Map
Haleiwa
Today's Surf Conditions at Haleiwa
Spot Conditions Map
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Today's Surf & Wind Forecast (Hourly)
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Spot Overview & Description
Haleiwa, the iconic right-hand reef break at Ali'i Beach Park, sits at the heart of the North Shore's commercial center, blending local charm with world-class waves. On smaller days, it can appear deceptively mellow, with soft, broken peaks that beckon the unwary. But let the swell rise—an overhead west-to-northwest pulse transforms this reef into a relentless, high-performance beast. Expect fast, slabbing walls, hollow sections that demand precision, and a notorious shallow inside shutdown known as the Toilet Bowl. This is a wave that rewards respect and punishes hesitation, suited for experienced surfers who thrive on power and consequence.
Best Surf Season & Climatology
Best Surf Season (October - March)
Haleiwa roars to life during the winter months as the North Pacific generates a steady stream of powerful, long-period swell. With an average swell height exceeding 2.4m and periods often above 11 seconds, the NW-NNW swell window is consistently active. The trade winds relax slightly, allowing for more frequent offshore flow from the south and southwest, keeping the waves clean and lined up. This is prime time for the famous Haleiwa bowls and long lefts.
Fair Surf Season (April & September)
These transition months offer a mixed bag. April still sees substantial swell from the north, but the period drops and the trade winds ramp up, making conditions more variable. September sees a resurgence of NW swell as autumn storms begin to form, and the trade wind strength eases, resulting in a higher percentage of ideal wind days (up to 53%). However, the average wave height is lower (1.7-2.2m) compared to peak winter.
Low Surf Season (May - August)
During the summer months, the dominant swell shifts to the ENE-E quadrant, which is shadowed at Haleiwa by the island's northern coastline. While the trade winds blow consistently from the east-northeast, they are cross-shore and often too strong, creating bumpy, short-period waves. The average swell height drops to 1.6-1.8m with periods under 9 seconds, resulting in mostly small, weak surf. Only occasional long-period south swell or small NW pulses offer any decent waves.
Detailed Surf Information for Haleiwa
Detailed Surf Forecast
Access our detailed 8-day swell and wind forecast charts for Haleiwa with tidal graphs, period ranges, and daily forecast text summaries.
Swell & Wind Statistics
Explore historical swell consistency, wave heights, and offshore wind windows month-by-month, compiled from over 40 years of data.
Historical Surf Report
Browse the historical database archives to view past wave reports and understand spot climatology during specific years and months.