The Eddie Aikau surf competition, also known simply as “The Eddie,” is a prestigious event that takes place annually at Waimea Bay on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. The competition is named after Eddie Aikau. Eddie was a legendary Hawaiian surfer and lifeguard who is considered to be one of the most respected surfers in the history of the sport. The competition is held in honor of his memory and is considered to be one of the most challenging and prestigious events in of surfing.
The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational
The competition has a unique set of rules and requirements that must be met in order to be held. First and foremost, the waves at Waimea Bay must reach a minimum height of 20 feet (40 feet faces) in order for the competition to take place. This is because the competition is focused on big wave surfing. Simply, the organizers want to ensure that the waves are large enough to provide a true test for the competitors. Additionally, the competition is only held when the weather and ocean conditions are deemed safe by the organizers.
By Invitation Only
The Eddie Aikau competition is also unique in that it is an invitational event. This means that the organizers handpick a select group of surfers from around the world to compete. They do not allow just any surfer who wants to participate. The selection process is based on a combination of the surfer’s skill level, experience, and track record in big wave surfing. The invitees are announced a few months before the competition, and the event usually features around 30-40 surfers.
Single Elimination
The competition itself is a single-elimination event. With the surfers competing in a series of heats, it is a challenge. Each heat features a group of surfers who compete against each other, with the top surfers advancing to the next round. The surfers are judged based on a variety of factors. These include wave selection, maneuver execution, and overall performance. The surfer with the highest score at the end of the competition is declared the winner and takes home the coveted Eddie Aikau trophy.
A Celebration of Culture
The Eddie Aikau competition is not only a test of the surfers’ skill and bravery, but also a celebration of Hawaiian culture and the memory of Eddie Aikau. The event is steeped in tradition and is a significant cultural event for the people of Hawaii. The competitors and their families often participate in traditional Hawaiian ceremonies leading up to the competition. The event itself is filled with music, dance, and other cultural performances.
A Celebration of Community
The Eddie Aikau competition is also known for its sense of community and camaraderie among the surfers. Despite the fierce competition, the surfers often support and encourage each other, and the event is considered to be a celebration of the sport of surfing and the unique bond that surfers share.
Unique Circumstances
One of the most unique things about the Eddie Aikau is the holding period which runs from December 1 to the end of February. The event is only held when the waves are at their biggest and best. Interestingly, the contest only runs when the waves are 40-feet plus. This makes it one of the most challenging and selective events in the surfing world. The Eddie Aikau is one of the most prestigious events in surfing and attracts the top big wave surfers from around the world.
The Eddie Aikau competition is also a significant event for the local community and economy. The event brings in thousands of visitors from around the world, providing a boost to the local tourism industry and generating significant economic activity. The event also raises money for a number of charitable organizations, including the Eddie Aikau Foundation, which provides scholarships and support for Hawaiian youth.
How and Where to See the Eddie:
The Eddie Aikau surf competition is held annually at Waimea Bay on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Waimea Bay is located in the town of Haleiwa and is approximately a 45-minute drive from the Honolulu International Airport. The bay is easily accessible by car, and there is ample parking available for visitors.
To get to Waimea Bay from the Honolulu International Airport, follow these steps. Take the H-1 freeway westbound and then merge onto the H-2 freeway northbound. Take the exit for the Kamehameha Highway (Highway 83) and continue northbound for approximately 20 miles. Turn left onto Waimea Bay Road and continue for about a mile until you reach the beach.
Accessible by Public Transportation
Waimea Bay is also accessible by public transportation. The nearest bus stop is located on Kamehameha Highway and is serviced by TheBus route 52, which runs between Waialua and Haleiwa. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the beach.
Once you arrive at Waimea Bay, you’ll find a large sandy beach, a playground, and a picnic area. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and bodyboarding. The bay is also known for its big wave surf breaks. This is why it’s the perfect location for the Eddie Aikau surf competition.
It’s worth noting that the Waimea Bay beach park is open from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm. The parking is free. However, during the Eddie competition, the beach park will be closed to the public and only open to the invitees and the event staff.
When the Eddie Aikau surf competition is running, the best way to see the action is by taking a position on the beach. Make sure to stay in the designated viewing area. The competition organizers set up a large screen, where you can watch live footage of the competition. They also have a sound system to announce the results and the schedule.
Scott Sweeney is the creator of Virtual Hawaii 360. Scott is a professional marketer and a lifelong Hawaii enthusiast. Scott splits time between Oahu and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to his marketing endevours, he is also a published Ukulele musician.
