Daves Backyard

Dave’s Backyard is a local Oahu surf spot on the south shore near Honolulu, known for its playful, fast, reef-break waves when the swell lines up. It’s typically a small-to-medium wave spot that can produce fun walls, pockets, and occasional barrels, especially with the right south swell and favorable winds.

What it’s like

• Wave type: Reef break
• Best swell: Usually south to southwest swells
• Best wind: Often light offshore or calm morning conditions
• Wave character: Can be quick, punchy, and hollow depending on size and tide
• Skill level: Generally intermediate to advanced, since reef positioning and timing matter

Conditions and vibe

Dave’s Backyard is not usually a beginner-friendly beach break. The wave often breaks over shallow reef, so surfers need to be comfortable with reef takeoffs, currents, and precise positioning. On good days, it can be a fun, uncrowded alternative to some of the better-known Oahu spots, though it still gets its share of local surfers.

Hazards

• Shallow reef
• Sharp coral
• Potentially strong currents
• Crowds/localism at times
• Can get tricky with changing tides and swell size

Best for

• Surfers looking for a shortboard-friendly reef break
• Those who can handle faster, steeper waves
• Experienced surfers who know how to read reef setups