Banzai Pipeline on the North Shore

Ah, winter.  Those who say Hawaii doesn't have seasons haven't lived here.  Sure they're mild, but there are seasons none-the-less.  Winter means more rain, cooler temperatures (especially in the mornings and evenings) and big waves on the North Shore.

If you haven't made it up to the North Shore yet this winter you should add it to list of things to do.  It's an entirely different place this time of year than in the summer and watching the big waves never gets old.  

A couple weeks ago we had friends visiting who wanted to see the North Shore.  The surf report said waves were around 15 feet and when we got to Pipeline we discovered there had been a surfing competition there earlier in the day but it had been called off because the waves were too big.  There were still a lot of surfers and bodyboarders in the water and we joined the spectators lining the beach and had fun watching them most of the afternoon.

Pipeline really is a great place to watch bodyboarders and surfers because the main break is fairly close to shore so it's easy to see the action from the beach.

They're not quite as close as they look in this picture but this was taken with the zoom on my little point and shoot camera, not a fancy camera with a big lens.  Definitely easy to see with the unaided eye.

If you just want to see waves, hit most any spot along the North Shore, but if you want to see surfers I'd recommend the Banzai Pipeline.  Have fun and be safe!

Do it yourself on Oahu

Location:  Banzai Pipeline is located near Ehukai Beach Park which is in Pupukea on the North Shore. 

Directions:  Ehukai Beach Park is located along Kamehameha Hwy. between Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach near Sunset Beach Elementary School.  

Parking:  There is a parking lot at Ehukai Beach Park.  When this is full find a spot where you can pull completely off the road that isn't marked 'no parking' and park there.

Facilities:  There are restrooms and showers at Ehukai Beach Park.

Other:  When there's a big swell most beaches on the North Shore are closed, and for good reason.  The water is extremely rough and the currents are incredibly strong.  Follow posted warnings and all lifeguard instructions.  Also be on the lookout for unexpected waves that can wash quite a ways up the beach with lots of force.  •  Take binoculars if you have them, but if you don't you'll still be able to see a lot.  •  Big waves on the North Shore can mean lots of traffic on Kamehameha Hwy.  Be prepared to go slow and relax and enjoy the journey.