Pohoiki Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
Anything from the NE to SSW
Wind
Calm or offshore from the west to north.
Surf Height
Chest high-2X overhead. Depends on which bay you choose and what you're looking for.
Tide
Medium tides
Pohoiki Surf Guide
Pohoiki offers three bays to surf. First Bay is closest to the boat ramp and offers a wave for all levels with warm water from the volcanic springs nearby. Second Bay is 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 is Third Bay, which offers a hollow/fast wave over shallow water. Third Bay can turn into a good big-wave spot on a solid swell and N-W or W wind. Pohoiki is very consistent but is usually affected by breezy onshores, as steady easterly tradewinds and tradeswell occur all year long. However, watch for it to fire with a passing front that brings W-clocking-N wind and a solid swell from the N-E 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.
Ability Level
All Abilities
All levels -- Depends on size and which bay/spot you surf.
Local Vibe
Welcoming
Humility and respect appreciated.
Crowd Factor
Mellow
Usually pretty mellow
Spot Rating
Fun
Lots of swell direction options, but quality is affected by onshore wind often.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Easy access to water and channel. More of a paddle to get to Second and Third Bay.
Water Quality
Clean
Pristine.
Hazards
Reef, urchins.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Funboard, Longboard, Fish, Bodyboard, Gun
Access
Easy. Parking at Isaac Hale Beach Park.
Bottom
Reef with lots of urchins
Best Season
Can get good year-round
Do you have local knowledge about Pohoiki?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]