Diamond Head Cliffs
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.
Diamond Head Cliffs surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- S (180°)
- Direction range
- 135° - 215°
- Size range
- 0.9m - 2.4m
- Ideal size
- 1.6m - 2m
- Height multiplier
- 1.03×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (5°)
- Offshore range
- 335° - 50°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
Water temp
26°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Bottom
Reef
Max wave face
3m+
Board
Shortboard
Consistency
6/10
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
6/10
Access: Various access points along Diamond Head Road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Diamond Head Cliffs?
The Diamond Head Cliffs profile favors mid to high tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Diamond Head Cliffs?
The Diamond Head Cliffs profile uses wind from N (5°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 335° to 50°. 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 Diamond Head Cliffs?
The Diamond Head Cliffs scoring profile favors swell from S (135° to 215°), 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 Diamond Head Cliffs?
The main season at Diamond Head Cliffs is May-Sep. A secondary window runs Apr, Oct. May-Sep. Multiple breaks along Diamond Head. When big south swell wraps in, heavy barrels.
How do I get to Diamond Head Cliffs?
The spot profile lists HNL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 15 minutes. Various access points along Diamond Head Road.
What kind of wave is Diamond Head Cliffs?
Diamond Head Cliffs is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights over a reef bottom. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: May-Sep
Secondary: Apr, Oct
May-Sep. Multiple breaks along Diamond Head. When big south swell wraps in, heavy barrels.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Publics
🌊 Longest left in Town • Always crowded • Diamond Head classic
Queen's
👑 Queen Liliuokalani's wave • Historic royalty • Transforms on south swells
Three's
3️⃣ Fast hollow rights • S-SE swell magnet • All levels welcome
Canoes
🏄 Birthplace of modern surfing • Waikiki icon • Mellow to draining
Ala Moana Bowls
🏙️ Pipeline of Town • Man-made reef • South shore tubes
Kaisers
👑 South Shore premier • Fierce pecking order • Bowly perfection
Plan a trip around Diamond Head Cliffs
Compare this break with other destinations in these surf guides.