This area is known for its incredible waves, which attract surfers from all over the world.
About an hour drive from Waikiki is O’ahu’s famed North Shore. Spanning seven miles from Kaena and Kahuku Points, this coastal region is known for its massive waves that attract surfers from all around the globe. The big, glassy winter waves bring out the experts, while summer waves are far smaller and gentler, making the North Shore the perfect surf spot for beginners and veterans alike.
Waimea Bay, along with other famous spots including Ehukai Beach (Banzai Pipeline) and Sunset Beach host world-renowned surf competitions. The Vans Triple Crown, known as the Super Bowl of Surfing, happens every year between November and December on O’ahu.
Waimea Bay is also home to the Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau surf competition. Honoring legendary Hawaiian waterman Eddie Aikau, this special contest only happens during massive swells when “The Bay Calls the Day.” The sport’s elite surfers are called between December and February to surf Waimea when the waves are at a minimum of 20-feet high with 30-foot face heights. The call for this epic competition has only been made eight times in the last 24 years.
Beyond the surf, O’ahu’s North Shore offers beautiful beaches with wide stretches of sand to sunbathe, swim and picnic. Visitors can also relax at Turtle Bay Resort, explore Waimea Valley, a botanical garden and cultural attraction that is home to beautiful Waimea Falls, or head into town at Haleiwa to shop and dine like a local.
Credits
By: Kelly Taggart
Photos: Courtesy Hawai'i Visitors and Convention Bureau