Stretching for almost 20 miles, the North Shore beaches of O`ahu possess endless opportunities to catch some rays or take a dip in the turquoise waters. The wide sandy beaches make for a delightful stroll. During the winter months (approximately October to February) the North Shore produces monstrous waves reaching heights of 20 feet and higher. This can prove dangerous for even the experienced waterman/woman. Visitors are highly recommended to heed to warning signs on the beach and be cautious around the waterline. However, the summer (from May to September) brings tranquility to the North Shore, with gentle waves lapping the shoreline - making it ideal for fishing, swimming, and diving.
Waimea Beach If you like watching or surfing big waves, this is the place to be. Waimea Bay is notorious for producing monstrous waves in the winter. Big-wave surfers flock to the break every winter hoping to catch “the big one”. A popular big-wave contest, the Quicksilver Eddie Aikau Invitational, is held at Waimea every year, the only requirement for the contest being that the wave height must be 20 feet or higher for the contest to be held. The shore break at Waimea is one of the most dangerous shore breaks in the world, with lifeguards having to save numerous onlookers that got too close to the water’s edge and ended up getting sucked out. Waimea’s waters calm down and become flat during the summer months, allowing for excellent snorkeling, swimming, and fishing.