North Shore Hawaii, USA
A right-handed reef break on the coast of North Shore Hawaii.
| Wave height | 2.9 ft (2-4 ft) |
| Swell period | 10 sec |
| Swell direction | 199° |
| Wind | E offshore 2.6 kt |
| Tide | mid / optimal |
| Surf score | 34 / 100 |
Haleiwa is a right-handed reef break on the coast of Oahu, North Shore Hawaii, USA. On the right day, the ideal swell window runs from WNW–NNW (300–340°); groundswell with periods around 12–20s gives it the most shape; the wave is comfortably workable up to roughly 20 ft on the face. Best winds are E or SE, with NE or S still rideable. Tide influences the wave moderately, so timing the swing helps line up the better sets. The sweet spot in our data sits between roughly 0.3 m and 1.5 m of tide height. It is one of the more consistent waves in the region, producing rideable days across much of the season. Expect warm, boardshort-friendly water. Expect a busy lineup, particularly during the prime season. Logistically, it is about 50 minutes from HNL airport. It rewards strong, confident surfers and is not the right place for a first session of the trip - paddle fitness and wave-reading both matter. Board-wise, locals lean on step-up or gun.
The best window is typically Oct–Feb, when swells from WNW–NNW (300–340°) are most consistent.
In our data the spot is workable up to roughly 20 ft on the face on the right swell and wind, beyond which it usually becomes unmanageable or closes out.
Not really - it suits advanced surfers and is not the place to learn.