Expert-verified surf spot database with detailed swell/wind parameters, hazards, and travel information
Cortes Bank is surfing's most remote big wave venue—an underwater mountain rising from the seafloor 100 miles off the San Diego coast. When massive Pacific storms generate huge W-NW swells, waves break on the shallow reef at heights that rival anything on Earth: 70-100 foot faces have been documented. Getting there requires a major boat expedition and perfect weather windows. The wave breaks maybe 3 days per year. Cortes Bank represents big wave surfing at its most logistically extreme and potentially largest scale.
🚤 100 miles to nowhere • World's largest waves possible • 3 days per year
Works best with swells from 281° (W). Workable range: 270°-292°.
Ideal size: 20.6m. Too small below 18.3m, too big (closeout) above 22.9m.
Needs at least 18s period. Ideal: 20s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 45°-135°. Best window: morning.
Unknown minutes drive from SAN airport. Requires boat access ($2000/day).
Swell direction must be within the workable range AND within the spot's coastal orientation. A south-facing beach cannot receive north swells, no matter the size or period.
Offshore wind (blowing from land toward ocean) grooms the wave face. Onshore wind (blowing from ocean toward land) destroys wave quality. Wind tolerance varies by wave type.
Mavericks is Northern California's big wave proving ground—a cold, shark-infested, boulder-strewn reef off Half Moon Bay that produces some of North America's most dangerous surf. The wave breaks over a submerged rock field, creating an unpredictable playing surface that has claimed lives. When winter storms send massive NW swells down the coast, Mavericks holds waves in the 40-60 foot range. The competition here has become one of big wave surfing's most prestigious events. Paddle-in purists still consider it the ultimate test.
🐻 Northern California's monster • Boulder reef • Where legends test themselves
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-315°.
Ideal size: 12.9m. Too small below 7.6m, too big (closeout) above 18.3m.
Needs at least 16s period. Ideal: 18s+ (long-period groundswell).
Ghost Trees is Pebble Beach's secret big wave—a right-hand slab named for the white, ghostly Monterey Cypress trees that frame the break. The Carmel Canyon focuses swells to produce waves in the 40-60 foot range on rare winter days. The spot is controversial: jet-ski bans limit access, and the exclusive Pebble Beach community has mixed feelings about the surfers. When conditions align, Ghost Trees produces some of California's most photogenic big wave barrels.
👻 Ghostly cypress backdrop • Carmel Canyon power • Restricted access
Ideal size: 11.0m. Too small below 3.7m, too big (closeout) above 18.3m.
Offshore wind from 101° (E). Offshore range: 56°-146°. Best window: morning.
Cox Bay is Canada's surf capital—a beautiful beach break surrounded by old-growth rainforest on Vancouver Island's wild west coast. Tofino has become a surfing mecca, drawing everyone from beginners to experienced chargers. The water is cold year-round (thick wetsuits required), but winter storms deliver consistent Pacific swells that light up the sandbars. The setting is stunning: rainforest, black bears, and pristine wilderness. Canadian surfing at its finest.
🍁 Canada's surf capital • Rainforest beach • Pacific wilderness
Works best with swells from 260° (W). Workable range: 220°-300°.
Ideal size: 1.9m. Too small below 0.8m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Needs at least 10s period. Ideal: 14s+ (long-period groundswell).
Winter storms deliver consistent swell. Cold water year-round.
Cold water (9-14°C). Strong currents. Rocky outcrops at ends.
Lower Trestles is the world standard for high-performance surfing—a cobblestone point break in San Clemente that produces perfect, rippable waves with mechanical consistency. The wave has hosted more world championship events than any other spot, and the level in the water reflects it. A 20-minute walk from the parking lot keeps some crowds away, but Lowers is still often packed with some of the best surfers on Earth. California's high-performance mecca.
🏆 World's best high-performance • Cobblestone perfection • Pro proving grounds
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 180°-240°.
Ideal size: 1.6m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 2.5m.
Needs at least 10s period. Ideal: 16s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 0°-90°. Best window: morning.
Southern hemisphere groundswell season (Apr-Oct) is best.
Incredibly crowded. High-performance standard. Cobblestone entry.
The Wedge is one of surfing's most terrifying freaks of nature—a shore break in Newport Beach where swell reflects off a jetty, doubling in size and creating massive, violent peaks. When South swells hit at the right angle, waves can reach 20+ feet, exploding onto steep sand and creating brutal, backwash-filled mayhem. It's primarily a bodyboarding wave, but fearless surfers charge it too. More injuries happen here than almost anywhere else. A spectacle of surf's raw power.
⚠️ Newport's beast • Jetty wedge chaos • Shore break fury
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 170°-210°.
Ideal size: 3.8m. Too small below 1.5m, too big (closeout) above 6m.
Needs at least 12s period. Ideal: 18s+ (long-period groundswell).
Requires large South swells to reflect off the jetty.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, ⚠️ Shallow, 🪨 Rocks, 👥 Crowded
Extremely dangerous shorebreak. Violent backwash. Jetty rocks.
Park at the end of the Balboa Peninsula.
Huntington Beach is Surf City USA—the epicenter of American surf culture that has hosted the US Open of Surfing and shaped the sport's identity for generations. The pier and surrounding peaks produce remarkably consistent waves, catching both winter northwest swells and summer southern hemisphere energy. This accessibility means crowds that can make every session a contact sport, but also means there's always someone to surf with and an energy that defines California beach culture. The wide sandy beach, vibrant downtown, and year-round warmth create the quintessential SoCal surf experience.
🇺🇸 Surf City USA • US Open home • California quintessential
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 240°-310°.
Winter NW swells best. Summer S swells also work.
Very crowded, especially at pier. Strong rips during big swells.
Easy beach access. Pier and multiple peaks.
Rincon is the Queen of the Coast—a world-class right-hand point break on the Ventura-Santa Barbara county line that produces some of California's longest, most perfect waves. When winter northwest swells wrap into this sheltered cove and north winds blow offshore, Rincon transforms into machine-like perfection, with rides connecting through multiple sections for hundreds of meters. The wave has shaped California surf culture for generations, producing champions and creating memories. The crowds are legendary when it's good, and the localism is real, but the wave quality justifies every bit of its reputation.
👑 Queen of the Coast • World-class point • California royalty
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 260°-320°.
Ideal size: 2.0m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Needs at least 12s period. Ideal: 16s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 315°-45°. Best window: morning.
Peak winter. Needs big NW swell to wrap into the cove.
Extremely localized. Cobblestone bottom. Very crowded when good.
Park at Bates Beach. Short walk to point.
Black's Beach is Southern California's power center—a world-class beach break where Scripps Canyon focuses and amplifies swell energy to produce some of the heaviest waves on the West Coast. The deep submarine canyon offshore acts like a lens, concentrating wave energy and creating peaks that tower over typical beach breaks. Access requires a 300-foot cliff descent that filters out casual visitors, leaving the lineup to committed surfers willing to earn their waves. The nude beach above and the unrelenting power below combine to create one of California's most unique surf experiences.
🏔️ Scripps Canyon power • Cliff descent required • SoCal's heaviest
Works best with swells from 280° (W). Workable range: 250°-320°.
