Snorkeling in Waimea Bay

In winter, Waimea and other North Shore locations such as Pipeline and Sunset Beach host a number of surfing contests because of the large waves found here. These waves are created by winter storms in the North Pacific, and their arrival on O‘ahu’s North Shore are typically forecast accurately several days in advance. In summer, Waimea typically has clear and calm water. Waves can be found virtually any time of year – mind the red / orange flags when staked out. Seriously.