There’s no doubt about it: Hawaii has got it all in terms of natural beauty, but the island paradise’s biggest pride may just be a massive surf break located off Oahu’s North Shore. The Banzai Pipeline, or Pipe for short, is one of the most famous surfing spots in the world, and with swells reaching up to 30 feet, almost everyone in Hawaii is obsessed with the impressive surf break.

Defined as the area in the ocean where waves start to break as they reach the shallow sections of a reef, all reef breaks are cool, but the Banzai Pipeline is notorious.
Craig/Flickr
The Banzai Pipeline is known for gigantic waves that break in shallow water just above a sharp, cavernous reef, forming large, hollow curls of water perfect for surfers to tube ride.
Al Feducia/Flickr
The name, Banzai Pipeline, combines the name of the surf break (Pipeline), and the beach that fronts the area (Banzai Beach).
Craig/Flickr
It was unnamed until December 1961, when surfing movie producer Bruce Brown was driving the North Shore with two California surfers and decided to stop at the unnamed spot to shoot some video.
Steve Boland/Flickr

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At this time, there was an underground pipeline under construction at the adjacent Kamehameha Highway, and so Brown named the break Pipeline.
Kanaka Menehune/Flickr
The name was first used in Brown’s movie, Surfing Hollow Days.
The Pipeline is incredibly dangerous; many surfers and photographers have been killed at the pipe, and it is considered the world’s deadliest wave.
Kanaka Menehune/Flickr
Despite the danger, various major surfing competitions are held at Pipeline, including the Vans Triple Crown, Pipe Masters, the Volcom Pipe Pro, the IBA Pipeline Pro, and the Pipeline Bodysurfing Classic.
Surfglassy/Flickr
Locals and tourists alike flock to the North Shore during the winter months to sit on the beach, in awe of the waves, watching professional surfers tackle the legendary Banzai Pipeline, so what are you waiting for?
Aussie Assault/Flickr

Taken in 2013, this video compilation of the Banzai Pipeline shot by Eric Sterman is absolutely mesmerizing, and we simply can’t get enough. 

So, tell us, will you be heading up to the Banzai Pipeline in Hawaii to watch the waves this winter? Or are you skilled and brave enough to take them on? Share your experiences and opinions about this legendary surf break with us in the comments, then click here to read all about Duke Kahanamoku, the “Father of Surfing.”

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Surfing In Hawaii

Megan Shute | October 12, 2020

What makes Hawaii so goof for surfing? 

With a tropical climate and warm, crystalline waters, Hawaii is a haven for water sports enthusiasts of all kinds. Not only is Hawaii seen as the birthplace of modern surfing, but the quality of the surf itself is phenomenal and sure to impress. Though the exact origins of surfing are unknown and research suggests that surfing dates back to ancient Polynesian cultures, surfing was popularized in Hawaii and around the world by none other than the famous Duke Kahanamoku. With so much surfing culture and deep roots with the sport, why would you want to surf anywhere else?

Which Hawaiian Island is best for surfing? 

While you will find epic surfing conditions across Hawaii's main islands, perhaps the best island for surfing is Oahu. From Waikiki Beach to the infamous North Shore, Oahu is often seen as the proverbial heartbeat of surfing in Hawaii and is the perfect place to catch a few waves — whether you're a professional or first-timer. Popular Oahu surf spots include Puaena Point, Chun's Reef, Laniakea Beach, and Diamond Head Cliffs. On Maui, you'll love the Lahaina Breakwall, Paia Bay, and Ka'anapali Beach whereas Kauai's favorite spots are Hanalei Bay and Shipwreck Beach. If you're on Hawaii Island, might we suggest A-Bay, Kahalu'u Beach, or Honoli'i Beach?

Where are the best surf spots in Hawaii for beginners? 

The best surf spots in Hawaii will depend on the time of year and surf conditions, but a few of the most popular destinations for first-timers are Waikiki Beach and White Plains on Oahu, the Cove in Kihei, and Lemon Drops on the south shore of Kauai. Really though, anywhere with a good surf school will suffice for your first time!

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