Ideal size: 2.5m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 4m.
Offshore wind from 70° (ENE). Offshore range: 30°-110°. Best window: morning.
Best on big NW swells. Scripps Canyon focuses swell energy.
Steep cliff access (300+ stairs). Strong rips. Nude beach above.
Steep trail from Torrey Pines or La Jolla Farms.
Malibu is California's most iconic wave—the birthplace of the modern longboard and ground zero for 1960s surf culture that changed the world. Three sections (First Point, Second Point, Third Point) offer different experiences, but First Point is the showcase: long, peeling right-handers that allow nose-riding and trim surfing at its finest. The crowds are legendary, sometimes comically intense, but the wave quality on a clean summer south swell explains why generations of surfers have made this pilgrimage. Surfing history lives here.
🏄 California icon • Surfboard birthplace • Summer perfection
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-250°.
Ideal size: 1.3m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 2m.
Summer S swells. Flat in winter unless big W wraps in.
Extremely crowded. Cobblestone point. Longboard priority.
Surfrider Beach parking. Three sections: First, Second, Third Point.
Swami's is Encinitas' spiritual surf experience—a classic right-hand reef break named after the Self-Realization Fellowship temple perched on the bluffs above. The wave breaks over a rocky reef, producing long walls that work on both winter west swells and summer south swells. The steep staircase descent and the golden temple domes create a unique atmosphere, while the quality and consistency have made this one of San Diego County's most beloved breaks. The mix of high-performance shortboarding and soulful longboarding coexists in the lineup.
🕉️ Spiritual surf • Temple backdrop • Year-round quality
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 240°-300°.
Ideal size: 1.6m. Too small below 0.8m, too big (closeout) above 2.5m.
Works on W swells in winter, S swells in summer.
Park at Self-Realization Fellowship. Long stairs down.
Windansea is La Jolla's historic heart—a reef break with an iconic palm-thatched surf shack that has served as the meeting point for San Diego's most committed surfers since the 1950s. The wave offers both lefts and rights over a rocky reef, producing quality walls when conditions align. The local crew has earned a reputation for protecting their break, and visitors should approach with appropriate respect. The shack, the parking, and the waves combine to create one of California's most atmospheric surf experiences.
🌴 Historic shack • La Jolla heart • Local crew
San Onofre is the birthplace of California surf culture—a mellow point break where surfers have gathered since the 1930s, establishing the beach-going, wave-riding lifestyle that would define a generation. Old Man's section provides gentle, forgiving waves perfect for longboarding, while the general atmosphere retains an old-school camaraderie that has become rare at most crowded California breaks. The summer south swells roll through with metronomic regularity, creating the kind of easy, accessible surfing that introduces beginners to the sport and keeps veterans returning for pure soul sessions.
🏕️ Original surf camp • Mellow longboard • Old-school soul
Ideal size: 1.1m. Too small below 0.5m, too big (closeout) above 1.8m.
Needs at least 8s period. Ideal: 12s+ (long-period groundswell).
Summer S swells best. Mellow longboard wave.
Crowded but friendly. Old-school longboard vibe.
San Onofre State Beach. Multiple areas: Old Man's, Dogpatch.
Oceanside is San Diego County's accessible workhorse—a consistent beach break where the pier focuses swell energy and creates reliable peaks for surfers of all abilities. The wide sandy beach provides easy entry and exit, while the pier itself creates a defined takeoff zone that helps beginners position themselves. Camp Pendleton to the north adds an interesting backdrop, and the working-class beach town atmosphere provides a more authentic California experience than some of the wealthier coastal communities. Year-round waves make Oceanside a reliable daily driver.
🌊 Pier consistency • All-level access • Working-class waves
Crowded near pier. Rips during big swells.
Ocean Beach SF is California's cold-water crucible—a powerful beach break directly exposed to the full fetch of the North Pacific, where San Francisco's most committed surfers battle freezing water, closeout sets, and the knowledge that great white sharks patrol these waters. The wave is not for the faint-hearted: massive paddle-outs, heavy lips, and conditions that can go from fun to survival in minutes. But when winter storms send clean groundswells and east winds blow offshore, OB delivers some of Northern California's most powerful beach break surfing.
🦈 Cold water crucible • North Pacific power • SF's test piece
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 260°-330°.
Ideal size: 3.0m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 5m.
Big swells year-round. Massive in winter storms.
Powerful closeouts. Cold water. Great white shark territory.
Steamer Lane is Northern California's premier point break—a world-class wave system with multiple sections that has served as the proving ground for generations of NorCal surfers. The lighthouse cliff provides a natural amphitheater for spectators, while the wave offers everything from gentle walls to hollow pits depending on section and swell. Cold water, kelp forests, and a fierce local crew add intensity to the experience. The Santa Cruz surf culture centered here rivals anywhere on Earth, with a history and competitive spirit that has produced champions and shaped the sport.
⬛ NorCal's finest • Lighthouse point • Cold-water champions
Winter swells best. Multiple sections from Indicators to The Point.
Rocky bottom. Heavy localism. Kelp can be thick.
Lighthouse Point. Cliff jumping entry or paddle from Cowell's.
Pleasure Point is Santa Cruz's mellow alternative—a long right-hand point with multiple peaks that provides a more approachable experience than intense Steamer Lane just up the coast. Multiple access points along East Cliff Drive allow surfers to choose their section, from the fast walls of Shark Cove to the more forgiving peaks toward the end. The vibe is generally friendly despite crowds, and the wave works on both winter northwest swells and summer south swells, making it one of the region's most versatile options.
😊 Santa Cruz mellow • Multiple peaks • Year-round variety
Works best with swells from 280° (W). Workable range: 250°-310°.
Works year-round. Multiple peaks along the point.
Rocky reef. Crowded but generally mellow vibe.
Multiple access points along East Cliff Drive.
Jalama is California's wind-swept secret—a remote Central Coast beach break that rewards those willing to drive the long, winding road to reach it with uncrowded waves and spectacular isolation. The famous Jalama burgers at the beach park provide sustenance, but the real draw is the wave: exposed to the full Pacific, capable of excellent conditions when winds cooperate. The problem is that winds rarely cooperate—fierce afternoon howlers are the norm—making morning sessions essential. For those who time it right, Jalama offers empty California perfection.
🌬️ Wind-swept isolation • Central Coast secret • Morning essential
Works best with swells from 260° (W). Workable range: 230°-300°.
Winter NW swells. Often windy afternoons.
Remote location. Strong rips. Wind can be fierce.
Jalama Beach County Park. Long windy drive.
Sebastian Inlet is Florida's crown jewel—the best wave on the state's east coast, where the jetty creates a defined point break that produces genuine quality when swells arrive. First Peak offers the showcase: fast, hollow walls that can rival waves from better-known surf destinations. Monster Hole, further inside, provides a heavier option on bigger swells. The inlet current can be brutal, and the rocks demand respect, but for Florida surfers seeking to prove their skills, Sebastian is the proving ground.
🏆 Florida's best • First Peak perfection • Jetty quality
Works best with swells from 80° (E). Workable range: 45°-120°.
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 225°-315°. Best window: morning.
Hurricane season and winter cold fronts.
