Top 23 Best Things To Do On North Shore Oahu | 2024 ✅✅

Back in the early 2000s, Waikiki’s beaches were serene and perfect for a quiet stroll. Fast forward to our recent trip post-Covid, and it’s a different story – crowds everywhere. The exception? Our blissful days on the peaceful North Shore of Oahu, are reminiscent of the tranquil early 2000s.

Dive into the thrill of swimming with sharks off the Haleiwa coast! Catch a glimpse of Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on Laniakea Beach. Take a refreshing swim at the base of Waimea Falls and spice it up with some cliff jumping into Waimea Bay.

North Shore Oahu offers an array of amazing experiences!

Those two days on the North Shore were the highlight of our vacation!

For seasoned surfers, Oahu is a mecca, especially the legendary Banzai Pipeline’s massive waves. Not a surfer? No worries – watching the surfers from the beach is just as satisfying!

Join me for a virtual tour of Oahu’s North Shore!

Whether you’re up for thrilling adventures or simply lounging on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, the North Shore of Oahu promises stunning views and unforgettable moments.

Short on time? Jump straight into our list of the top 10 things to do on the North Shore of Oahu!

Oh, and if you’re planning your Oahu adventure, don’t forget to check our detailed guide to the best tours and excursions – all worth the splurge!a

North Shore Oahu

North Shore Oahu stretches from Kaena Point to Kahuku Point, covering a whopping 17 miles of coastline – a paradise for surfing, snorkeling, and diving!

If you’re chilling in Waikiki, it’s roughly an hour’s drive to most North Shore spots.

Oahu’s North Shore strategically keeps its distance, attracting only those seeking the specific delights it offers. It’s a haven for destination-focused tourists keen on savoring the unique charm of the North Shore.

North Shore Oahu Map

The map below of North Shore Oahu pinpoints the prime locations for the best things to do on the North Shore, as outlined in this comprehensive guide.

Directions to North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii

The easiest and most convenient way to reach the North Shore is by car, whether it’s a rental or a ride-share service like Uber or Lyft.

We opted for the coastal route, which is not only more scenic but also a breeze to navigate. Cruise along the east coast of Oahu on the H-3, Kahekili, and Kamehameha highways, treating yourself to views of Kaneohe Bay, Chinaman’s Hat, and the picturesque Kualoa Ranch.

Enjoy the scenic coastal route to the North Shore of Oahu, taking in sights like Kaneohe Bay, the majestic Koolua Mountains, and the distinctive silhouette of Chinaman’s Hat.

Taking the Bus to North Shore, Oahu, HI

When time is of the essence during your vacation, I wouldn’t suggest relying on the bus.

However, if budget-friendly travel is your game, the bus is a steal at $3.00 per ride or $7.50 for a day pass.

Hop on at the Ala Moana Center near Waikiki, and catch bus #52 or #55.

Day Trip to North Shore Oahu: Best 2024 Tours

If your time is limited, opting for a tour is your best bet, providing the convenience of a well-designed package along with transportation.

Check out these 5-star rated, immensely popular North Shore of Oahu tours:

During one of our initial visits to Oahu, we hopped on the Small Group North Shore Circle Island Tour, offering us a delightful taste of the North Shore.

We were fortunate to have an incredibly knowledgeable tour guide, a local islander, who generously shared some fascinating personal insights.

Best Things to Do on North Shore Oahu

Creating your North Shore Oahu bucket list? It’s a must to include the iconic Banzai Pipeline (especially in winter) and the exhilarating experience of cage diving with sharks!

For a family-friendly adventure with small kids, make sure to visit Waimea Valley Falls – a captivating destination that your kids will adore. Don’t miss out on the excitement at the Polynesian Cultural Center, and if your little ones are into snorkeling, the Pupukea tide pools are a great choice.

With teenage kids, the North Shore of Oahu opens up a world of fun possibilities: bike along the North Shore Bike Path, experience the thrill of ziplining, embark on hikes along the Kaena Point Trail and the Ehukai Pillbox Trail, snorkel at Shark’s Cove, and so much more.

For those seeking laid-back and free experiences on the North Shore, unwind on the beautiful Mokuleia Beach, savor a romantic sunset at Sunset Beach, and explore the charm of Haleiwa town along with its local art galleries.

If you’re a foodie, indulge in the must-try shrimp trucks and relish traditional Hawaiian treats like Poke bowls, acai bowls, and flavorful shave ice.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a family on vacation, or a food enthusiast, there’s a plethora of things to do on the North Shore of Oahu for everyone!

