The 50th state of the USA, Hawaii, is a famous vacation spot worldwide. Volcanic activity, diverse culture, and Hawaiian pizza (yes, topped with pineapples) are just some of the things the state is known for.
Nicknamed the ‘Islands of Aloha,’ this paradise is nothing short of breathtaking scenery and tranquil weather. It is also renowned for a luau, a traditional Hawaiian party usually combined with entertainment and serving traditional cuisines.
The tropical climate of Hawaii is also ideal for the abundant beaches found in the state.
North Shore beaches are one of the most famous places that attract tourists, and the calm waters in summer and enormous waves in November are perfect for water activities.
Whether you are on a romantic vacation, a trip with friends, enjoying yourself with your family, or traveling solo, these beaches are known to be everyone’s favorite.
You can participate in surfing events, swim in the sublime waters, make hundreds of sandcastles, or relax on the shore while sipping a margarita.
North Shore beaches offer more than one’s expectations; read on to explore more!
List of 13 Famous North Shore Beaches in Hawaii
1. Waimea Bay
Waimea Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the north shore. Along with a mesmerizing view, this beach offers exciting winter and summer activities.
The most famous sport conducted here is surfing. With waves towering at almost 30 feet, it is a popular surf spot for many surfers.
The Waimea Bay itself offers an incredible view of the ocean and is filled with distinctive landmarks. The most famous is the Big Rock, a huge rock that sits at the water entrance.
In summer, the calm waters of the beach become ideal for swimming. It would be best to build confidence to jump off the 30-foot edge and dive straight into the water for the experience of a lifetime.
The real action of surfers can be spotted in the winter season when the waves become enormous; the surfing contest observes various legendary surfers who take part in the competition.
If you want to be a spectator, you can watch the whole show from the hillside of Waimea Beach Park.
There also exists the luscious Waimea Valley, which offers an impressive view of the mountains.
2. Ehukai Beach Park
Ehukai Beach Park is one of the most famous surf spots in the world; the waves tower over 9 meters long from November to February.
You can witness the splendid view of surfers from the shore who ride the waves in surf contests. Various competitions are organized amongst the best surfers, filled with adrenaline and entertainment.
The famous Banzai Pipeline, a surf reef break located off Ehukai Beach Park, is known for its huge waves.
The trees along the beach’s coastline offer enough shade to have a picnic while witnessing an incredible ocean view.
3. Sunset Beach
Living up to its name, Sunset Beach is a highlight of the north shore beaches.
In the summertime, the calm waters give way to the activity of snorkeling. You can view sea turtles in their natural habitat.
The colorful reefs are a sight to explore with vibrant fishes and other aquatic animals.
It is one of the north shore beaches with a long stretch of sand that travels along the Kamehameha highway.
Out of all the north shore beaches, this beach is at the top for providing comfort to visitors. Large trees on the beach have picnic tables under them to enjoy the perfect tropical picnic.
4. Haleiwa Beach
A spacious hub for activities, Haleiwa Ali’i Beach Park, is also a surf beach.
One can get an incredible view of the Kaena Point and Waianae Mountain Range. The picture-perfect beach was also featured in the popular television series ‘Baywatch.’
You can also visit Haleiwa, which is famous for its shops, restaurants, and museums. Activities such as sky diving, zip-lining, snorkeling, and surfing can be enjoyed here.
Haleiwa offers many options to suit everyone’s preferences and is known to be a popular tourist spot.
5. Shark’s Cove
This beach in Oahu is included in the top 12 shore dives in the world. Shark’s Cove has crystal clear blue waters housing various aquatic animals.
The beach is one of the best spots for snorkeling and surfing. You can also search for tide pools full of fishes like salamanders, parrotfish, angelfish, and many more.
It is also renowned for its underwater rock formations.
You can easily spot sea turtles and white-tipped reef sharks sailing in the water if lucky.
As there are no lifeguards stationed in Sharks’ Cove, it is strongly recommended to go in the summer when the water remains calm.
