Oahu's North Shore has long been a favorite spot of big wave surfers. During the winter, waves reach mammoth proportions. Though a few amateur adrenaline junkies and local experts test their skills against the North Shore's swells, most of the surfers who ride these waves during the winter months are pros.

From November to March, the world's best come to the so-called Banzai Pipeline for a series of high profile professional contests. You probably aren't going to ride Oahu's giant waves anyway. But why not watch the pros do it? Big wave surfing is one of those ?man versus nature? spectacles that are so compelling. In addition, the scene surrounding pro surf contests can be quite enjoyable. There are parties and events. And nowhere else will you find a better example of Hawaii's beach culture.

The downside of these events: they do not run on a tight schedule. Surfing begins when the organizers deem the conditions to be optimal. A contest will run for seven or eight days, but surfing will only take place on three or four of those days. So being a fan of pro surfing takes a bit of patience and a beach bum's laid-back attitude.

The biggest North Shore event of the year is the Triple Crown. It runs from early November all the way until December 20th. There are three men's and three women's events featuring the world's best pros. Of these events, the most well known is the Pipeline Masters, which runs from December 8th to 20th. For most surfers, it is the last and most important event of the year. Spectators have to call a hotline or check the organizer's web site to find out which days the tournament will be held on. Final decisions are often made the day before or the morning of. Like I said before, this is not a sport for those on a tight schedule.