Publics
Publics offers one of the longest lefts in Honolulu, peeling over sharp live coral near Diamond Head. Softer and friendlier on higher tides, it becomes hollower and more dangerous at low tide. Consistent and always crowded.
Publics surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- S (190°)
- Direction range
- 160° - 230°
- Size range
- 0.9m - 1.8m
- Ideal size
- 1.3m - 1.6m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNE (25°)
- Offshore range
- 340° - 80°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
- Danger below
- 0.3m
Water temp
26°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Bottom
Reef
Max wave face
2.5m+
Board
Any
Consistency
7/10
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
9/10
Access: Beach access near Diamond Head.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Publics?
The Publics profile favors mid to high tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session. The profile flags a low-tide hazard below 0.3m.
What wind direction is offshore at Publics?
The Publics profile uses wind from NNE (25°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 340° to 80°. 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 Publics?
The Publics scoring profile favors swell from S (160° to 230°), a swell-height range of 0.9m to 1.8m, 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 Publics?
The main season at Publics is May-Sep. A secondary window runs Apr, Oct. May-Sep. One of the longest lefts in Honolulu. Low tide dangerous over sharp live coral.
How do I get to Publics?
The spot profile lists HNL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 15 minutes. Beach access near Diamond Head.
What kind of wave is Publics?
Publics is a reef break, a left-hander over a reef bottom. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: May-Sep
Secondary: Apr, Oct
May-Sep. One of the longest lefts in Honolulu. Low tide dangerous over sharp live coral.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Queen's
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Three's
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Canoes
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Diamond Head Cliffs
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Ala Moana Bowls
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Kaisers
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Plan a trip around Publics
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