15 Can’t-Miss Stops on a Day Trip to Oahu’s Iconic North Shore
If Honolulu is all you’ve seen of the island of Oahu so far, you’re missing out. As Waikiki residents, escaping city life to the North Shore is one of our favorite things to do.
A day trip to Oahu’s North Shore is almost like visiting an entirely different Hawaiian island. It’s the perfect break from Waikiki’s high energy and a chance to connect with a different, more laid-back side of Oahu.
Known for its massive winter waves, laid-back vibe, and iconic surf culture, the North Shore is a unique blend of natural beauty and local charm you won’t find in bustling Waikiki. On a day trip, you can experience some of Oahu’s most famous beaches, snack on local treats, and get a taste of authentic island life.
The North Shore experience varies quite a bit depending on whether you go in winter or summer.
In the winter, Oahu’s Northern Shore is a surfer’s paradise with 30-foot waves and surfing competitions. Yet in the summer, it’s a tranquil snorkeler’s haven with beautiful calm beaches for swimming.
Spending a day on the North Shore is a must when you visit Oahu, that’s why it easily makes my list of the 7 Best Things to Do on Oahu.
But before we get to all the best things to see and do, let’s cover a few basics.
What’s the best day of the week for the North Shore?
We generally avoid the weekends since many Oahu residents “kamaaina” like to head up that way on the weekends.
So if you have your pick of days during your vacation, I’d avoid the weekends.
And if you’re visiting between September and May, avoid Mondays if Waimea Falls is important to you (they’re closed on Mondays). Any other day of the week is fair game!
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice. All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
Book a tour or drive yourself?
You could go either way on this one.
If you’re short on time and you want to see a lot, a guided tour is a great way to do it. The biggest downside of self-driving is that parking along the North Shore is a challenge.
If you do decide to book a guided tour, these are the best three options:
- Tour of North Shore & Waimea Waterfall
- Grand Circle Island and Haleiwa 9 Hour Tour
- Oahu Island Experience featuring the North Shore (Small Group Tour)
But this is totally a day trip you can do on your own with a rental car. Tip: Check Discount Hawaii Car Rental for the best deals.
Discount Hawaii Car Rental
For rental cars in Hawaii, go to the local experts. They’ll find you the best rate among all the major companies with no booking fees. And their customer support is top-notch.
If you do decide to drive yourself, I would highly recommend downloading the Shaka Guide app.
We use it all over the Hawaiian islands but their North Shore tour is top-notch. It even tells you when to turn and where to park as you drive which is a huge help!
The Shaka Guide App
If you’re a DIY kind of traveler like I am, this is the perfect app to download for your Hawaii vacation. These GPS-guided audio tours are fun, easy to follow, and a super affordable way to explore the islands. I bought the whole Hawaii package when we moved here but you can also purchase individual tours.
One more bit of advice, before you head out, decide which stops are most important to you.
For example, if you want to do it all at the Dole Plantation, you could spend half the day there. If you want to do the Waimea Valley botanical garden hike to Waimea Falls, you’ll need at least an hour for this, longer if you want to swim.
Ditto if you want to actually snorkel at Shark’s Cove, it could take an hour just to find a parking space! So decide which stops you’ll prioritize and which will be quick pass-bys.
A few more driving tips from Waikiki:
- Start early: Traffic heading north any day of the week is generally awful. Just ask my husband who commutes to work from Waikiki every day! If you’re hoping to catch the morning light or beat the crowds, aim to leave Waikiki no later than 8 a.m.
- Map your stops: Cell reception can be spotty in certain areas, so download offline maps and jot down the main stops. This will help you plan your day and avoid missing key spots.
- Fuel up before you go: Gas stations are sparse on the North Shore so top off your tank before heading out.
- Parking: Popular stops like Waimea Bay, Shark’s Cove, and Laniakea Beach have limited parking, so be prepared to look for roadside spots or wait for a space. Look carefully for signage to avoid parking tickets.
15 Fun Stops Along Oahu’s North Shore
Ok, let’s get to it!
Assuming you’re departing from Waikiki or the Ko Olina resort area and heading north, these stops are in order traveling clockwise around the island.
Open: 7:00am – 5:00pm Daily
Hawaii is well-known for amazing coffee and the first stop on your way to the North Shore is the perfect opportunity to sample it.
Green World Coffee Farm offers a peek into Oahu’s coffee-growing scene. Sample locally grown coffee varieties and get a look behind the scenes at the roasting process.
Green World is the perfect spot for grabbing an aromatic cup of Hawaiian coffee to kickstart your North Shore adventure.
Bonus: They’re open earlier than anything else on the North Shore so if you get a really early start, it’s a great place to kill some time until Dole opens. They also have lovely restrooms and you’ll probably need one by the time you get out of that Honolulu traffic!
2. Dole Plantation
Open: 9:30am – 5:30pm
Now that you’re properly caffeinated, start your day with a classic North Shore experience at the Dole Plantation. Sure, it’s kind of kitschy, but it’s good clean family fun. Learn about Hawaii’s pineapple history, get lost in the world’s largest outdoor maze, and enjoy a fresh Dole Whip (I don’t know why, but they just taste better here).
