Hale'iwa is a historic surf town that is the cultural hub of the North Shore, roughly one-hour from Waikiki. Hale'iwa is filled with local style and country ambiance, as well as surf shops, restaurants and art galleries. Rich with island history, Hale'iwa is now the social and artistic hub of the North Shore. Here you’ll find surfers fueling up on shrimp or other delicacies at one of the town’s abundant food trucks before hitting the famous beaches of Waimea Bay, Ehukai (Banzai Pipeline) and Sunset Beach. You’ll also find locals and visitors winding down with a shaved ice after a day in the sun or shopping at boutiques filled with unique gifts that will allow you to bring back a piece of Hawaii with you. Hale'iwa is a far cry from the excitement of Waikiki, and that’s exactly how the people of the North Shore like it.
Quaint, casual stop for surf 'n' turf, pupu platters, colorful cocktails & a terrace with a view.
Cozy shop serving artisanal hand-roasted coffee from Hawaii & beyond, plus a bakery & art exhibits. Free WiFi and working space in back porch.
This trail is not treacherous! Ocean views all the way up, will take just under an hour at a steady pace.
Mokuleia Beach Park is a great beach for relaxing and watching kite surfers or sky divers and gliders which take off from across the street at the small airport. Mostly locals, parking is on the side of road and you must walk back through the trees following the trail.
Explore the crystal clear waters and wildlife the North Shore is famous for. That way, you’ll get to know the Haleiwa coastline firsthand by getting out on the water. Pick up a kayak or stand up paddle board (SUP) rental at nearby Sea & Board Sports Hawaii rental shop or reserve a kayak rental at T’sue’s Farm Dock and head out to the water to explore at your own pace. You can even get up close and paddle under the famous historic Haleiwa Bridge – an excellent opportunity for photographs. Best part? No previous experience necessary and it’s a great way to get in a little workout while enjoying the sites of Oahu. Insider tip: Be on the lookout for wild peacocks and green sea turtles along the shoreline. Visitors in the past have spotted fish, turtles, dolphins, and even whales while in season.
Iconic surf spot known for epic waves and an entertaining show. People gather here to watch the pros prepare for the Vans Triple Crown (the largest and longest running surf competition, October-April). Coming at 2 miles long, this beach is part of the longest stretch of surf-worthy spots in the world!
Coffee grower's cafe & espresso bar with retail space selling whole beans & Hawaiian specialties.
Established, graffiti-decorated pit stop for a variety of shrimp plates & a garlic hot dog option.
Hawaiian street eats, like fish bowls & plate lunches, on offer from this easygoing food truck.
Lanikai beach is one of our favorite beaches, great surrounding town with cafes, bars and shopping.
Waimea Bay is very historical and known to be one of the first places where people ventured out in the 50's to ride 30-foot waves.
High-rise hotels line the shore in Waikiki, a vibrant neighborhood known for its popular surf beach. Designer fashion stores line Kalakaua Avenue and nearby streets, and the area buzzes after dark with waterside cocktail bars, fine dining and Kuhio Beach hula shows. Honolulu Zoo is home to Komodo dragons and wandering peacocks, while parrotfish and urchins inhabit Waikiki Aquarium’s reef exhibit.
Sunset beach is great for lounging, snorkeling and enjoying calm waters. Also, a great spot to watch the sunset!
Just 10 minutes outside Haleiwa and named the world’s largest maze in 2008, this pineapple-shaped botanical maze consists of 2.5-miles of maze paths and over 14,000 Hawaiian plants. Get lost and see if you can find your way out. Visit the plantation, one of Oahu’s most popular tourist destinations, where Hawaii’s famed pineapple industry all began and learn about the history and importance of industry in Hawaii on an entertaining narrated train ride at the Dole Plantation.
Popular option known for its beachfront location, surf 'n' turf, tiki vibe & umbrella drinks. Our favorite place in Waikiki!!! Be sure to listen to Jimmy Buffett's song "Duke's on Sunday" prior to your visit.
Extinct volcano is a popular hiking destination with a rugged trail leading to panoramic views.