Best Time to Surf Honolulu (2026)
Honolulu, Hawaii — Month-by-month surf guide
Surfing in March
March
1 of 7 beaches are in peak season right now. Expect 4-8 ft waves and 75°F water. Peak month: June.
Surf Score by Month
Score reflects overall surf quality each month — combining peak season activity, water temperature, and crowd levels.
Monthly Breakdown
January
PeakPeak north shore season, big waves
February
PeakConsistent north swells, contests
March
Transitional swells, fewer crowds
April
Small days, exploring outer reefs
May
South shore waking up, town surf
June
South shore swells, warm water
July
Peak south shore, Waikiki season
August
South swells, warmest water
September
Transition month, some south swells
October
Early north swells, low crowds
November
PeakNorth shore fires up, Triple Crown
December
PeakPeak north shore, Pipe Masters
Dawn Patrol vs Afternoon Sessions
Dawn Patrol
- Typically glassier conditions before onshore winds build
- Smaller crowds, especially on weekdays
- Water temps at their coolest — plan your wetsuit for the low end (75°F in winter)
- Best for beach breaks and exposed reef setups in Honolulu
Afternoon Sessions
- Onshore winds can create chop, but swell is often more consistent
- Higher crowds on popular beaches, especially weekends
- Water warms through the day — upper end (80°F in summer)
- Sunset sessions can be magic when winds die down
Top Surf Spots in Honolulu
Peak: Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Peak: Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Peak: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
Peak: Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Peak: Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep