Overview
Anahola Bay is a mellow Kauai spot that can suit all levels depending on swell size. It sits on the northeastern lobe of the island, with waves breaking beyond a calm inside section on the northern edge of the barrier reef.
The main wave is a right point over reef. When it is pumping, that wave is for intermediate to experienced surfers. The inside of the bay is sandy, while the point has reef, with lava, rock, coral, and sand in the wider break zone.
When It Works
Anahola Bay is usable from 1.5 m / 5 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. It has a wide North Pacific swell window and breaks on north to east swell, with the best days on north to northeast swell.
Winter is best, especially when storm fronts bring more favorable wind. Autumn and spring are also in season. Summer tradeswell can be rideable, but it is often paired with onshore easterly trade wind.
Wind and Tide
The workable wind window is south to west-southwest, with south-southwest the offshore direction. Calm wind or offshore wind from the southeast to southwest can work for the right point.
Low to mid tide works, and a rising tide is better.
Local Tips
The paddle out is not hard, but it is long to the top of the point. Longer point rides also mean a longer paddle back.
Crowds are usually minimal, and the lineup is generally mellow but somewhat reserved. Be cool and keep it that way.
Watch for sections of shallow reef, currents, and sharks. The bay is pristine most of the time, but the rivermouth can flow after significant rain.
Access
Access is easy. You can enter the water from the sandy beach anywhere in the bay.
