Waimea Bay

Waimea Bay is a sheltered bay on Oahu's North Shore with a wide sandy beach bounded by steep cliffs and lush green slopes. The waters sit calm and shallow in summer months, creating a natural cove that opens to deeper ocean beyond.

The bay served as a significant settlement for Native Hawaiians for centuries, central to their food sources and daily life. European contact arrived in 1779 when British vessels anchored here during an exploration voyage.

The bay held deep importance for Native Hawaiians as a source of fish and food. The protected waters allowed traditional fishers to sustain their communities for generations.

The beach is publicly accessible with showers, restrooms, and picnic areas along the shore. Summer brings calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming, while winter months bring powerful swells and strong currents that demand caution.

Winter swells here can reach towering heights, transforming the bay into a world-class surfing destination that draws professional athletes from across the globe. Few visitors realize how drastically the bay changes from a peaceful swimming spot in summer to a powerful ocean stage in winter.

Location: Honolulu County

Address: Waimea Bay, Hawaii 96712, USA

GPS coordinates: 21.64137,-158.06684

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02