Things to Do North Shore Oahu – Top Beaches, Towns & Adventures

Why Visit the North Shore of Oahu?

Many people visit Hawaii and stay in Waikiki, which is full of other tourists and doesn’t exactly give you the Hawaiian experience.  Waikiki is fun for beachgoing, nightlife, and shopping, but tourists need to get outside of “town” as it is referred to by locals to experience a more authentic Hawaii. Exploring the north shore Oahu is a great way to immerse yourself in local culture.

I lived on the North Shore in Waialua for many years and can confirm that the vibe and pace of life here is very different.  There is a laid-back culture here.  Many locals are world-class surfers.  There is a lot of excellent hiking.  It is also a big yoga community, and you can usually find lots of yoga classes happening on any given day.   

The North Shore of Oahu experiences significant differences between summer and winter.  In the summer, many spots are great for snorkeling and scuba diving.  In the winter, huge waves roll onto the beaches, and they are not suitable for swimming but great for checking out surfing competitions.  

In this travel guide, I will discuss the best things to do on the North Shore Oahu from a (former) local’s perspective, as well as a few hidden gems that many visitors to the North Shore miss. 

North Shore Best Beaches on Oahu

Waimea Bay

Waimea Bay is a crescent-shaped natural bay located in Haleiwa on Oahu’s North Shore.  In the summer, it typically has clear, calm water that is suitable for swimming.  Waimea Rock, also called “jump rock,” is a large black rock approximately 20-30 feet high. In the summer, this is a popular spot for jumping.  

In the winter, Waimea Bay is famous for monstrous 30-foot waves.  The renowned surf competition “The Eddie” is held here.  The Eddie honors lifeguard Eddie Aikau, who lost his life while trying to paddle to shore after the Hokulea capsized south of Molokai.  The surf competition is held here only when surf heights reach a minimum of 20 feet.  Even when the surf is not up, it is not a suitable place to swim in the winter, especially for those visiting the islands and unsure of ocean conditions.    

There are many amenities here, including showers, restrooms, picnic tables, and lifeguards on duty.  There is a parking lot here, but it is small and fills up quickly.  The best times to get a spot here are early in the morning or later in the afternoon.  There is now paid overflow parking across the street at Waimea Valley, which is around $10.  

Waimea Bay, like much of the North Shore, is also a wonderful spot to stop and watch the sunset.   

Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach is famous for its nearly 2-mile stretch of sand.  Like its name suggests, it is also a fantastic place to sit and watch the sunset at any time of year.  The beach can be crowded near the parking area, but generally less crowded if you walk further away from the entrance.

In the winter, Sunset Beach is host to the Van’s World Cup of Surfing.  Other times, it is possible to sit and watch local surfers catching waves here during the winter months.  Like other North Shore beaches, it is too dangerous for swimmers in the winter months.

In the summer, Sunset Beach is generally calmer and suitable for swimming.  The large stretch of sand is also good for setting up for the day for sunbathing, and relaxing.  The North Shore bike path also passes along the beach.  

Facilities here include lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.  There is parking, which is right along the street and can be hard to find at popular times.  Also, across the street, there are food options.  Ted’s Bakery is famous for its chocolate haupia pie.  They also have plate lunches.  There are sometimes other food trucks here as well.  

Banzai Pipeline (Ehukai Beach)

Banzai Pipeline, or “Pipe,” is right next to Sunset Beach.  Pipeline is actually the name of the surf break.  Ehukai Beach Park is the beach where it is located.  The winter surf competition here is the Billabong Pipe Masters.  

The surfing spot here is one of the most popular and iconic spots for surfers around the world.  The reef break helps form hollow barrels that you see in iconic surf footage.  

Again, the ocean is much calmer here in the summer months and is suitable for swimming.  In the winter, this spot is for experts only, but is fun to watch from the shore.

There is a small parking lot here that fills up quickly.  Amenities include picnic tables, restrooms, showers, and lifeguards.  

