The Best Surfing Competitions to Watch in Hawaii: Top Events and Pro Tips

Every year, Hawaii hosts some of the world’s top surf competitions. Watching pro surfers take on the legendary waves of the North Shore is always exciting.

If you want to see the best surfing competitions, visit Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay. These spots offer powerful waves and elite athletes.

You can watch locals at community contests or cheer for international stars at professional events. Experiencing Hawaii’s surf scene in person is unforgettable.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the sport, these competitions showcase surfing at its highest level. The unique energy in Hawaii makes every event special.

If you’re planning a trip, check the Hawaii surf contest schedule to catch the action during your visit.

Overview of Surfing Competitions in Hawaii

Hawaii started modern surfing and now serves as a global center for top surf contests. Oahu’s North Shore hosts many of the most famous surf events, drawing skilled surfers and fans from everywhere.

History of Surf Contests

Ancient Hawaiians called surfing “heʻe nalu.” Hawaiian royalty rode waves long before surfing became popular worldwide.

Surf contests began in the early 20th century as more people discovered the sport. In 1954, organizers held the first major surf competition in Hawaii: the Makaha International Surfing Championships.

This event showed that Hawaiian waves could challenge the world’s best surfers. Over time, more contests moved to Oahu’s North Shore because of its ideal waves.

Today, Hawaii hosts many important surf events each year. These competitions honor the sport’s roots and help it reach new fans.

Significance of Hawaii in Modern Surfing

Hawaii stands at the heart of modern surfing. The waves here are some of the world’s most powerful and challenging.

Events like the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing happen every winter on the North Shore of Oahu. Many world champions build their reputations on Hawaiian waves.

Surfers from everywhere dream of competing here. This region has shaped many of the styles and moves now common in surfing.

Winning in Hawaii is a major milestone for surfers, fans, and sponsors. Events here reach global audiences and influence future generations of surfers.

Types of Surf Competitions

Surf contests in Hawaii fall into a few main types:

• Big Wave Competitions: Events like the Jaws Big Wave Challenge on Maui focus on surfing giant waves, sometimes over 50 feet tall.
• Shortboard and Longboard Events: Most contests use either shortboards for speed and tricks or longboards for classic style.
• Amateur vs. Pro Contests: Some events help surfers turn pro, while others, like the Da Hui Backdoor Shootout, invite only the best in the world.

Organizers often wait for perfect wave conditions before starting matches. Events range from local youth contests to global championships, so there’s always something interesting to watch.

Iconic Contest Venues in Hawaii

Hawaii’s best surf competitions take place at famous breaks with powerful waves and deep community roots. Each location offers a unique vibe, wave type, and surf history.

North Shore of Oahu

When I think of Hawaiian surfing, I picture the North Shore of Oahu first. People call it the “Seven-Mile Miracle” because huge winter swells create perfect waves for top surfers.

Many of the world’s biggest contests, like the Vans Triple Crown, happen here. The waves are powerful, and the crowd energy is unreal.

If you want to see surf legends and rising stars, visit the North Shore. Major titles and reputations are made here.

From November through February, this coast becomes the center of the surf world. Photographers and fans fill the beaches, and each break offers something different.

The reefs are sharp and the currents strong, so only skilled surfers compete here.

Haleiwa

Haleiwa serves as the traditional gateway to the North Shore. The area has volleyball courts, a relaxed village feel, and local food trucks.

Haleiwa Beach Park is famous for its long, powerful right-hander waves. The Haleiwa Challenger kicks off the Hawaiian surf season, attracting professional surfers aiming for the Championship Tour.

I like that Haleiwa sits close to shops and restaurants. You can watch surfers in the morning, grab shave ice, and return for the finals in the afternoon.

The shore break is strong, but it’s an easy place to catch all the action and enjoy local flavor.

Waimea Bay

Waimea Bay is legendary in big wave surfing. The bay hosts “The Eddie,” an invite-only event honoring Eddie Aikau.

This contest only runs when swells reach over 20 feet, making it rare and very exciting. Some years, the waves aren’t big enough, so the event doesn’t happen.

