Waimea Bay North Shore Oahu Hawaii

Name: Halia Private Tours
Price range: $$$

Best Oahu Beaches

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.

Home » Oahu Hawaii » Private Tours » Visit Top Spots » Beaches » Waimea Bay

Waimea Bay Oahu

This is where the best of the best come to surf, and where “The Eddie” might go off, the rare and iconic big wave surf competition held only when conditions are just right. You can see this icon Bay during a few of our favorite routes as we drive along the coastline on Your Private Tours of Oahu.

Oahuʻs North Shore

Premiere 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.*

More information about

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.

Featured excursions for

Seeing Waimea Bay Oahu

Commercial tours can’t stop at the beach, but you’ll get great views from the road. But Waimea Valley is just across the street with lush gardens, cultural sites, and a swimmable waterfall. Customize your day on the North Shore with Waimea Bay as your scenic drive highlight.

Frequent questions

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. 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?

Waimea is one of the most legendary surf spots in the world, especially during winter when the waves can reach over 30 feet. The bay is famously calm in the summer, ideal for swimming and cliff-jumping. It’s a place where natural beauty, Hawaiian history, and adrenaline all meet.

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?

No, Waimea Bay is a public beach that is open year-round with no entry fees or permits required. However, parking is limited and fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. But they go fast and are about as rare as the ability to surf a 40-foot wave.

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.

Looking for more beaches?

Similar activities & places

If you’re looking to explore all the multiple personalities of 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.

Featured North Shore Tour

Related excursions & Tours

More ways to experience Waimea Bay

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. Here are a few more ways to explore a different side of Oahu.

Half-Day

Spend 6 hours on the "North Shore Express" tour

Book Now

Express Route

North Shore Tour

Group rates from
$699

Full-Day

Spend 9 hours circling the Koolau Mountains

Book Now

Circle Island Tour

Group rates from
$799

Long-Day

Early cruise departure and late flight? Perfect

Book Now

Up to 7 w/ bags

Oahu Transfer Tour

Group rates from
$899

Whether you’re taking a full Circle Island Tour or spending your day up north, Waimea Bay is a scenic highlight you wonʻt forget.

Choose Route

Pick from iconic destinations like Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, or a majestic Circle Island adventure to perfect your getaway!

Plan By Time

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.

Tour Locations

Customize your private tour with family favorites, local cuisine, shopping, hiking, and visits to some of the islands best beaches.

Things to do on Oahu blog

More ideas from Halia Private Tours

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.

Curious about other big wave beaches, family-friendly swimming spots, or cultural landmarks nearby? The blog has you covered with tips, itineraries, and ideas to build your perfect day.

Agent & Dispatcher Tips | Your Hawaii Itinerary Guide & Travel Planning

Fun Oahu Half-Day Tour Ideas

Only have a few hours on Oahu? A half-day is more than enough to soak up the island’s beauty, visit world-famous landmarks, or connect with

New Oahu Activity Announcements | Happening Around Town

New Hawaii GPS Guide Tours

Discover the best Hawaii GPS audio tours in 2025. Explore Oahu with affordable and fun self-guided walking & driving routes shared by locals.

Best of Oahu: | Tour Guide Favorite Excursions & Activities

Hawaii Tour Packages: How to Choose the Best Tours & Companies

Not all Hawaii tour companies are legal or safe. Discover compliance must-knows, real reviews, and how to choose the best tour for your trip

Keep in touch

Subscribe & connect

Planning your trip to Oahu? Subscribe for updates, local tips, and itinerary inspiration sent straight to your inbox. No spam, unless you’re talking about musubi.

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.

Halia Private tours

More great Oahu beach excursions

Want to include Waimea Valley, North Shore beaches, or scenic drive stops in your custom tour? Take a look at some of our other favorite excursions. Book now and we’ll design your day around what you want to see.