Beaches & Surf Report

Beaches

The North Shore is home to some of the world’s finest beaches and bays. During the winter months (October through April), the swells at world-famous surf spots Waimea Bay, Pipeline, and Sunset Beach reach 30 feet or more. That’s when professional surfers and fans descend on Hale’iwa and the North Shore. The water is usually calm May through September and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, diving and other ocean sports. The North Shore’s white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water and romantic sunsets can be enjoyed year round.

We recommend that you visit life-guarded beaches only and ask the lifeguard about current ocean conditions and beach safety before enjoying the beach. This is especially advisable in the winter when the size of waves and dangerous rip tide currents can become life-threatening even for the most experienced swimmers and surfers. Check here North Shore Beaches for local beaches and current conditions.

Ali’i Beach Park
Haleiwa Beach
Chun’s Reef
Waimea Bay
Ke Waena Beach
Ehukai Beach (aka Pipeline)
Sunset Beach
Laniakea Beach

This beach has become a traffic and pedestrian safety hazard due to sea turtle popularity. Turtles can be found all along the coastline on all beaches, but the Chamber encourages visitors to visit Ali’i Beach Park and Haleiwa Beach Park (parking lot on North side where surfers go to Pua’ena Point) to view turtles. For more information on responsible viewing of Hawaiian Sea Turtles at this site, visit Malama Na Honu.

Surf Report

Daily North Shore surf reports are available at Surfline, Swell Info, and NOAA.

Photo: Bill Romerhaus

Marine Life

From whales and dolphins to sea turtles and monk seals, the North Shore is home to a wide variety of marine wildlife.

All species of sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, and some dolphin and whale species are protected by the Endangered Species Act. Please responsibly enjoy marine life at a safe and respectable distance, and follow the law for your protection and for the animals’ safety.

To view the official NOAA guidelines for viewing marine life in Hawai’i, please click here. Any observed violations should be reported to NOAA at (800) 853-1964.