This coastline, blessed with pristine white sand beaches - perfect, glassy walled, epic waves and tubes, is known for its world-class surfing, body boarding, body surfing, swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving in the Summer months. Each winter, Oahu's rugged North Shore serves up some of the largest and imposing ocean waves on the planet. Giant, storm-generated swells make their long trek across the northern Pacific to batter reef breaks and the area's shoreline. Although winter on the North Shore may not be the best time and place to learn how to surf, the summer months provide safer, saner conditions.

Caution is advised especially during the Winter months when the high surf's waves may reach heights of up to twenty-five feet plus. The surf can rise quickly going from two feet to twenty-five feet high and larger during the course of a day.

World-renowned surf contests are held here from early November to late December. The Van's Triple Crown of Surfing, which includes the Van's Hawaiian Pro at Ali'i Beach Park in Haleiwa; the Rip Curl Cup at Sunset Beach; and the XBox Gerry Lopez Pipeline Masters, brings together the world's best professional surfers. The Quiksilver Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, held at Waimea Bay, also takes place each winter.

Also close to the North Shore is the Polynesian Cultural Center. Going just once and you'll know why they call it Hawaii's Favorite Visitor Attraction! You'll explore seven Polynesian villages on 42 beautiful tropical acres. See islanders reenact war dances and wedding ceremonies, rub sticks to create fire, carve tiki figures, wield fire knives, and climb four-story trees in bare feet. When the sun sets, the spectacular Horizons night show begins the largest Polynesian revue of song and dance in the world, featuring over 100 native performers from all corners of the Pacific. The fire knife champions and firewalkers offer dramatic accents to an unforgettable evening. Choose from a variety of full-day or twilight packages, including the award-winning Ali'i Luau package, considered Hawaii's most authentic luau, and winner of the coveted Kahili Award for preserving Hawaiian culture. Reservations are required, and seating for the Horizons night show is determined by the order in which reservations are made, so book early to get the best seats!