Backdoor is Pipeline's right-hand twin—a fast, hollow barrel that breaks on the same reef but requires more north in the swell direction. When the angle is right, Backdoor produces some of surfing's most photogenic tubes: perfectly round, crystal blue, and impossibly shallow. The wave is just as dangerous and just as crowded as Pipe, demanding the same level of respect and skill. The right-hand option at surfing's most hallowed ground.
Water temp
25°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
10/10
Crowd level
10/10
Access: Right-hand side of Pipeline.
Forecasts are validated against real-time buoy data.
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Secondary: Oct, Mar
Needs more North in the swell than Pipe.
Verified by Data analysis
How well swell angle matches the spot
Wave height in the ideal range
Each spot has different period requirements. Points and reefs can handle longer periods than beaches.
Offshore/glassy conditions