I'm going to be in Oahu the last week of December

Question

I had thought to stay on the North shore in a condo near turtle Bay the last week of December in order to observe the beauty of the North shore. However, I'm getting the sense that the surf will be intense and I won't actually get anywhere near a beach for safety reasons. Is that right? Does that mean that North shore is not ideal in December?

The video I just saw of Waikiki turned me off to staying there. Could somebody tell me what the North shore is like in December? Thanks!

Answer

Visiting Oahu’s North Shore in December offers a very different experience than other times of the year. The North Shore is famous for its big-wave surf during winter months (roughly November through February), which draws professional surfers and large crowds of spectators. Because of this, many of the beaches, especially those known for big waves like Waimea Bay, Pipeline, and Sunset Beach, can be unsafe for casual swimming.

That said, not all beaches are off-limits or entirely inaccessible. Some smaller coves and protected areas may still be safe for wading or beachcombing, but you should be very cautious and always check local surf and safety conditions.

Here’s what you can expect in December on the North Shore:

Big surf: Waves can reach 20–30+ feet at famous surf spots. Swimming and snorkeling are generally not safe in these areas.
Spectator-friendly beaches: Many people visit to watch surfers rather than swim. Parking and crowds can be heavy near the most famous breaks.
Quieter spots: There are less famous beaches and small bays where waves are milder and it’s safer to enjoy some time by the water.
Weather: Expect cooler, sometimes windy conditions compared to summer, with occasional rain showers.

If your main goal is to enjoy calm beaches for swimming and snorkeling, the North Shore in December is not ideal. Instead, you may consider:

Staying on the leeward (south or west) coast, such as Kailua, Ko Olina, or other parts of Oahu that have sheltered beaches with calmer waters during winter.
Visiting the North Shore during the day for sightseeing and watching surf competitions, but not planning to swim.
Exploring local hikes, scenic drives, and cultural stops, which are excellent alternatives if the ocean is too rough.

In summary, the North Shore in December is spectacular for scenery and watching winter surf but is not generally safe for casual beach activities like swimming or snorkeling. If your priority is calm water activities, consider a more sheltered part of Oahu for your stay and visit the North Shore for a day trip to enjoy its beauty and surf culture safely.

I'm going to be in Oahu the last week of December

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