Strong inlet current. Rock jetty on north side.
Sebastian Inlet State Park. North and south sides.
New Smyrna Beach is Florida's consistent cornerstone—the most reliable surf on the state's east coast, where sandbars produce workable waves more days per year than anywhere else in the region. The drive-on beach access and inlet peaks attract crowds, while the designation as "shark bite capital of the world" adds a certain frisson to every session. The bites are typically minor—more nuisance than danger—but they keep things interesting. For Florida surfers seeking daily waves without the drive to Sebastian, New Smyrna delivers consistent mediocrity with occasional excellence.
🦈 Shark bite capital • Florida consistent • Drive-on beach
Works best with swells from 70° (ENE). Workable range: 30°-110°.
Ideal size: 1.3m. Too small below 0.5m, too big (closeout) above 2m.
Hurricane season best. Winter cold fronts.
Shark bite capital of the world. Many attacks but rarely serious.
Cape Hatteras is the East Coast's swell magnet—a remote barrier island jutting into the Atlantic that catches more swells than any other US East Coast location. The lighthouse backdrop provides iconic imagery, while Cape Point and various beach breaks along the National Seashore offer variety depending on conditions. Hurricane season brings the goods, winter nor'easters fill in the gaps, and the relative remoteness keeps crowds manageable. For East Coast surfers seeking consistent waves without the California crowds, Hatteras rewards the drive.
🏗️ East Coast's best • Lighthouse icon • Swell magnet
Works best with swells from 90° (E). Workable range: 45°-150°.
Ideal size: 1.8m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Hurricane season and nor'easters. Best East Coast consistency.
Strong rips. Remote barrier island. Limited services.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Many peaks.
Montauk is New York's surf escape—the end of Long Island where city surfers flee for quality waves and the illusion of wilderness. Ditch Plains is the main draw: a beach break that catches south swells and wrapping hurricane energy, producing some of the best waves in the Northeast. The cold water, rocky points, and occasional hollow sections add seriousness to what might otherwise be a beach town vibe. For NYC surfers, the three-hour drive to Montauk is a pilgrimage worth making when the forecast shows promise.
🗽 NYC escape • End of Long Island • Hurricane season gold
Works best with swells from 160° (SSE). Workable range: 120°-200°.
Hurricane season and fall nor'easters best.
Ditch Plains and various beach access points.
Ruggles is New England's legendary wave—a heavy right-hand reef break in Newport that only comes alive when solid swells push into Rhode Island's south-facing coast. When it turns on, Ruggles produces world-class barrels over shallow reef with Gilded Age mansions as a backdrop. The localism is fierce, the conditions fickle, and the danger real—shallow reef and rocks on the inside make every wipeout consequential. But for New England surfers who have earned their place in the lineup, Ruggles represents the pinnacle of Northeast surfing.
🏛️ New England legend • Mansion backdrop • Needs size
Works best with swells from 150° (SSE). Workable range: 120°-190°.
Hurricane season best. Needs solid swell to break.
Heavy localism. Shallow reef. Rocks on inside.
Long Beach is New York City's most accessible surf—an LIRR-reachable beach break where city dwellers can score waves without a car. The wave is a standard beach break with multiple peaks, nothing special but consistent enough to build a dedicated local community. Summer crowds can be intense, but fall hurricane swells bring the goods and thin the crowds. For New Yorkers seeking regular water time without the Montauk commitment, Long Beach provides a reliable daily driver.
🚃 NYC accessible • Train to waves • Urban surf
Crowded in summer. Rips during bigger swells.
LIRR accessible. Multiple beach entries.
Tofino is Canada's surf capital—a Pacific Rim National Park beach where temperate rainforest meets consistent North Pacific swells to create one of the world's most atmospheric surf destinations. The water is brutally cold, requiring 5mm wetsuits even in summer, but the waves are remarkably consistent and the scenery is world-class: old-growth forests, bear-frequented beaches, and a genuine wilderness feel that has become rare in developed surf destinations. The drive from Victoria is long but beautiful, and the rewards justify every minute.
🇨🇦 Canada's surf capital • Rainforest meets ocean • Cold consistency
Year-round swell but winter is most consistent.
Cold water. Remote. Bear and wolf country.
Pacific Rim National Park. Multiple access points.
Sayulita is Mexico's surf town sensation—a once-sleepy fishing village that has transformed into the country's most popular beginner surf destination. The right-hand point break produces gentle, forgiving waves perfect for learning, while the vibrant town offers everything from taco stands to boutique hotels. The party atmosphere and crowds can overwhelm during peak season, but for those seeking warm water, consistent small waves, and Mexican beach culture, Sayulita delivers the complete package.
🌮 Mexico surf town • Beginner point • Party vibes
Summer S swells from Southern Hemisphere storms.
Beach access from town. Walk across river.
Yakutat represents the northern frontier of North American surfing—a remote Alaskan community where Gulf of Alaska storms produce powerful waves that break with glaciers visible in the distance. The setting is primal: rainforest meets ocean, bears wander the beach, and the water temperature hovers just above freezing year-round. The small but dedicated local community has carved out a surf scene in this unlikely location, proving that dedicated surfers will find waves anywhere. For those seeking the ultimate adventure surf experience, Yakutat delivers waves and wilderness in equal measure.
🏔️ Alaska's surf frontier • Glaciers in the lineup • Northernmost waves
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 150°-220°.
Fall is best. Winter too stormy. Gulf of Alaska swells.
Extremely cold water. Bears on beach. Very remote.
Lawrencetown Beach is Eastern Canada's premier surf destination—a provincial park beach east of Halifax that catches every hurricane swell and nor'easter that sweeps up the Atlantic seaboard. The Nova Scotia surf community has built a legitimate scene here, surfing through winters that require the thickest wetsuits, hoods, boots, and gloves. When autumn hurricanes track northward or winter storms churn offshore, Lawrencetown produces powerful, quality waves that rival much of the East Coast. The setting is quintessentially Canadian: rugged coastline, cold water, and the satisfaction of earning every wave.
🍁 Eastern Canada's best • Nova Scotia grit • Hurricane and nor'easter power
Works best with swells from 110° (ESE). Workable range: 70°-150°.
Ideal size: 2.3m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 3.5m.
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 230°-310°. Best window: morning.
Fall hurricanes and winter Noreasters. Cold water year-round.
Very cold water. Strong currents. Rocky headlands.
The Zoo at Presque Isle is the crown jewel of Great Lakes surfing—a reef break in a sheltered bay that produces remarkably clean waves when northerly storms sweep across Lake Superior. Named for a historic zoo that once stood nearby, this spot benefits from Superior's deep water and long fetch, generating swells up to 12 feet in major storms. The local crew is dedicated and welcoming, braving sub-zero temperatures in full winter gear. When the wind shifts offshore and the swell lines up, The Zoo delivers wave quality that rivals ocean spots.
🦌 Great Lakes flagship spot • Deep water reef break • Fall/winter storms
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 300°-45°.
Needs at least 4s period. Ideal: 7s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 180° (S). Offshore range: 135°-225°. Best window: morning.
Fall and winter storms bring the best swells. NE-N winds create waves.
Cold water, ice possible. Reef break near rocks. Historic zoo site in park.