When The Eddie runs, Waimea Bay fills with fans and top big-wave surfers. The beach gets crowded, and the energy is intense.

The waves are heavy, fast, and can be dangerous. Waimea helped introduce big wave riding to the world, and every surfer who paddles out faces the awesome power of nature.

You can read more about the event’s history here.

Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach lies along the North Shore and is known for its long, rolling waves. This spot is part of the Triple Crown series and is one of the hardest breaks to master.

Each winter, Sunset Beach hosts major contests that attract the world’s top surfers. The wave changes shape as it moves down the reef, making it powerful and sometimes unpredictable.

Surfers must think quickly here. Some heats are won or lost with just one ride, depending on timing and positioning.

I like that the beach has space for families, photographers, and fans. You can get close to expert surfers tackling big, challenging waves.

Sunset is an ideal spot for watching dramatic finishes. For more about competitions here, check the Hawaii Surf Contest Schedule.

Legendary Surfing Events

Some surfing competitions in Hawaii stand out for their history, their massive waves, and the famous athletes who compete. These events are exciting to watch and show the skill and courage needed to surf Hawaii’s toughest spots.

Vans Triple Crown of Surfing

I always look forward to the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing each winter on Oahu’s North Shore. The Triple Crown includes three contests: one at Haleiwa, one at Sunset Beach, and the final event at the Banzai Pipeline.

Top surfers from around the world compete in this series. Winning the Triple Crown can be more impressive than winning a world title because it proves a surfer can master all kinds of waves.

Each location offers different conditions—fast barrels at Pipeline, heavy power at Sunset Beach, and changing water at Haleiwa. The champion is the surfer with the best results across all three events.

The atmosphere is electric, with locals and fans filling the beaches. For more details about competition dates and history, check out the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing.

Quick Facts Table

Pipe Masters

The Pipe Masters takes place at the Banzai Pipeline, one of the most dangerous and exciting surf breaks in the world. Watching surfers ride these hollow, fast, and powerful waves always amazes me.

Pipeline is famous for perfect barrels and a shallow reef just below the surface. Only the best surfers get invited to compete.

The Pipe Masters has crowned many surfing legends. For competitors, it’s a true test of bravery and skill because even a small mistake can mean a wipeout on razor-sharp reef.

This competition usually ends the season and often decides the world champion. The beach crowd gets loud and excited, especially when locals surf.

You can find more information about this event in guides about North Shore surf competitions.

The Eddie

When people talk about massive waves, they often mention the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational—known as “The Eddie.” This event honors Eddie Aikau, a legendary Hawaiian lifeguard and surfer.

The contest happens at Waimea Bay, but only when waves reach at least 20 feet Hawaiian scale (about 40 feet faces). The Eddie doesn’t run every year.

Organizers only hold the contest if the right swell hits between December and February. When the green light is given, people from all over rush to the North Shore.

Hand-picked competitors include some of the world’s most experienced big wave surfers. The risk is high, and so is the excitement.

When The Eddie runs, all of Hawaii pays attention.

Highlights of The Eddie

• Location: Waimea Bay
• Wave size required: 20 feet (Hawaiian scale)
• Named for: Eddie Aikau
• Not held every year—just when the waves are big enough

Sunset Pro

The Sunset Pro is a major event at Sunset Beach on Oahu’s North Shore. This wave is wide and unpredictable, with shapes that change quickly.

Surfers must stay alert and make fast decisions during the heats. The contest is usually part of both local and World Surf League (WSL) tours.

Rising stars and seasoned pros compete here to prove themselves on a heavy, powerful wave. Winning at Sunset Beach is tough because conditions can shift fast.

Fans enjoy the Sunset Pro because it shows who can handle Hawaii’s famous winter surf. You can find up-to-date contest schedules and a list of upcoming events on sites that cover the Hawaii surf contest schedule.

Other Major Professional Surf Competitions

Hawaii’s top surf competitions bring together world-class athletes, incredible North Shore waves, and unique local traditions. Each event features a different mix of qualifying points, famous locations, and formats that make them special.