Be sure to board the Pineapple Express Train for a ride through lush landscapes and a glimpse into the island’s pineapple-growing history. By far, the best time to get here is right when they open. By 10:00am, tour buses start to arrive and the line for the train ride grows.
I adore the gift shop here, they have lots of fun and unique souvenirs. Oh, and don’t make the mistake of driving right past the very cool rainbow eucalyptus trees in the parking lot!
Read More: 5 Pineapple-Perfect Things to Do at Oahu’s Dole Plantation
3. Haleiwa Town
Oahu’s charming surf town blends historic Hawaiian vibes with modern, boho style. Haleiwa’s local art galleries, surf shops, and boutique stores. It’s one of the best places on the island to avoid chain stores and shop local.
This sleepy surfing town wakes up around 10:00am so don’t expect much to be open if you arrive before then. Grab some famous Matsumoto Shave Ice (see #4) or explore the local food trucks for fresh, flavorful bites.
The food truck scene in Haleiwa is legendary and trucks like Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck are an institution. Just look for the white truck covered in signatures from visitors worldwide.
My favorite truck in Haleiwa is Jenny’s Shrimp Truck (read on for more of my favorites down the road in Kahuku!).
Food truck hours vary widely but most are open from 10:00am til at least 4:00pm each day.
4. Matsumoto Shave Ice
Open: 10:00am – 6:00pm Daily
Cool down with Hawaii’s most iconic treat. Matsumoto’s has been serving up shave ice for decades, with flavors ranging from classic strawberry to unique island favorites like lilikoi and pineapple. Tip: Add ice cream and sweet azuki beans for an extra treat.
Don’t miss Matsumoto Shave Ice, a North Shore tradition since 1951. Trust me, their shave ice isn’t your typical snow cone – it’s pillowy soft and topped with sweet adzuki beans and condensed milk if you want it “local style.”
On hot days (which is pretty much every day), you’ll spot the line stretching down the street, but it moves quickly.
5. Little Plumeria Farms
Open: April to October for pre-booked tours.
Located just past Haleiwa, this family-run plumeria farm has been in business on the North Shore since the 70’s but just started offering tours in 2023. This one requires a little planning as you need to book a tour in advance on the Little Plumeria Farms website.
I booked this tour one Saturday over the summer because I thought it sounded like fun. My husband wasn’t as interested in a “flower farm tour” but ended up loving it! He had as much fun as I did learning about all the different plumeria varieties and soaking in the heavenly aromas and ocean views.
Sadly they only offer tours from the beginning of April to the end of October so the 2024 season is now done. But if you’re planning a visit to Oahu next spring or summer, add this tour to your list and plan the rest of your North Shore stops around it.
6. Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach)
A short drive from Haleiwa, Laniakea Beach is famous for the green sea turtles (honu) that often sunbathe here. If you’re lucky enough to spot them, be sure to watch these beautiful creatures from a respectful distance (at least 10′ by law). Volunteers are on hand to offer turtle info and answer questions (and make sure you keep your distance).
Due to the timing, we often arrive here around 10:00am and rarely have any luck spotting turtles. The best time to visit is during midday when the sun is bright and it’s easier to spot turtles lounging on the shore or feeding in the shallow waters.
I generally have way better luck at my favorite Waikiki turtle spot (which can be found in my One-Week Oahu Itinerary post).
7. Waimea Valley
Open: 9:00am – 4:00pm Daily (Note: Closed on Mondays from September to May)
Walk through this lush botanical garden filled with native Hawaiian plants, ancient cultural sites, and a scenic waterfall. At the end of the trail, you can take a swim under the falls (life vests provided). It’s a great family-friendly activity, offering history and adventure rolled into one.
The Waimea Valley Trail is one of my favorite spots to take visitors. It’s a gentle, paved path that winds through botanical gardens filled with native Hawaiian plants. You’ll pass ancient cultural sites before reaching the stunning Waimea Falls.
This is another one you’ll want to get to earlier rather than later as the parking lot often fills up.
For an unforgettable evening, stick around for the fabulous Toa Luau at Waimea Valley. Unlike some of the bigger commercial luaus, this intimate gathering gives you a genuine taste of Polynesian culture.
Read More: Hiking Waimea Falls: Oahu’s Easiest Waterfall Hike
8. Waimea Bay
Known for its clear waters and dramatic waves, Waimea Bay is a surfer’s paradise in winter and a calm swimming haven in summer. Adventurous visitors can also jump off the famous Waimea rock (conditions permitting).
Waimea Bay is one of the most iconic beaches on the North Shore and definitely one of the best beaches on Oahu.
Swimming here is not a good idea in the winter. But in the summer months, it transforms into a serene getaway, perfect for families and relaxing in calm waters.
9. Shark’s Cove
Don’t let the name fool you, there are no actual sharks here (whew!). If you’re into sharks, scroll down to #15 on this list!
One of the best snorkeling spots on the island, Shark’s Cove is a rocky cove with plenty of colorful fish and even the occasional sea turtle. The water is typically calm in summer, making it ideal for beginners. Tip: Wear water shoes, as the rocks can be sharp.
