Kawaihae Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
The more west the better, from either the South or North Pacific.
Wind
Calm or offshore from an easterly direction (NE to E to SE). N wind is side-offshore. Mornings usually always see light wind and clean conditions, before an afternoon seabreeze develops.
Surf Height
Chest high-2X overhead
Tide
Medium tides
Kawaihae Surf Guide
Located in the historical town of Kawaihae, and tucked under the northwest corner of the Big Island, is Kawaihae Harbor -- a fun surf spot during the winter and summer months that offers both rights and lefts. WNW to N swells run down along the northwest Big Island coast and hit the breakwater at Kawaihae, producing running right-handers. The left empties out into the boat channel, so it's not quite as good as the right.
Ability Level
All Abilities
Usually best suited for beginner to intermediate levels.
Local Vibe
Welcoming
Usually friendly. Be cool and keep it that way.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Depending on surf quality. Can be hit or miss with the crowd.
Spot Rating
Poor
Can get really fun on a solid WNW swell, but usually average to below average.
Shoulder Burn
Light
The paddle is not bad for smaller days, but becomes more the larger it gets.
Water Quality
Clean
Good most of the time, but more suspect closer to the harbor entrances.
Hazards
Reef. Harbor water. Water access.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Funboard, Longboard, Fish, Bodyboard, SUP
Access
Easy. Parking at the Kawaihae Cultural Surf Park right in front of the breakwater.
Bottom
Reef
Best Season
Year-round. Winter N to WNW swells and summer SSW-SW swells.
Do you have local knowledge about Kawaihae?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]