Park at Presque Isle Park. Short walk to break.
Stoney Point is the premiere surfing location on Lake Superior—a gnarly reef break that catches the full fury of northeastern storms. Located on the scenic North Shore between Duluth and Two Harbors, the spot features exposed granite shelves that create powerful, lined-up waves reaching 10-12 feet in major weather events. The remoteness means you'll rarely encounter crowds, but the tradeoff is frigid conditions and no facilities. When NE gales rake across the lake's 350-mile fetch, Stoney Point delivers some of the most impressive freshwater waves on the planet.
⚡ Premiere Lake Superior reef • 10-12ft in storms • Remote wilderness
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 0°-90°.
Ideal size: 2.1m. Too small below 0.8m, too big (closeout) above 3.5m.
Offshore wind from 225° (SW). Offshore range: 180°-270°. Best window: morning.
NE winds generate best swells. Peak storms October-February.
Exposed granite reef. Very cold water. Remote location between Duluth and Two Harbors.
Along Scenic Highway 61, 10 miles north of Duluth. Multiple rocky access points.
Grand Marais sits on a remote stretch of Lake Superior's southern shore, where a natural sandbar and breakwall create one of the Great Lakes' most reliable surf setups. The small harbor town is surrounded by the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, adding stunning scenery to your surf session. When NW winds push swells into the bay, waves line up nicely with both left and right options. The local scene is small but stoked—this is surfing at its most pure, far from crowds and hype, just you and the lake.
🌲 Pictured Rocks setting • Sandbar + breakwall • Pure Great Lakes soul
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 270°-30°.
Ideal size: 1.5m. Too small below 0.5m, too big (closeout) above 2.5m.
Needs at least 4s period. Ideal: 6s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 135° (SE). Offshore range: 90°-180°. Best window: morning.
Fall and winter storms. NW-N swells work best.
Waves break near line of rocks. Take precautions to avoid collisions.
Small harbor town. Beach access from waterfront.
The Elbow is the epicenter of Sheboygan's surf scene and the reason this Wisconsin town earned the nickname "Malibu of the Midwest." Named for the angled pier that connects to the historic lighthouse, this spot features a slabby granite reef that produces surprisingly punchy waves when conditions align. Sheboygan juts out into Lake Michigan, exposing it to winds from nearly every direction, which means more surfable days than almost anywhere else on the lake. The dedicated local crew surfs year-round, breaking out 6mm suits and icicle beards in winter.
🏄 Malibu of the Midwest • Slabby granite reef • Sheboygan's best
September through April. NE and SW winds both work.
Angled pier structure. Granite reef shelf.
Deland Park, adjacent to North Pier and lighthouse. Easy beach access.
Sheboygan North Beach stretches half a mile north of Deland Park, offering multiple shifting peaks that are more forgiving than the nearby reef breaks. Part of Sheboygan's legendary 22 breaks along 5 miles of coast, this sandy beach is where many Great Lakes surfers learn their craft. The soft golden sand and gradual bottom make it ideal for beginners, while the outer bars can produce quality waves on bigger swells. When The Elbow is too gnarly, North Beach provides a mellower alternative with plenty of room to spread out.
🌊 Freshwater Surf Capital • Beginner-friendly • 22 breaks in 5 miles
Works best with swells from 60° (ENE). Workable range: 20°-100°.
Ideal size: 1.2m. Too small below 0.4m, too big (closeout) above 2m.
September through April peak. Multiple peaks along half-mile beach.
Standard beach conditions. More forgiving than reef breaks.
North Beach at Deland Park. Half-mile sand beach with multiple peaks.
Grand Haven is Lake Michigan's oldest documented surf spot, with a scene dating back decades. Located at the mouth of the Grand River where the historic South Pier extends into the lake, this beach break offers remarkably consistent surf by Great Lakes standards. SW and NW winds both generate rideable waves, and the pier provides some organization to the swell. Grand Haven State Park makes access easy, with a beautiful beach, lighthouse views, and the famous Musical Fountain nearby. A perfect introduction to freshwater surfing.
🏛️ Lake Michigan's oldest spot • Historic pier break • Consistent
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 225°-315°.
SW and NW winds create waves. Pier provides some protection.
Pier structure. Standard beach rips on bigger swells.
Grand Haven State Park at South Pier. Easy access from pier parking.
St. Joseph's Silver Beach sits at the mouth of the St. Joseph River, about 90 minutes east of Chicago, making it the go-to Great Lakes surf destination for Midwest urbanites. The beach break picks up W and SW winds well, and the pier at the river mouth helps organize incoming swells. The charming downtown, Silver Beach Carousel, and lighthouse add to the experience. Not the most powerful waves on the lake, but reliable, accessible, and with a growing local scene. Perfect for Chicago surfers escaping the city on storm days.
🌆 Chicago's escape • Silver Beach vibes • Southwest Michigan reliable
Fall through spring. SW Michigan reliable.
Standard beach conditions. Pier at river mouth.
Silver Beach at mouth of St. Joseph River. 90 minutes from Chicago.
Sandbanks Provincial Park on Lake Ontario's north shore claims the longest wave periods in the Great Lakes—a bold statement backed by the lake's unique geometry and SW fetch. The park features dramatic sand dunes, crystal-clear water, and a mix of beach, reef, and point break options. When SW winds blow across Ontario's length, Sandbanks lights up with clean, surprisingly powerful waves. The wine country of Prince Edward County surrounds the park, making this one of the more civilized Great Lakes surf trips. Just bring your thickest neoprene.
🍷 Wine country waves • Longest Great Lakes periods • Provincial park
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 180°-270°.
Offshore wind from 15° (NNE). Offshore range: 330°-60°. Best window: morning.
SW winds create best waves. Longest periods in Great Lakes.
Very cold water. Full winter wetsuit required.
Sandbanks Provincial Park. 3 hours from Toronto.
Pipeline is the proving ground of professional surfing—a shallow, left-breaking barrel that has defined generations of surfers. The wave breaks just 75 yards from the beach over a dangerously shallow lava reef, producing thick, hollow tubes that are as punishing as they are perfect. When NW swells hit during winter, Pipe delivers some of the heaviest barrels on Earth.
🏆 The proving ground • Heaviest barrels on Earth • Experts only
Works best with swells from 310° (NW). Workable range: 295°-340°.
Ideal size: 3.2m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 4.6m.
Offshore wind from 120° (ESE). Offshore range: 90°-160°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Feb peak. WNW-NW swells. Kona winds best.
🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 👊 Localism, 👥 Crowded, ⚠️ Shallow
Extremely dangerous. Shallow 1st reef, deeper 2nd/3rd reef on bigger swells. Long hold-downs. Heavy localism.
Beach access at Ehukai Beach Park. Easy paddle out through channel.
Backdoor is the right-hand barrel at the Pipeline reef—sharing the same takeoff zone but breaking in the opposite direction. When NW to NNW swells arrive with shorter periods, they break up the swell lines and create peaky A-frames, allowing the right to peel with ferocious power over extremely shallow reef.
🔥 Pipeline's evil twin • Right-hand deathpit • NNW swell specialist
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 315°-350°.
Ideal size: 2.7m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 3.6m.
