My Favorite Things to Do on Oahu’s North Shore
Hawaii is home to some of the most famous waves in the world, and the north shore of Oahu is ground zero for surfing in Hawaii.
The legendary surf breaks from Haleiwa to Kahuku have created a “scene” that’s a world away from Honolulu, and whether you’ll be on island during a big surf competition, just want to see the locals catching a wave, or you’re going during the summer when it’s totally flat, you don’t want to miss seeing Oahu’s famed north shore.
Oahu sometimes gets a bad rap for being “just a big city,” but that’s usually because people never leave…the big city!
In my opinion, the North Shore is the best part of Oahu and 100% a place you need to spend time.
Most visitors come as a day trip while staying in Waikiki, but there’s plenty here to justify spending several days.
Haleiwa is the main town on the north shore and most visitors drive the area between Haleiwa and Kahuku (West to East) making stops in between.
So here’s the rundown on the best things to do on North Shore Oahu:
Things to Do North Shore Oahu
This post may contain some affiliate links, which means I’ll make a little money on anything you choose to purchase. But of course, I only recommend my absolute favorites to you. Thank you for supporting the brands that make HulaLand possible.
See Turtles at Laniakea Beach
A few miles from Haleiwa is Laniakea Beach, which is a great spot to see honu (green Hawaiian sea turtles).
There’s a bit of parking across the street, but this place gets really popular midafternoon (when you have the best chance of seeing turtles) so you’ll probably have to park along the road.
Plan to spend 20-30 minutes here admiring the turtles (but don’t get too close!).
Also, last time I was here, there were a ton of chickens!
Try the Shrimp Trucks
Oahu’s North Shore is famous for their shrimp trucks. Giovanni’s (with locations in Kahuku and Haleiwa) is the original and most popular.
But my personal favorite is Famous Kahuku Shrimp Truck in…Kahuku!
Soooo many places do a variety of the local garlic shrimp or “shrimp scampi” special and many have other options like spicy shrimp, coconut shrimp, etc.
Some other places known for their shrimp: Romys, Tanaka (formerly Fumi’s), Honos, and Jenny’s
Shop in Haleiwa Town
Haleiwa is probably one of the cutest towns in Hawaii. It’s picturesque, walkable, and full of cute shops and restaurants.
Most of the shops in Haleiwa don’t open until 10 AM, so plan to circle back later in the day if you’re getting an early start cruising around.
I especially love Guava Shop and Clark Little’s Gallery.
And don’t miss the cute signs on the way into and out of town!
Hike to Waimea Falls
If you’d like to see a waterfall, Waimea Falls is very accessible. The hike back into the valley is beautiful and an easy (less than a mile) stroll through the botanical gardens along a waved walkway.
There are also usually some cultural activities and educational workshops going on. $25 for adults and $15 for children. Closed on Mondays.
Get Acai Bowls at the Sunrise Shack
If you’re looking for the most “instagram famous” spot on Oahu’s North Shore, it’s the Sunrise Shack.
Famous for their acai bowls and charming, tropical aesthetic, this place is just a day dream.
The original shack is across from Sunset Beach, but I would go to the one across from Sharks Cove. There’s more parking, and they have more space so there are places to sit plus they have a slightly bigger menu.
I always get a bowl (they have a variety besides just acai), but their avocado toast is phenomenal as well.
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Cliff Jump at Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is one of the most famous beaches in Hawaii. It’s a gorgeous swimming and snorkeling (and rock jumping) spot in the summer, but it’s one of the biggest surfable waves in Hawaii in the winter.
It’s still a beautiful beach in the winter, but it’s not always swimmable. Be sure to listen to the lifeguards about when it’s safe to get in the water here.
Snorkeling at Sharks Cove
At Pupukea Beach Park, this protected cove is an excellent snorkeling spot in the summer.
The rocks make it protected from the open ocean, which means not only excellent swimming conditions but a natural “nursery” for some of the ocean’s smaller critters.
This is mostly a summer snorkeling spot (you definitely want to make sure conditions are safe before you get in!), but sometimes when there’s not much swell, it’s good in the winter too.
There are several food trucks across the street as well as snorkel rentals and lockers so this is a pretty accessible spot.
There’s limited parking so I suggest arriving early if you’re planning to snorkel.
Watch the Surfers at Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is the most famous beach on the north shore if not in the world. It’s golden sand, wide, and beautiful.
The Banzai Pipeline surf break is offshore along this stretch of beach.
