This may be the most inconsistent surf break in the world. Still, the nature of this spot causes it to have a long list of devotees. At smaller sizes it is impossible to ignore a comparison with Waikiki. The waves form long rolling breakers that are perfect for longboards. At this size the break lacks the punch for smallboards. Beginners have a good time, as the reef is deep and the waves die out before running up on any rocks.Somewhere around 5 feet Kawaihae begins to snap with a little power. At 8 feet it is not unusual for boards to break and for some of the surfers to be pounded on the reef. With size, the waves really power-up, and shortboards may be used at intermediate sizes. However, the long, walling nature of the wave is such that board length is an advantge, when covering all that ground.
There are three main breaks.
The main reef- Called in Ancient times Kapua- Ilima
The break by the small boat harbor-
The break in front of the shark heiau-
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