Makaha
Makaha is Hawaii's original big wave spot—the place where big wave surfing was pioneered before Waimea Bay. Multiple sections (Point, Bowl, Blowhole, Inside Reef) offer different rides depending on the swell. Also a legendary longboard wave, but heavily localized.
Makaha 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
- 260° - 280°
- Size range
- 1.8m - 4.6m
- Ideal size
- 3.1m - 3.9m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Offshore range
- 20° - 90°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
Water temp
25°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Bottom
Reef
Max wave face
9m+
Board
Any
Consistency
6/10
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
6/10
Access: Beach access at Makaha Beach Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Makaha?
The Makaha 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 Makaha?
The Makaha profile uses wind from NE (45°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 20° to 90°. 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 Makaha?
The Makaha scoring profile favors swell from W (260° to 280°), a swell-height range of 1.8m to 4.6m, and a reference period of 16s. 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 Makaha?
The main season at Makaha is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Oct. Nov-Mar. Hawaii's original big wave spot. Multiple sections: Point, Bowl, Blowhole, Inside Reef.
How do I get to Makaha?
The spot profile lists HNL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 45 minutes. Beach access at Makaha Beach Park.
What kind of wave is Makaha?
Makaha is a point break, a right-hander over a reef bottom. Difficulty is rated 7/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Oct
Nov-Mar. Hawaii's original big wave spot. Multiple sections: Point, Bowl, Blowhole, Inside Reef.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Kaena Point
⚡ Oahu's most powerful • Accessible only by foot • Sacred ground
Mokuleia
🏖️ Two miles of peaks • Uncrowded beach break • Wind-dependent
Laniakea
🐢 Turtle Beach • Fun right point • Intermediate-friendly
Avalanche
🏔️ Haleiwa's outer reef • Deep water power • Big swell handler
Haleiwa
🚪 Gateway to the North Shore • Triple Crown venue • Toilet Bowl inside
Chun's Reef
🏖️ Mellow North Shore • Longboard heaven • Fun and accessible
Plan a trip around Makaha
Compare this break with other destinations in these surf guides.