Outer Log Cabins
Outer Log Cabins is the North Shore's extreme outer reef that refracts long-period WNW swell toward Pipeline. Breaking on only the biggest swells, it reforms into Pipe on the inside. An 85-foot wave was ridden here in 1998.
Outer Log Cabins surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (307°)
- Direction range
- 295° - 320°
- Size range
- 4.6m - 7.6m
- Ideal size
- 5.5m - 6.4m
- 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
15m+
Board
Gun / Step-up
Consistency
2/10
Difficulty
10/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Tow-in only. Deep water outer reef.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Outer Log Cabins?
The Outer Log Cabins 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 Outer Log Cabins?
The Outer Log Cabins 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 Outer Log Cabins?
The Outer Log Cabins scoring profile favors swell from NW (295° to 320°), a swell-height range of 4.6m to 7.6m, 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 Outer Log Cabins?
The main season at Outer Log Cabins is Dec, Jan, Feb. A secondary window runs Nov. Dec-Feb. Deep water outer reef. Breaks on biggest swells, reforming into Pipe.
How do I get to Outer Log Cabins?
The spot profile lists HNL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 55 minutes. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $150 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Tow-in only. Deep water outer reef.
What kind of wave is Outer Log Cabins?
Outer Log Cabins is a big wave break, a peak with lefts and rights over a reef bottom. Difficulty is rated 10/10.
Best Season
Peak: Dec, Jan, Feb
Secondary: Nov
Dec-Feb. Deep water outer reef. Breaks on biggest swells, reforming into Pipe.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Log Cabins
🪵 Heavier than Pipe • N swell magnet • Life-changing barrels
Backdoor Outer Reef
🌊 Pipe's outer shelf • 2nd & 3rd reef • Reforms into Pipeline
Rockpile
🪨 Gap in the Road • 150-yard lefts • Uncrowded alternative
Pipeline
🏆 The proving ground • Heaviest barrels on Earth • Experts only
Backdoor
🔥 Pipeline's evil twin • Right-hand deathpit • NNW swell specialist
Off The Wall
💪 Pipeline's neighbor • Powerful rights • Regular footer's dream
Plan a trip around Outer Log Cabins
Compare this break with other destinations in these surf guides.