Best Winter Surfing on Kauai, Hawaii : North Shore Report

In a previous article, I had talked about some of the great surfing available in the summer time on the Garden Island.I was amazed at how many people had an interest in visiting Kauai.That entry gave a starting place for amateurs and certain California surfers from places like Huntington Beach who had progressed in skill until they were looking for a bigger thrill.

Now, with some reluctance, I’d like to mention three of the most popular winter surfing spots along the north shore. Sure, there are some secluded hide away beaches that must remain off the books. Those places should remain as local surfer shangri-las that might be revealed to you if you take the time to make some new friends. The three places mentioned in this article are no longer a secret, but are shared with a generous portion of caution. Make sure you have paid your dues in smaller arenas before venturing into the big waves of Winter on Kauai’s north shore.

Hanalei Bay- It was so pleasant here in the milder months. The bay was full of anchored boats and there was lots of recreation available. In the Winter, the fleet has relocated to calmer waters and the ocean is once again chewing up the tail end of the famous Hanalei Pier. The sky has turned a frequent grey and the sun bathers have given way to the ridiculous rainy season.

Along with the gloomy weather, the occasional ocean swell from the north creates big waves . To the west of the main Hanalei Bay is a surfing spot that is often the site of longboard surfing contests. It’s called “Pinetrees”. The nearby shelters are a place to hunker down and fire up the grill while waiting for the proper conditions.

Lumahai Beach– Just a short trek to the west of Hanalei Bay is a particularly popular surfing spot known as Lumahai. This place is a bit more wild and wooly because of it’s isolation and the formation of the waves. There’s no lifeguard here nor any facilities of any kind. From the road, you must find the overgrown jeep trail that leads to the bluff overlooking the beach. Bring some food and charcoal as you will want to stay all day and maybe all night. This is not a legal camping spo , but there is nothing quite as beautiful as the early morning at Lumahai. When the big waves are pumping, you will want to come in for frequent rest stops between surf sessions.

Kalihiwai Point- This popular beach, just outside of Kilauea town, is often lots of fun for body surfing and boogie boards. In calmer weather, the river is a popular kayak adventure. In the Winter, however, observe the cliffs to the east of the bay . The mighty waves have carved an awesome groove into the rock walls that demonstrate the power of the ocean. Once again , there’s no lifeguard and only the bare essentials for a restroom.

This inlet that is a popular bikini beach during the year has become a challenge for surfers who have good swimming skills. Don’t rely on a surf leash to save your neck. This is a place where it’s good to have a buddy.

Well, that’s probably enough of the north shore to keep you busy during a Winter surf safari. Be sure to take your time and get a good look at what the local surfing regulars are doing. There are even more surfing treasures along this coastline, but I don’t dare mention them in print if I ever want to go back there. Stay safe and get “tubed”

!Here are some other links to articles I wrote about Kauai.

Hiking at Maha’ulepu Sanctuary

Best Golfing on Kauai

Valiant Kauai Surfers Battle Menace from Fukushima

Top 10 Sporty Activities of Kauai

Bicycle Road of Doom from Koke’e to Kekaha