The North Shore
Many people ask: “Where are the famous “north shore” beaches on Oahu?” Technically, the “north shore” on Oahu is the coastline from Sunset Point all the way to the tip of the island at Ka’ena Point. But for surf fanatics, the famous “north shore” is the wonderful 7 miles of beach that extend from Sunset Point to Pua’ena Point near the town of Hale’iwa. It is along this seacoast that you will find the world-famous Banzai Pipeline with its barrel shaped waves that surfers love! Past Ehukai Beach is Shark’s Cove, one of the best snorkeling as well as surfing beaches on the island. The beach has a protected cove that can be mild enough for children and large sea turtles are often found frolicking in the shallow waters or sunbathing on the warm sands. Another surfer’s paradise when the waves top 20 to 30 feet or more is Waimea Bay. If you go to this beach, be sure to arrive early as parking is limited and fills early. In calmer seasons, cliff diving from the large rocks at the water’s edge is a great sport. If you are not a strong and experienced surfer, don’t go into the water during winter’s high surf time as this part of the island can contain some of the most treacherous waters in the world. Instead, enjoy the north coast and the surfer’s skill from the water’s edge with your camera.
