Hanalei Bay Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
WNW to NNE
Wind
Calm or light to moderate offshore from the ENE to SE.
Surf Height
Head high-3X overhead
Tide
All tides
Hanalei Bay Surf Guide
Hanalei Bay is one of the most well-known spots on the island of Kauai, and there are many other spots in and around the bay. Hanalei itself is a long right point that breaks on the eastern side of the bay for up to 300 yards over lava reef. It is a fairly powerful wave with occasional barrel sections that ends with an inside bowl section in the middle of the bay. Farther north, up and around the point from Hanalei, is a reefbreak right called Hideaways. Further inside the bay is PineTrees, which needs a larger swell and a good sandbar setup at the rivermouth. Directly across Hanalei Bay from the main point is a fickle left reefbreak called Waikokos, which needs a large N swell and W wind.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
Best suited for avid to advanced surfers.
Local Vibe
Doable
Competitive. Locals tend to rule the place. Humility and respect expected.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Usually always a crowd, but can be pretty spread out along the point.
Spot Rating
Fun
A nice, long, powerful wave with great shape and the occasional barrel sections.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
The paddle out is not hard, just long. And it's a point break, so longer the ride then longer the paddle back.
Water Quality
Clean
Good most of the time. However, there are a few rivermouths in the bay with a large one right at the break, so water can get dirty after significant rain.
Hazards
Sections of shallow reef, currents.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Bodyboard, Gun
Access
Easy. Enter the water either from the Hanalei Pier area, or from the keyhole off Puu Poa Beach midway on the point.
Bottom
Reef
Best Season
Winter is best. Tradeswell in summer can be OK, at least rideable.
Do you have local knowledge about Hanalei Bay?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]