Question 1

Is Pipeline open to the public?

Accepted Answer

The beach is public but Pipeline is reserved for confirmed expert surfers. In winter (Nov–Feb), professional competitions occupy the spot. Spectators can watch from the beach. The wave is deadly for non-experts: 1 m reef, brutally closing tubes.

Question 2

What to do on the North Shore if you don't surf Pipeline?

Accepted Answer

Hâleiwa is the main village (restaurants, surf shops, market). Hâleiwa Ali'i Beach for beginner/intermediate surfing. Shrimp trucks along Kamehameha Hwy. Dole Plantation (pineapple plantation). Waimea Valley (waterfall). Turtle Bay Resort for non-surfers.

Question 3

How do you get to the North Shore from Paris?

Accepted Answer

Paris–Honolulu HNL flight (18–20h, United via SFO/LAX or Air France via LAX). Car from Honolulu (55 km, 1h, H-2 then Kamehameha Hwy 99 or H-3). Car rental essential at Honolulu. ESTA required (21 USD).

North Shore — O'ahu