Waikiki Beach - surf spot statistics

Waikiki Beach is known for its relatively consistent surf, but the conditions vary throughout the year. The best months for surfing at Waikiki are generally from September through May, when ground swells dominate and swell size remains steady around 1.3-1.4m. Ground swells, which provide cleaner and more organized waves, are most prevalent from September (67%) to May (65%), peaking in September and May. Wind conditions, however, are less favorable overall, with only 9-21% of days offering good winds across the year—lowest in June (9%) and highest in January (21%). The worst wind conditions occur from April to August, when bad winds exceed 85% of the time. Swell consistency is excellent year-round, with no days registering as flat. December and November see a more balanced mix of ground and wind swells (50-51% ground swell), but winds remain predominantly onshore. For the best balance of swell quality and slightly better wind chances, target September, October, or May, when ground swell percentages are high (62-67%) and wind conditions are marginally better compared to summer months. Summer (June-August) tends to be the least favorable due to stronger onshore winds and a slight drop in ground swell dominance. While Waikiki is surfable year-round, the fall and early winter months offer the most reliable conditions for experienced surfers.

In March, Waikiki Beach typically offers manageable surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.4m and a decent period of 11.4s, providing consistent, well-formed waves. The dominant swell directions are ENE and NE, which contribute to the majority of rideable waves (1-2.5m), making up around 20-30% of conditions. Smaller swells (0.5-1m) are also frequent, but larger swells over 2.5m are rare. Wind conditions are favorable for surfing only 16% of the time, with ENE winds being the most common but often too strong (20-40kph), leading to choppy or blown-out conditions. Light onshore winds (0-20kph) from the E/SE occur occasionally, offering cleaner waves. Overall, March is a decent month for intermediate surfers, with the best sessions occurring when ENE swells coincide with lighter winds, while stronger winds may require patience or early-morning sessions for optimal conditions.