Kawaihae Breakwater Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright, this is Rusty. Let’s talk about what’s on the menu for Kawaihae Breakwater on the Big Island over the next couple of weeks. I’m gonna be straight with you – we’ve got a long wait ahead.

Right now, there’s nothing doing. The opening days of August are flat. We’re looking at a gap that stretches from the start right through until the 9th of August, with tiny, weak swell showing no energy at all. The combined swell energy sits in the low double digits (9-29), which is basically nothing. You’d be floating. Water temp is sitting at a warm 81°, which is pretty normal for this time of year, so at least a swim would be nice.

Finally, on the afternoon of the 9th of August, we see a pulse. It’s still small – only 1ft from the WNW – but the energy starts to climb to 78. Conditions are clean, with a light offshore from the NE. It’s surfable, but very ordinary. That trend continues through to the 12th of August. The swell builds slowly, topping out around 2ft from the W with a period of 13-15 seconds. The wind stays offshore or glassy, which keeps things tidied up. The combined energy from the 10th to the 12th hits moderate levels (112-155). It’s not pumping, but for a break that’s inconsistent at the best of times, it’s a promising sign.

Now, the standout window. The 13th of August through to the end of the forecast on the 16th of August is where we finally get something worth paddling out for. The swell pushes up to 3ft from the W and WNW, with a long period of 14-16 seconds. That long-period groundswell will wrap around nicely onto this west-facing reef, and the light to gentle offshore winds from the NE will keep it glassy and clean. The combined energy jumps into strong territory, hitting 279 on the 13th morning and peaking at 441 on the 15th morning. That’s proper energy for this spot.

Of all those, the best on offer is the morning of the 15th of August. 3ft of west swell, a 15-second period, and a light offshore breeze from the NE. The water will be flat in the lulls, but the sets will have shape and push. Crowds are possible here, so get in early. After that, the 16th holds similar size (3ft, W swell, 14-second period) with glassy conditions in the afternoon. It’s a good run.

Keep in mind, this is a long-range call, so there’s some uncertainty. But right now, that mid-to-late weekend looks like the best bet we’ve got in a very quiet stretch.

Rusty.

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