Pohoiki Surf Guide

Pohoiki Surf Guide

ATTENTION: Unfortunately, the traditional surf spot at Pohoiki has been altered by the recent lava flows, and not in a good way -- generally destroyed and unsurfable. However, there may be other waves nearby that are surfable, perhaps even a new spot (none reported at this time). Pohoiki use to offer three bays to surf. First Bay was closest to the boat ramp and offered a wave for all levels with warm water from the volcanic springs nearby. Second Bay was a little further out in slightly cooler water, offering a more hollow/faster wave for more advanced surfers. Around the small rocky outcrop just to the south was Third Bay, which offered a hollow/fast wave over shallow water. Third Bay use to turn into a good big-wave spot on a solid swell and NW or W wind. Pohoiki use to be a very consistent spot, but usually affected by breezy onshores, as steady easterly tradewinds and tradeswell occur all year long. Conditions would improve with a passing front that brings W-clocking-N wind and with a solid swell running from either the NE or S. Also of note is the bottom at Pohoiki, which is extremely sharp lava rock, dotted with urchins -- you'll want to try avoiding it at all times.