Nov-Feb peak. NW-NNW swells create peaky A-frames that produce the right.
Super hollow, deep tube over very shallow reef. Shorter period NW-NNW swells break up lines creating peaky A-frames.
Same as Pipeline. Beach access at Ehukai Beach Park.
Sunset Beach is one of surfing's most revered and challenging waves—a football-field-sized playing field of shifting peaks and deep-water power. West Peak is the classic heavy right, but the wave can break across multiple takeoff zones depending on swell direction. The lineup is deceptive and the currents are strong.
🌅 The ultimate proving ground • Shifting peaks • Deep water power
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 300°-340°.
Ideal size: 4.3m. Too small below 2.4m, too big (closeout) above 6.1m.
Offshore wind from 160° (SSE). Offshore range: 120°-200°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Feb peak. Best at 8-20ft. West Peak is the classic heavy right.
🌀 Strong rips, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 👥 Crowded
Powerful and deceptive. Multiple shifting peaks over huge area. Strong currents.
Waimea Bay is the birthplace of big wave surfing—a thundering right-hander that only truly comes alive when swells exceed 15 feet. When it's on, the takeoff is a heart-stopping drop into a churning wall of whitewater. The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is held here, requiring 20ft+ consistent surf.
🤙 Birthplace of big wave surfing • Eddie Would Go • 15ft+ to fire
This is a big wave break, breaking right.
Ideal size: 6.8m. Too small below 4.6m, too big (closeout) above 9.1m.
Needs at least 14s period. Ideal: 18s+ (long-period groundswell).
Only really turns on at 15ft+. Dec-Feb peak. Eddie Aikau invitational venue.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🌀 Strong rips, 👥 Crowded
Birthplace of big wave surfing. Only breaks properly at 15ft+. Massive shorebreak on close-out sets.
Beach access. Popular swimming beach when flat.
Off The Wall sits just west of Pipeline and delivers powerful rights with workable walls and barrel sections. When N-NNE swells sweep sets down from Backdoor, OTW lights up with fast, hollow waves that reward committed tube riders.
💪 Pipeline's neighbor • Powerful rights • Regular footer's dream
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 310°-350°.
Ideal size: 2.1m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Nov-Feb peak. NW-NNW swells. Pipeline's neighbor.
Powerful right for regular footers with workable walls and barrel sections. N-NNE swells sweep sets down from Backdoor.
Rocky Point is the North Shore's premier high-performance wave—shifty peaks over reef that offer both rippable faces and solid barrel sections. Strong currents keep the lineup constantly reshuffling, making it one of the more democratic waves on the Seven Mile Miracle.
📸 Photographer magnet • High performance • Shifty peaks
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 300°-330°.
Offshore wind from 120° (ESE). Offshore range: 90°-180°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Feb peak. Shifty peaks, strong currents keep lineup mixed.
Shifty peaks with strong currents. Photographer magnet. Rippable faces plus solid barrels.
Haleiwa is the gateway to the North Shore and a Triple Crown venue that delivers powerful rights and hollow barrels. The Toilet Bowl inside section is brutally shallow, adding consequence to an already demanding wave. When solid WNW swells wrap in, the rights can barrel for 100 yards.
🚪 Gateway to the North Shore • Triple Crown venue • Toilet Bowl inside
Works best with swells from 305° (NW). Workable range: 290°-320°.
Offshore wind from 135° (SE). Offshore range: 100°-170°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Feb peak. Triple Crown venue. Gateway to the North Shore.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 👥 Crowded, 🌀 Strong rips
Powerful rights, hollow barrels. Toilet Bowl inside section is brutally shallow. Dangerous coral reef.
Beach access at Ali'i Beach Park. Parking available.
Velzyland is a draining right-hand ledge over shallow coral named after legendary shaper Dale Velzy. Phantom Reef offshore funnels swell directly into the lineup, creating hollow, peeling rights that can run for 150 yards. One of the most heavily localized spots on the North Shore.
🏄 Dale Velzy's legacy • Draining ledge • 150-yard peelers
Ideal size: 1.6m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 2.4m.
Offshore wind from 120° (ESE). Offshore range: 90°-170°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. Named after Dale Velzy. Phantom Reef offshore funnels swell in.
Draining right-hand ledge over shallow coral. Can peel 150 yards. Heavily localized.
Log Cabins catches more northerly swells than its neighbor Pipeline, with westerly swells refracting past toward Pipe. The uneven lava and sand bottom creates heavier barrels that many consider even more consequential than Pipeline.
🪵 Heavier than Pipe • N swell magnet • Life-changing barrels
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 340°-360°.
Ideal size: 3.5m. Too small below 2.4m, too big (closeout) above 4.6m.
Nov-Feb. More northerly swells hit Logs direct while westerly swells refract to Pipe.
🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, ⚠️ Shallow
Uneven lava/sand bottom makes it even heavier than Pipe. Life-changing barrels.
Gas Chambers is a fast, hollow, detonating barrel that breaks over extremely shallow reef between Rocky Point and Pipeline. The name says it all—you're locked in a tube with very little room for error over razor-sharp coral.
💀 Detonating barrels • Extremely shallow • Helmet recommended
Nov-Feb. Between Rocky Point and Pipeline.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs
Fast, hollow, detonating barrels over extremely shallow reef. Expert tube riders only. Helmet recommended.
Beach access between Rocky Point and Pipeline.
Rockpile sits between Log Cabins and Off The Wall, offering a mighty left that rolls 150 yards from deep water. Also known as Gap in the Road, it becomes a legitimate big wave spot at 10ft+ and is rarely as crowded as its famous neighbors.
🪨 Gap in the Road • 150-yard lefts • Uncrowded alternative
Nov-Feb. Between Log Cabins and OTW. Big wave spot at 10ft+.
Mighty left that rolls 150 yards from deep water. Also known as Gap in the Road.
Leftovers sits between Haleiwa and Waimea Bay, catching leftover swell that bends around the point. On the right day, it can deliver world-class waves with barely anyone out—one of the North Shore's best-kept open secrets.
🤫 North Shore sleeper • World-class potential • Empty on the right day
Nov-Feb. Haleiwa-side of Waimea. Can be world-class and empty on the right day.
Multiple peaks, powerful walls. Catches leftover swell.
Laniakea is a beautiful right point break 2.5 miles north of Haleiwa, also famous as Turtle Beach for the green sea turtles that bask on shore. The wave offers fun, long walls that are more accessible than the heavier breaks further up the coast.
🐢 Turtle Beach • Fun right point • Intermediate-friendly
Ideal size: 1.8m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 2.4m.
Nov-Mar. Also known as turtle beach. Good intermediate North Shore wave.
Fun, long walls when not too big. Good intermediate North Shore wave.
Beach access. Also known as Turtle Beach.
Chun's Reef is the mellow side of the North Shore—a fun reef break that offers longboard-friendly rights without the intensity of its bigger-name neighbors. Accessible and forgiving, it's one of the best spots for intermediate surfers to experience North Shore waves.
🏖️ Mellow North Shore • Longboard heaven • Fun and accessible
Ideal size: 1.4m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 1.8m.
Nov-Mar. Mellower North Shore break good for longboarding.
