Waimea Bay Beach Park (Best North Shore Beach!)

Waimea Bay Beach Park is located on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. It is famous for the iconic Waimea Bay Cliff Jump and its insane 30-foot waves in the winter. It is one of the top places in the world to watch the best surfers.

The beach is much calmer in the summer months making it great for swimming, snorkeling and diving.

Tip: When in Hawaii I highly recommend renting a car to get the most out of your experience. It would be difficult to see all the beautiful places in Hawaii without a car. Reserve a car here.

Waimea Bay Parking

Go early to get best parking or be prepared to circle a bit. The lot can fill up pretty quick.

What to Expect at Waimea Bay Beach Park

The North Shore of Oahu is pretty much off-limits for swimming during winter because of the dangerous conditions (aka 30-40ft waves and crazy currents).

It’s a perfect time if you want to watch the big wave surf competitions but most of the beaches are red-flagged (no swimming) at this time. Plan your adventure in summer for the best experience.

If you want to swim at this beach I would plan to go during the summer.

Waimea Bay Snorkeling (Summer only)

You will only be able to snorkel in the summer here due to the massive waves that come in during the winter months.

On a calm day the water is crystal clear! It is incredible. This is also a very common spot to see sea turtles!

The best place to snorkeling is around the rocks. You can also find some caves to swim through.

Waimea Bay Cliff Jump

This is one of the best and most popular cliff jumping spots in Oahu. Check out the full article on the Waimea Bay Cliff Jump here.

Where to eat near Waimea bay 

After a day at Waimea Bay Beach, you’re likely to be hungry, and fortunately, the area around Waimea Bay on Oahu’s North Shore offers some fantastic dining options that capture the local flavor. Here’s a quick guide to some popular spots to grab a bite near Waimea Bay:

Seven brothers 

Distance: 3 min drive 

Every time I hit the North Shore, I make sure to swing by Seven Brothers at the Mill, which is just about a 5-minute drive from Waimea Bay. 

It’s tucked away in a charming little spot in Kahuku, within the old sugar mill area. The burgers there are some of the best I’ve had on the island—seriously, the flavors are incredible! 

They use fresh, local ingredients, and you can really taste the difference. 

My personal favorite is the Paniolo Burger, which has a bit of a Hawaiian twist with grilled pineapple that just hits the spot. 

For something healthier I got the love bowl with a beef patty and fries. So so good! The vibes are great here. Music, umbrellas and picnic tables to eat outdoors. Love this place. 

It’s a relaxed, family-friendly place, perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach or for fueling up before heading out to the surf.

Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck

Distance: Approximately 15 minutes drive

No visit to the North Shore is complete without stopping at a shrimp truck, and Giovanni’s is one of the best. Located in Kahuku, a short drive from Waimea Bay, this iconic shrimp truck serves up plates of garlicky, buttery shrimp that are worth the trip. The area around the truck has picnic tables where you can enjoy your meal outdoors.

Foodland Pupukea

Distance: About 5 minutes drive

Just a short drive from the beach, Foodland is an excellent spot for a quick and casual meal. This supermarket may not sound like a traditional dining destination, but it’s famous among locals and visitors for its fresh poke. They offer a variety of flavors, and you can either take it to go or eat right there at the picnic tables outside. It’s affordable, delicious, and perfect for a post-beach meal.

Haleiwa Joe’s Seafood Grill

Distance: About 10 minutes drive

For a more sit-down meal, Haleiwa Joe’s Seafood Grill is a must-visit. Located a few miles away in Haleiwa Town, this restaurant offers a range of seafood dishes, steaks, and tropical cocktails, all served in a relaxed, Hawaiian atmosphere. The views of the Haiku Gardens are stunning, and their prime rib is particularly popular.

Ted’s Bakery

Distance: About 5 minutes drive

Finally, make sure to visit Ted’s Bakery for dessert. Famous for its chocolate haupia cream pie, Ted’s offers a variety of baked goods, plate lunches, and breakfast items. It’s a casual, laid-back spot that’s perfect for a quick bite or a sweet treat to end your day.

These spots offer a great mix of local flavors and laid-back dining, perfect for complementing your beach day at Waimea Bay. Whether you’re looking for a quick poke bowl, a leisurely dinner, or a sweet dessert, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your appetite near Waimea Bay.

Other things to do in the area

• Three Tables Beach
• Sharks Cove – great for snorkeling