Hawaii tip No. 7: where to watch surfers on Oahu

This list doubles as a wave finder for surfers.

Pipeline
Sloping sand, with beach trees for shade, is the perfect amphitheater. The famous barrel break is close to shore.

Kapahulu Groin
Take a walk out on the concrete breakwater near Kapiolani Park to be close to the action in Waikiki.

Kepuhi Pont, Makaha
An obscure neighborhood beach access gets you close to the rollicking reef break on the West Side.

Haleiwa Breakwater
Between the beach park and the harbor.

Waimea Bay
The parking lot is big, but it gets full fast. Park at the church on the hill and walk down to the guardrail opening for the good seats.

Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park
The paved promenade is the spot to watch ‘em ride Point Panic, on the Honolulu side of Ala Moana Beach Park.

Koko Kai Beach Park
A series of quick turns in Portlock (Hawaii Kai) gets you to a bluff that is the beach access—watch out for rogue waves.

Makapu‘u Beach Park
A rock jutting into the water in the middle of the bay provides a ringside seat.

Pounders bluff Step onto the bluff at Laie Beach Park and you’re close enough to watch the surfers’ eyes get big when they get ready to hit the wall.

Complete directions to all these beaches in your Oahu Trailblazer guidebook.