Right peels over reef. Less intense than bigger-name neighbors.
Backyards is a shifty wave between Sunset Beach and Velzyland that requires a fast takeoff to get barreled. Shallow coral can detonate without warning, and the break sits directly behind beachfront houses—hence the name.
🏠 Behind the houses • Fast takeoff required • Shallow detonations
Nov-Feb. Between Sunset and V-Land. Fast takeoff required for barrel.
Requires fast takeoff to get barreled. Shallow coral can detonate. Behind beachfront houses.
Pupukea is a sand and rock bottom break between the Pipeline area and Rocky Point. Fun and surfable at smaller sizes, it becomes demanding at head-high-plus with legitimate barreling potential.
🌊 Classic Hawaiian reef • Fun to demanding • Barrel potential
Sand and rock bottom. Fun to 6ft, demanding to 10ft. Barreling potential.
Kammieland is named after the old Kammie's Market nearby. It offers a fickle but consistent left over shallow reef with long, workable walls—and far less crowd pressure than the higher-profile breaks nearby.
🏪 Kammie's Market legacy • Workable walls • Under the radar
Nov-Feb. Near old Kammie's Market. Fickle but consistent left.
Shallow reef near old Kammie's Market. Long workable walls. Less crowded than nearby breaks.
Mokuleia is a two-mile north-facing beach break stretch west of Haleiwa with multiple peaks and relative solitude. The trade-off is that NE trade winds are onshore here, so it needs WNW-NW swells with SE or light variable winds to really shine.
🏖️ Two miles of peaks • Uncrowded beach break • Wind-dependent
Nov-Mar. NE trades are onshore here. Need WNW-NW swells with E-SE wind.
Two-mile north-facing stretch west of Haleiwa. Multiple peaks, relatively uncrowded. NE trades are onshore.
Phantoms is a big wave outer reef that lurks beyond Velzyland and Sunset Beach, only awakening when XL winter swells march in. It funnels swell toward the shoreline breaks and offers deep water peaks for those willing to paddle or tow into the unknown.
👻 Outer reef phantom • XL swell only • Deep water power
This is a big wave break, breaking both.
Ideal size: 6.1m. Too small below 4.6m, too big (closeout) above 7.6m.
Dec-Feb. Only breaks on XL swells. Funnels swell into V-Land.
Big wave outer reef beyond V-Land/Sunset. Only breaks on XL swells. Remote, heavy, rarely crowded.
55 minutes drive from HNL airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
Outer Log Cabins is the North Shore's extreme outer reef that refracts long-period WNW swell toward Pipeline. Breaking on only the biggest swells, it reforms into Pipe on the inside. An 85-foot wave was ridden here in 1998.
🏔️ 85ft ridden here • North Shore's outer limit • Tow-in territory
Works best with swells from 307° (NW). Workable range: 295°-320°.
Dec-Feb. Deep water outer reef. Breaks on biggest swells, reforming into Pipe.
Extreme conditions. Tow-in only. Refracts long-period WNW swell toward Pipeline.
Himalayas is a massive outer reef off Haleiwa that only breaks on historic, once-in-a-decade swells. Named for the Himalayan scale of the waves it produces, this is true frontier big wave surfing—tow-in only, rarely crowded, and deeply consequential.
🗻 Himalayan-scale waves • Historic swells only • Frontier big wave
Ideal size: 9.1m. Too small below 6.1m, too big (closeout) above 12.2m.
Needs at least 16s period. Ideal: 20s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 135° (SE). Offshore range: 100°-180°. Best window: morning.
Dec-Feb. Only breaks on historic swells. Tow-in territory.
Massive outer reef off Haleiwa. Only breaks on historic swells. Named for Himalayan-scale waves.
50 minutes drive from HNL airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Tow-in only. Accessible by jet ski from Haleiwa Harbor.
Avalanche is a deepwater outer reef near Haleiwa that handles massive swells when the nearshore breaks max out. It offers big wave left-handers in relatively deep water.
🏔️ Haleiwa's outer reef • Deep water power • Big swell handler
This is a big wave break, breaking left.
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 290°-345°.
Nov-Feb. Deepwater outer reef near Haleiwa. Handles massive swells.
Deepwater outer reef near Haleiwa. Handles massive swells.
50 minutes drive from HNL airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
The Backdoor Outer Reef encompasses Pipeline's 2nd and 3rd reef, breaking 80 yards outside the main zone at 4x+ overhead. Foamy lumps reform into Pipe on the inside, creating one of the most consequential waves on the North Shore.
🌊 Pipe's outer shelf • 2nd & 3rd reef • Reforms into Pipeline
Dec-Feb. Pipeline's 2nd and 3rd reef. Breaks 80yds outside main zone at 4x+ overhead.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow
Pipeline's 2nd and 3rd reef. Foamy lumps that reform into Pipe. Historic big wave arena.
Paddle from Ehukai Beach Park. Long paddle out.
Makaha is Hawaii's original big wave spot—the place where big wave surfing was pioneered before Waimea Bay. Multiple sections (Point, Bowl, Blowhole, Inside Reef) offer different rides depending on the swell. Also a legendary longboard wave, but heavily localized.
🤙 Original big wave spot • Legendary longboard wave • Heavy localism
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 260°-280°.
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 20°-90°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. Hawaii's original big wave spot. Multiple sections: Point, Bowl, Blowhole, Inside Reef.
Heavily localized. Can hold massive W swells. Multiple sections with different characters.
Kaena Point is Oahu's most remote and most powerful wave, accessible only by foot at the island's northwestern tip. Sometimes deemed unrideable, it represents true frontier big wave surfing at a site of deep Hawaiian spiritual significance.
⚡ Oahu's most powerful • Accessible only by foot • Sacred ground
Dec-Feb. Oahu's most remote, most powerful wave. Accessible only by foot.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote, 🚶 Difficult access, 🌀 Strong rips
Oahu's most remote, most powerful wave. Accessible only by foot. Hawaiian spiritual site.
Accessible only by hiking trail from Mokuleia or Makaha side. No road access.
Ala Moana Bowls is the Pipeline of Town—long, hollow, fast lefts over a shallow man-made reef created during 1950s harbor construction. When solid south swells arrive, it produces draining barrels that rival anything on the North Shore for intensity.
🏙️ Pipeline of Town • Man-made reef • South shore tubes
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 160°-220°.
Offshore wind from 10° (N). Offshore range: 340°-60°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep south swell season. Pipeline of Town. Man-made reef from 1950s harbor construction.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 👥 Crowded
South Shore Pipeline. Long, hollow, fast lefts over shallow dredged reef. Birthplace of modern tube riding in Town.
Beach access at Ala Moana Beach Park. Easy paddle.
Kaisers is the premier South Shore performance wave—a bowly, hollow right that empties into a deep channel with a left going over shallow reef. The fierce pecking order among locals makes this one of the more intimidating lineups in Honolulu.
👑 South Shore premier • Fierce pecking order • Bowly perfection
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 155°-225°.
Offshore wind from 10° (N). Offshore range: 340°-55°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. Bowly hollow right empties into channel, left goes over shallow reef.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 👥 Crowded, 👊 Localism
Bowly hollow right empties into channel. Fierce pecking order. Best at 3-5ft SW swell.