Shark’s Cove

Shark’s Cove is home to Pupukea’s Marine Life Conservation District.  These rocky tidal pools are excellent for snorkeling and scuba diving in the summer months.  To the left of the cove is Three Tables Beach.  Shark’s Cove is more rocky, and it can be sharp, so water shoes are a must.  In the winter, ocean conditions mean walking on these rocks can be extremely dangerous.  Look out for signs and follow the guidance of lifeguards.  

Across the street from Shark’s Cove, there are many food trucks.  There are options from acai bowls to pizza to shrimp.  It is also very close to the Foodland Pupukea, which also has a Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf shop.  

Haleiwa Ali’i Beach Park

Haleiwa Ali’i Beach Park is a large beach with a park featuring picnic tables and plenty of shade. There is a large parking lot and street parking available. It is the first beach you are going to hit right after driving through Haleiwa town.

In addition to free parking, Haleiwa Ali’i Beach has restrooms, showers, and lifeguards on duty. There can be large waves here in the winter, but there are a lot of beginners taking lessons here as well, so it tends to be less dangerous than more exposed North Shore surf spots.

If you walk to the left of the beach, past the Jodo Mission, where the condos are, there is another stretch of sand referred to as Haleiwa Beach. Many turtles rest there during the day, and it tends to be a nice spot for swimming and snorkeling most of the time.

Top Attractions and Activities

Waimea Valley & Falls

Waimea Valley has an easy paved route that is a more accessible option for hiking.  The casual walk through the botanical gardens and historical sites up to the waterfall is 3/4 of a mile one-way or 1 1/2 miles round trip.  There are also options for booking transportation on electric shuttles for those who cannot walk that far.  Adult admission is $25 for the day.  Admission for children (ages 4-12) is $15. 

Swimming in the waterfall here is allowed but depends on the daily conditions.  There are also cultural sites here to explore and learn more about Hawaiian history.  Resident artisans also work here and give presentations and lessons.  

There is also a snack bar, coffee shop, and gift shop here.  Lifeguards are on duty at the waterfall as well. 

Haleiwa Town

Haleiwa Town has had a lot of new development in the past ten years or so.  It can get busy at times, especially when tour buses roll into town.  There are quite a few new shops, restaurants, and galleries to browse, along with some old favorites.

North Shore Marketplace is the oldest shopping area in town.  It has some old favorites like Raging Isle Surf Shop, North Shore Boardriders, and Aloha General Store.  For food choices, Kono’s, The Coffee Gallery, and Cholo’s Homestyle Mexican are all in this plaza.  There is a big parking lot here, along with public restrooms.  

The Haleiwa Store Lots are a newer development on the other side of the street.  There is parking here as well, but it is a popular spot for tour buses, so sometimes it is tricky to find spaces.  There are some nice boutiques here, like Guava Shop, Splash! Hawaii, and Mahina.  Island Vintage Coffee, Uncle Bo’s Matsumoto’s Shave Ice, and Teddy’s Bigger Burgers are some of the food stops.  There is also a large courtyard where there are sometimes performances.  

Turtle Beach (Laniakea Beach)

Laniakea Beach, sometimes referred to as Turtle Beach, is a popular stop on the North Shore for viewing Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu).  I actually do not recommend stopping here.  This area is frequently backed up with traffic.   Despite the installation of a few crosswalks, the constant back and forth of people walking across the highway is a real traffic problem.

I know people want to see turtles, but I think you can see them everywhere – I have personally seen turtles on almost every North Shore beach.  Laniakea is a very small beach that people often go to, take some pictures of the turtles, and leave.  I don’t think it is worth the stop. 

If you do go, use the crosswalks and respect the wildlife here.  There are usually volunteers here ensuring that people keep a safe distance from the turtles.  

Kayaking or Paddleboarding at Anahulu River

The great thing about the Anahulu River is that it is often calm even when the surf is up.  That makes it a great spot for paddling in a paddleboard or kayak, even for beginners.  There are rental spots you can go to right along the river, like Surf N Sea. 

Paddling along the river is one of the top things you can do in the North Shore.  It is also a great alternative to stopping at Turtle Beach because turtles frequently swim here and bob their heads out of the water while you paddle by them. 

