Cliff Jumping at Oahu’s China Walls

Powerful Pacific waves and young lava rock meet at one of Oahu’s most stunning—and dangerous—cliff jumping spots called China Walls.

Before we get into the guide, I need to warn anyone considering visiting China Walls. This is one of the most dangerous places on Oahu, and rescues happen daily! It’s very common to be swept into the ocean while standing on the rocks, so be extremely careful if you visit.

That said, I’ve had positive experiences cliff jumping at China Walls and plenty of people (locals and tourists) do it daily without getting hurt. In this guide I’m sharing everything you need to know to stay safe at China Walls whether you plan to cliff jump or not. Keep reading and remember that most people who get hurt/rescued aren’t even trying to cliff jump, they just get swept into the water.

👋🏽 Note from the author: Did this article impact the way you planned your trip? Have any questions? Please comment at the end of the article! It helps this blog grow and helps me know what types of articles to write more. 💛

Visiting China Walls, Oahu

“China Walls” actually refers to a surf break. Over time, the name has become associated with the nearby stacked volcanic rocks, which is a popular spot for swimming and cliff jumping.

But what makes China Walls such an enticing AND dangerous spot for cliff jumping?

The unique rock formations coupled with the dramatic drop off make it possible to jump right into deep water. Depending on the tides and waves, you’ll be able to cliff jump from a few feet to 15 feet into the ocean below.

But the danger comes when a big set of waves inevitably rolls in, hitting the the cliff sides at an angle and sweeping anything (or anyone) into the ocean. And then another wave hits, and another.

Watch the video below for an idea of what I’m talking about. This drone footage captures a dog being swept into the water, but this happens to unassuming people daily, too. If you search China Walls Oahu rescue you’ll find a lot of videos from locals rescuing tourists here, this is one example.

If you’re lucky, you’ll walk away with some scrapes but it’s not uncommon for people to hit their heads on the rocks and go unconscious in the water. Sadly, several people have drowned here.

If you’re not familiar with the ocean, and this particular part of Oahu, you might not realize that waves come in sets, and conditions can change at any moment. I always recommend reading Hawaii tourism’s official Ocean Safety Guide and checking out resources from Honolulu’s Emergency Services.

How to Cliff Jump China Walls

On your first visit to China Walls, spend some time (10+ minutes) watching the waves before you get in the water. You’re always at risk of being swept in if you’re standing on the edge of the cliffs, so observe from a distance.

You’ll notice that the waves roll by the sea cliffs at about a 20-30 degree angle, crashing on the rocks as they pass by. Bigger swells come every so often, pushing water up onto the rocks and quickly draining it back into the ocean, along with anything or anyone left in the way.

The hardest part about cliff jumping here is getting out of the water. Your exit has to be perfectly timed—as the water rises on a smaller swell, it’ll lift you up so you can climb out. There are some ropes tied to the rocks if you need help.

Safety Tips

• If no one else is in the water, don’t go in. Never swim alone, especially on your first visit to China Walls.
• Watch how others jump in and climb out safely. Watch as bigger sets roll in to understand how the waves can change before you get in the water.
• Avoid jumping in when there is a big swell. Wait until the ocean calms down.
• Only jump in if you’re confident you’ll be able to get out.
• Once in the water, swim 10+ feet away from the rocks when big swells come. This will protect you from being pushed into the rocks.
• Stay calm and avoid panicking. If you need help, let other swimmers or surfers know and float in the water until they can help.

And whether you swim or not, follow these general safety precautions at China Walls:

• Be careful when walking/standing on wet parts of the rocks. If it is wet, that means that waves reach that part of the rock. If you’re not paying attention, they could sweep you in.
• Make sure you always keep your eyes on the waves when taking photos or walking along the rocks.
• Make sure to leave your belongings as far away from the water as possible.

Whatever you do, don’t panic, and ask others for help if you need it.