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Oahu will always hold a special place in my heart. Growing up, it’s the Hawaiian island my mom and I would visit. We’d stay at the same hotel in the heart of Waikiki, rent a car, and go on self-led excursions all around the island. One of the highlights I looked forward to every time was our day trip to the North Shore.
This year, my family and I rented a condo on the northernmost point of the island. We lounged, we surfed, we explored, and we ate way too many bowls of shave ice.
Here’s my guide for a week-long trip to Oahu’s North Shore, perfect for the whole family and anyone that loves to sprinkle in culture and a bit of adventure into their trips.
What to Expect on Oahu’s North Shore
Out of the eight islands, Oahu is the third largest and the most populated. Its North Shore consists of a 17-mile stretch of beautiful coastline and has more of a relaxed, laidback vibe compared to the hustle and bustle of Waikiki.
During the summer, the average temperature is 85° F with the sporadic shower (these are the tropics, after all!).
Please remember, the exotic places we have the privilege of visiting are, to many, called home. Hawaiians have asked us to be informed and respectful of their island when we visit.
Here are seven good rules of thumb:
- Pack up trash
- Don’t collect rocks or sand
- Don’t approach or harass wildlife
- Leave the land the way you found it
- Appreciate the culture
- Park in designated spots
- Be a good human 🙂
Where to Stay on North Shore Oahu
Kuilima Estates
We rented a condo in Kuilima Estates and it was the perfect home base for our week on the North Shore. These vacation rentals are located on the two golf courses within the Turtle Bay Resort grounds. They’re all individually owned so every unit will be different aesthetically. Rentals are listed on AirBnB and VRBO.
This is not beachfront property, though a short walk will take you to the hotel, surrounding beaches, the stables, and hiking trails. The complex has multiple pools and tennis courts. Units vary from 1-2 bedroom and 1-2 bathroom condos. Our condo was a two-story with a gorgeous view of the golf course, and included a washer and dryer plus tons of beach toys!
Oahu has very strict rules for short-term vacation homes. The condos within Kuilima Estates are properly zoned for tourism and are located within a designated resort area (which makes these a trustworthy and legal option!).
Things to do on North Shore Oahu
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is the perfect way to view sea creatures in their natural habitat (and a great excuse to play mermaids). Here are some of our favorite snorkeling spots on the North Shore with beautiful reefs, vibrant fish, crystal clear water, and gentle waves. Remember to wear reef safe sunscreen (I love Blue Lizard brand), please don’t touch the coral, and maintain a minimum distance of 10 feet from turtles.
Note the surf can be very big and very dangerous during winter months. Many of these places are off-limits for swimming October—April.
Three Tables
This was hands down our favorite place to snorkel! Three Tables is located in Pupukea, adjacent to Shark’s Cove, but felt much quieter and far less crowded. I saw the biggest, most curious parrot fish I’ve ever seen here! It’s a beautiful crescent-shaped bay with a sandy bottom and three tabletop reefs on the outskirts. There’s some swimming required to get out to the fish, rock, and coral, so take a flotation device if you think you’ll need a break. Note there is no lifeguard. Parking is pretty limited—there are some designated spots right in front of the beach or in a tiny lot. It’s best to be prepared to loop or park closer to Shark’s Cove and walk.
Shark’s Cove
This is a great place for beginners! Shark’s Cove is part of Pupukea’s Marine Life Conservation District. The rocky outcrops create a sheltered environment full of fish, lava tubes, and coral. Despite the name, there are no sharks, but we did see tons of urchins. To be honest, that kind of barred us from exploring the area further. That, and during the summer, it gets super crowded. There’s a small beach to lounge on plus restroom and shower facilities. Parking’s available along the street and in the lot, but both fill up fast!
Surfing
I had to be the bearer of bad news to my surfer husband that there are no big breaks on Oahu’s North Shore during the summer—something tells me he already knew that, though. However, if you’re a beginner like me, the small wave height and the calmer swell is the perfect environment for learning.
Chun’s Reef
Between Haleʻiwa Beach Park and Pupukea lies a stretch of soft sand along the Kamehameha Highway, this is Chun’s Reef. The relatively easy paddle out takes you over the shallow reef, where you might just see a turtle snacking on the coral. Street parking only. There’s typically a lifeguard on duty. Keep in mind this is a popular spot, so be alert and mindful.
Turtle Bay
Just west of Turtle Bay Resort is a protected inlet that serves as a great spot for beginner surfers. The beach itself is expansive and sandy but be extra careful of sharp rock clusters and a massive limestone shelf when paddling out. You can park at the hotel in the designated visitor spots and walk the path that leads to the stables to get to the beach. There is no lifeguard on duty. Post up at the outdoor restaurant after for some delicious bites!
Hiking
While many flock to Oahu for the crystal clear water and white sand beaches, the center of the island is rife with lush forest and volcanic mountains. If you’re feeling adventurous or need to take a break from baking in the sun, try one of these hikes.
Waimea Valley
The Waimea Falls Trail winds through the green Waimea Valley and is a fairly easy hike. The main path is paved, which makes it wheelchair and stroller-friendly, and takes you through the well-tended botanical gardens. Onsite parking is available. There’s a small fee to enter the grounds.
