Each winter, Oahu’s North Shore transforms into a vibrant community celebrating some of the most exhilarating surf contests in the islands. Locals and visitors alike gather to watch elite surfers challenge nature’s mightiest waves at legendary spots like Waimea Bay, Pipeline, and Sunset Beach. The atmosphere is electric—crowds cheer, breakers thunder, and everyone shares in the anticipation and celebration.
Of course, surf competitions are just one highlight. A visit during contest season means you can wander glorious beaches, taste delicious plates from local eateries, and explore the charming shops in historic Haleiwa Town. Whether you’re here for a single competition or a whole week of fun, we’re excited to provide everything you need to make your North Shore experience unforgettable.
North Shore Surf Competition Details
Surf action really heats up on the North Shore from late September until April’s end. This annual window features Hawaii’s most famous wave events, making the area a true hub for surfing’s global community. If catching a contest live is your dream, your best bet is to visit Oahu during these months.
North Shore competitions run a bit differently from other sports. Nature holds the schedule, so flexibility is a must! That’s why we’ve included key details and outlined how everything works—so your trip can be smooth and memorable.
Understanding How Surf Competitions Work
Surfing contests here hinge on ideal ocean swell conditions within a set "waiting period"—an event may have a two-to-three week window, but it only runs when waves are just right. Event officials monitor wave height, quality, and weather daily, ready to give a green light when it all lines up. Once underway, the contest typically finishes in a couple of days.
The athletes compete in heats, usually lasting 20 to 40 minutes, with two to four surfers per heat. Judges award points for style, difficulty, and execution, using a 10-point scale for each ride. Only a surfer’s two best-scoring waves count toward their heat total. After each round, the top performers move on, and the rest are eliminated, repeating the process until the champion is crowned. For order and fairness, a priority system ensures every participant has a fair shot at the best waves.
Tips for Watching the Contests
Attending a North Shore surf contest is pure joy—and a little planning makes it even better! Arrive early, especially for huge events, since parking fills quickly around famous breaks like Pipeline. Heavy traffic on Kamehameha Highway is common, so bring your patience and allow for extra travel time. We recommend packing beach snacks, cold drinks, protective hats, and plenty of sunscreen to stay happy and comfortable.
Each morning of the waiting period, organizers announce if the contest is a go based on the day’s surf forecast. Checking event sites and official social media channels before heading out is the best way to avoid surprises and ensure you don’t miss any action.
Upcoming Competition Schedule
The North Shore’s surf calendar is filled with epic events. Bear in mind that the precise dates may shift due to wave conditions within the waiting periods. For up-to-date information on the daily status, always refer to the official surf contest calendar.
Haleiwa International Open
Date: December 22, 2025 - January 3, 2026
Location: Haleiwa Beach Park
The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational
Date: December 7, 2025 - March 6, 2026
Location: Waimea Bay
Vans Pipe Masters
Date: December 8 - 20, 2025
Location: Ehukai Beach Park (Banzai Pipeline)
Da Hui Backdoor Shootout
Date: January 4 - 16, 2026
Location: Ehukai Beach Park (Banzai Pipeline)
WSL Championship Tour - Sunset
Date: February 10 - 19, 2026
Location: Sunset Beach Park
We Hope to See You There
Few experiences capture the spirit of Hawaii like gathering on the North Shore for surf season. Whether you’ve followed pro surfing for years or this is your first contest, the energy is infectious, and the memories last a lifetime. At Keiki Smiles of Leeward, sharing this special community tradition is one of our favorite things. We hope our tips help you soak up every wave, cheer, and smile next season!
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Dentistry
When should my child first see a dentist?
Experts recommend scheduling your child’s first dental appointment within six months of their first tooth erupting—or by their first birthday at the latest. Early visits help us monitor growth, provide gentle guidance, and help kids feel right at home in the dental chair.
How can I protect my child's teeth during sports?
If your child is active in sports like surfing, a custom mouthguard is the best way to protect their smile. A well-fitted guard cushions teeth, lips, gums, and jaw from injuries. Our team can fit your child with a comfortable, effective guard tailored just for them.
We at Keiki Smiles of Leeward are honored to care for children's dental health in a bright, supportive atmosphere. Serving families across Leeward Oahu, our mission is to create positive, lasting dental habits for every keiki. If you’d like more information or want to set up an appointment, please reach out to us.
