Longboard surfing at Kahana Bay

Kahana bay is the longboarder’s dream. 

I have talked to multiple people who have claimed to be on a wave for over a minute. Personally, I lose my sense of time while I’m out there. But it’s true, it’s possible to catch a wave from the mouth of the bay and ride it all the way to the beach. The surfable area is larger than most other breaks so you don’t have to worry so much about fighting for a wave. The shoulder high waves are ideal for intermediate learners, hydrofoil surfers, or classic longboard lovers. The more experienced surfers tend to paddle out further into the bay to catch the waves when they initially break. Intermediate learners usually position themselves even with the boat ramp.

Kahana surf is elusive, it only breaks when there is a northeast swell.

Most days when I drive past the bay it is glassy smooth like a lake. If you drive past and see it breaking, know it won’t last for more than a few days.  Active Oahu Tours does daily rentals for surfboards if you need one. Be aware, the water can be murky especially after heavy rainfall. A river drains into the bay from the Kahana valley, and the water is clearer further out in the bay.

The last time I surfed at this location, there were about three other surfers when I first paddled out. Time went on and more people showed up as it got closer to quitting time.  An hour and a half later, I was exhausted but I kept telling myself, “I’ll ride the next wave in.” That next wave came but I found myself paddling back out telling myself the same thing.

Where to park and launch

Most surfers launch from the boat ramp to get to the surf break. This cuts down the paddle time a little. There is plenty of parking here and there is a bathroom, and shower as well.