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 right (Backdoor) offers an equally intense experience. Located on Oahu's North Shore, Pipe is home to the Pipeline Masters and remains the ultimate test of tube-riding skill.
Water temp
25°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
10/10
Crowd level
9/10
Forecasts are validated against real-time buoy data.
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Secondary: Mar, Oct
Nov-Feb peak. Kona winds best.
Verified by WSL data
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