Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is a world-renowned beach on Oahu’s North Shore, famous for its towering winter waves and historic surf competitions like The Eddie. In summer, the bay transforms into a tranquil swimming and snorkeling spot with crystal-clear water. Surrounded by lush cliffs and home to cliff diving and photo-worthy views, it’s both scenic and thrilling year-round.
Waimea Bay, Oahu
Waimea Bay (view panorama) × on Oahu's North Shore can be very different depending on the season. During the winter months (November to February) the waves in the bay can reach heights of 20 feet (6 m) and more. If they do, Waimea Bay is a very busy place and it is difficult to find a parking spot.
This is when surfers from Hawaii and around the world come here to surf and take part in world-famous surfing competitions, such as The Eddie (which only takes place when open-ocean swells reach a minimum of 20 feet, so it's a very special event that since its inception in 1984 has only taken place eight times). This surfing contest honors Eddie Aikau, a legendary big wave surfer and lifeguard at Waimea Bay who died in 1978 after the voyaging canoe Hokule'a capsized and he swam away to get help.
When the surf is up at Waimea Bay, you won't even be able to get anywhere near the water. Lifeguards will put a yellow line from one end of the beach to the other to keep people away from the shorebreak. This is when only experienced surfers are allowed to enter the ocean. And even for them the winter waves and powerful currents at Waimea Bay are a challenge.
During the summer months the ocean can be as calm as a lake with no waves at all. This is when swimming and snorkeling can be fun here because the water is so azure blue and clear, it's like swimming in a pool. But even then there can be strong currents that can't be seen from the beach, so obey all warning signs and stick to the center of the beach and away from the popular jumping rock.
During the inbetween seasons when the surf is up but not way up it's a fun place for experienced bodysurfers and bodyboarders. The waves break very close to shore so you don't have to venture into the ocean very far to play in the waves.
Overlooking Waimea Bay is one of the North Shore's most popular landmarks, the Saints Peter and Paul Church. It is located at the bay's east end and can easily be seen from the beach. The building that houses the church today used to be a rock quarry in the early 1930s, built to produce gravel for the construction of the stretch of Kamehameha Highway between Haleiwa and Kahuku. In 1953, the former machine shed and storage facility was transformed into the church you see today.
Waimea Bay Beach Park (view panorama) × has showers, restrooms and picnic tables, so even if the waves are too high for swimming it's still a nice place for a relaxing picnic coupled with exciting photo opportunities.
Key Features of Waimea Bay
- Famous big wave surf spot with waves exceeding 20 feet in winter
- Summer months offer calm waters for swimming and snorkeling
- Cliff jumping from the large rock is popular in calm conditions
- Home to the prestigious "The Eddie" big wave surf competition
- Features a scenic beach park with showers, restrooms, and picnic tables
- Located near historical landmarks and lush North Shore scenery
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is it safe to swim at Waimea Bay?
Swimming is generally safest during the summer months when the ocean is calm. In winter, large waves and strong currents make swimming dangerous.
Why is Waimea Bay famous among surfers?
Waimea Bay is renowned for its massive winter surf, often exceeding 20 feet, and is home to the prestigious Eddie Aikau big wave surf competition.
Is there parking available at Waimea Bay?
Yes, there is a parking lot, but it fills up quickly during high surf days and weekends, so early arrival is recommended.
Are there public facilities at the beach?
Yes, Waimea Bay Beach Park offers restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and lifeguards on duty.