All in All, Sharks Cove is a paradise for scuba divers found on north shore beaches.
6 Turtle Bay
Turtle Bay Beach, also known as Kukae’ohiki, is located near Kahuku. As the name suggests, the beach is famous for sighting turtles in large numbers.
Visitors flock around Turtle Bay to have a glimpse of turtles that reside close to the shore.
While swimming activity cannot be performed efficiently due to the water currents, the area beyond the reef is considered excellent for surfing, diving, and fishing.
Adjacent to the bay, the luxurious Turtle Bay resort can be found; this hotel is the largest on all of the north shore.
7. Laniakea Beach
Also known as Turtle Beach, it is famous for its giant sea turtles. One can easily spot these turtles basking in the sunlight along the shore.
In the winter, waves are rough and ideal for surfers to practice their surfing skills. Along with that, the miles of coastline stretching on Laniakea beach make it ideal for a stroll.
If you want to dive into the water for snorkeling, this beach provides the perfect experience. You can view giant turtles swimming in the water when they aren’t resting on the shore.
8. Pua’ena Point Beach Park
Located next to Haleiwa Beach, it is one of the best northshore beaches known for surf sports. Surfing lessons are also conducted at Pua’ena Beach.
A beach is a great place for beginners who want to learn surfing or experience the sport. The waves here are much smaller compared to other northshore beaches.
This beach offers ample shade with a beach view for a great picnic experience while spending time with the water.
A few distances along the shoreline, one can visit the Pua’ena Point, where the famous North Shore Surf Girls conduct lessons for visitors.
9. Chun’s Reef
Chun’s Reef is a beautiful beach on the north shore, famous for its surf spot for all surfers. The calm waters are ideal for snorkeling and exploring the marine life of Chun’s Reef.
Offering shade and soft sands, you can swim, climb rocks, and longboard at this beach.
The name of the beach comes from a man named John Chun, who was an avid surfer. As he was spotted almost regularly at the beach, a close friend of his kept the name Chun’s Reef, which became well known.
10. Pupukea Beach Park
Pupukea Beach is a popular spot to watch the big waves crash on the enormous rocks; it also offers a mesmerizing site of calm waves in summer.
Pupukea Beach has various restaurants available where one can sit and eat while enjoying the view of the beautiful beach.
During the summer, the beach is a desirable spot for divers and swimmers. Snorkeling can also be undertaken to catch glimpses of different shells, corals, and fishes found in the waters of Pupukea.
Many tide pools are formed by rocks, enhancing the experience of swimming at this beach.
11. Kawela Bay
Kawela’s white beach is safe for swimming and taking a stroll.
It is known for being a local beach situated in a secluded spot; the waves are much gentler, making it ideal for beginners to surf.
To explore the bay in detail, one can go kayaking and take a tour to spot green turtles and other underwater animals.
Kawela’s waves are perfect for professional surfers as well as children trying to waddle on boards; you can explore the wildlife and spot endangered monk seals and crabs on the shore.
Kawela Bay is perfect for relaxation under the blue sky and surrounded by pristine water.
12. Velzyland Beach
Velzyland Beach is located at a spot much more secluded than other north shore beaches. There is not much crowd flocking, so one can feel a private beach in Velzyland.
The beach is a popular spot for surfers, and many visit it even during the winter when the waves are rough.
The beach is a beautiful north shore beach and a hidden gem of Oahu.
13. Mokuleia Beach
To conclude the list, we have Mokuleia Beach, surrounded by shallow reefs and is a favorite spot for swimmers, surfers, and divers.
Along with surfing, you can also enjoy snorkeling and spearfishing as well.
As ample shade and picnic tables are available on the beach, you can calmly enjoy a picnic while relishing the local food.
End Note
While visiting Hawaii, it is impossible to miss out on these north shore beaches, which are a favorite of every visitor. They provide ample options for those who want to surf the waters or relax along the shores. Visit for an amazing trip now!
