Watch IPD OG Gregg Nakamura rip in this latest swell clip.
When people talk about surfing in Hawaii, their minds usually shoot straight to the North Shore of Oahu. We get it—Pipeline, Sunset, Waimea… they’re legends for a reason. But if you’re only vibing with the North Shore, you’re sleeping on a whole other side of the island. Let’s talk about the unsung hero of Hawaiian surf: the South Shore.
Yeah, we said it. The South Shore is mad underrated. And we’re here to put some well-earned respect on its name.
It’s Not Just Waikiki, Brah
You hear "South Shore" and the first thing that pops up is probably Waikiki. That’s cool—surfing’s mainstream birthright lives here, with tourists catching party waves and surf instructors reeling them in like clockwork. But here’s the thing: the South Shore has way more to offer than a Duke statue and hotel-lined breaks.
Start paddling a little further out—literally and mentally—and you’ll hit hidden gems like Ala Moana Bowls, Diamond Head, and Kewalos. These are no joke. These waves can pack a punch, especially during a solid south swell in summer. We’re talking reeling lefts, crystal clear barrels, and lineups that, while not empty, aren’t nearly as heavy (in the water or on land) as the Seven Mile Miracle.
Summer’s Secret Weapon
Here’s the kicker: while the North Shore goes to sleep in the summer, the South Shore wakes up. From May to September, when south swells light up from storms down near New Zealand, this side of the island gets its time to shine.
The best part? Those swells can last for days. Long-period south swells roll in with smooth, predictable lines—perfect for logging, shortboarding, or something in between. You’ve got options, and we love that.
While other breaks go flat or get blown out, the South Shore’s holding it down with consistent waist-to-overhead waves, glassy mornings, and those dreamy Hawaiian sunsets that make you question why you ever surfed anywhere else.
The Vibe Is Different (In a Good Way)
We love the North Shore, but let’s be real—it’s a bit of a gladiator arena. The locals are tight, the waves are competitive, and unless you’re charging 10-foot Pipeline, it can feel like you’re surfing in someone else’s living room.
Now roll down to the South Shore. The vibe mellows out. Yeah, you still have to respect the locals—always—but the lineup is a lot more forgiving. You’ll find groms, old uncles on logs, weekend warriors, and salty shortboarders all sharing waves (most of the time). There’s space for everyone, and that kind of energy? It’s priceless.
It’s the kind of place where post-surf grindz aren’t an event—they’re a ritual. Hit up Rainbow Drive-In, Ono Seafood, or grab a poke bowl and cold one and kick back with the crew. This is what surf culture should feel like—chill, connected, and not taking itself too seriously.
Waves for Every Level
New to surfing? You’ll find friendly rollers at Canoes and Queens. Been doing it since you could walk? Paddle out at Ala Moana or Number Threes and test your timing. The South Shore isn’t just one wave—it’s a whole playground.
What makes it even better is that you can choose your vibe. Want soft, cruisey peelers for your mid-length or log? Done. Looking for some barrel time on your quad fish? There’s a section for that. The South Shore is like a buffet of surf—just pick what you’re hungry for.
Close to Everything
Let’s talk logistics. The South Shore is the plug for convenience. You can wake up, surf before work, grab breakfast, and be back in time for your 9 a.m. Zoom call. Try doing that if you live on the North Shore and work in town.
Plus, if you're visiting from the mainland or anywhere else, you're probably landing in Honolulu anyway. Why burn gas and hours getting to the other side of the island when you’ve got fire waves and the full Hawaiian experience right in town?
So Why’s It Underrated?
Because it’s accessible. And for some reason, people equate that with being “lesser.” But that’s just ego talking.
Real ones know that the best surfing isn’t always about the heaviest wave or the most crowded lineup. Sometimes, it’s about peeling lefts under a pink sky, your best friend hooting you into a wave, and the smell of garlic chicken in the air afterward.
That’s the South Shore. That’s Hawaii. That’s surfing.
So next time you’re planning your surf trip or looking to switch up your home break, don’t just chase clout on the North Shore. Head south. Ride fun waves. Eat good food. Meet good people.
Underrated? Nah. Just underhyped. And we’re cool with that.
Catch you in the lineup,
– IPD Surf
