Pipeline
Pipeline is the proving ground of professional surfing—a shallow, left-breaking barrel that has defined generations of surfers. The wave breaks just 75 yards from the beach over a dangerously shallow lava reef, producing thick, hollow tubes that are as punishing as they are perfect. When NW swells hit during winter, Pipe delivers some of the heaviest barrels on Earth.
Pipeline surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (310°)
- Direction range
- 295° - 340°
- Size range
- 1.8m - 4.6m
- Ideal size
- 3.1m - 3.9m
- Height multiplier
- 1.03×
- Ideal period
- 18s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ESE (120°)
- Offshore range
- 90° - 160°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.2m
- Danger below
- 0.1m
Water temp
25°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Bottom
Reef
Max wave face
6m+
Board
Shortboard
Consistency
7/10
Difficulty
10/10
Crowd level
10/10
Access: Beach access at Ehukai Beach Park. Easy paddle out through channel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Pipeline?
The Pipeline profile favors low to mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1.2m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session. The profile flags a low-tide hazard below 0.1m.
What wind direction is offshore at Pipeline?
The Pipeline profile uses wind from ESE (120°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 90° to 160°. 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 Pipeline?
The Pipeline scoring profile favors swell from NW (295° to 340°), a swell-height range of 1.8m to 4.6m, 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 Pipeline?
The main season at Pipeline is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb. A secondary window runs Mar, Oct. Nov-Feb peak. WNW-NW swells. Kona winds best.
How do I get to Pipeline?
The spot profile lists HNL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 55 minutes. Beach access at Ehukai Beach Park. Easy paddle out through channel.
What kind of wave is Pipeline?
Pipeline is a reef break, a left-hander over a reef bottom. Difficulty is rated 10/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Secondary: Mar, Oct
Nov-Feb peak. WNW-NW swells. Kona winds best.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Backdoor
🔥 Pipeline's evil twin • Right-hand deathpit • NNW swell specialist
Rockpile
🪨 Gap in the Road • 150-yard lefts • Uncrowded alternative
Off The Wall
💪 Pipeline's neighbor • Powerful rights • Regular footer's dream
Log Cabins
🪵 Heavier than Pipe • N swell magnet • Life-changing barrels
Backdoor Outer Reef
🌊 Pipe's outer shelf • 2nd & 3rd reef • Reforms into Pipeline
Gas Chambers
💀 Detonating barrels • Extremely shallow • Helmet recommended
Plan a trip around Pipeline
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