Banyans
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.
Banyans surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (270°)
- Direction range
- 200° - 300°
- Size range
- 0.9m - 2.4m
- Ideal size
- 1.6m - 2m
- Height multiplier
- 1.00×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (80°)
- Offshore range
- 30° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
Water temp
25°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Bottom
Reef
Max wave face
3m+
Board
Shortboard
Consistency
5/10
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
5/10
Access: Beach access along Ali'i Drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Banyans?
The Banyans profile favors mid tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Banyans?
The Banyans profile uses wind from E (80°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 30° to 130°. 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 Banyans?
The Banyans scoring profile favors swell from W (200° to 300°), a swell-height range of 0.9m to 2.4m, and a reference period of 14s. 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 Banyans?
The main season at Banyans is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs May-Sep. Year-round. S swells in summer, NW in winter. Shane Dorian's home break.
How do I get to Banyans?
The spot profile lists KOA as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 10 minutes. Beach access along Ali'i Drive.
What kind of wave is Banyans?
Banyans is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights over a reef bottom. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: May-Sep
Year-round. S swells in summer, NW in winter. Shane Dorian's home break.
Getting There
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