It’s one of my favorite spots during the summer months when the water’s calm. The crystal-clear waters are a haven for an array of marine life.
The cove’s protective barrier creates calmer waters, so it’s a safe environment for those new to snorkeling. For advanced snorkelers, the deeper parts of the cove offer a chance to explore more challenging and rewarding underwater landscapes.
If you’re visiting in the winter, skip this one. But in the summer, it’s one of the best free things to do on Oahu. In fact, it was the highlight of my niece and nephew’s visit last summer.
Just remember to check the conditions before heading out – as we always say here in Hawaii “when in doubt, don’t go out.”
10. Ehukai Beach (Banzai Pipeline)
Wintertime visitors can catch professional surfers taking on some of the biggest waves in the world here. It’s thrilling to watch, but the beach can be dangerous for swimming during big swells.
Even if you’re not a surfer, Pipeline is worth a stop to experience the North Shore’s legendary surf culture.
During winter months (November to April), you’ll witness professional surfers tackling massive waves at iconic spots like Pipeline, Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach. Give the ocean a wide berth this time of the year, it’s best to observe posted signs and enjoy those big waves from a safe distance on shore.
11. Ehukai Pillbox Hike
This short but scenic hike takes you up to panoramic views of the North Shore. Along the way, you’ll pass graffiti-covered pillboxes (old military bunkers) that offer unique photo ops. It’s a popular morning hike that allows you to take in the coastline from above.
For more experienced hikers, the Ehukai Pillbox Trail will get your heart pumping. The trail is challenging, yet manageable. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear (no flip flops!) due to the uneven terrain and some steep inclines.
It’s a rewarding experience once you reach the pillboxes, where the entire North Shore stretches out beneath you.
Tip: If you like this Pillbox Hike, you’ll also love the brilliant Lanikai Pillbox Hike!
12. Sunset Beach
As the name suggests, this beach is an incredible spot to catch a sunset – and some of the best waves. Sunset Beach is famous for its winter surfing competitions and summer snorkeling opportunities. Pack a picnic and enjoy the views as the day winds down.
Tip: Just past Sunset Beach, don’t miss a quick stop at Ted’s Bakery for the best chocolate haupia cream pie on Oahu. This fusion of rich chocolate and creamy coconut pudding is a must on any visit to the North Shore.
13. Kuilima Cove (Turtle Bay Resort)
This peaceful spot at the spectacular Ritz Carlton Oahu Turtle Bay Resort is ideal for a relaxing swim or easy snorkeling, especially if you’re traveling with kids. The protected cove has calm waters and nearby facilities for a laid-back afternoon.
Enjoy a bite at one of the resort’s beachfront restaurants before heading back.
14. Kahuku Farms & Food Trucks
End the day with some locally grown flavors at Kahuku Farms. They offer farm-to-table treats like smoothies, acai bowls, and fresh salads. You can also take a farm tour to learn about sustainable farming practices in Hawaii, giving a new appreciation for the island’s agriculture.
But the main reason most visitors come to Kahuku is for the food. The North Shore is a foodie paradise with an eclectic array of food trucks and Kahuku is ground zero. These mobile eateries have morphed into one of Oahu’s signature culinary experiences.
The are several terrific fruit stands and food trucks to try in Kahuku.
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck is probably the most famous spot (two locations – one in Haleiwa and the other in Kahuku). The garlicky shrimp scampi is their signature dish.
But our favorite truck is Da Bald Guy (try the delicious Kalbi Beef or the Garlic Butter Shrimp). Just be aware that some of the trucks at Kahuku close mid-afternoon. For example, Da Bald Guy closes at 2pm but often sells out of popular dishes well before closing time.
So watch your time and try to get to the food trucks no later than 1pm!
15. Swim With Sharks
If you’re looking for a real adventure on Oahu’s North Shore, it’s hard to beat this popular 2-hour Swim With Sharks (Cage-Free).
I freely admit I have NOT done this tour. I’ve already gone swimming with sharks on purpose twice in my travels (in the Galapagos Islands and in Mexico) and I feel like that’s good enough for one lifetime.
But I know several people who have done this tour and said it was one of the most incredible experiences of their lives.
Wrapping up your day on the North Shore
Pro Tip: Return to Waikiki via the Scenic H3 Highway.
When it’s time to end your day on the North Shore of Oahu, do yourself a favor and take Oahu’s most beautiful highway, the H3.
A marvel of engineering cutting through the heart of Oahu, the H3 is my favorite road on the island for panoramic views. From emerald mountains to lush valleys, it’s the most scenic way to finish your day.
Along the way from Kahuku to the H3, you’ll also pass the Polynesian Cultural Center and Kualoa Ranch – both well worth a visit if there’s any time left in your day!
From the thunderous waves of Pipeline to the serene trails of Waimea Valley, this 7-mile stretch of paradise captures the true essence of Hawaii. So don’t limit your Oahu visit to just Honolulu.
Whether you book a tour or drive yourself, get out and explore the beauty of Oahu with a day trip to the North Shore.