Dawn patrol surfing in Honolulu

Ala Moana Bowls is a legendary reef break off Magic Island known for its heaving left-hand tube and occasional right. Breaking over a shallow coral reef, Bowls offers long, hollow waves that attract expert shortboarders when a solid south or southwest swell lines up with light northerly winds. On bigger swells the barrels are thick and dangerous, and the lineup is extremely competitive.

Diamond Head Cliffs is a long stretch of reef along the slopes of Leʻahi where multiple peaks offer rippable lefts and occasional rights. The waves are consistent year-round and handle a variety of swell directions, but they break over sharp lava and coral that require confident paddling and knowledge of the currents. Getting there involves a hike down the bluff and a long paddle, and the lineup can be crowded when the south swell pulses.

Sandy Beach is famous for its powerful shorebreak that explodes directly onto the sand, making it more popular with bodysurfers and bodyboarders than surfers. Multiple peaks like Full Point and Middle Peak deliver short, hollow waves that can snap boards and bones when the tradewind-driven swell peaks. Experienced wave riders love the challenge, but this spot is unforgiving for novices.

Waikiki (Aquarium) is a beach break in Honolulu, HI. It is suited for beginner-intermediate surfers. Watch out for rip currents.

Waikiki Beach is a beach break in Honolulu, HI. It is suited for beginner-intermediate surfers. Watch out for rip currents.

Canoes, located off Waikiki in Honolulu, is a gentle reef break over a sandy bottom that produces long, mellow rides ideal for beginners and longboarders. The wave has a welcoming vibe with beach-boy surf lessons and outrigger canoes sharing the lineup, though it can be crowded in summer. The break works best on a south swell and a light northerly wind, delivering fun walls for surfers of all ages.

Queens is the jewel of Waikiki, delivering a long right-hand reef wave with occasional lefts that are faster and more powerful than neighboring Canoes. The break sits in front of the Royal Hawaiian and sets up clean walls during summer south swells, making it a favorite for longboarders and surf contests. Proper etiquette is essential because the lineup can be territorial and extremely crowded.