The South Shore Surf Guide Series: Populars (Pops)
Pops Is Waikiki's Best-Kept Longboard Secret
Pops (short for Populars) is a long, semi-bowly right-hander located far offshore between Canoes and Queens — sort of like a softer version of nearby Threes.
A peak with a long, semi-bowly, rippable right and a short, soft left that breaks into deep water, Pops is one of the more shortboardable waves in Waikiki — but the long paddle out means that most people are on longboards.
Pops Is Virtually Always Clean — and Less Crowded Than Queens
Pops is typically much less crowded than Canoes and Queens, and works pretty much anytime there's a chest-high south or southwest swell. Since Pops is offshore in the predominant E/ENE/NE wind, it's virtually always clean — the only thing to worry about is the swell forecast and the tide. Pops has a bit more speed and push at low tide.
Ride a High-Volume Board at Pops
Just about anything is fun at Pops, but the more volume your board has, the more likely you are to find speed on the gentle right-hander. A mid-length like the CJ Nelson Outlier X, or a high-performance longboard like the HI4 from Harley Ingleby will all go well out there, although a traditional log/noserider like the Sprout 2.0 from CJ Nelson can also be fun. Consider mixing things up with the Takayama Halo fins for a different feel on this long, user-friendly wall.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Pops
Where exactly is Pops surf spot in Waikiki?
Pops — short for Populars — is located relatively far out to sea between Canoes and Queens on Waikiki's South Shore. Pops breaks well offshore, which means a longer paddle than most Waikiki spots, but also typically a less crowded lineup.
How crowded does Pops get?
Pops is typically much less crowded than Canoes and Queens, though Pops still attracts a solid group of surfers whenever it's good. The long paddle keeps the casual crowd down, so you're usually surfing with people who actually want to be there.
What swell direction and size is best for Pops?
Pops works pretty much anytime there's a chest-high or better south or southwest swell running. Pops is offshore in the predominant E/ENE/NE trade winds, so conditions are virtually always clean. Pops has a bit more speed and push at low tide.
Is Pops good for longboards?
Yes — Pops is ideal for longboards. The long paddle out means most people are on longboards, and Pops rewards volume. A high-performance longboard like the Harley Ingleby HI4 is a strong choice, though a traditional single-fin like the CJ Nelson Sprout 2.0 can also be a lot of fun at Pops.
What boards does HSS recommend for Pops?
The CJ Nelson Outlier X is a natural fit as a mid-length at Pops, and the Harley Ingleby HI4 is the go-to high-performance longboard option. The CJ Nelson Sprout 2.0 works well for a traditional single-fin feel. The Takayama Halo Fins are worth experimenting with on Pops' long, forgiving wall.