Hanalei Bay

Best Surf Season (October - March)

Hanalei Bay is a North Pacific arrowhead that points straight at the winter storm track. From October through March, the Aleutian Low strengthens and repeatedly spawns gale-force lows that send long-period NNW, NW and N swells toward the Hawaiian chain. Average swell heights climb to 2.0-2.7m (6.5-9ft) and periods lengthen to 11-13s, creating the powerful, bowling lines that Hanalei is famous for. While trade winds still blow for a good share of the winter, the cleanest days come when a cold front pushes through and winds swing into the south and southeast, turning the bay into a glassy arena of heavy, rippable surf.