A thousand years after Hawaiians first paddled longboards in to the ocean, modern wave riders continue the practice we know as surfing. Enjoy this glimpse into the fascinating past of surfing, one of Hawai‘i’s gifts to the world, through historic images from Bishop Museum Archives along with historic surfboards from the Museum’s renowned collection of artifacts. Trace the historical transformation of surfing’s image through the centuries, from Polynesian myths of love to an account of an exotic “amusement” that presented nothing but “horror & destruction,” as well as recollections of surfing as a character-building activity and sometimes the test of one’s romantic interest.

The 'Surfing' exhibit offers a fascinating look at isle surf history with historic images and artifacts. 9-5 daily, closed Tuesdays. $17.95 with discounts and kamaaina rates availalbe.