The South Shore of Oʻahu, particularly the stretch from Kewalo Basin to Diamond Head, is a year-round surf destination with a rich blend of mellow Waikiki rollers, barreling reef breaks, and cultural surf landmarks. During the April–October window, south swells light up dozens of world-class breaks, while easterly trade swells keep select spots alive the rest of the year. It's urban surfing at its finest, set against a backdrop of palm trees, city life, and Aloha spirit.
Featured Surf Breaks (West to East)
1. Sand Island State Recreation Area
Wave Type: Mixed reef peaks.
Skill Level: All levels (especially near the tower).
Wave Type: Mixed reef peaks.
Skill Level: All levels (especially near the tower).
Notes: Often overlooked, offers reeling reforms and uncrowded conditions. Good for exploration and mellow days.
2. Kewalo Basin (Kewalos)
Wave Type: Hollow left-hand barrels, short rights.
Skill Level: Advanced.
Swell: S to SE swell; best with E angle.
Hazards: Shallow coral heads, fishing boats, sharks, pollution.
Notes: Very consistent in summer. A spot that rewards skill and commitment. Expect crowds.
3.TTennis Courts
Wave Type: Rippable rights, short lefts.
Best Conditions: S to W swells, N winds, lower tides.
Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced.
Notes: Fun sections for performance shortboarding and longboarding on smaller days.
4. Ala Moana Bowls (The Bowl)
Wave Type: Long lefts with barrels and shoulders.
Best Swell: Strong S with a bit of SE.
Skill Level: Advanced to expert.
Hazards: Long paddle, sharp coral, strong currents, sharks, localism
Access: Paddle out from Magic Island or the channel.
Notes: Arguably the best wave in Town. Powerful and technical. Crowded and competitive.
5. Queen's & Canoes (Waikīkī)
Wave Type: Rolling rights, longboards’ paradise.
Skill Level: Any level.
Hazards: Crowded with surf schools, outrigger canoes.
Notes: Iconic and historic. Queen’s is more performance-oriented; Canoes is mushy but fun.
6. Tonggs / Diamond Head Area
Breaks Include: Lighthouse, Graveyards, Suicide, Rice Bowl.
Wave Type: Long, walling rights.
Conditions: Handles NE trades well.
Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced.
Hazards: Sharp reef, long paddle.
Notes: Scenic backdrop, fun peaks, scattered reefs. Cliffs is the go-to during trade swell.
7. Secrets & Toes
Location: East of Diamond Head near Kawaikuʻi Beach Park.
Wave Type: Rights and lefts; good on high tide.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced.
Notes: Often uncrowded and scenic. Toes is especially nice on glassy longboard mornings.
8. Sandy Beach
Wave Type: Violent shorebreak for bodyboarders & bodysurfers
Skill Level: Expert only (for the inside)
Hazards: Neck-breaking barrels, shallow sandbars
Notes: Best for bodyboarding and bodysurfing. Boards head to the outer reef if trades are light.
Gear, Rentals & Lessons
Waikiki Surf Shops: Dozens offer board rentals, surf lessons, and outrigger canoe rides.
Rental Prices:
-NSP boards: $45 (first 2 days), then $10/day.
-Surftech Performance: $65/2 days, then $10/day.
-SUP: $100/2 days, then $20/day.
-Delivery available island-wide.
Camping & Lodging
Camping:
Book via camping.honolulu.gov
$32 (3d) to $52 (5d); no camping Wed/Thu
Hotels:
Aloha Surf Hotel: from $145/night.
Condos: ~$1500/week for 4 pax.
Food: World-class restaurants, fast food, local plate lunch, and food trucks galore.
Hazards & Tips
-Sharp reefs, especially at low tide.
-Heavy shorebreaks at Sandy’s and Makapuʻu.
-Strong currents near channels and reef passes.
-Localism: present, especially at spots like Bowls or Kewalos. Show respect.
-Theft from vehicles is common — don’t leave valuables in your car.
-Best surfing etiquette: Smile, wait your turn, and show aloha.
Cultural Tips
Surf with respect — this is where modern surfing was born
Visit the Bishop Museum for surf history and artifacts
Learn from Waikīkī Beach Boys — living surf legends offering daily lessons.
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