1. Surf the Banzai Pipeline on Oahu’s North Shore

Experience the awe-inspiring waves of the Banzai Pipeline at Ehukai Beach. Professional surfers from around the globe gather during winter for international tournaments. If you’re not a pro surfer, watching the action from the beach is pure joy – one of the best free things to do on the North Shore of Oahu!

2. Dive with Sharks (North Shore Oahu Must-Do!)

While surfing the Banzai Pipeline may not be for everyone, diving with sharks is an exhilarating option. Modern boats with polyglass and steel cages offer safe encounters with various shark species, including great whites. Head to Haleiwa Harbor for tours like North Shore Shark Adventures’ Oahu Shark Dive, a thrilling experience loved by families and teenagers!

Read Also: Limahuli Garden in Kauai, Hawaii

3. Swim in Waimea Valley Falls

For families with small kids, a visit to Waimea Falls is a must. The easy hike through a beautiful botanical garden leads to a 45-foot waterfall. The base forms a natural pool, providing a unique opportunity to legally swim at a waterfall in Oahu. Entrance fees apply, and lifeguards, changing rooms, and facilities are available.

4. Hike the Ehukai Pillbox Trail on North Shore Oahu

Embrace adventure with a hike along the Ehukai Pillbox Trail, one of the finest on the North Shore. This ridge hike to World War II pillboxes offers spectacular views of the ocean and coastline. During winter, it provides a panoramic view of the Banzai Pipeline. Evenings are perfect for enjoying breathtaking sunsets over Oahu’s North Shore.

5. Stroll through Waimea Valley Botanical Gardens (A Must-See!)

Nature enthusiasts will find bliss at the Waimea Valley Botanical Gardens, boasting 5000 plant varieties from around the world. Highlights include giant lily pads and ancient temples. Entrance fees apply, and the gardens offer a captivating blend of nature and history.

6. Enjoy Toa Luau: One of the Best Luaus on North Shore Oahu

Immerse yourself in Polynesian culture at Toa Luau, set amidst the beauty of Waimea Valley. This unique luau combines flame throwers, Polynesian culture, and a culinary experience. Multiple package options, including tours of Waimea Valley, make it a cultural delight for visitors.

7. Admire the Sunset on Sunset Beach, North Shore Oahu

For couples seeking romance, a stroll along Sunset Beach during sunset is a must. The North Shore boasts legendary sunsets, and Sunset Beach is the ideal spot to witness the breathtaking hues of an Oahu sunset. It offers a tranquil experience in the midst of nature’s beauty.

8. Zipline Over Oahu’s North Shore

Add an extra thrill to your North Shore adventure with ziplining. The longest ziplines on Oahu are found on the North Shore. Opt for a popular zipline tour that includes an ATV ride, rappels, sky bridges, and eight exhilarating ziplines. It’s an adventure suitable for both teenagers and adults!

9. Learn to Surf on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii

Capture the essence of North Shore’s surfing culture by learning to surf. The North Shore provides safe spots for beginners to pick up basic surfing skills. Join a surf lesson, suitable for families with teenage kids, and create lasting memories riding the waves.

10. Watch Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles on Laniakea Beach

For a close encounter with Hawaiian green sea turtles, head to Laniakea Beach. This beach is a hotspot for observing these magnificent creatures basking in the sun. It’s an educational and family-friendly outing to learn more about Hawaii’s iconic sea turtles.

Explore these captivating activities on the North Shore of Oahu for a well-rounded and unforgettable Hawaiian experience!

Read Also: Amazing Kauai Botanical Gardens You Have to Visit

11. Explore Charming Haleiwa

Haleiwa serves as the hub for your North Shore adventures. This charming coastal town offers not only convenience for equipment rental but also a chance to appreciate local art galleries and historic buildings dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s.

12. Immerse Yourself in Polynesian Culture on Oahu’s North Shore

Discover the intriguing history of Hawaii’s indigenous people at the Polynesian Cultural Center. This experiential center allows your kids to engage in activities like lei-making, hula dancing, and traditional spear throwing. Cap off your visit with the Alii Luau for a buffet and an incredible performance from over 100 artists.

13. Taste Garlic Shrimp from North Shore Oahu’s Food Trucks

Indulge in a local culinary delight – Hawaiian garlic shrimp! The North Shore is dotted with food trucks offering authentic, mouth-watering garlic shrimp. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, near Haleiwa, is a favorite, serving up spicy and flavorful garlic shrimp.

