What is the surf at North Shore Oahu?
Waimea Bay, Ehukai Beach (Banzai Pipeline) and Sunset Beach are great places to sunbathe and stroll along the shore—just leave surfing the huge waves to the pros because they can be very dangerous for inexperienced surfers. The months between November and February are the best times to see big wave surfing.
How big are the waves on the North Shore Oahu?
From November to February, North Shore waves average heights of 16 feet, measured from the top to bottom of a wave’s “face”—the wave’s shore-facing side. For about 20 days during this peak season, waves swell to 36 to 50 feet in size. On occasion, our winter waves have topped 100 feet.
Can I surf North Shore?
Generally speaking, surfing on the North Shore is best suited for experienced surfers because the waves are very powerful and almost all of the breaks are over coral reefs. However, there are a few user-friendly spots for beginners and plenty of options to take surf lessons from experienced local guides.
Where do surfers surf North Shore?
The North Shore is home to some of the world’s finest beaches and bays. During the winter months (October through April), the swells at world-famous surf spots Waimea Bay, Pipeline, and Sunset Beach reach 30 feet or more. That’s when professional surfers and fans descend on Hale’iwa and the North Shore.
Why does North Shore have big waves?
Winter’s huge surfing waves are generated from winter swells coming from the north, which kick up as they sweep powerfully over the layers of reef. Because the reefs there are cavernous, as the swell hits them, air bubbles are sent to the top, developing the picture perfect crest that big wave surfers love to ride.
Where can I surf North Shore on Oahu in the summer?
NORTH SHORE
- HALE’IWA, OAHU (ALI’I BEACH PARK): Reef break.
- PUA’ENA POINT: Slabby reef out at the main peak.
- LANIAKEA (LANI’S): Reef break.
- CHUNS: Reef break.
- WAIMEA BAY: Deepwater big wave spot.
- OFF-THE-WALL: Patches of sand and reef.
- BACKDOOR: Shallow, craggy, dangerous reef.