North Shore Season: Boards for Big Waves

For the North Shore's powerful winter swells, you want a step-up or gun depending on the size. Solid overhead days call for a board 1-2 feet longer than your standard shortboard. For truly big days at Sunset or Waimea, a gun in the 7'6" to 10' range is essential.

North Shore season on Oahu typically runs from October through March, with the biggest and most consistent swells arriving November through February. The Eddie Aikau contest window at Waimea opens December 1.

Some North Shore breaks are accessible to intermediates on smaller days. Spots like Laniakea and Chun's Reef can be manageable at 3-5 feet. However, avoid Pipeline, Backdoor, and Sunset unless you're an experienced surfer comfortable in powerful waves.