Kewalos is an A-frame peak that has served as the proving ground for some of Hawaii's greatest modern surfers, including Carissa Moore and Seth Moniz. The left walls up for high-performance surfing, making it a popular summer competition venue.
🏆 Carissa & Seth's home break • A-frame comp wave • Talent factory
May-Sep. A-frame peak. Hot bed for Hawaii's emerging talent.
A-frame peak. Carissa Moore, Seth Moniz home break. Great summer comp venue.
Publics offers one of the longest lefts in Honolulu, peeling over sharp live coral near Diamond Head. Softer and friendlier on higher tides, it becomes hollower and more dangerous at low tide. Consistent and always crowded.
🌊 Longest left in Town • Always crowded • Diamond Head classic
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 160°-230°.
Offshore wind from 25° (NNE). Offshore range: 340°-80°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. One of the longest lefts in Honolulu. Low tide dangerous over sharp live coral.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 🦔 Urchins, 👥 Crowded
Sharp shallow live coral. Softer on higher tide, hollower on low. Always crowded.
Canoes is Hawaii's most iconic learner wave and the birthplace of modern surfing. Most days it's a gentle, rolling right, but when big south swells hit, the barrel section transforms from mellow to draining.
🏄 Birthplace of modern surfing • Waikiki icon • Mellow to draining
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 150°-235°.
Ideal size: 1.2m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 1.8m.
Offshore wind from 10° (N). Offshore range: 315°-55°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. Hawaii's most iconic learner wave. Transforms on big south swells.
Mellow most days. Transforms on big south swells. Birthplace of modern surfing.
Waikiki Beach. Walk-in access from hotels.
Queen's is named after Queen Liliuokalani, the last monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Most days it's a mellow, forgiving wave, but when big south swells hit, the inside ramp section transforms into a legitimate performance wave. Historic and iconic.
👑 Queen Liliuokalani's wave • Historic royalty • Transforms on south swells
Works best with swells from 195° (SSW). Workable range: 150°-235°.
Offshore wind from 350° (N). Offshore range: 315°-80°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. Named for Queen Liliuokalani. Inside ramp section legitimate on big south swells.
Named for Queen Liliuokalani. When big south swells hit, the inside ramp turns into a legitimate performance wave.
Three's is a fast and hollow right-hander in the Waikiki/Diamond Head area that catches more S-SE swell than other south shore breaks, making it one of the more consistent summer options. All levels share the lineup.
3️⃣ Fast hollow rights • S-SE swell magnet • All levels welcome
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 155°-220°.
May-Sep. Catches more S-SE swell than other Town breaks.
Fast and hollow right-hander. Catches more S-SE swell than other Town breaks.
Beach access in Waikiki/Diamond Head area.
Diamond Head Cliffs encompasses multiple breaks along the iconic crater—Lighthouse, Cliffs, Suicides, and Tongs. More easterly exposure than other south shore spots means it picks up more SE swell, but it's also the first spot to blow out when trade winds kick in.
💎 Multiple DH breaks • SE swell exposure • Heavy when on
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 135°-215°.
Offshore wind from 5° (N). Offshore range: 335°-50°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. Multiple breaks along Diamond Head. When big south swell wraps in, heavy barrels.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 🦔 Urchins, 🪨 Rocks
Multiple breaks: Lighthouse, Cliffs, Suicides, Tongs. Shallow reef, urchins. First spot to blow out in trades.
Various access points along Diamond Head Road.
Sandy Beach is one of the most powerful shorebreaks in Hawaii—a thick, detonating shore pound that's primarily a bodysurf and bodyboard wave. Red Bull Foam Wreckers venue. Not a traditional paddle-in surf wave, but iconic in its own right.
💥 Legendary shorebreak • Bodysurf paradise • Extremely powerful
Works best with swells from 170° (S). Workable range: 150°-200°.
Offshore wind from 340° (NNW). Offshore range: 300°-20°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. Incredible bodysurf/bodyboard shorebreak. Extremely powerful and dangerous.
⚠️ Shallow, 🌀 Strong rips, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs
Incredible bodysurf/bodyboard shorebreak. Extremely powerful, dangerous, thick shore pound. Not a paddle-in surf wave.
Beach access at Sandy Beach Park. Large parking lot.
Jaws (Pe'ahi) is one of the biggest rideable waves on Earth and the birthplace of tow-in surfing. A deep water reef amplifies massive North Pacific swells, producing walls of water that move at 30mph. The iconic right barrel at XXL size is one of surfing's most awe-inspiring sights.
🦈 Where tow-in was born • 30mph walls of water • Maui's monster
Works best with swells from 340° (NNW). Workable range: 320°-30°.
Ideal size: 12.2m. Too small below 6.1m, too big (closeout) above 18.3m.
Needs at least 14s period. Ideal: 20s+ (long-period groundswell).
Nov-Mar. ~15 rideable days/year. Tow-in and paddle. Iconic right barrel at XXL size.
One of the biggest rideable waves on Earth. Deep water reef amplifies massive NP swells. Waves move at ~30mph.
30 minutes drive from OGG airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Tow-in or paddle from cliff access. 4WD road to overlook.
Honolua Bay is Maui's crown jewel—Hawaii's best point break offering 200-400 meter rides through multiple sections (Coconuts, The Cave, Keiki Bowl). Molokai island shadows pure NW swells, so it needs a N component to fire. When it's on, it's world-class.
🌺 Maui's crown jewel • Quarter-mile rights • When it's on, it's ON
Works best with swells from 0° (N). Workable range: 340°-20°.
Nov-Mar. Hawaii's best point break. Molokai shadows pure NW; needs N component.
200-400m rides through Coconuts, The Cave, Keiki Bowl. Molokai shadows pure NW; needs N component.
Trail from parking area. Short walk through trees.
Ma'alaea (Freight Trains) is considered the world's fastest rideable wave—a 150-300+ yard barrel that fires only a handful of times per year when huge south swells slip through the gap between Kahoolawe and Maui. When it runs, it's one of surfing's greatest spectacles.
🚂 World's fastest wave • 300-yard barrel • Handful of times per year
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 160°-210°.
Needs at least 14s period. Ideal: 16s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 340° (NNW). Offshore range: 290°-10°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. World's fastest rideable wave. Fires only a handful of times per year.
Considered the world's fastest rideable wave. 150-300+ yard barrel. Needs huge S-SW swell through Kahoolawe gap.
Hookipa is world-famous for windsurfing but also delivers excellent reef break surfing. Multiple peaks in the bay catch consistent winter swells, though strong currents and frequent wind make it a challenging paddle.
🌬️ Windsurf capital • Multiple reef peaks • Consistent winter waves
Works best with swells from 15° (NNE). Workable range: 350°-40°.
Offshore wind from 180° (S). Offshore range: 140°-220°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. World-famous windsurf spot that's also excellent for surfing. Usually windy.
Consistent winter reef breaks. Strong currents and usually windy. Multiple peaks in the bay.
Beach access at Ho'okipa Beach Park. Easy parking.
Honokohau Bay sits just south of Honolua Bay and offers a less crowded alternative when Honolua is maxed out. Solid right reef break with barrel sections that shares the same swell window.
