The world-famous Banzai Pipeline surf break at ‘Ehukai or Pipeline Beach O’ahu is the surfing mecca of the world. Located on O‘ahu’s North Shore ‘Ehukai and the Pipeline are home to the Triple Crown of Surfing Competition. During the summer, enjoy snorkeling and swimming at ‘Ehukai beach; in the winter, watch the world’s top surfers shred the monster waves.
‘Ehukai History
The area above ‘Ehukai beach O’ahu was originally an ancient Hawaiian settlement, and includes several burial sites and Pu‘u o Mahuka Heiau (Hawaiian temple). In the 1840s, sugar become a profitable industry and ‘Ehukai was a bustling plantation community, then from 1927 to 1953 the area was a U.S. military camp. In 1961, movie producer Bruce Brown was driving the North Shore looking for a place to shoot a surfing movie. He came across the killer break at ‘Ehukai beach, filmed his two surfers there, and the name “Pipeline” was born. The rest, as they say, is history.
Pipeline Beach Facilities
You’ll find picnic tables, restrooms and showers; a large expanse of grass and shady trees makes ‘Ehukai beach in O’ahu very comfortable. Tent camping is allowed by permit.
‘Ehukai Beach Swimming Conditions
In the summer months, the waves disappear and you can find some of the best snorkeling and swimming on O‘ahu. During the winter months, do not go in the water unless you are a highly accomplished surfer. Huge winter surf poses a threat of serious injury. As with all Hawaiian beaches, check current conditions and pay heed to all posted signs regarding ocean conditions and safety.
How to Get There
From Waikīkī, take H-1 west to H-2 north. Follow H-2 to Kamehameha Hwy. (Hwy 99). Take Hwy 99 past Hale‘iwa and merge onto Hwy 83. Follow the coast until you see the Waimea Bay Beach Park sign. Turn in, and there you are.
