National Weather Service Forecast Office in Honolulu uses the criteria below for the issuance of High Surf Advisories and Warnings in coordination with civil defense agencies and water safety organizations in Hawai`i.
All surf height observations and forecasts are for the full face surf height, from the trough to the crest of the wave.
| Location | Advisory | Warning |
|---|---|---|
| North-Facing Shores | 15 Feet | 25 Feet |
| West-Facing Shores - Big Island | 8 Feet | 12 Feet |
| West-Facing Shores - Remaining Islands | 12 Feet | 20 Feet |
| South-Facing Shores | 8 Feet | 15 Feet |
| East-Facing Shores | 8 Feet | 15 Feet |