Tag: diving

Keana Farms

Exploring Waimea from Above to Below the Sea

This image is by CLIMB Works.

Waimea Bay is always a must when visiting the North Shore of Oahu! But, what people don’t realize is that it is so much more than a place to simply relax on the beach. We want to show you 3 ways you can really take advantage of your time at Waimea, and help you continue to “Always CLIMB” after your zipline adventure with us! 

CLIMB Works#1 Bouldering 

Bring your rock climbing shoes (and, if you have it, a mat) because on the left side of the bay, when facing the ocean, is a rock wall that is a perfect way to CLIMB as you try to boulder to the top for some epic views. 

You may see some locals already climbing, but if you don’t you can spot the chalk marks along the wall that will help you indicate the different paths you can take.

CLIMB Works#2 Rock Jumping

Fun Fact: Waimea’s jumping rock wasn’t always that. It was once just visible from the sand that surrounded it, but in the mid 1950s when industrial sand mining took over 200,000 tons of sand from Waimea, to create the beaches in Waikiki, they uncovered the rock and the ocean, that once didn’t touch it, now surrounds it.

This Waimea feature is a great way to help you CHALLENGE those fears, or MASTER new tricks, as you jump from the rock and into the Bay. If you’re unfamiliar with the Bay, always watch for when and where the locals jump before doing it yourself. If you don’t see the locals jumping then you probably shouldn’t be either. Please keep in mind that Waimea’s waves can get very big, especially as it gets closer to the winter months, and you definitely shouldn’t be jumping during that time. 

CLIMB Works#3 Diving

Waimea is a fun place to dive because of its sandy bottom, small cave (found beneath the rock jump), and perfectly sized rocks to carry for those Challenging underwater rock runs. However you choose to CLIMB, always make sure you have a partner so you can take care of each other. Never go diving or rock running without someone. 

There is also the Waimea Valley but it does cost to enter. In there you can take a nature walk to the Waimea Falls and enjoy a little dip in the water there, as well as learn a little more about the history of this special place. 

Keana Farms

Diving & Snorkeling on the North Shore

This image is by CLIMB Works.

CLIMB WorksThere are many wonderful diving and snorkeling sites on the North Shore you can access during the summer. Bear in mind North side becomes unsafe towards the winter months due to the intense and, frankly, legendary wave action it receives. The North Shore is a fantastic place to interact with some amazing wildlife and beautiful reef systems. 

Before we get into some of the sites, there are some things one should bear in mind when getting in the water. 

Be aware of the currents and waves! If you are unfamiliar with a location, a great way to ensure your safety is to ask a lifeguard or a local, someone who is familiar with the way the ocean acts in the area. Currents such as rip currents can pull you very far distances. 

CLIMB Works

Never go alone and always make sure someone knows your plans! This is a cardinal rule with SCUBA divers and freedivers, but it also applies to snorkelers. Take a buddy with you! Not only is sharing the experience more fun, but it is far safer having someone to watch your back. 

Look don’t touch! The coral is beautiful but it’s also vulnerable. Touching the coral can pass bacteria and other pathogens that can harm the animal. Corals are also very fragile so try not to stand on them! You may be lucky enough to see some Hawaiian Green sea turtles, be sure to apply this rule to them as well. They’re vulnerable animals as well and getting to close can put unnecessary stress on them. 

Shark’s Cove: Shark’s Cove may seem intimidating based solely on the name, but don’t worry! This site isn’t named for shark sightings, but rather for the sharp lava rock that makes up this cove; so be sure to bring your water shoes! This area has a shallow tidal pool just off of Kamehameha Highway that’s great for families to splash around in during the day. To the left of the tide pool is the actual cove where the water gets deeper and the snorkeling gets better! You’ll see quite a few fish in this area as well as a good deal of turtles. For the divers, this spot is fantastic. There are plenty of caves and swim-throughs to explore. Just be aware that this area becomes unsafe during our winter swells. 

CLIMB WorksThree Tables: Next to Shark’s Cove, this area is similar in wildlife, but with the difference being in the strange table-like formations from which this beach gets its name. This space isn’t as enclosed and it is easier to get distracted and swim out too far where there is a fairly strong offshore current. 

Turtle Bay: Turtle Bay is both a beach and a resort. It’s a nice enclosed space that doesn’t tend to get too rough or deep. There’s some coral and fish life easily observed from the surface. 

Kawela Bay: Near Turtle Bay, this beach is also enclosed and relatively calm. The water is pristine and clear, making it a good spot for floating on the surface and snorkeling. Also a spot where turtles frequent. 

Haleiwa Trench: A man-made trench accessible from the Haleiwa Beach Park, this is a good spot for freedivers and SCUBA divers to get depth they can’t elsewhere on the North Shore.

We hope you enjoy your time while exploring the world below ours, but always keep in mind your own limitations when trying new things. While we encourage you to push yourself to grow we want you to stay safe! The ocean is an amazing place that should be treated with great respect. If you get tired, remember to go in and take a break, you can always go back out. Mahalo and #alwaysCLIMB!

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