Surf's Up on the North Shore of Oahu by Jennifer Weiss

Offering famous winter waves and summertime bliss along its banks, the North Shore of Oahu is the perfect place to escape from it all and enjoy some of the finest beaches on the Hawaiian Islands. Although widely known for its excellent surfing, you can do more than simply hang ten along the shore of this Pacific jewel.

When wintertime rolls around, most individuals face the dilemma of cold, bitter weather that seems to put a damper on all their favorite activities. Along the North Shore, however, things are just heating up as the top surfers in the country flock to the sanctuaries of surfing: Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach. Producing waves in excess of twenty feet from November to January, and hosting the Hawaiian Triple Crown in December, these surf breaks are consistently some of the most spectacular, and dangerous, in the world.

Although the Banzai Pipeline is only suitable for experts in the winter, visitors can soak up the sight of the treacherous waves and the talented riders who dare to tackle its surf. As the wave moves from the deep expanse of the Pacific towards the shallow coral reef, a giant tube forms that is both breathtaking and jaw-dropping for shoreline spectators and surfers alike. Be sure to arrive early to reserve a prime spot on the beach, and don't forget your binoculars and camera.

From October to April, Waimea Bay presents massive, dramatic waves that can reach up to 30 feet and even pose a threat to expert surfers. The sight of a 30 foot waves crashing into the shore with unrestrained force is always one of the most memorable experiences of any trip and the ultimate way to discover why this is considered one of the world's top surfing destinations. If you are visiting in January, check the schedule for the Eddie Aikua Memorial contest, which is always entertaining since it requires the waves be at least 20 feet. At the last of the Triple Crown beaches, Sunset Beach, watching King Kong surfers is always a delight as the thunderous peaks crest anywhere from 15 to 30 feet and impose their will on those not up for the challenge.

If the surf buzz along the shore is not exactly your cup of tea, the summer months are also a great time to experience Oahu's North Shore or set out on a family adventure. Sunset Beach is perfect for families since the waves are relatively calm and the conditions are ideal for swimming. People-watching is also prime here since you will find a wide mix of beach bums. If you visit Waimea Bay in the winter and then in the summer, you may thing that you stepped onto the wrong beach since the waves dissipate and the water becomes calm and glassy. Swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling are all excellent off of its shores and the soft white sand is perfect for sunbathing and relaxing.

During your summer getaway along the North Shore, be sure to stop by Pu'u 'o Mahuka Heiau, a well-preserved ancient temple whose name translates into Hills of Escape. Possibly the sight of a human sacrifice, hikers will find exceptional views of the coast and a quiet, serene setting at this national landmark. The 1800-acre Waimea Falls Park is another must-see for its stunning Waimea Falls that have a noticeable reddish tint due to the iron found inside the volcanic soil that flows into the falls from Waimea River. If you get lucky, you may get to watch the professional cliff divers climb the rock wall along falls and dive from up to 60 feet into the cold, clear water below.

No matter what activities you have on your agenda for your stay in this recreational wonderland, a vacation rental makes it easy to enjoy everything you love about this fabulous destination. North Shore vacation rentals offer all of the amenities of home in a stunning setting that is just steps away from the soft sands and gorgeous waters off Oahu. To experience the exciting Hawaiian getaway you always imagined, book your North Shore Hawaii vacation rental today!

About the Author

GreatRentals.com has the most comprehensive selection of vacation rental homes on the Internet. For an alternative lodging option, consider North Shore vacation rentals for your next trip to Oahu.