Waimea Bay

This expansive sand beach features white sandy shores that transform seasonally from calm summer swimming conditions to massive winter waves reaching twenty feet or more in height.

The bay gained global recognition in 1957 when surfers first paddled out to ride its colossal waves, establishing it as the birthplace of modern big wave surfing culture.

Local Hawaiian traditions consider this location spiritually significant, with ancient legends speaking of ancestral spirits gathering in these waters and the area serving as a sacred site.

Visitors can access the beach via Kamehameha Highway with dedicated parking available, though arriving early is recommended as the lot fills quickly during peak weekend periods.

The beach hosts the prestigious Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, a surfing competition held only when waves reach a minimum height of twenty feet, making it one of surfing's rarest events.

Location: Honolulu County

Address: Waimea Bay Beach, North Shore, HI 96712, USA

Website: http://honolulu.gov/parks/dprbeachaccess.html

GPS coordinates: 21.64024,-158.06377

Latest update: August 29, 2025 09:46