Da Hui Backdoor Shootout

The Da Hui Backdoor Shootout is an invitation-only contest at the famous Banzai Pipeline on Oahu’s North Shore. Organizers invite top surfers from Hawaii and around the world, so the competition is always high-level.

This event focuses on Pipeline’s most difficult and hollow waves, especially through the “Backdoor” section. Its unique team format makes the contest stand out.

Surfers often represent local surf shops, brands, or groups. This adds a special community feel you don’t see everywhere.

The Da Hui Backdoor Shootout happens every January with a flexible schedule to ensure the best Pipeline conditions. People love this contest for the heavy waves, local energy, and up-close viewing opportunities.

For more about this event, visit this North Shore surf competition guide.

Haleiwa Pro

The Haleiwa Pro is a key part of Hawaii’s annual surf season. It takes place at Ali’i Beach Park in Haleiwa, a spot known for its powerful and sometimes unpredictable waves.

International surfers and local talent go head-to-head at this contest. Haleiwa usually opens the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, setting the tone for the season.

This competition balances style and power. Surfers must adjust quickly as the conditions change during heats.

Fans gather along the beach to cheer for their favorites, creating an electric atmosphere. It’s more than just points—it’s a celebration of surfing at a classic North Shore spot.

Check out the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing overview for more details.

HIC Haleiwa Pro

The HIC Haleiwa Pro, or HIC Pro, is a major qualifying event for the World Surf League’s Qualifying Series. Organizers hold it at Haleiwa on the North Shore of Oahu, usually just before the main winter surf season.

This competition gives up-and-coming surfers a chance to earn ranking points and move closer to the Championship Tour. The pro format means heats are intense, with a mix of well-known names and exciting new talent.

Surfers face big, powerful waves and tricky currents at Haleiwa. The HIC Pro serves as a stepping stone event and is a great place to spot future surf stars.

Learn more at this HIC Pro page.

Volcom Pipe Pro

The Volcom Pipe Pro is one of the most exciting events on the North Shore. Organizers host it at Banzai Pipeline, attracting strong local and international surfers who specialize in heavy, barreling waves.

This event stands out for its tricky Pipeline conditions. Surfers get a real test of their barrel-riding skills, and wipeouts can be brutal.

The Volcom Pipe Pro is part of the World Surf League Qualifying Series and offers points toward the Championship Tour. Fans love it for the big personalities, bold maneuvers, and unique challenges Pipeline always delivers.

Emerging Surf Events and Local Contests

Some of the most exciting surfing happens at grassroots and specialty events where local surfers get their chance to shine. These contests show a true mix of talent and community spirit, making them fun and memorable for everyone.

Local Motion Surf Into Summer

Every year, the Local Motion Surf Into Summer event draws crowds to Ala Moana Bowls. Organizers usually hold it in late May, right at the start of the summer surf season.

This contest welcomes both experienced and new surfers, so you see a wide range of competitors—kids, adults, and seasoned pros. The contest features shortboard and longboard divisions for men and women.

The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back. There are food trucks, sponsor booths, and plenty of chances to meet local surf brands.

Spectators have easy access to the beach and clear views of the action. Find updates and schedule details through the Aloha Surf Guide.

Turtle Bay Contests

Turtle Bay on Oahu’s North Shore hosts several surf events each year, including specialty contests and longboard gatherings. These contests are less crowded than the big headline events but still attract talented surfers from across Hawaii.

The inviting setting at Turtle Bay makes the events special. You can watch from the beach, where palm trees give shade and the waves are often gentle in summer.

Organizers sometimes hold adaptive contests that include surfers with disabilities, inspiring both competitors and the audience. Even if you aren’t surfing, there’s live music, food trucks, and local art for sale.

The Turtle Bay contests are great for families and visitors who want to enjoy the surf scene without large crowds.

Waikiki Beach Events

Waikiki Beach hosts some of the most historic surf contests in Hawaii. Many of these focus on longboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, and tandem surfing.

Events range from open amateur heats to invitational contests for elite longboarders. The welcoming vibe is a highlight of Waikiki contests.

