Pakala, also known as Pakalas, is a long, powerful left that wraps and barrels around the point on the south side of the bay. It is fast and at its best on an overhead swell, when the wave stands up and runs down the point. The lower the tide, the hollower it gets, though the bottom is coral reef, so it pays to be careful. On weaker swells it turns mellower and far less hollow, making for a more relaxed surf.
When It Works
Pakala draws swell from southeast through south to west-northwest (SE-S-WNW), with south to southwest the best match and the hollowest shape coming on southwest swells. West-northwest swells find their way in too, which is what brings the occasional winter session. It works from 1.5 m / 5 ft to 3 m / 10 ft, with the wave rewarding size as it gets more overhead. The season runs from spring through autumn, but summer is the heart of it, when the point is consistently good and clean.
Wind and Tide
Look for calm mornings or an offshore east wind, with a workable window running from east-northeast to southeast (ENE-SE). The point breaks across all tides, but low to mid is the call, and a rising tide is generally better. Keep in mind that the lower and hollower it gets, the shallower that coral reef sits beneath you.
Local Tips
This is a wave for intermediate and expert surfers, and it suits a shortboard, fish, or bodyboard. The lineup is usually fairly quiet and spread out along the point, though it can pack in when the swell is firing. Humility and respect go a long way here. Expect a fair bit of paddling, since long rides mean long paddles back, and the current can get strong when the swell is solid.
Access
Pakala is tricky to spot, as you can't easily see it from the road. The easiest way to find it is to follow the cars parked along the side of the road.
