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Hawaii • North ShoreBuoy: 51201

Waimea Bay

Good

Wave Height

3-5

ft

Swell

~8s

NNE

Wind

2mph

Onshore (N)

Water

76°

Boardshorts

Rising• High in 2h 12m

Updated: 2/24/2026, 8:20:10 PM • Data: Open-Meteo

Accurate?

Surf Graph

Clean
Fair
Choppy
Flat

Tide Forecast

Recent History

No recent history available

About Waimea Bay

Waimea Bay is the birthplace of big-wave surfing, the place where Greg Noll and a generation of California transplants first proved that 30-foot waves could be ridden. The bay funnels and focuses North Pacific swell into towering, triangular peaks that break with apocalyptic force. Below 10 feet, Waimea is a calm, beautiful swimming bay. Above 15 feet, it becomes one of the most dangerous waves on the planet. The Eddie Aikau big-wave invitational, held only when waves reach 40+ feet, is surfing's most prestigious event.

FAQ

What is the water temperature at Waimea Bay?

The current water temperature at Waimea Bay is 76°F. Boardshorts or a rashguard should be comfortable.

What is the surf like at Waimea Bay today?

Waimea Bay currently has waves around 3-5ft. Conditions change throughout the day, so check back for updated forecasts.

What time is high tide at Waimea Bay?

Today's high tide at Waimea Bay is at 6:32 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What time is low tide at Waimea Bay?

Today's low tide at Waimea Bay is at 10:50 PM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What are the best conditions for surfing Waimea Bay?

Waimea Bay works best with swells from the N, NNW, NW and S, SE, E winds (offshore). The ideal tide is all tides.

Is Waimea Bay good for beginners?

Waimea Bay is recommended for experienced surfers only. The waves here can be powerful and conditions challenging. Beginners should look for more forgiving spots nearby.

Spot Info

Break TypeBeach Break
BottomSand and Rock
Skill LevelExpert Only
CrowdHeavy
Best TideAll Tides
Best SwellN, NNW, NW
Best WindS, SE, E
ParkingWaimea Bay Beach Park lot, fills early on big days

Local Tip

Only breaks well above 15 feet. If the bay is closing out, the shorebreak alone can break bones.