You can swim at many of the North Shore beaches in the winter. Stick with the ones with lifeguards. They will tell you what areas to stay clear of. They will post beach closed signs if the surf is too high.

Kuilima Cove at Turtle Bay Resort is sheltered so it is good all year except when there is huge surf.

We were thinking of renting a house, any suggestions as to which areas might be best for swimmimg.

Should I assume Sunset, Waimea, Pipeline would be all for serious surfers?

thanks!

You might look at houses for rent in Punaluu. It is on the north side of the windward shore. There is an offshore reef so the ocean is much safer for swimming year round. We stayed in a condo there and enjoyed the short drive to the north shore several times during our stay.

thanks, barbara.
i'll check out punaluu.

grateful for any more recommendations...

thanks!!

Kawela Bay is very sheltered and there are a few homes for rent.

I am really hoping there are more options for calm waters.

I am waiting to hear back from a great house in Kawela Bay, but there are not any houses big enough in punaluu for rent. We will be 8-10 people.

thanks for any more suggestions....
i really appreciate it.

You will find that "calm " waters exist in bays and coves. Most of the north shore are open waters as is the eastern shore.

You will not find a setting more perfect than Kawela Bay on Oahu.