Learn Stand-Up Paddle Surfing in Hawaii

Paddle surfing is all the rage in Hawaii. Visitors can take the opportunity to try it during ideal calm summer conditions.

Stand up surfing, also known as supping, has become extremely popular among both locals and visitors. It was recently included in the 7th Annual Duke’s Oceanfest, a weeklong surfing celebration which took place at Waikiki Beach, sponsored by the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation.

Supping consists of standing on a modified long (9-11 foot) surfboard and using a canoe paddle as an oar. Boards with a soft surface are easier for learning. But while it may look easy, in reality it is not, requiring good coordination. Therefore, it is most easily learned in calm, wind-free conditions. Obviously it is essential that you have appropriate swimming capabilities for supping.

Surfing has long played a role in Hawaiian culture. Once reserved exclusively for royalty, surfers would often travel from North to South shores to find the best year round conditions. Surfing was immortalized by Olympic swimmer Duke Kahanamoku in the 1920s. A statue in his memory is found on Waikiki Beach.

Most all local surf schools are now offering standup (or “sup”) lessons. Just call and ask. If you’re here on Kauai this summer, consider Titus Kinimaka’s Hawaiian School of Surfing in Hanalei. Hotels are also taking advantage of the recent interest among visitors, with many of them offering lessons and board rentals as well.

For more information, check out Stand Up Zone, a blog and forum dedicated to the sport.