Avalanche
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.
Avalanche surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (315°)
- Direction range
- 290° - 345°
- Size range
- 4.6m - 9.1m
- Ideal size
- 5.9m - 7.3m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 18s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SE (135°)
- Offshore range
- 90° - 180°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
Water temp
25°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Bottom
Reef
Max wave face
12m+
Board
Gun / Step-up
Consistency
2/10
Difficulty
10/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Paddle or tow-in from Haleiwa area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Avalanche?
The Avalanche profile does not specify a preferred tide stage. That does not mean tide has no effect: check local conditions alongside swell and wind.
What wind direction is offshore at Avalanche?
The Avalanche profile uses wind from SE (135°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 90° to 180°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Avalanche?
The Avalanche scoring profile favors swell from NW (290° to 345°), a swell-height range of 4.6m to 9.1m, and a reference period of 18s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Avalanche?
The main season at Avalanche is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb. Nov-Feb. Deepwater outer reef near Haleiwa. Handles massive swells.
How do I get to Avalanche?
The spot profile lists HNL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 50 minutes. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $150 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Paddle or tow-in from Haleiwa area.
What kind of wave is Avalanche?
Avalanche is a big wave break, a left-hander over a reef bottom. Difficulty is rated 10/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Nov-Feb. Deepwater outer reef near Haleiwa. Handles massive swells.
Getting There
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