for All Levels

I’ve ridden longboards on every major island in Hawaii. Kauai stays with me the most. It’s quiet there. The kind of quiet that settles in your chest. The reefs shape waves that roll in slow and steady, and the beach breaks stay gentle. It’s a place made for a log.

If you’re looking for the best longboard waves in Kauai, I’ll tell you where to go.

Best Longboard Waves in Kauai

This list isn’t theoretical. These are breaks I’ve personally surfed or watched closely over multiple visits, especially with a longboard in mind. The focus is on mellow takeoffs, consistent shape, and lower stress – ideal if you’re traveling or just want to enjoy a few hours trimming and cruising.

Hanalei Bay

I always try to plan my trips around getting at least one mellow session at Hanalei Bay. The inside section is a dream when it’s small to medium – nothing too intimidating, just long walls and smooth takeoffs.

I’ve had some of my favorite logging sessions here on those days when it’s clean and waist-to-chest high. The point-style reef setup gives it great shape, and the shoulder opens up in a way that lets you stay on your feet for a long time.

It’s drop-dead gorgeous too, so even the paddle-out feels special. It does get crowded during the winter swell season, especially if it’s manageable for beginners, but I’ve found that showing up early or catching a mid-week window helps a lot.

I’d say it’s best for beginner to intermediate surfers – just be aware of the reef if you’re not used to surfing over one.

Kalapaki Beach

Kalapaki is the first place I recommend to anyone visiting Kauai with a longboard, especially if they’re newer to surfing or just want an easygoing session.

It’s tucked into a little cove near Lihue, so it’s protected from most wind, and the waves break super gently in both directions. I’ve surfed here on days when the north shore was totally blown out and still had a blast trimming soft little lines at Kalapaki.

The beach and reef combo underfoot gives it some nice shape without being punchy. It doesn’t get too big, which makes it a confidence builder if you’re rusty or traveling with friends who are just getting into surfing.

It’s also less crowded than places like Hanalei or Poipu, especially in the mornings.

Kahili (Rock Quarry Beach)

Kahili, or Rock Quarry Beach, is one of those spots I always check on a drive around the island. It’s not as consistent as the more famous breaks, but when the swell angle lines up and the wind’s right, it turns into a super fun longboard wave.

I’ve had sessions here where I was one of only a few people in the water, catching smooth rights that peeled way longer than I expected. The wave breaks over a sand and reef mix, so it’s not too gnarly underfoot, and the paddle-out is usually mellow.

That said, it’s definitely a more intermediate spot because the takeoff zone can shift, and sometimes you have to read it on the fly. I always treat this one like a bonus wave – when it’s working, it’s gold.

Anahola Bay

Anahola is a bit more under the radar, and that’s part of why I like it. I’ve shown up on small, clean mornings and had mellow lefts and rights all to myself.

It’s not a high-performance wave, but that’s exactly why it’s great for longboarding. You can take your time, practice trimming, maybe sneak in a little walk up the nose if the section lets you.

There’s a reef influence that gives it just enough shape, but the wave itself is super forgiving. It’s usually empty during the week, and the locals I’ve chatted with there were friendly as long as you show respect.

For beginners or anyone looking for a peaceful session without the crowds, Anahola is worth a look.

Waiohai (Poipu)

I’ve logged more hours at Waiohai than almost anywhere else on the island. It’s right near Poipu Beach, so it’s easy to access and consistent in the summer.

When a small south swell lines up and the wind stays light, it turns into a glassy playground. I’ve had mellow sessions here with families, tourists, and local kids all out sharing waves.

The reef isn’t super sharp, and the inside section is forgiving enough for newer surfers. But it also throws in just enough push for more experienced loggers to get creative.

It’s one of those spots that lets you have fun without overthinking it. I try to paddle out here anytime I’m in the south – it never disappoints.

Check out my full guide to Costa Rica’s best longboard waves if you’re eyeing a Central America trip instead.

Key Points for Longboarding Kauai

• Keep an eye on swell size: Most spots get too big to longboard during winter swells. Look for smaller days or shoulder seasons.
• Bring booties if you’re unsure: A lot of these breaks have reef – if you’re not used to Hawaiian reef, bring protection just in case.

Best Time to Surf Longboard Waves in Kauai

Kauai is surfable year-round, but certain seasons work better for longboarding depending on the coast.

Winter (Nov–March)

North shores get the brunt of the big swells. Hanalei can be perfect when it’s on the small side, but things often get too heavy. South and east shores tend to be calmer.

Summer (May–Sept)

South swells light up places like Poipu and Waiohai. This is my favorite time for logging on Kauai. Warm water, mellow surf, and more protected conditions.

Shoulder Seasons (April, October)

Underrated months. Swells from both directions can overlap, and crowds tend to thin out. Great time for flexible travel and mellow sessions.