Surfers of all ages take part, and it’s common to see multi-generational families surfing and cheering from shore. The gentle waves at Waikiki are ideal for fun and style.

Riders show off their classic nose rides and turns. Many contests also host surf clinics and cultural exhibitions, sharing Hawaiian history and surfing traditions.

This mix of competition and culture makes Waikiki Beach events special for visitors and locals.

Ala Moana Bowls Showcases

Ala Moana Bowls hosts several standout surf competitions each year, especially during late spring and early summer. The spot is famous for powerful left-breaking waves that challenge skilled surfers, making every heat exciting.

Events here often feature both professional and amateur categories. The atmosphere is relaxed but electric.

Bleachers and grassy areas offer comfortable viewing. Food stalls and local surf brands pop up during bigger contests.

The location is close to downtown Honolulu, so it’s easy to drop by and catch a few heats. Check the Hawaii surf contest schedule or follow local surf news for updates.

Each event brings together a tight-knit community of surfers, fans, and families.

World Surf League Tournaments in Hawaii

Hawaii hosts some of the most thrilling World Surf League events. Surfers from around the world come here to compete on famous waves and earn their place among the sport’s elite.

WSL Championship Tour

The WSL Championship Tour is the top level of professional surfing. Each year, the tour brings huge events to Hawaii where the world’s best surfers battle for points and titles.

The most famous event is the Lexus Pipe Pro at Pipeline on Oahu’s North Shore. At the Lexus Pipe Pro, surfers take on powerful and dangerous waves.

This location is legendary for its heavy barrels and has produced many champions. The surf can reach heights of 20 feet or more, creating intense wipeouts and incredible rides.

Fans pack the beach to watch the action up close. These Championship Tour events in Hawaii often decide the world titles.

You can check out more about scheduled dates and details on WSL Championship Tour events in Hawaii.

Challenger Series Events

The Challenger Series is a stepping stone to the Championship Tour. In Hawaii, these events give up-and-coming surfers a shot at joining the elite level next season.

Venues like Haleiwa and Sunset Beach often host these contests. Surfers compete in big waves with strong currents, testing their skills against local and international talent.

The energy at these events is high, as careers can change overnight with one good performance. The Challenger Series brings together rising stars and hungry veterans, all trying to make a mark.

For dramatic showdowns and possible upsets, the Challenger Series offers plenty of excitement. You can find the current schedule for these events by visiting an updated list of Challenger Series competitions in Hawaii.

Qualifying Series Competitions

The Qualifying Series, or QS, is where many surfers begin their journey in the WSL. These contests in Hawaii are packed with hopefuls aiming to climb the ranks, and the field can be huge compared to other tours.

QS events usually happen in popular spots like Waikiki, Haleiwa, and Turtle Bay. Competitors must be adaptable, as conditions can switch from small and playful to huge and challenging.

QS contests are less crowded than the major tour stops, but they’re full of talented athletes and surprising moments. For upcoming events, check the season’s Hawaii surf contest schedule for more details.

Event Structure and Judging Criteria

Surfing competitions in Hawaii follow a careful structure. I pay attention to how the heats work, how surfers are scored, what judges look for during each ride, and how wave conditions affect event timing.

Heats and Scoring System

Organizers break surf events into heats, with small groups of surfers competing at the same time. A heat usually lasts between 20 and 40 minutes.

Each surfer tries to catch as many waves as possible, but only their top two scores count for their final total. Judges use a ten-point scale for each wave.

Strong moves—like big turns, sharp cutbacks, clean aerials, and riding inside the barrel—score the most points. Judges watch each wave closely and average the scores for that ride.

A table of scoring criteria looks like this:

The surfer with the highest combined two-wave total in their heat moves to the next round.

Judging Criteria

Judges use specific criteria to decide scores. They focus on the difficulty of the maneuvers, how well surfers perform them, the size and critical nature of the wave, and the surfer’s style and flow.

Moves like deep barrel riding, powerful turns, and stylish aerials earn high marks. Consistency matters.

Riding deep in the barrel or performing a risky move in the most challenging section of the wave can boost a score. Judges look for speed, power, and flow together instead of just one flashy move.

