Hawaii and Waves

Hawaii's waves are legendary. There are three basic swell sources that can reach Hawaii's shores from all directions: the east-northeast trade winds, the North Pacific lows, and the South Pacific (Southern Hemisphere) lows. Hurricanes and Kona winds from the local southwest can also create high surf during the winter, although surf from these two sources are not common in Hawaii.

During the winter months in Hawaii, hurricane strength storms build in the North Pacific off the eastern coast of Japan and Alaska’s Aleutian Islands. These strong winds are often hurricane force and these waves only have to travel about 3,000 miles to reach Hawaii (which is the first landmass they hit...no interruptions from when they ere generated). Consequently, the waves hit Hawaii with great force and create waves and surf that can exceed 30, 40, or even 60 feet in height.

Some of the most notable waves in Hawaii include the Bonzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, Waimea, Honolua Bay, Jaws, Hanalei Bay, Makaha, Waikiki Beach, and more!