How to read wave height
The current wave reading for Hawaii is about 2.1 m. Smaller numbers usually mean an easier ride, while larger numbers can quickly make offshore travel less comfortable.
globe_asia Marine Conditions in Gulf of Alaska Today
Marine conditions in Hawaii today are built from live buoy observations across the region, giving you a broader picture than a single station can provide.
This page helps you compare regional wave height, wind speed and supporting buoy coverage in Hawaii so you can decide whether current conditions look favorable, mixed or rough before opening individual station pages.
Right now the regional average is about 2.1 m for waves and 6.5 kn for wind across 22 reporting stations, which makes this page a useful starting point for trip planning and route checks.
Updated 29 mins ago. Data is based on the latest buoy observations.
monitor_heart Summary
Stations
22
Avg wave
2.1 m
Avg wind
6.5 kn
Rough conditions
Hawaii currently includes 22 reporting stations. The overall picture is rough, with average wave height around 2.1 m and average wind speed around 6.5 kn. Across the region, observed wave heights range from 0.8 to 2.9 m and wind speeds range from 2.6 to 11.0 kn.
6 stations are in a rough state, 1 call for caution, and 15 currently look relatively manageable. 22 of 22 stations have updated within the last 2 hours, and camera coverage is available at 5 stations. Average pressure across the region is about 1,017.4 hPa. The newest regional observation came in 29 mins ago.
The calmest reading right now comes from Buoy 51213 (Waverider Buoy) at 0.8 m wave height and — kn wind speed. The most exposed station in the region is Buoy 51208 (Waverider Buoy) at 2.9 m wave height and — kn wind speed.
map Gulf of Alaska Map
Good
Caution
Rough
table_view Buoy List
| Station ID | Name | Wave Height | Wind Speed | Condition | Last Update | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51000 | 3-meter foam buoy | — m | 9.0 kn | Good conditions | 49 mins ago | chevron_right |
| 51001 | 2.1-meter ionomer foam buoy | — m | 8.0 kn | Good conditions | 49 mins ago | chevron_right |
| 51002 | 3-meter foam buoy | — m | 11.0 kn | Good conditions | 39 mins ago | chevron_right |
| 51004 | 3-meter discus buoy | 2.8 m | 9.0 kn | Rough conditions | 39 mins ago | chevron_right |
| 51101 | 3-meter foam buoy | — m | 8.0 kn | Good conditions | 39 mins ago | chevron_right |
| 51202 | Waverider Buoy | 2.6 m | — kn | Rough conditions | 33 mins ago | chevron_right |
| 51205 | Waverider Buoy | 2.6 m | — kn | Rough conditions | 33 mins ago | chevron_right |
| 51206 | Waverider Buoy | 2.5 m | — kn | Rough conditions | 33 mins ago | chevron_right |
| 51208 | Waverider Buoy | 2.9 m | — kn | Rough conditions | 33 mins ago | chevron_right |
| 51210 | Waverider Buoy | 2.6 m | — kn | Rough conditions | 1 hour ago | chevron_right |
| 51211 | Waverider Buoy | 1.0 m | — kn | Moderate conditions | 29 mins ago | chevron_right |
| 51212 | Waverider Buoy | 0.9 m | — kn | Good conditions | 59 mins ago | chevron_right |
| 51213 | Waverider Buoy | 0.8 m | — kn | Good conditions | 1 hour ago | chevron_right |
| 51WH0 | Moored Buoy | — m | 9.0 kn | Good conditions | 59 mins ago | chevron_right |
| HRRH1 | Weather Station | — m | 2.6 kn | Good conditions | 59 mins ago | chevron_right |
| ILOH1 | Water Level Observation Network | — m | 3.1 kn | Good conditions | 41 mins ago | chevron_right |
| KLIH1 | Water Level Observation Network | — m | 5.1 kn | Good conditions | 41 mins ago | chevron_right |
| KWHH1 | Water Level Observation Network | — m | 3.6 kn | Good conditions | 41 mins ago | chevron_right |
| MOKH1 | Water Level Observation Network | — m | 7.2 kn | Good conditions | 53 mins ago | chevron_right |
| NWWH1 | Water Level Observation Network | — m | 7.2 kn | Good conditions | 41 mins ago | chevron_right |
| OOUH1 | Water Level Observation Network | — m | 3.1 kn | Good conditions | 41 mins ago | chevron_right |
| PRHH1 | Water Level Observation Network | — m | 5.7 kn | Good conditions | 41 mins ago | chevron_right |
Top Locations in Gulf of Alaska
Related Regions
Decision Support
Use the region summary to understand the broad sea state, then compare the best stations and buoy list before opening individual buoy pages for trend charts and local camera context.
Camera Stations in Gulf of Alaska
Buoy 51000
3-meter foam buoy
Updated 49 mins ago
Camera
chevron_right
Buoy 51001
2.1-meter ionomer foam buoy
Updated 49 mins ago
Camera
chevron_right
Buoy 51002
3-meter foam buoy
Updated 39 mins ago
Camera
chevron_right
Buoy 51004
3-meter discus buoy
Updated 39 mins ago
Camera
chevron_right
Buoy 51101
3-meter foam buoy
Updated 39 mins ago
Camera
chevron_right
Marine Activity Insights for Gulf of Alaska
About marine conditions in this region
Marine operations in the Gulf of Alaska demand close attention to trend data, not just single readings. Buoy stations provide one of the best real-time references for developing sea state.
What boaters and sailors monitor here
Wave and wind conditions can build quickly with passing systems, affecting vessel safety and schedule reliability. Pressure trends can provide early context for those shifts.
Why wave height and wind trends matter
Use this page to monitor regional changes and then inspect individual stations in detail. It supports better timing for transit planning, fishing activity, and offshore work.
What These Conditions Mean
Why wind speed matters
The wind reading for Hawaii is around 6.5 kn. Stronger wind often makes chop steeper, increases spray and can make docking, fishing or longer crossings more difficult.
What good, moderate and rough mean
Rough conditions usually mean stronger wind, larger seas or both, and they often require more caution or a different plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current marine conditions in Hawaii?
Current marine conditions in Hawaii are summarized from 22 reporting buoy stations. The latest regional picture points to rough conditions, and Updated 29 mins ago. Data is based on the latest buoy observations.
How high are the waves in Hawaii today?
The regional wave reading in Hawaii is currently around 2.1 m. Local stations can still vary, so use the buoy list and map to compare the specific stretch of water you care about.
What is the wind speed in Hawaii right now?
Average wind in Hawaii is around 6.5 kn based on the latest reporting stations. Stronger pockets can still appear locally, so station-level buoy pages are the best follow-up check.
Are conditions in Hawaii safe for boating today?
Boating conditions in Hawaii depend on your route, vessel and exposure, but the current regional label is rough conditions. Use wave height, wind speed and trend direction together before making a go or no-go decision.
Which buoys provide data for Hawaii?
This region page aggregates NOAA buoy stations that fall within Hawaii. The buoy list and map on the page show the reporting stations that are currently contributing local wind and wave readings.
When is the best time to go boating in Hawaii?
The best boating windows in Hawaii usually appear when wave height and wind speed ease at the same time and updates remain fresh. Start with the best conditions view, then confirm the closest buoy before departure.