North Shore Beach Guide

November through April brings large swells to the North Shore that can make beaches unswimmable. This is when Oʻahu hosts big-wave surfing competitions and surfers come from all over the world to compete. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), waves at Waimea Bay, for example, can reach 40 feet or more. It’s an exciting time to be on the North Shore and many visitors travel across the island to watch the action.

In general, May through September bring calmer conditions for swimming and snorkeling. You should still proceed with caution. The North Shore’s beaches are rocky and surf is not something that is always predictable. I have found it hard to swim on the North Shore. There are beaches where you can get in the water and cool off, but nothing like Ala Moana Beach where you can swim laps.

Best for summer swimming: North Shore isn’t great for swimming since the ocean floor is covered in rocks and coral in most places, but Waimea Bay is doable May through September, when it is not surf season. It has a sandy bottom, so you don’t have to worry about your feet getting cut up. There is, however, a powerful shore break. I like to swim out past the shore a few yards, so I can float around and not be pounded with waves. Kaunala Beach and Kuilima Cove at Turtle Bay are good places to swim too.

Best for families: Most of the beaches on the North Shore are good for families if you are not getting in the water. The tide pools at Pūpūkea Beach are a popular spot to take the little ones. Again, only during May through September when water conditions are calmer. If you are looking for a place to swim with your kids, I recommend going to Ko ʻOlina Lagoons or Ala Moana Beach Park instead.

Best for summer snorkeling: Kapoʻo, also known as Sharks Cove, and Three Tables at Pūpūkea Beach Park are the famous snorkeling spots on the North Shore. Come May through September, read all signs and use safety precautions. This is a protected area, so absolutely no fishing, foraging or removal of any kind. Kaunala Beach and Kuilima Cove at Turtle Bay offer good snorkeling too.

Best for seeing honu: Laniakea Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, is a favorite stop for visitors. Because of this, traffic is always slow around this beach. Remember to stay at least 10 feet away from honu at all times.

Best for watching winter surf: ʻEhukai Beach Park, also known as Banzai Pipeline; Waimea Bay, Haleʻiwa Beach Park and Sunset Beach are the most popular beaches for watching big-wave surfing during the winter months.

Best for a quieter beach day: Chun’s Reef or Kaunala Beach are both chill spots to relax. Kaunala beach is swimmable and has good snorkeling. Chun’s is really just for surfing. But both have sandy beaches that are peaceful to relax on. You can also try Kewala Bay. It used to be very quiet many years ago, but the last few times I’ve gone it’s been a lot busier. Still worth a look.

Best for a more protected resort-area swim: Kuilima Cove at The Ritz-Carlton O'ahu, Turtle Bay. Anyone can swim here, but to use the beach chairs you have to be a guest of the resort.

Haleʻiwa Aliʻi Beach Park

Best for: Families and visitors looking for a beach close to Haleʻiwa town.

Why choose Haleʻiwa Aliʻi: Convenience. If you want to stay in Haleʻiwa town, this is the easiest beach to get to.

What to expect: The beach is fairly wide, so there is space to spread out. A lot of locals hang out here.

Swimming and ocean conditions: There are often signs posted for high currents here. Itʻs not the best place to swim. On calm days, if there are no warning signs out, you can get in the water.

Facilities and access: There is plenty of parking, restrooms, showers and a lifeguard station. This is the beach to pair with a visit to Haleʻiwa town if you are pressed for time. From Kamehameha Highway, take Haleʻiwa down to the beach. Itʻs about a five minute drive.

Local insight: I prefer Haleʻiwa Beach Park just across the bay, a smaller beach with restrooms, showers and parking lot. Itʻs a good beach for kayaking, SUP, scuba diving, fishing and sea turtle spotting, with calmer, more protected waters than the rugged surf breaks further up the coast. There's also picnic tables, a playground, a ball field and basketball courts.

Best for: Visitors hoping to see honu, or Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Why choose Laniakea: Laniakea is primarily a stop for seeing honu rather than a beach I’d recommend for swimming. You can’t really get in the water here. Visitors mostly come to take photos of the turtles basking in the sun. Remember to stay at least 10 feet away from them — this is state law.

What to expect: Describe the beach and what visitors can expect from the honu-viewing experience. Confirm whether volunteer stewards are currently present and how viewing areas are managed.

Swimming and ocean conditions: Currents are too strong here to swim.

