Tennis Courts is a surf spot located near Ala Moana Park, easily accessible for those looking to catch some waves. The area is known for its variety of other named spots like Big Lefts and Big Rights, but Tennis Courts stands out as the main break. The vibe here can be a mix of fun and competition, particularly when the surf is peak. It’s a popular spot, so be prepared for the crowds, especially on good days.
The surf at Tennis Courts is primarily a righthander, which can start off a bit mellow for longboarders but quickly ramps up into a more thrilling ride as it barrels over the inside double-up section. It works best with a south to west overhead swell and prefers northeast winds. The reef break here handles swell sizes from about 2 feet (0.6 meters) and offers both left and right waves, but the rights are generally more favored. A southeast swell can bring in some interesting lefts, though they don’t quite match the quality of the rights.
When planning your session, aim for low to mid or even high tide for the best conditions. Remember that the crowds can be intense, so this spot is better suited for intermediate surfers, particularly on smaller days. If you’re heading there, find parking in the Ala Moana Park area and paddle out from near the tennis courts, sticking to the right side of the three rocks where you’ll find a deeper channel over the sharp reef.