Peaceful sandy shoreline on Oahu's North Shore

Complete Guide To Oahu's North Shore Beaches

Oahu’s North Shore is legendary. Known around the world for its epic surf, laid-back vibe, and breathtaking coastline, this stretch of coastline offers some of Hawaii’s most iconic beaches.  

In this complete guide, we’ll break down the top North Shore beaches, from hidden gems to world-famous surf spots, and offer tips on what to do, when to go, and how to stay safe while exploring paradise. 

What Makes the North Shore Special? 

Stretching from Kaʻena Point in the west to Kahuku Point in the east, Oahu’s North Shore spans roughly 7 miles of coastline and delivers a wildly diverse beach experience. Here, you’ll find: 

  • Massive winter surf attracting world-class surfers

  • Crystal-clear summer waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling 

  • Family-friendly beaches with lifeguards and amenities 

  • Turtle sightings, tide pools, and reef snorkeling 

  • Local surf culture centered around spots like Haleiwa and Waimea 

Whether you’re here for a surf trip, a beach day, or an underwater adventure, there’s something for everyone. 

Best Beaches on Oahu’s North Shore 

1. Waimea Bay Beach Park 

Best For: Big wave watching, surfing, cliff jumping, snorkeling  
Facilities: Bathrooms, showers, limited parking, lifeguards 

Waimea Bay is one of the most iconic beaches in Hawaii. During winter, this bay becomes the stage for monstrous waves, sometimes reaching 30+ feet. Surfers from around the world come to compete or simply observe.  

In the summer, the bay transforms into a tranquil spot for swimming and snorkeling, featuring a famous cliff jump off the large rock on the left side of the beach. 

Local Tip: Parking fills up early. Arrive before 9 AM or consider taking the bus or biking in from Haleiwa. 

2. Sunset Beach 

Best For: Surfing, sunset views, snorkeling 
Facilities: Bathrooms, showers, parking (street side or the lot), lifeguards 

True to its name, Sunset Beach offers some of the best evening views on the island. In the winter, it’s a pro surfer’s playground, home to significant wave events like the Vans Triple Crown. In the summer, it’s calmer—ideal for long beach walks and a peaceful afternoon by the shore. 

Safety Note: Strong rip currents are common in winter—watch for posted signs and always check with the lifeguard. 

3. ʻEhukai Beach Park (Banzai Pipeline) 

Best For: Surf competitions, people-watching,  
Facilities: Bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, parking, lifeguards 

Home of the world-famous surfing contest, the Billabong Pipeline Masters, this beach hosts some of the heaviest and most dangerous waves on Earth. When the Pipeline is breaking, the beach becomes a magnet for pro surfers and fans alike.  

During the calmer months, the beach offers great sand and a chance to explore nearby tide pools. Always check with the lifeguard before going in. 

Best Time to Visit: December through February for surf contests. 

4. Shark’s Cove 

Best For: Snorkeling, tide pool exploration 
Facilities: Limited parking, food trucks across the street, restrooms 

Despite the name, Shark’s Cove is safe for snorkeling (no sharks here!). It’s one of the top snorkeling spots on Oahu, with lava rock formations, abundant marine life, and a unique underwater landscape. It’s best visited in the summer when the ocean is calm. 

Safety Tip: Water shoes are highly recommended due to the presence of sharp rocks and urchins. Always check ocean conditions before entering. 

5. Laniakea Beach  

Best For: Turtle watching, nature lovers, swimming (left side) 
Facilities: Limited roadside parking, no restrooms or showers 

If you’re hoping to see Hawaiian green sea turtles up close, Laniakea Beach is the place. These honu (turtles) often rest on the sand here, especially in the afternoons. Volunteers may be present to help educate visitors and assist in protecting the turtles. 

Remember: Stay at least 10 feet away from all sea turtles and allow clear pathways to and from the water. They’re protected under federal and Hawaii state law. 

