The South Shore Surf Guide Series: Point Panic
What Is Point Panic?
A note of some contention among the Town surf community, Point Panic is considered one of the best rights on the South Shore, but is off-limits to surfers due to legislation that was passed decades ago making it the exclusive domain of bodysurfers.
Photo Courtesy from https://www.thehikinghi.com/
The Wave
A bowling, barreling right-hander that breaks on the west side of the channel at Kewalos, in front of the rock wall, Panics can get epic—but anyone who tries to surf it is sure to attract the ire of the hardcore bodyboard crew (many of whom were featured in Keith Malloy's classic film "Plight of the Torpedo People."
These are considered to be some of the best bodysurfers on Oahu, and they are highly protective of their spot. But for those willing to paddle out with nothing but a pair of Da Fins and a handplane, there's room for everyone.
For those willing to paddle out with nothing but a pair of Da Fins and a handplane, there's room for everyone.
Point Panic in Hawaiian Culture
While it would take a never-before-seen, historic swell for Point Panic to get "unreal…90 feet and glassy," Rep Reiplinger immortalized the spot in his classic comedy song "Faith Yanagi," which is worth a listen whether you body whomp or not.
Frequently Asked Questions About Point Panic
Can you surf Point Panic on a surfboard?
No. Point Panic is legally off-limits to surfboards. Legislation passed decades ago designated it as an exclusive bodysurfing zone. Anyone who paddles out on a surfboard is breaking the law and will get an earful from the local bodysurf crew—who take their spot very seriously.
What kind of wave is Point Panic?
Point Panic is a bowling, barreling right-hander that breaks on the west side of the channel at Kewalos, in front of the rock wall. It's considered one of the best right-handers on Oahu's South Shore, capable of producing powerful, hollow surf when the conditions line up.
What equipment do you need for bodysurfing Point Panic?
A pair of Da Fins and a handplane are the tools of the trade at Point Panic. The fins give you the propulsion to catch and ride the wave, while a handplane helps you trim and plane across the face. That's all you need—and all you're allowed to bring.
Is Point Panic crowded?
Point Panic has a tight-knit and highly protective local crew of bodysurfers, some of whom are considered among the best in the world. It's not a zoo—but it's not empty either. Respect the locals, know your place in the lineup, and come ready to bodysurf properly.
What is the 'Plight of the Torpedo People' connection to Point Panic?
Keith Malloy's film "Plight of the Torpedo People" featured many of the hardcore bodysurfers who call Point Panic home. The film shines a light on the culture and skill of finless bodysurfing, and the Point Panic crew is central to that story. It's required viewing for anyone who wants to understand the wave and the community around it.