Spot of the week: Alii Beach, Hawaii
November 6th, 2011
Next week the opening event of the prestigious Vans Triple Crown of Surfing series – the Reef Hawaiian Pro – is taking place at Alii Beach, Haleiwa, Oahu, Hawaii from November 12th – 23rd 2011.
Ahead of this event we take a look at the beach where Baywatch Hawaii was filmed.
Hale ‘iwa & Avalanche
Head North up the Kam Hwy to Haleiwa. Left turn into town towards the harbor. When it’s on, it is one of the heaviest,
fastest, hollowest rights imaginable. The main peak is about 300m out to sea, and the wave forms heavy sections all the way
across to a shallow close-out spot (Toilet Bowl).
Best at 6-8 ft with prevailing Northeast trades, and Northwest to West Swell. When bigger, can get very rippy and bumpy, but quality is possible up to 10 -20ft plus. Watch locals paddle-out to gauge current and best route. Flirt into the zone to get your wave, then hang wide between sets. Beginners can check the inside shore break. Crowds; Crazy in winter. Experts only unless small.
Avalanche is a big wave arena several hundred yards further out. Lefts up to 30ft plus are not uncommon in winter. Tow-in spot except Dec-May (Whale season) Unreliable end section means that floggings are common even if you make the initial drop. Moving peak means constant paddling to re-position, and outside bombs are a constant risk. (An Avalanche of water on your head). Experts only.
Tags: Alii Beach Park, Haleiawa, Hawaii, Reef Hawaiin Pro, surfing