6. Aliʻi Beach Park 

Best For: Beginner surfers, families, and swimming 
Facilities: Parking, restrooms, showers, lifeguards, picnic areas 

Located just outside the heart of Haleiwa, Aliʻi Beach Park offers gentle waves, a protected swimming area, and ample space for beachgoers of all ages. It’s also home to local surf competitions and a popular spot for surf lessons. 

Nearby: Stop at Surf N Sea for surfboard rentals, gear, and expert local advice. 

7. Haleʻiwa Beach Park 

Best For: Paddling, beach picnics, calm waters 
Facilities: Parking, restrooms, showers, boat ramp 

This beach is popular for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, thanks to its calm waters near the mouth of the Anahulu River. It’s also a great launching spot for canoe paddling and has a more relaxed, local vibe. There are basketball courts and a playground nearby for families to enjoy. 

Bonus: Keep an eye out for turtles swimming along the river mouth! 

8. Ke Iki Beach 

Best For: Wave watching, peaceful beach strolls 
Facilities: Street parking, no lifeguards 

Ke Iki Beach is a lesser-known gem. In winter, it features booming shorebreaks that are thrilling to watch (but not safe for swimming). In the summer, it’s calm and offers stunning stretches of sand ideal for beachcombing and picnicking. 

Local Tip: This location is typically less crowded than other beaches on the North Shore. 

9. Mokuleʻia Beach 

Best For: Solitude, fishing, windsurfing 
Facilities: Limited amenities, some beach access, and parking 

On the far western edge of the North Shore, near Kaʻena Point, Mokuleʻia Beach is a rugged and remote location. It’s less crowded than other beaches and perfect for those seeking solitude, shell collecting, or watching seabirds. Surfing here is also popular in the right conditions. 

Nearby: Explore Kaʻena Point Trail, a scenic coastal hike at the westernmost tip of Oahu. 

North Shore Beach Safety Tips 

The beauty of the North Shore is matched by its power – always learn about ocean safety. Here are some key surfing safety considerations before diving in: 

  • Check surf reports: Winter waves can be dangerous. Always look at daily surf forecasts and heed lifeguard warnings. 

  • Swim at lifeguarded beaches: Especially if you're not an experienced ocean swimmer. 

  • Watch for rip currents: Don’t panic if caught in one, swim parallel to shore until free. 

  • Respect marine life: Sea turtles, monk seals, and coral reefs are protected. Look, but don’t touch. 

  • Pack reef-safe sunscreen: It helps protect Hawaii’s fragile marine ecosystems. 

Best Time to Visit the North Shore 

The North Shore changes dramatically with the seasons: 

  • Winter (Nov–March): Big surf, surf contests, wave watching 

  • Spring/Fall (April–May, Sept–Oct): Mild surf, fewer crowds 

  • Summer (June–Aug): Calm ocean, best snorkeling, swimming conditions 

Each season has its charm, but if you want to experience both the waves and the calmer water, spring or fall offers the best balance. 

Where to Gear Up: Visit Surf N Sea in Haleiwa 

No beach day is complete without the right gear. Surf N Sea is your go-to stop for everything ocean-related: 

  • Surfboards, snorkel sets, SUPs, and kayak rentals 

  • Expert staff with deep local knowledge 

  • Apparel, sunscreen, and souvenirs 

  • Surf lessons and guided tours 

Located right on the water in historic Haleiwa, Surf N Sea has been serving North Shore adventurers since 1965. Whether you're catching your first wave or exploring the reefs, they’ll set you up right. 

Find Your Perfect Oahu Beach 

Oahu’s North Shore isn’t just one destination, it’s a collection of awe-inspiring coastal experiences. Whether you’re here to surf Pipeline, snorkel at Shark’s Cove, or chill with sea turtles at Laniakea, each beach has its own story and spirit. 

Make sure to explore a few different spots and get the full flavor of what the North Shore has to offer. And don’t forget to stop by Surf N Sea for gear, advice, or a chat with locals who live and breathe this stretch of coastline. 

Ready To Hit the North Shore? 

Start your adventure with Surf N Sea, book a surf lesson, rent your gear, or stop in to chat with our friendly crew in Haleiwa. See you on the beach! 

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