Kaena Point Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
NW to N
Wind
SE to SW along the northern side of headland, and N to E for the southern side of the headland.
Surf Height
2X overhead and larger
Tide
Medium
Kaena Point Surf Guide
The westernmost tip of Oahu is Kaena Point and, despite being a torrential convergence zone where South and North Pacific swell energy collides with spectacular force, the waves can get good on a big winter swell -- for experts only, that is. On these big N or NW swells, Kaena Point stacks giant righthanders around the west side of the island and careens them down along the southern edge of the headland. Down the point on the west side is Yokohama Bay where the waves are tamer, but hardly so -- Yoks can also be of double-black-diamond quality.
Ability Level
Advanced
Experts only.
Local Vibe
Welcoming
Not much out there as it's usually uncrowded. Be cool and keep it that way.
Crowd Factor
Mellow
Light and wide open
Spot Rating
Fun
Average most of the time by North Shore standards, but like anywhere, it can get really good given the proper swell and wind specs.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Tons of water can be moving around out there, so staying in position can be a difficult task.
Water Quality
Clean
Clean. Beautiful, clear, blue water.
Hazards
Large waves, strong current, sharks, and the reef.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Gun, Tow, Kiteboard
Access
Walk in on Kaena Point Trail from the north or from Yokohama Bay in the south.
Bottom
Reef with some rocks
Best Season
Winter
Do you have local knowledge about Kaena Point?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]