Which Surfboard Is Best for You?

By Emma Susas

Here in Waikīkī, we’re lucky to surf some of the most iconic waves in the world. But whether you’re a first-timer or already paddling out regularly, one of your most essential choices is your surfboard. But with so many board types and materials out there, it can feel a little overwhelming. Let’s break it down— longboard vs. shortboard, epoxy vs. fiberglass vs. foam.

At Waikīkī Beach Services, we’ve helped thousands of guests catch their first wave—and we’re here to help you find the board that’s right for you.

Longboard vs. Shortboard vs. Mid-length: What’s the Difference?

Longboard

• Length: 8–10 feet
• Shape: Rounded nose, wide, thick
• Vibe: Smooth, cruisey, and classic
• Best for: Beginners, small to medium waves, stylish noserides

Why people love it: Longboards are super stable and easy to paddle, making them perfect for learning the basics or for surfers who love a more relaxed, flowy style.

Use it in: Waikīkī-style waves—gentle, rolling, and mellow.

Shortboard

• Length: 5–7 feet
• Shape: Pointed nose, thinner and more narrow
• Vibe: Fast, high-performance, sharp turns
• Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers, steep and powerful waves

Why people love it: Shortboards are made for speed and maneuverability. You can duck dive under waves and really shred—just be ready for a steeper learning curve. Shortboards are made for performance. You can duck dive, carve, and get more technical. They’re less forgiving, so we don’t recommend them for your first lesson.

Use it in: Punchy reef breaks, barrels, or when you want to push your limits.

Mid-Length

• Length: 6’6”–8’0”
• Shape: Rounded nose, pulled-in tail, and moderate rocker
• Vibe: Stylish, flowy, and versatile 
• Best for: Intermediate surfers or beginners leveling up

Why we love it: Think of a mid-length as the best of both worlds. You get more speed and control than a longboard, but more stability and ease than a shortboard. It’s great for surfers transitioning from soft tops to hard tops or experimenting with their style.

Perfect for: Clean Waikīkī mornings when the surf’s waist-to-chest high and you’re ready to progress.

Surfboard Materials: Foam vs. Epoxy vs. Fiberglass

Foam Board (Soft Top)

• Great for: Beginners
• Why: Extra buoyant, super forgiving, and way safer if it bonks you in the head
• Feel: Soft, floaty, stable

Best in: Smaller surf and beach breaks with less power. Perfect for your first-ever surf lesson.

Epoxy Board

• Great for: Beginners to intermediate surfers
• Why: Lightweight, durable, and more buoyant than fiberglass
• Feel: Fast and responsive without being too fragile

Best in: A variety of wave conditions. It’s also a great travel board because it’s harder to ding.

Fiberglass Board

• Great for: Intermediate to advanced surfers
• Why: Traditional feel, smoother turns, and more flex underfoot
• Feel: Responsive and connected to the wave—but delicate

Best in: Clean, glassy conditions where performance matters. It’s not ideal if you’re constantly hitting rocks or traveling often.

So… What’s Best for You?

Final Tips

🌊 Read the ocean – Waikīkī usually has friendly waves, but conditions change. Our team’s always happy to point you to the best spot for your skill level.
🏄‍♀️ Don’t rush progression – Mastering a longboard here will make you a better surfer overall.
🤙 Try different boards – Not sure what’s right? We offer rentals, lessons, and personal recommendations based on your goals and the day’s surf.

Let’s Get You Surfing

Whether you’re booking a lesson, renting a board, or just talking story with our crew, we’re here to ensure your Waikīkī surf experience is unforgettable—and safe, smooth, and fun from start to finish.

Visit us at the Royal Hawaiian or Sheraton Waikīkī, and we’ll set you up with the perfect board for your session. Book a surf lesson with the Waikīkī Beach Services beachboys here 🌊🤙.