Hike Oahu North Shore

Ehukai Pillbox Hike

Ehukai Pillbox Hike is a short, moderate hike to two WWII-era pillboxes.  The hike is approximately 1.4 miles round-trip with a 700-foot elevation gain.  It takes most people 1.5 to 2 hours to hike with stops at the top to enjoy the view.

The Ehukai Pillbox hike begins at Sunset Beach Neighborhood Park, where there is a small parking lot.  There is a large sign with a visible trail through the trees where you begin the hike.  Once you go through the path and arrive at the elevation, there are ropes to help with some of the steeper parts.  It is more of an issue after it rains, as it can get muddy and slippery here.  There are also some makeshift stairs in parts.  Once you get to the first clearing, there is a picnic table where you can stop and catch your breath.

Continuing on relatively flat terrain, you arrive at the first pillbox.  This has a nice view but is somewhat obstructed due to trees.  If you continue past this pillbox downhill, you arrive at the “peace sign” pillbox with a much more wide open view of the entire North Shore.       

Kaena Point

Kaena Point is accessible from both the west side and the North Shore.  I believe the North Shore route is slightly shorter at 2.5 miles (one way).  The trail begins at the end of the paved road, about 1 mile past Camp Erdman.  There is a parking lot here, but four-wheelers may continue on the trail.  

Kaena Point is a relatively flat hike that reaches all the way to the northwest tip of Oahu.  That said, it can be sunny, hot, and windy.  At the end of the trail, there is a seabird nesting area.  This part will be roped off, so please stay on the designated paths.  You may also see seals and turtles here napping on the rocks.  It is quite a pristine area here.  The development of the island seems so far away, as you are surrounded by nature and wildlife here.    

Kealia Trail

Kealia Trail begins at Dillingham Airfield in Waialua.  This is a moderate trail with 19 switchbacks that give amazing views once you reach a higher elevation.  It is about 3 miles round-trip with a 1000-foot elevation gain.  

The entry to the hike is the last gate at Dillingham Airfield, the same spot where the skydiver’s entrance is.  You drive across the runway and around the back to the parking area to begin the hike.  There is a short service road where the hike begins, and signs at the trailhead.  Around the midpoint of the trail, you start to see some views of the North Shore.  Continuing up to the top, you arrive at a shelter where you can stop and catch your breath or have a snack. 

This trail connects at the top with some others and can be turned into a much longer hike if you desire.  I did that once or twice to see some great views of the valley, but it is quite long and challenging, especially remembering that you have to climb back down the switchbacks at the end.  

Best North Shore Food Spots

The Coffee Gallery

The Coffee Gallery is a North Shore institution.  They not only have coffee and specialty drinks but also a nice selection of pastries.  They always have some vegan options in the case as well.  Inside, they also have some souvenir coffee mugs and other souvenirs.  I would recommend getting your coffee and pastry and sitting outside in the back zen garden, where there are shaded tables.  

Farm to Barn Cafe

Farm to Barn Cafe is a healthy option with breakfast and lunch.  They have some nice vegan and vegetarian options here, including a veggie burrito and Buddha bowl.  They had some trouble lately with some permitting and are temporarily closed (as of September 2025), but are planning to reopen.  

Haleiwa Bowls

Haleiwa Bowls is the original North Shore acai spot.  It is more of a shack located right by the rainbow bridge in Haleiwa.  They have benches now for a small outdoor seating area, or you can take your acai bowl to a nearby beach.  Also their cold brew coffee is pretty amazing – smooth and not bitter at all like some cold brews are.  

Haleiwa Joe’s

Haleiwa Joe’s is a sit-down restaurant and bar right on the water.  They have a nice outdoor eating area that is a perfect spot to take in the views.  They are known for their seafood and have limited vegetarian options.  For lunch, I have been happy with the pupus and salads, but I am not sure there are any vegetarian options for dinner.  

Waialua Bakery & Juice Bar

This is a family-owned spot known for its sandwiches and juices.  They have a great variety of vegan and gluten-free options.  They also have a nice selection of homemade cookies.  Take some with you for your island tour.  

