Sunset Beach is the third in the big wave trifecta that includes Waimea Beach and the Bonzai Pipeline. Each is a pro surfer’s rite of passage, and each is unique. During the summer, Sunset Beach is a beautiful two-mile long strip of warm sand where we love to lounge, watch the sunset, and snorkel. During the winter, we surf its big waves, which can get up to 30 feet high.
How to Get to Sunset Beach
Sunset is located off of Highway 83 in the town of Haleiwa, just north Ehukai Beach. We recommend you park at Sunset Beach Support Park, right across the street from the beach. If the lot is full, try parking on the street. The support park has restrooms and showers. There is a lifeguard at Sunset.
What to Do
Of course, during the winter, this place is a mecca for surfers. It’s right next to Ehukai Beach, home of the Bonzai Pipeline. The best time to come watch the pros is between October and April.
We love to snorkel at Sunset Beach Hawaii in the summer. The flatter waters make it easier to explore the jagged pinnacle reefs.
Be aware that Sunset Beach has a nasty rip current, as many beaches do. A rip current is a deep strip of water that pulls water back out to see after its broken on a shore. These rip currents can be deadly, as they can suck you out to sea. Look for darker patches or strips of water. If you are caught in a rip current, don’t panic. Swim parallel to the shore until you’re out of the rip current and then swim diagonally toward the shore.
What to Do Nearby
One of the best parts of really busy beaches is that they cater to the masses with food. A variety of food trucks are stationed outside the beach to refuel you throughout the day.
If you’d like to explore more of the North Shore, renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard is a great way to do that. You can rent them through Sea & Board Sports Hawaii in Haleiwa.
Haleiwa is also home to the famous Matsumoto’s Shave Ice. This store was founded by Japanese immigrants in 1951 and is run by the same family to this day. You’ll find everything from simple flavors like cherry and watermelon to more unique flavors like pickled mango and li hing mu, or salted dried plum.
Everything you could want on a hot, summer day is here at Sunset Beach Hawaii: shave ice, cool waters, sandy beaches, and plenty of food trucks. Call us today to start planning your visit!
