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Things to Do in North Shore Oahu

Things to Do in North Shore Oahu

North Shore Oahu Hawaii, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Choose activities that match your skill level and the season. Winter for big waves, summer for calm water.

Land-Based Activities

Hiking & Trekking

Waimea Valley Trail (Easy), Ehukai Pillbox Hike (Moderate), Kaena Point Trail (Moderate).

Cycling & Mountain Biking

Paved roads for road cycling. Mountain biking trails available at Turtle Bay Resort.

Adventure Sports

Skydiving near Dillingham Airfield. Helicopter tours (departing from Honolulu) offer aerial views.

Water Sports & Wildlife

  • Surfing: The main activity. Lessons available in Haleiwa or on smaller waves.
  • Snorkeling & Diving: Shark's Cove, Three Tables, Waimea Bay in summer. Guided dive tours from Haleiwa Harbor.
  • Stand-up Paddling (SUP) & Kayaking: On Anahulu River or Kawela Bay. Rental shops in Haleiwa.
  • Fishing: Shore fishing. Charter deep-sea tours from Haleiwa Harbor.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Whale watching (Dec-May), Dolphin/Turtle Tours from Haleiwa Harbor.

Swimming Safety

  • Safer during summer months at most North Shore beaches.
  • Waves are smaller then.
  • Always observe lifeguard flags and warnings.
  • Avoid swimming if waves are big.

Respect Wildlife

  • Maintain a respectful distance from marine animals.
  • (20 feet for turtles, 50 feet for monk seals).
  • Never touch or harass them.

Book Experiences

  • Discover and book experiences.
  • GetYourGuide for attraction and activity bookings.

Important Safety Note

Always observe lifeguard flags and warnings on beaches. Ocean conditions can change rapidly.

Cultural Immersion

Engage in cultural experiences that deepen your understanding of Hawaiian traditions.

Workshops & Performances

  • Hula Lessons: Introductory classes may be offered at resorts or cultural centers.
  • Lei Making: Occasional workshops on crafting beautiful garlands.
  • Polynesian Cultural Center: Hands-on activities like weaving, games, and canoe paddling.
  • Luau: Traditional Hawaiian feast with music, hula, and fire knife dancing at PCC or Turtle Bay.

Community & Language

Community Initiatives

Support local businesses, food trucks, and artisans directly. This sustains the local economy.

Language Learning

Learn a few Hawaiian phrases like "Aloha" (hello/goodbye/love) and "Mahalo" (thank you).

Cultural Festivals

Check local calendars for hula festivals or surf competitions, often featuring cultural components.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find tranquility and rejuvenate at Nalu Kinetic Spa (Turtle Bay Resort) or local massage/yoga studios.

Entertainment & Nightlife

The North Shore offers a very laid-back nightlife scene, with limited live music at Haleiwa or Turtle Bay bars. No nightclubs.

Shopping & Markets

Discover unique souvenirs, local art, and fresh produce at farmers' markets and Haleiwa galleries.

More on Activities

The North Shore offers a diverse range of activities for every traveler.

Wellness Activities

  • Spa and wellness center recommendations: Nalu Kinetic Spa at Turtle Bay Resort.
  • Smaller local massage therapists and yoga studios are available in Haleiwa.
  • Yoga and meditation: Some private yoga studios offer classes, look for beachfront sessions.
  • Beach and pool clubs: Turtle Bay Resort has multiple pools and beachfront access.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Live Music

Limited options. Some restaurants and bars (Haleiwa Beach House, Breakers Restaurant and Bar) or at Turtle Bay Resort may feature live music.

Nightclubs & Bars

No nightclubs operate. Nightlife is low-, centered around casual bars. No designated bar districts or pub crawls.

Late-Night Options

Generally very limited. The North Shore is quiet at night, with an emphasis on early mornings.

Shopping and Markets

Traditional Markets

Farmers' markets offer fresh produce and local crafts. Check local schedules.

Artisan Crafts

Art galleries in Haleiwa Town feature local artists, offering paintings, sculptures, and jewelry.

Luxury & Boutique

Haleiwa Town also features upscale boutiques selling clothing, swimwear, and home goods.

Souvenir & Ethical Shopping

Discover unique souvenirs and practice ethical shopping.

Souvenir Ideas

  • Surf-themed items: Apparel, boards, accessories from local surf shops.
  • Local art: Paintings, prints, sculptures reflecting Hawaiian landscapes and culture.
  • Handmade jewelry: Often featuring shells, puka beads, or local stones.
  • Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, pineapple-themed goods: Delicious and practical.
  • Ukuleles: Some North Shore shops may carry them.
  • Reef-safe sunscreen: A practical and responsible souvenir.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

Support Local

Support local artists, small businesses, and fair-trade products. Look for "Made in Hawaii" labels.

Avoid Exploitation

Avoid purchasing items made from endangered species or those that exploit natural resources.

Shipping & Customs

Be aware of customs regulations for your home country if shipping large items.

Haleiwa Town Shopping

Home to various boutiques selling clothing, swimwear, and home goods.

Unique Souvenirs

Find items reflecting Hawaiian culture and landscapes, from art to jewelry.

Additional Notes

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Planning Tip
  • Seek out experiences that align with your interests.
  • The North Shore offers something for every traveler.
  • From thrilling adventures to quiet moments of relaxation.

Final Advice

Ensure activities are suitable for your skill level and consider seasonal conditions.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor Adventures

  • Hiking trails for various skill levels.
  • World-class surfing and water sports.
  • Opportunities for marine wildlife viewing.
  • Cycling and mountain biking.

Cultural & Leisure

  • Cultural workshops and performances.
  • Relaxation and wellness activities.
  • Laid-back nightlife with limited live music.
  • Unique local shopping and markets.