The Banzai Pipeline, if you don't already know, has waves that break super close to the beach, which is really perfect for spectators, and so all the biggest surfing competitions are held here. In addition, Kaneohe is not glitzy Hollywood style Hawaii, but lovely and charming Hawaii. The locals are gentle and earnest, as opposed to "give me a nice tip" friendly. We stayed at a lovely homey little hotel, which made it easy to feel immediately at ease (see review of Paradise Bay Resort) and had an authentic Hawaiian experience for less money.