There are numerous benefits to staying at Ke Iki Beach Bungalows (KBB) at any time of the year. However, those who book their stay during the winter are always in for a treat, thanks to the seasonal swell that arrives along the North Shore of Oahu. In addition to the treasures that get tossed on to our sands for beachcombers to pick, and the unmatched photo opportunities associated with wave watching, the winter swells bring elite wave riders to compete at two of the most consequential waves on the planet – Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay. Both legendary destinations are within walking distance from our gates.
Will you be staying with us during the bookending winter season months of 2026? Or do you plan to book a future stay during this special time of the year? Be sure to plan your itinerary around the North Shore surf contest schedule below.
2026 Season Surf Contest Schedule on the North Shore of Oahu for Guests of Ke Iki Beach Bungalows
Da Hui Backdoor Shootout
Date: January 4-16 2026
Ehukai Beach Park: Get Directions from Ke Iki Beach Bungalows
While the Pipe Masters (below) gets most of the press, the most “core” and Hawaiian of all North Shore surf contests is the Da Hui Backdoor Shootout, which Ke Iki Beach Bungalows has been a consistent supporter of:
“The Da Hui Backdoor Shootout (in memory of Duke Kahanamoku) is the alternative to WSL contests on the North Shore. It allows local surfers (some of the best in the world!) to compete on the grand stage of Banzai Pipeline without having to first cut through the red tape of WSL WQS/WCT qualification. While the contest is a draw for big names like Jamie O’Brien, the Florence brothers, Mason Ho, and other familiar faces, it also shines a spotlight on up and coming talent. A young warrior can emerge from their humble home on the slopes of Pupukea or countryside of Kahuku and reign victorious despite not having a single sponsor to back them. On that latter note, support from the local community is critical to ensuring that the Da Hui Backdoor Shootout can continue each year. This is why Ke Iki Beach Bungalows has pledged to support the ohana behind Da Hui, and is proud to sponsor the event once again this season.“KBB Sponsors Da Hui Backdoor Shootout
Lexus Pipe Challenger
Date: January 29 to February 9, 2026
Ehukai Beach Park: Get Directions from Ke Iki Beach Bungalows
Primary Sponsor: Lexus
Additional details coming soon.
Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational
Date: December 6, 2025 to March 6, 2026
Waimea Bay: Get Directions from Ke Iki Beach Bungalows
Primary Sponsor: Rip Curl
It’s the world’s biggest annual surf event that doesn’t even run most of the time. How’s that? Because the waves must hit heights of 30-feet and more during the waiting period (December 6 to March 6) for the one-day contest to be called on. That being said, the opening ceremony (December 6) is just as important as the competition itself, so be sure to head over to Waimea Bay on the day if you happen to be with us at KBB. Otherwise, monitor the Waimea Bay surf report during your winter stay and be ready to walk over to watch if/when the waves show up.
WSL WCT Pipe Masters
Date: December 8 to 20, 2026
Ehukai Beach Park: Get Directions from Ke Iki Beach Bungalows
Primary Sponsor: Lexus
After going through a number of name, date, and relevancy changes over the last half-decade, the WSL has brought the Pipe Masters back to its rightful place as the World Champion decider. This is the Super Bowl of surfing folks, and there is nary a better time to book your stay at KBB.
View future updates on North Shore surf competitions here
