Overview
Waimea Bay is a picturesque beach located on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Known for its stunning scenery and rich cultural significance, it's a must-visit for travelers.
Waimea Bay is historically significant as a former surfing big wave spot and a site of ancient Hawaiian settlements.
Location
Address
Oahu, Hawaii
Neighborhood: North Shore
Coordinates
21.630500, -158.066500
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild
- • blooming flowers
- • whale watching
summer
hot
- • calm waters
- • family-friendly activities
autumn
cool
- • fall colors
- • surfing competitions
winter
cold
- • big wave surfing
- • holiday events
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check surf conditions
- Bring sunscreen
- Respect local culture
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • strong currents
- • rip tides
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, swimwear, cover-up, flip-flops, water shoes, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1 week
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
North Shore App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Surf reports, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport
Distance: 55 km
Travel Time: 45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 35 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful scenery
Historical Significance: Ancient Hawaiian settlements, big wave surfing history
Insider Tips
- Free entry for early morning swimmers
- Best food at local food trucks
Local Recommendations
- • Try shave ice at Matsumoto Shave Ice
- • Visit the Waimea Valley Botanical Garden
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main beach
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide angle for landscapes
Result: Stunning beach shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Waimea Valley Botanical Garden
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Garden
Banzai Pipeline
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Surf Spot
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early for parking"
- "Bring reef-safe sunscreen"
- "Great for families"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
68
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
Free