Virginia Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk
- Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- https://www.virginiabeach.com/
- Virginia Beach, VA 23451
About This Beach
Waimea Bay, located on the legendary North Shore of Oʻahu, is one of Hawaii’s most iconic beaches — known worldwide for its towering winter surf, pristine sand, and breathtaking natural beauty. During the winter months (November to February), waves can reach up to 30 feet, drawing professional surfers and global spectators. In the summer, however, the bay transforms into a calm paradise, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping.
Waimea Bay isn’t just a beach — it’s a cultural landmark, central to Hawaii’s surfing history and lifestyle. From world-class surf competitions to tranquil summer days, Waimea Bay is a must-visit destination for both thrill-seekers and those looking to relax in paradise.
📜 History & Unique Features
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Surfing Heritage: Waimea Bay was one of the first places in the world where big-wave surfing took off in the 1950s and 60s, with pioneers like Eddie Aikau.
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The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational: This rare, prestigious surf competition is held only when waves exceed 20 feet, honoring the legendary Hawaiian lifeguard and surfer.
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Seasonal Transformation: Winter brings massive waves and surfers, while summer offers calm swimming waters and snorkeling.
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Cliff Jumping: The large rock on the east side of the bay, known as “Da Big Rock,” is popular for safe cliff-jumping in calm summer months.
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit
Winter (Nov – Feb): Watch world-class big-wave surfing, but swimming is dangerous.
Spring (Mar – May): Transition season with smaller waves and fewer crowds.
Summer (Jun – Aug): Calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping.
Fall (Sep – Oct): Smaller surf and mild weather — a good balance of action and relaxation.
Spring (Mar – May): Transition season with smaller waves and fewer crowds.
Summer (Jun – Aug): Calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping.
Fall (Sep – Oct): Smaller surf and mild weather — a good balance of action and relaxation.
Things To Do
Popular Activities
- Surf Watching (Winter): Watch professional surfers tackle massive waves during winter swells.
- Swimming & Snorkeling (Summer): Calm waters make it perfect for snorkeling and swimming in the summer.
- Cliff Jumping: Jump off “Da Big Rock” (only in summer when waters are calm and safe).
- Beach Relaxation: Enjoy the wide, golden sand beach framed by lush cliffs.
- Wildlife Spotting: Look out for Hawaiian green sea turtles and spinner dolphins offshore.
- Nearby Waimea Valley: Visit the cultural park and botanical garden with a scenic waterfall swim.
Amenities
Nearby Amenities
- Restrooms and outdoor showers
- Lifeguards on duty during park hours
- Limited parking lot near the beach (fills quickly, especially in winter)
- No rentals on-site, but surf shops nearby in Haleʻiwa
- Food trucks and local eateries close by on Kamehameha Highway
- Picnic tables and shaded grassy areas available nearby
Beach Hours
Beach Hours
Open Now
Open 24/7
Hours/Lifeguards
Hours/Lifeguards
Beach Access: Sunrise to sunset daily
Lifeguards: Generally on duty 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Lifeguards: Generally on duty 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Pricing
Pricing
Beach Access: Free
Parking: Free, but limited (arrive before 9:00 AM on busy days)
Rentals: Bring your own snorkel gear or rent from shops in Haleʻiwa
Parking: Free, but limited (arrive before 9:00 AM on busy days)
Rentals: Bring your own snorkel gear or rent from shops in Haleʻiwa
Food & Drinks
Food & Drinks
Food Trucks: Famous Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck and other North Shore food trucks nearby.
Haleʻiwa Town: Just a 10-minute drive with restaurants, coffee shops, and shave ice stands.
Beach Snacks: Bring your own cooler, as there are no concessions on the beach.
Haleʻiwa Town: Just a 10-minute drive with restaurants, coffee shops, and shave ice stands.
Beach Snacks: Bring your own cooler, as there are no concessions on the beach.
Events & Festivals
Events & Festivals
The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational: Held only when wave conditions are extreme (usually winter, but not annually).
North Shore Surf Season: November to February is full of surf competitions across the North Shore, including Sunset Beach and Banzai Pipeline.
North Shore Surf Season: November to February is full of surf competitions across the North Shore, including Sunset Beach and Banzai Pipeline.
Contact Information
Primary Phone
Location
Beach Address
61-31 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712, USA
Access Points
Waimea Bay Beach Park
61-31 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712, USA
Located about 1 hour from Waikiki/Honolulu by car
Accessible via Kamehameha Highway (Hwy 83) on Oʻahu’s North Shore
Parking lot is small — arrive early or use nearby shuttle/tour services
61-31 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712, USA
Located about 1 hour from Waikiki/Honolulu by car
Accessible via Kamehameha Highway (Hwy 83) on Oʻahu’s North Shore
Parking lot is small — arrive early or use nearby shuttle/tour services
61-31 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712, USA
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