Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay on Oʻahu’s North Shore is famous for monster winter waves and a historic 1958 dory accident, with calmer summer swims and iconic sunsets.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Polynesia |
| Subregion | Oceania & Australasia |
| Country | United States |
| State | Hawaii |
| County | Honolulu County |
| District | North Shore |
| City | Waimea Bay |
| Timezone | PacificHonolulu |
| Latitude | 21.6375 |
| Longitude | -157.9983 |
| Maps |
4:15 PM LOCAL TIMEWaimea Bay sits on Oʻahu’s north coast and is best known for world-class winter surf — particularly during big–wave seasons when surfers tackle waves over 30 feet. In calmer warm-water months, the bay offers swimming, snorkeling, and beach picnics. The shoreline is marked by a broad, sandy beach, and the bay’s shallow reef makes for safe shallow-entry waters in summer, but treat winter surf with respect due to powerful breakers and strong currents. Historically, Waimea Bay gained fame outside surf circles for the 1958 deaths of five local dory fishermen, a tragedy that prompted new safety protocols and contributed to the bay’s iconic reputation. Today, the bay is a focal point for surf contests, scenic shoreline walks, and sunset viewing; respect local access rules and safety warnings when visiting.
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