Expect the area to be crowded in the winter as it’s one of Oahu’s best surf sites (and home to several of the big surf competitions).
Do the Ehukai Pillbox Hike
Oahu has a series of pillbox hikes (bunkers from WWII posted in various lookouts around the island) and while the Lanikai Pillbox is definitely the most famous one, I think the Ehukai Pillbox on the north shore is a close second.
It’s a quick 30 minute hike to the top, but you’ll get great views of Sunset Beach and the waves below.
A little note here…it’s a fairly steep climb to start, but there are ropes to help and it’s not terribly difficult…unless it’s been raining. It can get SUPER slick and I would not advise attempting it unless it’s dry (ask me how I know ; )
The trailhead is right by the Sunset Elementary School. There’s some parking inside the gates (by the park) right before you get to the school otherwise you’ll need to park across the street.
Go Diving with Sharks
Feeling adventurous? Start your day off swimming with sharks!
Several companies offer cage free dives with sharks. You’ll learn about the biology, physiology and behavior of sharks, how to safely interact with them and also current research efforts to help save these misunderstood animals.
Toa Luau at Waimea Valley
If you want a more authentic, off the beaten path luau, try the Toa Luau at Waimea Valley.
This luau has plenty of activities plus you’ll get to experience the beautiful Waimea Valley and waterfall. And one of my favorite parts is they have the options for an afternoon luau (12:30 PM start time) which is PERFECT if you have little kids (or you’re adjusting from a different time zone).
You can have the full luau experience, and be done by 4 PM and not have to drive back to Waikiki in the dark!
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Horseback Riding at Turtle Bay
They call North Shore “the country” so obviously there are going to be plenty of horses ; )
Book a horseback riding tour with the Stables at Turtle Bay. They’ll take you along the beach and through all the trails around Turtle Bay.
Hike around Turtle Bay
Even if you’re not interested in riding the horses, this is still such a great spot to visit. There are miles of hiking trails along the beach and through the forest leading to the hidden Kawela Bay (a great spot to find turtles in the afternoons).
If you’re staying at the resort, follow the signs towards the Stables and from there you can pick your trail along the beach or through the forest. There’s a pillbox on the point you can explore too.
If you’re not staying at the resort, there’s plenty of parking around the stables.
Kuilima Farm Tour
On Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings you can tour Kuilima Farm at Turtle Bay. The working farm provides high quality, fresh produce to the resorts restaurants and it’s a great place to learn about Hawaiian cultural traditions related to the land as well as native plants and farming practices.
Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center
There are plenty of different ticket packages you can buy to the PCC, but I recommend booking the Ali’i Luau Package.
It’s about $122/adult and includes admission to the six island villages (starting at noon), the dinner buffet and show plus seating at “Ha: Breath of Life.”
This is pretty much the basic package that includes the villages, dinner buffet, and the big luau show (Ha: Breath of Life).
From there you can do add ons that include things like a flower lei greeting, prime rib and crab leg options on the buffet, preferred seating, private tours around the villages, etc.
If you’re not interested in doing the luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center (there’s no alcohol offered and that is a factor for some), it is possible to just purchase general admission to the park (to explore the six island villages) for about $65/adult and $52/child. The villages are open from 12-6.
Get Shave Ice at Matsumoto
This family shop, in business since 1951, is probably the most iconic place to get shave ice in Hawaii.
Lines get long in the afternoons, but they move quickly. And it’s worth it to try this tasty treat with local toppings like ice cream, azuki beans, condensed milk, and mochi balls in addition to the ice and syrups.
Paniolo Luau
True to its country roots, the Ritz Carlton Turtle Bay just recently started hosting a Paniolo (Cowboy) Luau at the stables.
It’s a fun twist on a traditional luau, and besides all of the classic hula, this luau includes Paniolo inspired dances as well as a visit from the horses themselves. Plus some cowboy favorites added to the dinner menu.
I haven’t been able to try this one yet, but I visited the location on my most recent trip and after talking with some of the folks, it sounds like something that’s right up my alley.
Have Sunset Drinks at Turtle Bay
I saved my favorite thing for last! The newly renovated (and rebranded) Ritz Carlton Turtle Bay is STUNNING and the best part is how they’ve polished up the lobby area to be the coziest hang out spot with views everywhere you look.
The Off the Lip bar is spectacular and not to be missed. Plan to arrive well before sunset to snag one of the little tables or a spot at the bar and prepare to be dazzled.
The mai tais are stout (and well flavored). And all of the small bites are yummy, but be sure to save room for the turtle cheesecake.
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