Waimea Bay — North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii
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Waimea Bay

North Shore · Oahu

One of the most famous surf spots on earth, and a completely different beach depending on when you visit. In winter, massive 30-foot waves pound the shore and only the most experienced big-wave surfers dare enter the water. In summer, the bay transforms into a calm, deep swimming hole with crystal-clear water that's perfect for snorkeling - locals say it's some of the easiest snorkeling on the North Shore with plenty of fish and water that's only about 5 feet deep. The legendary cliff-jumping rock on the right side is about 25 feet high, but only jump when the tide is high enough and the water is deep - locals have been launching off it for generations, but it's seriously dangerous if conditions aren't right.

💡 Insider Tip

Summer is the only time to swim here safely - in winter, even the shore break can knock you off your feet. The parking lot fills by 9am on weekends, but you can wait in your car for someone to leave rather than circling endlessly.

Hours

Open 24 hours

Cost

Free

Parking

Paid lot ($10) or free street parking

Best Time

Summer for swimming & jumping, winter for wave watching