Hawaii’s warm waters and world-famous waves make it the ultimate destination for ocean activities. But unless you’re a traveling pro with your own gear, you’ll want to rent equipment locally. Here’s your complete guide to renting surfboards, snorkel gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and more across the Hawaiian Islands.

Surfboard Rentals

Whether you’re a beginner catching your first whitewash wave or an experienced surfer chasing big north shore barrels, Hawaii has a board for you.

Types of Boards Available

• Foam/Soft-top longboards (8-9 ft): Best for beginners. Forgiving, stable, and safe. Most rental shops stock these heavily.
• Fiberglass longboards (9-10 ft): For intermediate surfers wanting better glide and traditional feel. Available at most shops.
• Shortboards (5’6″-6’8″): For experienced surfers only. Lighter selection at rental shops — many experienced surfers bring their own or rent from specialty shops.
• Funboards/Mini-mals (7-8 ft): The versatile middle ground. Good for progressing beginners who’ve outgrown foam boards.

Where to Surf by Island

Oahu: Waikiki for beginners (gentle, rolling waves year-round). North Shore for experts in winter (November-February). Ala Moana Bowls for intermediates.

Maui: Lahaina and Kihei for beginners. Ho’okipa for experienced surfers. Honolua Bay for experts in winter.

Big Island: Kahalu’u Bay for beginners. Honoli’i near Hilo for intermediates and up.

Kauai: Poipu Beach for beginners. Hanalei Bay for intermediate to advanced surfers.

Typical Pricing

Expect to pay $25-40/day for a soft-top, $30-50/day for a fiberglass longboard. Multi-day and weekly rates offer 20-40% savings. Most rentals include a leash and wax.

Snorkel Gear Rentals

Snorkeling is arguably Hawaii’s most popular water activity, and for good reason — the islands are surrounded by vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and sometimes even dolphins.

What’s Included in a Rental Set

A standard snorkel rental includes a mask, snorkel tube, and fins. Higher-end rentals may include a dry-top snorkel (prevents water entry) and prescription mask options for glasses-wearers.

Rent vs. Buy?

If you’re visiting for 3+ days and plan multiple snorkel sessions, renting makes sense economically (typically $8-15/day or $25-45/week). For a single snorkel outing, a guided snorkel tour that includes gear is often the better value.

Best Snorkel Spots

Oahu: Hanauma Bay (gear available on-site), Shark’s Cove (summer only), Electric Beach

Maui: Molokini Crater (boat tour required), Honolua Bay, Black Rock at Ka’anapali

Big Island: Kealakekua Bay (best from kayak), Two Step at Honaunau, Kahalu’u Beach Park

Kauai: Poipu Beach, Tunnels Beach (Makua), Anini Beach

Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has exploded in popularity. It’s a fantastic full-body workout with stunning views. Calm mornings are best before trade winds pick up.

Kayaking opens up coastlines you can’t reach on foot. Popular routes include the Kailua Bay to the Mokulua Islands (Oahu), Makena to Molokini views (Maui), and the Na Pali Coast sea kayak adventure (Kauai — experienced paddlers only).

Typical Pricing

• SUP: $35-60 for a half-day, $50-80 full day
• Single kayak: $30-50 half-day, $45-70 full day
• Double kayak: $50-75 half-day, $70-100 full day

Other Water Equipment Worth Renting

• Boogie boards/bodyboards: $10-15/day. Great for kids and beginners at sandy beach breaks.
• Reef-safe rashguards: Some shops rent these. Essential for sun protection during extended water time.
• Underwater cameras/GoPros: $25-40/day. Worth it for Molokini snorkeling and big surf sessions.
• Beach chairs and umbrellas: $15-25/day sets. Many delivery services bring them right to your beach spot.

Pro Tips for Water Gear Rentals

1. Book multi-day packages for the best rates — weekly surf rentals can be 50% cheaper per day than daily rates
2. Many shops offer free delivery to your vacation rental or hotel — ask before you drive to the shop
3. Some providers allow interisland returns if you’re island-hopping
4. Always use reef-safe sunscreen — non-reef-safe sunscreen is banned in Hawaii to protect coral reefs
5. Rent from local shops near your water activity location for convenience and local knowledge about conditions

Browse Water Equipment Rentals

Find surfboards, snorkel gear, kayaks, paddleboards and more from local Hawaiian rental businesses. Browse all water equipment rentals on HawaiiRental.pro, or filter by island:

Oahu gear | Maui gear | Big Island gear | Kauai gear