14. Snorkel Shark’s Cove, North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii

Escape the crowds at popular spots like Hanauma Bay and head to Shark’s Cove for exceptional snorkeling. This sheltered cove boasts crystal clear waters and abundant marine life. Despite the name, it’s more about the cove’s shape than actual sharks. Ideal for a serene snorkeling experience!

15. Learn About Hawaii’s Pineapple Industry: The Dole Plantation

Explore the journey of pineapples from a local fruit stand to a top attraction at the Dole Plantation. Besides enjoying Dole Whip, your kids can navigate the Pineapple Garden Maze – the world’s largest. The plantation offers tours through eight gardens showcasing various plants, making it a delightful family-friendly stop.

16. Browse Haleiwa Farms and Farmer’s Market

Discover the origins of  bizarre fruits like noni, papaya, and breadfruit at local farms near Haleiwa. The Haleiwa Farmer’s Market offers a taste of fresh pineapples and other local delights. It’s a chance to savor the true flavors of the North Shore and pick up some unique souvenirs like local fruit jam and coffee powder.

17. Indulge in Some Local Desserts on the North Shore of Oahu

Cool off with a classic Hawaiian treat – shave ice! Matsumoto’s Shave Ice is a local favorite, but you’ll find this refreshing delicacy at various spots across the North Shore. For a healthier option, try acai bowls adorned with nuts, fruits, and seeds, available throughout the area.

18. Go Cliff Jumping into Waimea Bay, North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii

For the adventurous souls, cliff jumping into Waimea Bay is a thrilling activity. The golden sandy beach coupled with rocky cliffs creates a picturesque setting for an adventurous swim. Capture the moment with a photo of your cliff jump for a memorable North Shore experience.

19. Sunbathe on Mokuleia Beach, North Shore, Hawaii

Achieve that envy-worthy tan by spending some leisure time sunbathing on Mokuleia Beach. Known for its seclusion and tranquility, this beach provides a peaceful escape. Whether you relax under an umbrella with a book or take a stroll along the sandy shore, Mokuleia Beach offers a serene North Shore retreat.

20. Hike Kaena Point

Escape to the westernmost tip of Oahu by embarking on the Kaena Point Trail. This easy, flat hike along the coast offers breathtaking views and opportunities to spot marine life like monk seals, spinner dolphins, and even humpback whales during winter. Consider a sunrise or sunset hike for a colorful and memorable experience!

21. Explore the Pupukea Tide Pools (near Shark’s Cove)

Discover the wonders of natural pools formed by volcanic rock at the Pupukea Tide Pools. Perfect for families with smaller kids, these tide pools offer a safe space to explore shallow ocean waters teeming with vibrant marine life. Keep an eye out for colorful sea urchins and the iconic humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa, Hawaii’s state fish!

22. Bike the Oahu North Shore Bike Path

Combine exercise with scenic views by biking along the North Shore Bike Path from Waimea Bay to Sunset Beach. Enjoy the stunning ocean vistas as you pedal with the family. Bike rentals are readily available, and for those preferring e-bikes, E-Bike Rentals can conveniently deliver and pick up e-bikes anywhere on the North Shore without a delivery fee.

23. Sample a Poke Bowl

Savor the delicious and healthy Hawaiian Poke bowl – a must-try on the North Shore! This guilt-free delight features marinated fish in a blend of sesame oil, soy sauce, green onions, and spices. While traditionally made with ahi tuna or octopus, contemporary versions often include salmon. Indulge in one of the best Poke bowls at various spots across the North Shore.

These diverse activities on the North Shore of Oahu cater to all tastes, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for every visitor!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the North Shore of Oahu stands as a diverse and captivating destination, offering a plethora of experiences for all types of travelers. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures like surfing the Banzai Pipeline or tranquil moments sunbathing on Mokuleia Beach, the North Shore provides a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty.

The unique charm of this region, with its charming towns like Haleiwa, cultural hotspots like the Polynesian Cultural Center, and culinary delights from garlic shrimp trucks to refreshing shave ice, ensures that every visitor can find something to cherish. From exploring tide pools with family to embarking on thrilling shark dives, the North Shore encapsulates the essence of Oahu’s diverse offerings, making it a must-visit destination for an unforgettable Hawaiian experience.