Hawaii Surf: North Shore

While these visitors to the Hawaii islands avoided the waves at all costs, the natives seemed to be using it as part of a recreational outlet.Only the high ranking Chiefs (ali'i) had access to the best surf spots. King Kamehameha himself was said to be a skilled and frequent surfer.


To take control of a breaking wave and actually ride it to the shore was called "he'e nalu", by the Early Hawaiians which translates to "wave sliding". Sunset Beach, the crown jewel of Hawaiian surfing sites, and the rest of the North Shore remained a secret known only to the locals for some time.

Modern Hawaii Surf:

Today it is no secret that the North Shore has become the center point of surfing. Thru modern day video, television, and web streaming surfers from all over the world have witnessed the beauty and power that these Hawaiian sized waves produce.

Ask any surfer and he/she will tell you that the thrill and excitement they get from riding natures waves are just the same as any other eXtreme sport, and surfers are constantly seeking that natural high in every wave they take-off on. It is no wonder that if you want eXtreme in the sport of surfing then the North Shore of Hawaii is the place to be, Just ask the thousands of surfers that arrive here every year, or the 2 million plus visitors that trek out to the North Shore to spectate.

Winter Hawaiian Swells:

During the winter months (approximately November to January) the North Shore produces monstrous waves reaching heights of 20 feet and higher. This can prove dangerous for even the experienced waterman. Visitors are highly recommended to heed to warning signs on the beach and be cautious around the waterline.

Surf Competitions :

The North Shore's energy level picks up during the months of November through January with the onset of surf competitions. The weather's a bit cooler than summer, the surf is good, and the North Shore's legendary big waves draw an influx of visitors.