Two questions. (About surfing early and also about good locations)?

Question

Well I'll be going surfing for the second time in Hawaii in 2 weeks.

1. Are there good waves early in the morning, at about 4-5 AM?

It's so d**n crowded...and I also don't wanna get sunburned as bad as I did last time. I mean I was basically black there for awhile...

2. What are the best locations for a beginner in Oahu, Hawaii?

I just went to Waikiki last time.

Answer 1

You're in luck!  Summertime waves are small there so maybe you can tackle North Shore.

Answer 2

When there's surf it's usually pretty good early in the morning, but as soon as it's light enough to see the waves there's already a crowd out there.  Maybe try wearing a rash guard to prevent the sunburn.  If I were a beginner on Oahu, I would probably just stick to Queens in Waikiki or maybe Diamond Head.  Queens is a good place to learn how to surf, and Diamond Head breaks on a good wind swell.  Not as powerful or crowded as the town spots.  You could also paddle out of Magic Island to a break called Big Lefts.  It gets a little more crowded there.  Time the waves and jump off the rocks.  When paddling in, paddle into the small lagoon.  Stay as close as you can to the rocks on the right to get through the current.   The North Shore is usually flat at this time of year, but you may be lucky to catch a small swell.  Try Chuns Reef just past the cow pastures.        Aloha!