Barbers Point is a coral reef setup in Kalaeloa, near the Campbell industrial park. A point wave breaks directly out beyond the lighthouse, but the real draw is the variety of peaks spread down the beach, which shift with the swell direction. The bottom is dead coral studded with rocky outcrops, so where you choose to paddle out matters. Because the spot sits in such an exposed position, wind is often the deciding factor.
When It Works
The reef draws swell from north through east-northeast to southeast, with west swell the best match, and it also picks up Southern Hemisphere energy from most directions. It works from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 3 m / 10 ft, ranging from head high up to well overhead. Head-high south swells produce lengthy lefts, while wrapping north, northwest, and west swells break into scattered peaks down the beach. Expect consistent, decent surf that is at its peakiest when northerly and southerly swells combine. There are rideable waves all year, with south swells through summer and northwest to north swells in winter.
Wind and Tide
Look for northeast offshore wind, which blows straight offshore across the reef. The wave can work through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This one suits intermediate surfers, and it takes a wide range of boards, from shortboards, fish, and funboards to longboards, guns, tow boards, and kiteboards. The lineup stays quiet and the peaks are spread out, so there is usually plenty of room, though the atmosphere can feel reserved.
Access
You will find it at Barbers Point Beach Park, with a car park offering free parking plus roadside parking. Facilities include restrooms, showers, camping, and a lifeguard. Take care with the reef and rocky entry and exit points, and be aware that big tiger sharks are known here.