Cholo’s Homestyle Mexican

Cholo’s is a great spot for happy hour or dinner.  There is not much Mexican food on Oahu, so this one hits the spot.  The inside is festive and colorful, and there are also a small number of tables outside.  The staff here is always really friendly as well.  

Haleiwa Food Truck Park

The Food truck park is located just past the rotary entrance to Haleiwa town.  There is a dedicated parking lot here that costs $2 to park in.  There are usually a bunch of different food trucks here that offer everything from smoothies to crepes to shrimp and poke bowls.  Many food trucks also park along the beaches along the North Shore, especially during surf competitions.  

Unique Things to Do on the North Shore

Waialua Sugar Mill

Waialua once had one of the largest sugar plantations in Hawaii.  It has now been converted into shops and businesses.  There is a farmer’s market here every Saturday that offers local produce and goods.  

Island X Hawaii offers tours of the coffee and cocoa plant production.  They also offer samples of their coffee and chocolate products.  Some of the coffee blends here are out of this world.  They also have a lot of souvenirs here.  The coconut peanut butter is always a hit.  They are also known for their natural shave ice flavors that you can order at a counter here.   

Puʻu o Mahuka Heiau

The Puʻu o Mahuka Heiau is Oahu’s largest ancient temple ruins and is now a state historic site.  There is so much Hawaiian history and culture on the islands, and this is no exception. 

This site is believed to have been built in the 1600s. It is a series of 3 walled enclosures.  The heiau overlooks Waimea Bay 300 feet above the sea.  After Kamehameha I conquered Oahu, his high priest led ceremonies here.  

There are some trails and scenic viewpoints here.  The heiau should be observed from outside the walls to avoid damage to this significant historical place.    

Where to Stay on the North Shore

Turtle Bay Resort

Turtle Bay is the only hotel on Oahu’s North Shore. They were acquired by Ritz Ritz-Carlton back in 2024. There are standard hotel rooms along with suites and villas. Some of the condos are privately owned and rented out on vacation rental sites as well. There is a small beach here, along with three different pools. Also, be sure to stop at the Sunset Bar for happy hour. It is an excellent spot for watching the surfers at sunset.

Legal Vacation Rentals

Residents here have worked hard to keep development at bay to avoid turning the country into “town”, as Honolulu is sometimes referred.  There may be vacation rentals listed that are not legal.  I would encourage all visitors to do their due diligence to ensure they are renting from a legal rental.  This article shows you how to check if your vacation rental is legal.  If you look at sites such as Airbnb the rental listing should show a registration number.     

Tips for Visiting the North Shore

When the surf is up, traffic on the North Shore can be extremely heavy.  If it is a weekend, locals will be heading to surf from other areas of the island as well.  Kamehameha Highway is one lane in each direction for much of the North Shore.  There are often curiosity delays, turtle traffic, and other slowdowns.  It is better to go early and try to beat a lot of tour bus traffic.  

There are also a lot of surf competitions, especially in November and December.  These happen at different surf spots along the North Shore.  On these days, traffic can come to a standstill at times.  Parking is always a challenge, but it will be even more so if competitions are happening.  The Eddie, which only happens rarely, creates a huge traffic jam.

Final Thoughts on Exploring Oahu’s North Shore

The North Shore of Oahu offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and laid-back Hawaiian culture. From world-famous surf spots like Waimea Bay and Banzai Pipeline to hidden gems like Shark’s Cove, there’s no shortage of stunning beaches to explore. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy trails like Ehukai Pillbox and Kaena Point, while history buffs will appreciate sites like Pu’u o Mahuka Heiau.

The food scene is laid back and healthy, from local favorites like The Coffee Gallery and Haleiwa Bowls to unique food truck experiences. For those seeking adventure, activities like kayaking on the Anahulu River or watching pro surfers tackle massive waves provide unforgettable experiences. 

Remember to plan your visit considering seasonal changes, especially the winter surf conditions, and be ready for possible traffic during busy times. By respecting the local environment and culture, you’ll be able to fully experience the authentic Hawaiian atmosphere that the North Shore uniquely provides. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, the North Shore of Oahu offers a variety of experiences that will leave you with memorable moments of this tropical paradise.