hi,
could anybody tell me when the big surf hits the north shore beaches of oahu. i am trying to plan a week in hawaii in either jan, feb or march 2001 and would love to time it for the big waves.
thanks.

The winter surf's starting to happen. The surf outlook through friday december 8: large northwest swell may require high surf advisory for northwest shores on wednesday. Last weekend we had a large west swell.

The Eddie Aikau invitational at Waimea Bay on the biggest wave day of the year can be called anytime between December 1 and February 28. It's awsome to watch. You just might nail it. Be forwarned, though, that the North Shore gets absolutely jammed during big wave season, for good reason. Have a great trip! =)

Define big? We were there in March last year and had 2 days of 20+ footers. Reality though is that the 6-12 footers are more fun to ride. If you are looking to watch anytime from now through March gives you a good chance. If you are looking to ride? Stay out of the big surf. Stick to 6-8 footers, plenty of fun and you get to keep your life.

The Aikau, an invitational for veteran surfers, is usually timed for 30'+ swells. When it's breaking THAT big, the pros get towed out and get a tow start. You can easily web surf and get more specifics. At any rate, it's a great party scene on the beach. Have a fab trip!

Today's front page has a nice photo. Click on it to make it bigger. =)

http://honoluluadvertiser.com/

January is probably the best time to go to see huge pounding waves. Kalena--is the Aikau Invitational the one that got cancelled several times one year because the waves were too big?

Melissa, hi =) Yes, the Aikau doesn't happen every year, just when the conditions are right. Sometimes the waves just close out.