Queen's surf guide

Queen's is located right in the heart of Waikiki, making it easily accessible for surfers looking to catch some waves. It's a popular spot, so expect to share the lineup with a lot of other surfers. The vibe can get intense due to the large crowds, especially during inconsistent days. This spot tends to attract not just locals but also many first-timers, making it a mixed bag in terms of surf etiquette. Accessing Queen's is pretty straightforward; you can park in or near Kuhio Beach Park.

The surf here works best with swells from the South to Southwest, handling sizes anywhere from 5 to 10 feet (about 1.5 to 3 meters). On small to medium-sized days, surfers can enjoy a fun but shorter left and a longer right, usually breaking over a reef. Once the swell picks up, the left really shines, sometimes even putting out a barrel. The right tends to be shorter but can still offer a nice ride. It’s generally mellow and user-friendly, making it suitable for intermediate to expert surfers with a preference for shortboards, funboards, longboards, or fish. The best winds are from the North to Northeast, and the tides work well from low to mid and mid to high.

While paddling out requires a bit of effort — it's a long haul to and from the beach — once you’re out there, it’s usually worth it. The crowd factor means you might find yourself getting dropped in on occasionally, which is pretty common in a busy spot like Queen's. Summer is the peak season here, running from April through October, so plan your visit around then to catch the best waves.