Visiting Oahu’s North Shore is a must on any vacation to the island. This area is home to some of the most epic and dangerous waves in the world. One of the most famous spots is known as the Banzai Pipeline. It can be a little tricky to find, it’s located at Ehukai Beach which is north of the little own of Haleiwa between Sunset Beach Park and Waimea Beach Park. Look for Sunset Beach Elementary School on the mountain side of the Kamehameha Highway. The small parking lot for Ehukai Beach is located across the street. You will know if the waves are good, the parking lot will be full. If you can’t find a spot then park alongside the highway
Bring a blanket or beach mat and plunk yourself down in the sand, you’ll soon find yourself mesmerized as you watch surfers catching the big waves. There are people of all ages on boards, from old timers youngsters with impressive skills. A few of the kids were watching couldn’t have been much older than four of five. It seems children in Hawaii are on surfboards as soon as they can walk.
For a good read, pick up a copy of the true story of Eddie Aikau. He was a Hawaiian lifeguard that braved huge swells to save countless lives and ended his own in a rescue effort. The company Quicksilver puts on a big wave surfing invitational in memory of Eddie. It’s held in Waimea Bay. There is no set date because it is only held when the area is blessed with giant waves of over 20 feet. It has only been held 8 times in a span of 27 years. The last time was in December 2009.
The Quicksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikua
Eddie Aikau Foundation
Leigh says
You got some great shots here! And for a very interesting read I recommend The Wave: In Pursuit of the Rogues by Susan Casey.
Audrey says
Thanks Leigh, I’ll have to check that book out. There is another good book on the history of Hawaii if you’re interested, Shoal Of Time by Gavan Daws.