If you don’t make any pit stops, it takes about 30-45 minutes each way. But as a rookie archaeologist, I implore you to explore one of the many gravel offshoots and check out the cultural sites (if you are able). Here are some highlights:
- Hale o Lono, or House of Lono: a religious place of worship for the Hawaiian god Lono
- Shrine erected to honor the Hawaiian god Ku‘ula
- Kauhale: a traditional Hawaiian living site
- Hale Iwi or House of Bones: a sacred burial temple
- Lo’i Agricultural Terraces: an ancient system used to harvest taro
At the end of the hike is Waimea Falls. Swimming is allowed depending on conditions. Life vests are mandatory (and provided!).
Kawela Bay Trail
This is a beautiful hike that takes you through a coastal Banyan forest. Direct access is through the Turtle Bay Resort grounds. After parking, follow signs to The Stables, and hit the trail from there. This is a hike you can really make your own, with 1.0mi and up to 3.0mi options. There are plenty of sign posts to guide you.
We took the wide path to Kawela Bay, went for a dip in the secluded waters, looped around the point, then treaded back through the forest. Along our way, we saw resting sea turtles, cool rock formations that reminded us of fairy houses, and lots of mongoose!
Cool fact: If you’re into fantasy or dystopian movies and books, Kawela Bay was featured in the Hunger Games: Catching Fire as the backdrop for the Quarter Quell’s beach scenes.
Lost Survivor’s Beach Camp
Not going to lie, finding this spot required lots of patience and a couple dead (but beautiful) ends. On Google maps, there’s a marker in a grove of trees next to Mokulēʻia Beach Park titled Lost Survivor’s Beach Camp—that’s not the spot. Although, that stretch of beach is worth a trip if you want to see some rugged, unprotected coastline.
If you’re a fan of the show Lost, where you actually want to go is Papailoa Road, a small residential street west of Lanikea Beach. There’s a dirt turnout you can park in. Then, follow the sign and take the public path to the beach. You’ll want to make a left once you hit the sand and walk ~15 minutes. The old set isn’t there anymore, but the grove of droopy green trees will look verrrryyyy familiar! Keep in mind once you pass the tree line you are on private property, so please be aware.
As exciting as it was witnessing the site of the old beach camp, the walk itself might’ve been my favorite part. I have never seen so many sea turtles in my life! Swarms of them swaying in the waves, eating the algae off the sharp rocks. There were also at least three monk seals lounging on the sand.
Where to Eat North Shore Oahu
With all this swimming and exploring, you’re bound to work up an appetite! From food trucks to beachside service, there’s a dining experience for everyone on North Shore Oahu.
Breakfast
Kono’s North Shore
If you’re craving a breakfast burrito, Kono’s is the place to go. Located in Hale’iwa town, it fuses local flavors with hearty staples. Order at the counter. Indoor and outdoor seating available.
An Oahu staple. Its quintessential yellow hut is sure to spark joy before you’ve even had your morning cup. The Sunrise Shack is the place for your AM fix, with smoothie bowls, traditional smoothies, bullet coffees, and speciality toasts, and is conveniently located across from Shark’s Cove.
Lunch
Is this the best poke on the island? No… But it’s the perfect place to snag a picnic lunch if you’re hanging at Sharks Cove or Three Tables for the day. Plus, there are so many creative flavors and options, and it’s fun to sample them all!
This is a great spot to have a sit-down lunch, order a few cocktails on the terrace, and stare out at the ocean with the breeze in your hair. The packed menu features local favorites, such as garlic shrimp and teri beef, and fresh fish options. It’s right off the Kamehameha Highway near the Haleʻiwa boat harbor.
Just around the bend from Turtle Bay is this yellow farmstead cafe that serves organic breakfast and lunch. Known for their smoothies, paninis, wraps, salads, and their speciality lemonade and iced teas.
Dinner
I was told this was the best burger in town. I can attest: it is. There’s eight burgers to choose from but I went simple: a char-grilled patty, American cheese, crisp produce, on a soft Hawaiian bun. Located in the historic Kahuku Sugar Mill, there’s plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and space for the kids to run around. Their onsite bakery offers a variety of breads, pastries, and after dinner treats.
Kahuku Food Trucks
If you’re not feeling burgers, there’s a plethora of other options at the old plantation site. From hot dogs to pizza to shrimp plates to BBQ to empanadas, anything your pallette desires! Eat at one of the picnic tables then browse the grounds when you’re done, there’s lots of historic equipment from the mill to look at.
A great sit-down option right in the middle of Hale’iwa town with a modern interior and a full bar. I love their commitment to working with local farmers and fisherman to serve up a robust menu with seafood classics like island cioppino and blackened ahi, creative vegetarian dishes, and steakhouse essentials.
Dessert
There’s a reason this place always has a line around the block. Located in the heart of Hale’iwa town, right down the street from Stonefish Grill, it isn’t a trip to Hawaii without a trip to the famous shave ice spot. Choosing your flavors is half the fun! If you’re really feeling sweet, add mochi balls or a shot of condensed milk to your icy concoction.
I hope you enjoyed this travel itinerary for North Shore Oahu! If you’re dreaming up your next trip, check out this blog post with a list of IRL magical cities that feel like they’re straight out of a fantasy!