You can find more details about rules at the World Surf League rules page.

Holding Period and Waiting Period

The waves determine the timing of Hawaii’s top surf events. Each contest has a “holding period,” which is a window of days or weeks set aside for the event.

Contest directors use a “waiting period” within this window. They only run the event on days when the waves meet size and quality standards.

For big wave contests like ‘The Eddie,’ organizers only run the event if waves reach at least 40 feet high all day. Sometimes, years pass with no contest on Oahu’s North Shore.

This keeps events exciting, with everyone ready for the right conditions. During the waiting period, officials give regular updates.

Surfers need to be ready to compete at short notice. This adds to the challenge and makes every event unique since the ocean decides when the show begins.

Famous Hawaiian Surfers and Champions

Hawaii has produced some of the world’s most skilled surfers. Many of these athletes have set records and inspired others to pick up a board.

They have dominated at both local events and the world’s top surf competitions.

Legendary Hawaiian Surfers

When I think about Hawaiian surf legends, Duke Kahanamoku comes to mind first. People often call him the “father of modern surfing.”

Duke won Olympic medals in swimming. He also introduced surfing to places like California and Australia.

A statue of him stands on Waikiki Beach, showing how much he means to the sport and the islands. Another pioneer is Eddie Aikau.

He served as the first lifeguard at Waimea Bay and became famous for his courage during giant surf and daring rescues. The “Eddie” big wave event honors him and only runs in the largest waves at Waimea.

Rell Sunn, known as the “Queen of Makaha,” also deserves mention. She paved the way for women in surfing, competing when most surf contests were just for men.

You can read more about these legends in lists of Hawaii’s most famous surfers.

Recent Event Champions

In recent years, new Hawaiian talents have continued the legacy by winning events like the Pipeline Masters and the Hawaiian Pro. John John Florence is one of the most famous modern surfers from the North Shore of Oahu.

He’s won multiple world titles and is known for his skills on powerful Hawaiian waves. Carissa Moore stands out as another top professional surfer.

She has claimed several world championships and brought more attention to women’s surfing. Seth Moniz is making a name for himself too, especially at events like the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing.

Learn more about recent Hawaiian surf champions and the influence they have on the sport.

Surf Conditions in Hawaii

I always pay close attention to Hawaii’s surf seasons and wave shapes before watching big surf events. Understanding the timing and dangers helps me appreciate what the pro surfers tackle during major competitions.

Best Seasons for Surfing

In Hawaii, the best waves don’t roll in all year. Winter, from November to February, brings the largest surf on the North Shore of Oahu.

Most top contests like the Reef Hawaiian Pro and Pipe Masters happen during these months. Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay are world-famous during winter, with wave faces reaching over 30 feet on the biggest days.

Summer (May to September) brings smaller but still fun waves, mostly to south-facing shores like Waikiki and Ala Moana Bowls. If I’m planning to watch or attend a contest, I try to target the winter “holding period.”

Many surf events have a “waiting period” window and only start on days with excellent conditions, often announced early in the morning. These windows let organizers run heats when the swells are at their best, as seen at the North Shore surf competitions.

Here’s a quick guide:

Wave Types and Hazards

Hawaii’s waves are powerful and appear in many forms. Reef breaks are the most common at spots like Pipeline and Sunset Beach.

These breaks create hollow, fast, and sometimes dangerous barrels. Sharp volcanic reefs sit just a few feet below the surface.

Major surf events like the Reef Hawaiian Pro challenge surfers with heavy, open-ocean swells. The waves change quickly and often close out fast.

Some breaks create A-frames. Others offer long, peeling rights or lefts.

Common hazards include:

• Shallow reefs: Surfers often get cuts, so good footwork is important.
• Strong rip currents: These currents can pull surfers out quickly.
• Big shore breaks: Slamming waves can injure even skilled surfers.
• Crowded lineups: During contests, the water gets hectic with top surfers and camera crews.

Hawaii’s surf is beautiful but serious. Every session in these waters tests a surfer’s skill and nerve.