The Surf Window

Ala Moana Bowls

Oahu, USA

Reef breakAdvanced

Honolulu's premier performance reef, a fast, hollow left-hander that bowls sharply over a shallow reef, producing intense, short-radius barrels beloved by the city's top surfers.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalN (0°)
WindowW–E (270°–90°)
Size3-8ft

Wind

NE

Offshore

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

October–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Left

Bottom

Shallow coral reef

Shape

Fast, bowly barrel, sharp and intense

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced–Expert
  • •Why: The reef is shallow, the drop steep, and the current can push you towards the Ala Wai Harbour entrance.

Hazards

  • •Shallow coral reef
  • •Strong current pulling towards the harbour mouth
  • •Rocks on the entry/exit near the reef
  • •Can get very crowded given its proximity to Honolulu

Local Tips

  • •The morning glass-off window (before the trade winds fill in) is the best time to surf Bowls.
  • •Watch the current carefully, it shifts with the tide and can carry you towards the harbour faster than expected.

Location

Map showing the location of Ala Moana Bowls in Oahu, USA

21.2797, -157.8260