Facilities and access: There are no restrooms or lifeguard stations at this beach. Parking is limited, although the city is in the process of creating more parking. If you can snag one of the spots in the visitor parking lot, great, if not, keep driving so you don’t back up traffic. Traffic is very slow on Kamehameha Highway by this beach. Everyone slows down to see if they can catch a glimpse of the turtles. It’s a real issue. According to The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation, the parking lot project is in its final phase, but still incomplete. Only use the designated pedestrian route to get to the beach from the parking lot. Some tours will drive you by this beach, but they do not stop and let you get out here.

Wildlife guidance: NOAA Fisheries guidance for viewing honu responsibly is to stay at least 10 feet away from them at all times. Never touch or approach a honu — they are an endangered species and it is against the law.

Local insight: You can see honu all over Oʻahu — usually in the water. I understand the lure to come to this beach if you have never seen a sea turtle, but in my opinion it is more trouble than it is worth. The traffic it creates along this stretch of highway is a real nuisance and it’s hard to find a parking spot. Keep your eyes peeled at other Oʻahu beaches and you will most likely spot one at some point.

Best for: A quieter North Shore beach experience and surfing for beginners.

Why choose Chun’s Reef: Compared to Waimea Bay or Sunset Beach, Chun’s is much less crowded. Named for the former well-known resident, John Chun, who built a home here and taught his kids to surf, it’s one of the beaches where you’ll find surf camps and pro surfers offering surf lessons. Not a good beach for swimming because of a shallow reef that comes all the way to shore, but a great beach to hang out on and watch the beginners try to score their first wave.

What to expect: There is a sandy beach for sunbathing, picnicking and watching the surfers. A lot of visitors come here to watch someone in their family try to catch their first wave.

Swimming and ocean conditions: The bottom of the ocean here is all reef, so it’s not really a beach you can swim at. When winter months roll around, it isn’t a beach where you want to surf either if you are a beginner. Surfing conditions here are best in the summer.

Facilities and access: Limited street parking, no restrooms or lifeguards.

Local or firsthand insight: I spent some time on this beach one weekend, while staying in a vacation rental that faced the water. I enjoyed watching the surfers. There were little tide pools where keiki could get their feet wet. We saw a beautiful sunset. It was more crowded in the water with surfers than on the beach. I took a SUP out into the water and paddled around a bit, to the left of where the waves break. It was very relaxing.

Best for: Summer swimming and winter big-wave watching.

Why choose Waimea Bay: Waimea Bay is one of the North Shore beaches that changes dramatically with the season. In summer, visitors come in droves to hang out on the sand and get in the water. It is almost impossible this time of year to find parking. In winter, it becomes one of the North Shore’s best-known places to watch big-wave surf competitions.

What to expect: The beach is huge. You will not have any problem finding a place to set up. The issue is the parking, which is almost impossible to find on a nice day. When you are facing the water you will see cliff jumpers all the way to the left. These are locals who have experience. Do not attempt to do this yourself. Still, it’s fun to watch.

Swimming and ocean conditions: You can usually get in the water here from May through September. Beyond that, it’s unsafe. Make sure to heed any warning signs posted about strong currents or surf. There is a strong shorebreak here, so be mindful of that when entering the water. Best to swim out a bit, beyond the breakers.

Facilities and access: Lifeguard, restrooms, showers and 44 parking stalls located inside the park. Or, you can try to find a parking spot along the highway. Some homes at the base of Waimea Valley will also offer parking on their property for a small fee. Do not park at Waimea Falls — that is strictly for visitors to the falls only.

Local or firsthand insight: Since the beach is so big, it’s a bit of a haul from the parking lot and if you have to park on the highway or near Waimea Falls, it’s even farther. In the hot sun, this can be exhausting.

Best for: Summer snorkeling.

Why choose Three Tables: A marine sanctuary ideal for underwater exploration. Compared to Sharks Cove further north, Three Tables has an easier entry point due to its sandy beach.

What to expect: Kalua O Maua was nicknamed “Three Tables” because the area has three reef outcroppings that resemble tables. There is a small beach off Kamehameha Highway with a small cove. There is a walking path to get there. You enter the water from the sandy beach. Youʻll see the three tables in the shallow area. There is an underwater freshwater spring that bubbles up from the ocean floor.

Swimming and ocean conditions: Generally, this area is safe for snorkeling and swimming May through September when the ocean is calmer. It is unsafe to snorkel here the rest of the year, during a storm or if the lifeguard has put up any signs directing people to stay out of the water at any point in the year.

