Barbers Point
Surf Guide
Barbers Point picks up Southern Hemi swells from all directions, and it can also absorb Northern Hemi energy that has a lot of W in it (between 390-329 degrees) or has snuck under Ni'ihau and Kauai (under 285 degrees). There is a point wave that breaks directly out beyond the lighthouse, but there are a variety of peaks spread out down the beach that offer good surf, depending on swell direction. Due to Barbers Point's exposed location, wind is often a factor.
Ability Level
All Abilities
All levels, but depends on size.
Local Vibe
Welcoming
None to minimal. Be cool and keep it that way.
Crowd Factor
Mellow
Minimal and spread out.
Spot Rating
Fun
Variety of peaks spread out down the beach that offer good surf. Peaky surf with a combo of northerly and southerly swells.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Long paddles to and from beach, but not bad once you're out there.
Water Quality
Clean
Pristine.
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
Anything from the SE to SW, or from the W, or NW to N.
Wind
Calm or offshore from NNE to ENE. NE is straight offshore.
Surf Height
Head high-3X overhead+
Tide
Medium