Few beaches are as dramatic and deeply tied to surf culture as Waimea Bay. In winter, it’s one of the planet’s most legendary big-wave breaks. But summer brings calm and pristine waters.
Waimea Bay Oahu
This is where the best of the best come to surf, and where “The Eddie” might go off, the rare and one-of-a-kind big wave surf competition held only when conditions are just right. You can see this iconic bay during a few of our favorite routes as we drive along the coastline on a private Oahu custom tour.
Oahuʻs North Shore
Premier spot on ʻ7 Mile Miracle.ʻ
See as we drive
Excellent view of the bay from bus.
Dangerous Waves
Waves have washed into park.
Huge Winter Waves
Some of the biggest Hawaii waves.
Self-guided spot
Guests may walk from the Valley.*
Tour Guide & Founder
For over 20 years this has been one of my favorite places. Whether swimming here during the summer, watching winter surf, or simply admiring it from the highway, Waimea Bay is special.
Tour Guide & Founder
For over 20 years this has been one of my favorite places. Whether swimming here during the summer, watching winter surf, or simply admiring it from the highway, Waimea Bay is special.
Waimea Bay on the North Shore
Whether you’re watching big waves in winter or swimming in calm summer waters, Waimea Bay is one of Oahu’s most scenic and storied spots.
Looking for a beach with two personalities? Waimea Bay offers both jaw-dropping surf in winter and serene swimming in summer. It tells the story of Oahu’s raw natural power and relaxed island lifestyle.
We include this area in many of our custom tours, especially for guests looking to experience the beauty and history of the North Shore.
Biggest winter waves
When sand here was mined to create the world-famous beaches in Waikiki, the waves changed. Now, if conditions are just right, this is home to the Eddie Aikau big-wave surf contest. This is a local favorite and only happens about every four or five winter seasons.
| Detail | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Beach Type | ✓ Legendary North Shore big-wave beach. |
| Ocean Conditions | ✓ Extreme winter surf with calmer summer conditions. |
| Best For | ✓ Summer swimming and powerful winter surf. |
| Crowd Level | ✓ High during winter surf season and moderate in summer. |
| Entry Style | ✓ Easy beach access with very limited parking. |
| Best Timing | ✓ Summer for swimming and winter for dramatic surf viewing. |
- Operating Hours: Lot open from sunrise to sunset
- Special Events: Surf contest and summer events
- Parking Costs: Parking is free but very limited
- Restrictions: No access for commercial vehicles
- Address: 59-864 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
- From Waikiki: 90 min drive, 3+ hr bus (transfers)
- From Ko Olina: 90 min (H2), 3 hr bus (transfers)
- From Turtle Bay: 15 minute drive, 30 minute bus ride
Similar activities & places
If you’re looking to explore the best beaches on Oahu, Waimea Bay is a perfect place to start. But while it is unique and hard to match, there are a few similar beaches and plenty of great places nearby.
But wait, there’s more. Click the button to discover even more breathtaking Oahu beaches.
These are the top nearby activities and location options available on this featured tour.
Seeing Waimea Bay Oahu
We love sharing places like Waimea Bay because they capture what makes the island special. Even when weʻre simply driving by, itʻs always awe-striking, with waves or without. Waimea Bay is a scenic highlight and a great addition to a Full-Day Community Service Tour.
Positive impact tour
- 1.5 hour positive impact
- 1-2 activities + 3-5 photo stops
- 9 hour custom private tour
Circle Island Tour
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Group rates from
$799
- Circle the Koolau Mountains
- 1-2 activities + 3-5 photo stops
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About Waimea Bay & North Shore
Waimea Bay is a breathtaking and special place. You’ll be watching surfers take on monster waves or pausing to admire the tranquil curve of the shoreline during a scenic drive on Oahu. Scroll down for tips and frequently asked questions to make the most of your visit.
Where is Waimea Bay, and how do you get there?
Waimea Bay is located along Kamehameha Highway (Hwy 83) on Oahu’s North Shore, just north of Haleiwa and directly across from Waimea Valley Botanical Garden. It’s about an hour’s drive from Waikiki, depending on traffic.
While our private tours don’t stop directly at the bay due to parking and permit restrictions, we often include photo stops nearby and access to Waimea Valley.
Why is Waimea Bay on the North Shore so special?
Is it safe to swim at Waimea Bay on the north shore?
Swimming is only recommended during the summer months when the ocean is calm. In winter, surf is dangerously powerful and not safe for swimmers. Always check conditions, obey posted signs, and speak to lifeguards if you’re unsure.
Do you need reservations at Waimea Bay?
Are there restrictions or rules at Waimea?
Yes, there are several important rules to ensure safety and environmental protection:
- No alcohol, smoking, amplified music, camping, or pets are allowed on the beach.
- Cliff jumping is popular but done at your own risk; always check water depth and conditions before jumping.
- Fishing is regulated; for example, during November and December, you may fish for akule with legal nets, but snagging is prohibited.
- Marine life conservation: Fishing is allowed only with hook-and-line from shore, using up to two poles per person with one line per pole and no more than two hooks per line.
- Marine Life Conservation District: Waimea Bay is part of the Pūpūkea Marine Life Conservation District, which limits fishing and protects local aquatic life. Specific regulations apply, such as restrictions on using spears, traps, or nets within 50 yards of the Waimea Recreational Pier.
- Commercial vehicles are not allowed to stop here. But if guests decide to walk there during a visit to the waterfalls, they may do so at their own risk.
Commercial tours can’t stop at the beach, but you’ll get great views from the road. But Waimea Valley botanical garden is just across the street, with cultural sites and a swimmable waterfall. After guests visit the waterfall, they can choose to have self-guided time to explore the area.
Explore Routes
Pick from iconic destinations like Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, or a majestic Circle Island adventure to perfect your getaway!
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Enjoy a half-day excursion or a full-day adventure. You can go all out with a sunrise-to-sunset tour and make the most of your day.
Must See Stops
Customize your private tour with family favorites, local cuisine, shopping, hiking, and visits to some of the best island beaches.
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Need help choosing the right tour? Explore more options, from big wave winter routes to calm summer beach days. We love keeping in touch and keeping you updated.
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Whether you’re watching the surf roll in or dipping into the calm summer waters, Waimea Bay is the kind of place that stays with you. Let’s go see it together.
More great Oahu beach excursions
Want to include Waimea Valley, North Shore beaches, or scenic drive stops in your custom tour? Check out Your Private Circle Island Tours or take a look at some of our other favorite excursions. Book now and we’ll design your day around what you want to see.
North Shore Tour
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Group rates from
$699
- Get a taste of the North Shore
- 1 x activity and 2 photo stops
- 6 hour custom private tour
Circle Island Tour
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Group rates from
$799
- Circle the Koolau Mountains
- 1-2 activities + 3-5 photo stops
- 9 hour custom private tour
Oahu Transfer Tour
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Group rates from
$899
- Up to 7 people w/ their bags
- Choose any routes or location
- 12 hour custom private tour
Not sure where to start? Take our quick tour quiz or head to the footer for shortcuts to our most popular routes.