Facilities and access: There is a lifeguard at the Pūpūkea tide pools adjacent to Three Tables. There are restrooms and showers by the tide pools. Park in the designated 26 stalls or along Kamehameha Highway.

Marine conservation rules: As part of the Pūpūkea Marine Life Conservation District at Pūpūkea Beach Park, it is important to follow all posted rules and warnings. You should use caution to not stand on coral. It is illegal to use nets, fish, spear or collecting anything from the area.

Local insight: You will find Three Tables at Pūpūkea Beach Park. When standing on the shore near the main parking lot overlooking the 100-acre area, Three Tables is on the left, the tide pools are in the middle and Sharks Cove is on the right. Foodland is across the street, if you’d like to have a picnic.

Best for: Summer snorkeling.

Why choose Sharks Cove: Part of the same protected marine life conservation district as Three Tables at Pupukea Beach Park. This cove has calm water, completely protected from the rest of the ocean. 

What to expect: Unlike Three Tables, you will climb down rocks to get in the water here. Snorkelers should be comfortable with this, otherwise go to Three Tables. Once inside the water, you will find calm, protected waters perfect for snorkeling.

Swimming and ocean conditions: Although the cove is protected, it is still subject to dangerous conditions from November through April when the North Shore experiences high surf. Always heed warning signs and never get into the water if it looks unsafe.

Facilities and access: There is a lifeguard in front of the tide pools, to the left of Sharks Cove, but not in front of Sharks Coves. There are also restrooms and showers in front of the tide pools. Park in the designated 26 stalls or along Kamehameha Highway. Once you park, find the short trail that leads down to Sharks Cove to the right of the tide pools.

Marine conservation rules: Do not stand on coral. It is illegal to use nets, fish, spear or collecting anything from this area.

Local insight: Please do not trample through plants to take a shortcut to Sharks Cove. These are planted by a volunteer group who is trying to prevent erosion by planting native plants along the shoreline. There is a designated path to walk to Sharks Cove and lots of shady trees to sit under before or after you get in the water.

Best for: Watching big-wave surf competitions during winter months.

Why choose ʻEhukai: Every winter the North Shore turns into a haven for big-wave surfers. This is one of the beaches where you will find some of the biggest surf competitions on the North Shore, including World Surf League Vans Pipe Masters.

What to expect: Located across the highway from Sunset Beach Elementary School, this big sandy beach is a top spot for watching pro surfers. For more details on the surf break, check out our Surfing on Oʻahu Guide. To find the best viewing site at Pipeline, look for the public access lane about 100 yards north of the park.

Swimming and ocean conditions: This is not a swimming beach. I wouldn’t even advise it during the calmer summer months. There is a shallow, sharp reef under the water, a dangerous shorebreak and the current is strong year-round. If you see people swimming, they are likely locals who have known these waters their whole life. Do not follow them in.

Facilities and access: Lifeguard, restrooms and showers available. Small parking lot plus parking along Kamehameha Highway. Parking is nearly impossible during winter surf competitions. Try finding accommodations nearby, such as The Ritz-Carlton O'ahu, Turtle Bay, so you can take a rideshare. Otherwise, plan to walk a mile or more for parking.

Local insight: I think it’s worth visiting this legendary beach at least once if you are on the North Shore, regardless of season. Every year, this is where you can essentially find the “Super Bowl of Surfing.”

Best for: Beach walks, sunsets, sunbathing and winter surf.

Why choose Sunset Beach: A favorite beach among locals and visitors alike, not only for big surf in the winter, but as a relaxing place to hang out year-round.

What to expect: According to Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority, “Sunset Beach is considered one of the longest stretches of rideable surf in the world.” The best breaks are well off-shore. If it’s your first time here, best to hang out on the beach with a pair of binoculars for a while and take it all in. For non-surfers, it’s a big, sandy beach with beautiful sunsets. Less than a 10 minute walk away is Ted’s Bakery — a famous stop for plate lunch and its legendary haupia-chocolate pie.

Swimming and ocean conditions: Like a lot of the North Shore beaches, the reef and rocks on the ocean floor make it hard to swim here. You could potentially get in the water during the calmer summer months, but there are much better places to swim, like Waimea Bay down the road.

Facilities and access: There is a lifeguard, restrooms and showers. Parking is limited here. Across Kamehameha Highway is a small parking lot and you could also try to find parking along the highway. It is likely you will have to park farther down the highway and walk.

Local insight: The best is if you are staying close by and can walk here, as parking can be near impossible along this stretch of highway.

