Sunset Beach is where the professional surfers show what they’re capable of in the winter when the famous North Shore waves are biggest and, if you’re a surfer, best. Novice surfers are better off watching the pros at Sunset Beach and then moving on to try gentler waves elsewhere. Coral reef makes the surf here treacherous in the cooler months.
Come in summer when there are no waves to enjoy snorkelling, swimming and skimboarding, a sport similar to surfing that’s done on a smaller board and closer to shore. Look out for the flags put out by lifeguards that patrol the beach. Red or black means the conditions are too dangerous for swimming.
There is plenty to do here when the surf is too big to venture into the water. Bring a book and relax in the sand or go for a brisk walk along the long stretch of beach. Look out for dolphins, whales, monk seals and tortoises swimming in the ocean not far from the shore.
The waves here can reach up to 9 metres (30 feet) high. It’s an amazing sight and mesmerising, even without surfers riding the huge rollers. Surf competitions have long been held here, including the renowned Duke Kahanamoku Classic from 1965 to 1984. Just southwest of Sunset Beach is the Banzai Pipeline, another spectacular spot to sit and watch surfers ride the waves.
Bring your own breakfast, lunch or dinner to Sunset Beach, as there are no services. If you’re wondering where the name comes from, arrive just before dusk and watch as the sun sets behind the surf. Bring your camera and an empty memory card to capture the incredible colours reflected on the water.
Drive to sunset beach from Honolulu, a 1-hour trip, or Hale’iwa just 20 minutes south. Get here early to secure a parking spot, as there are limited spaces.