🌊 Honolua's neighbor • Less crowded • Solid right reef
Works best with swells from 355° (N). Workable range: 340°-10°.
Nov-Mar. Just south of Honolua. Less crowded alternative when Honolua is maxed.
Solid right reef break with barrel sections. Same swell window as Honolua.
Tunnels is a spectacular hollow right-hander that breaks over shallow reef on Kauai's North Shore. The long paddle out is rewarded with deep barrel tubes in crystal-clear water with the Na Pali coast as a backdrop. Appropriately named and very localized.
🏔️ Na Pali backdrop • Deep barrel tubes • Crystal clear water
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 320°-40°.
Offshore wind from 160° (SSE). Offshore range: 110°-200°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. Long paddle to spectacular hollow rights over shallow reef. Na Pali backdrop.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 👊 Localism, 🌀 Strong rips
Long paddle to hollow rights over shallow reef. Crystal clear water, Na Pali backdrop. Very localized.
Beach access at Ha'ena Beach Park. Long paddle out.
Cannons is the equally hollow and shallow left on the other side of Ha'ena Bay from Tunnels. A shorter paddle than its neighbor, it delivers powerful barrels in a breathtaking setting. Very localized.
💣 Tunnels' twin left • Equally hollow • Breathtaking setting
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 300°-360°.
Offshore wind from 200° (SSW). Offshore range: 190°-250°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. Other side of Ha'ena Bay from Tunnels. Equally hollow left.
Equally hollow and shallow as Tunnels. Shorter paddle. Powerful and localized.
Beach access at Ha'ena Beach Park. Shorter paddle than Tunnels.
Hanalei Point is a long right point that breaks 300+ yards over lava reef with powerful barrel sections and an inside bowl. Multiple peaks spread the crowd across the lineup. This is where Andy and Bruce Irons honed their skills.
🏄 Irons brothers' proving ground • 300-yard rights • Multiple peaks
Works best with swells from 340° (NNW). Workable range: 300°-360°.
Ideal size: 2.4m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 3.6m.
Offshore wind from 160° (SSE). Offshore range: 100°-200°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. Long right point breaking 300+ yards over lava reef. Andy & Bruce Irons' proving ground.
Powerful with barrel sections and inside bowl. Multiple peaks spread the crowd. Andy & Bruce Irons' proving ground.
Waikoko's sits across Hanalei Bay from Hanalei Point, offering a fickle left reef break that requires large N swell and W wind to fire. When conditions align, it's a beautiful, secluded wave with a shorter right also available.
🌴 Hanalei Bay's hidden left • Fickle but beautiful • Secluded
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 310°-20°.
Offshore wind from 200° (SSW). Offshore range: 170°-250°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. Across Hanalei Bay from the point. Fickle left reef break. Needs large N swell and W wind.
Fickle left reef break. Needs large N swell and W wind. Beautiful, secluded.
Beach access from Hanalei Bay west side.
Hideaways is an exposed reef break in Princeville that produces hollow A-frames on NW swell. Limited to 10 parking spots and accessed by a steep trail, it rewards the effort with very little crowd and quality waves over sharp reef.
🙈 Hidden Princeville gem • Hollow A-frames • 10 parking spots
Works best with swells from 360° (N). Workable range: 320°-30°.
Offshore wind from 157° (SSE). Offshore range: 120°-200°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. In Princeville. Exposed reef break with hollow A-frames on NW swell.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 🚶 Difficult access
Limited parking (10 spots). Sharp reef, especially on low tide. Steep trail access.
Steep trail from Princeville. Very limited parking (10 spots).
Pakala (Infinities) is a long, roping left point break on Kauai's south coast. Named Infinities for the seemingly endless 200+ yard rides it produces when big enough. A hidden gem that catches summer south swells.
♾️ Infinities • 200-yard lefts • Kauai's hidden gem
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 170°-235°.
Needs at least 12s period. Ideal: 14s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 40° (NE). Offshore range: 20°-120°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. Also known as Infinities for the ride length. 200+ yard rides.
Long roping left point break. 200+ yard rides when big enough. Hidden gem south swell spot.
Beach access from roadside near mile marker 21.
Polihale is a remote beach break at the end of the road on Kauai's west side. Powerful waves channel in from the Na Pali coast, producing empty, epic beachbreak peaks with strong rips. The reward for the long drive is true solitude.
🏝️ End of the road • Empty epic peaks • Na Pali power
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 280°-345°.
Offshore wind from 120° (ESE). Offshore range: 80°-160°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. Remote beach break at end of the road. Powerful waves from Na Pali.
Remote beach break at end of the road. Powerful waves channel in from Na Pali. Strong rips.
End of the road on Kauai's west side. Dirt road may require 4WD.
Banyans is the Big Island's best wave—an A-frame reef break that catches both W/NW swells in winter and S swells in summer, making it one of Hawaii's most versatile spots. Long, glassy rights in Kona conditions are the specialty. Shane Dorian's home break.
🌴 Big Island's best • Shane Dorian's home • Year-round waves
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 200°-300°.
Offshore wind from 80° (E). Offshore range: 30°-130°. Best window: morning.
Year-round. S swells in summer, NW in winter. Shane Dorian's home break.
A-frame reef break. Long glassy rights in Kona conditions. Shane Dorian's home break.
Pine Trees (Kohanaiki) is the most consistent break on the Kona coast, with multiple peaks that work on a wide range of swell directions. The left is usually better. Shallow reef and strong currents on bigger days keep it honest.
🌲 Kona's most consistent • Multiple peaks • Local favorite
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 200°-320°.
Offshore wind from 70° (ENE). Offshore range: 10°-100°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. Most consistent break on the Kona coast. Left usually better.
Multiple peaks, most consistent break on the Kona coast. Shallow reef, strong currents on bigger days.
Lyman's is a classic left point/reef break south of Magic Sands on the Kona coast. It works on multiple swell directions—NW in winter, SW in summer—making it one of the more versatile waves on the Big Island. A Hawaiian royalty surf spot with rich history.
👑 Hawaiian royalty spot • Multi-direction • Classic Kona left
Works best with swells from 292° (WNW). Workable range: 250°-320°.
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 50°-140°. Best window: morning.
Year-round. Works on multiple swell directions. Hawaiian royalty surf spot.
Classic left point/reef break south of Magic Sands. Shallow reef, sharp bottom. Hawaiian royalty surf spot.
Access from Ali'i Drive near Holualoa Bay.
Honoli'i is the most consistent wave on the Big Island's east side—a rivermouth break near Hilo that creates strong, reliable peaks year-round. Sharp lava rocks demand respect, and it's usually onshore with trade winds, but when the winds switch offshore, it's magic.
🌊 Hilo's best • Year-round rivermouth • Magic when offshore
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 350°-100°.
Ideal size: 1.9m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Offshore wind from 230° (SW). Offshore range: 200°-260°. Best window: morning.
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
Year-round. Most consistent wave on Big Island's east side. Usually onshore but magic when winds switch.
Rivermouth creates strong reliable peaks. Sharp lava rocks. Usually onshore but magic when winds switch.
Beach access at Honoli'i Beach Park. Short walk from parking.