Best for: Advanced surfing

Why choose Kaunala: Known locally as Velzyland Beach, or V-Land, this is a popular surf break among locals.

What to expect: A hidden, sandy beach where locals (many who have lived their entire lives here) come to surf. Velzyland is named after Dale Velzy — one of the first commercial surfboard manufacturers in California to surf here in the early 1960s. It isn’t visible from the road, so look for the public access right of way at the end of Oʻopuola Street and head toward the ocean. It’s a good place to see a mix of beachcombers, fishermen and surfers without a lot of tourists.

Swimming and ocean conditions: Do not swim here. Currents are strong and the ocean floor is covered in reef and rocks.

Facilities and access: No lifeguard, restrooms or shower. Extremely limited roadside parking. Going north on Kamehameha Highway, turn left onto Oopuola Street, make a right onto Makanale Street and follow it to the end. The beach will be on the left.

Local insight: If you are a visitor coming here to surf, I would advise taking a lesson with a local surf school. Being accompanied by a trusted local in the water will ensure you will get to ride at least one wave. Otherwise, come for the beach and watch the local surfers from the sand.

Best for: A quieter experience in a woods-like setting.

Why choose Kawela Bay: Easy parking, less crowded than other North Shore beaches. Near Turtle Bay.

What to expect: There is a short trail from Kamehameha Highway that passes under big shady trees. Once you reach the water, follow the shore to the right for the best places to set up. Over the years, this beach has eroded causing a lot of the beach to disappear, but you can still find a narrow strip underneath the trees to enjoy an afternoon.

Swimming and ocean conditions: Most of the ocean floor here is rocky, but you can find sandy spots. From May through September, you can swim, SUP or ride outrigger canoes here.

Facilities and access: Park along Kamehameha Highway and take the short trail to the beach. No lifeguard, restrooms or showers.

Local or firsthand insight: Although it’s not ideal for swimming, it is one of the best places on the North Shore I have found if you want to get in the water and cool off. I have SUP’d here, which was relaxing as well. I’ve seen tour companies take visitors out on outrigger canoes here, surfing a small break near the reef. This is a relaxing beach to hang out at, and one of the only beaches in the area with shade.

Best for: Visitors looking for a more protected, resort beach experience.

Why choose Kuilima Cove: For a calm swimming spot.

What to expect: This is the beach fronting The Ritz-Carlton, Turtle Bay. It is a sandy beach with calm water for swimming.

Swimming and ocean conditions: Do not swim here. Currents are strong and the ocean floor is covered in reef and rocks.

Facilities and access: Drive toward The Ritz-Carlton, Turtle Bay and look for the free “Beach Access” parking near the tennis courts. Take the walking path from the parking lot to the cove. These spots fill up quickly, so if you can’t find a spot you could also valet or self-park at The Ritz-Carlton. Both of these options cost $48 plus tax for the day. There are public restrooms and showers available. No lifeguard on duty.

Local insight: Anyone can use the beach here, but the beach chairs are for resort guests only. I like to go to the resort’s cocktail bar next door on the beach after I swim.

From Waikīkī — Take H1 West to H201 West to H2 North. Exit at Wahiawa, turn left at Kamehameha Highway and drive until you hit the water. ~1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic.

From Honolulu International Airport — Same directions as from Waikīkī. ~40 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.

From Kailua — Take H3 West to H1 West to H2 North. Exit at Wahiawa, turn left at Kamehameha Highway and drive until you hit the water. ~1.25 hours to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.

North Shore traffic becomes increasingly worse throughout the day, peaking between 3 to 6 p.m. Traffic also increases on weekends and during major surf events. Because this is a high traffic zone, it’s best to pick 1-2 stops and settle in, versus trying to hit multiple beaches in a day.

The best time to be on the North Shore for swimming, snorkeling, SUP and kayaking is May through September when the water is calmer. If you are going to watch surfers or just sunbathe and picnic on the beach, you can go year-round. Parking gets increasingly tough throughout the day. You can try to beat the crowds by showing up at 8 a.m. or earlier, but most just circle until they find something — it just comes with the territory here. Snorkeling conditions are always better in the morning, when the water is at its calmest.

You may also be interested in:

• North Shore Food Trucks — For visitors planning where to eat during a North Shore day trip.
• Things to Do on Oʻahu’s North Shore — For activities and stops beyond beaches.
• Where to purchase reef-safe sunscreen, a Hawaiʻi law.