Learning to Surf on the North Shore of Oahu: Lessons, Mistakes, and a Surprise in the Sky

The North Shore of Oahu is legendary in the surfing world. With its crystal-clear waters and world-famous waves, it’s a dream destination for both seasoned surfers and beginners looking to catch their first ride. But learning to surf here is no easy feat. You’ve got two choices: dive in and teach yourself or take lessons from a pro. Either way, you’ll face challenges, make mistakes, and—if you keep your head up—you just might spot something unexpected in the sky.

Teaching Yourself vs. Taking Lessons

The DIY Approach

If you’re the independent type, learning to surf on your own might sound appealing. After all, plenty of surfers are self-taught. You can rent a board, paddle out, and figure things out as you go. The advantage? You set your own pace, and it’s free (minus the board rental). The downside? You’ll likely spend more time wiping out than actually surfing. The North Shore’s waves can be unforgiving, even at beginner-friendly spots like Puaʻena Point.

Taking a Lesson

Surf schools on the North Shore offer structured lessons that can fast-track your progress. A good instructor will teach you proper paddling techniques, how to pop up on the board, and, most importantly, how to read the waves. They’ll also steer you away from dangerous breaks. Yes, lessons cost money, but they can save you weeks—or even months—of trial and error.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Regardless of how you learn, here are a few classic mistakes that most beginners make:

1. Starting at the Wrong Spot – The North Shore has some of the most powerful waves on the planet. Don’t even think about paddling out at Pipeline or Sunset Beach unless you have a death wish. Stick to gentle, rolling waves at places like Chun’s Reef or Puaʻena Point.

2. Poor Board Selection – A tiny shortboard might look cool, but it’s not your friend as a beginner. A longer, wider board (8 feet or more) will make balancing and paddling much easier.

3. Neglecting the Ocean’s Power – Even small waves can pack a punch. Respect the currents, understand where the riptides are, and never turn your back on the ocean.

4. Popping Up Too Late (or Too Early) – Timing is everything. If you stand up too late, the wave will leave you behind. Too early, and you’ll nosedive straight into the water. A good rule of thumb: pop up as soon as you feel the wave’s momentum carrying you forward.

5. Forgetting to Look Where You Want to Go – Your board follows your eyes. If you stare at your feet (or worse, at the water beneath you), that’s exactly where you’ll end up. Keep your gaze forward and let your body follow.

A Sky-High Distraction

Just when you think you’re getting the hang of surfing, something unexpected might steal your attention—a bright yellow Gyroplane buzzing overhead. While you’re paddling out, trying to focus on catching waves, this little flying machine might be swooping through the sky, offering its passengers a bird’s-eye view of the very waves you’re struggling to conquer.

It’s a good reminder: no matter how challenging surfing may seem in the moment, zooming out (literally or figuratively) gives you a fresh perspective. The ocean will always be there, the waves will always keep coming, and whether you learn on your own or take lessons, the reward is worth the effort.

So, next time you’re out there, keep your eyes on the horizon—unless, of course, you catch a glimpse of that yellow Gyroplane. Then, for just a second, it’s okay to look up and dream about flying, too.