With so many choices and so little time, the North Shore of Oahu offers an abundance of unforgettable experiences. The hard part is deciding how to spend your precious days in paradise. There are many iconic spots in Hawaii that first-time visitors need to see to believe, but there are also the lesser known gems that the locals know are just as worthy of your time.
1. Roam the streets of Historic Haleiwa Town
After your long drive from Town, stretch out your legs and walk around the charming Historic Haleiwa Town. You will be sure to fulfill your window-shopping quota and your knick-knack needs. Here you’ll find local boutiques filled with island treasures, small eateries for sweet snacks, and surfer shops on every other block. This town certainly has personality with its old plantation era buildings and surf culture inspired vibes.
2. Jump Off the Rock at Waimea Beach
A local’s favorite activity to do on the north shore is to go rock jumping at Waimea beach. As you walk down the sandy hills, a black rock, standing at 30 ft tall, is located towards the far left of the bay. It’s usually covered with daredevils, waiting their turn to jump into the open ocean. It’s a thriller and that gets your blood pumping. There really is no better way to get into the water than feet first, arms open, falling. First timers usually get a round of applause from the crowd.
Insider Tip: If jumping off rocks isn’t for you, but you still want to do something adventurous. That same 30 ft rock has a hidden underwater tunnel underneath it. A short swim from one end to the other.
3. Snorkel at Shark’s Cove
Dive into Hawaii’s warm and crystal-clear waters to discover a world full of vibrant coral, curious fish, and hungry Honu (Hawaiian word for sea turtle). Shark’s Cove is one of Oahu’s most popular snorkeling locations during the summer months. It’ s known for its underwater caves just a short swim from the shore.
Shark’s Cove also has shallow water tidepools for the keiki (Hawaiian word for children) to swim and explore little ocean creatures.
But if you are just looking to relax and tan, there is plenty of beach to sprawl out on.
Insider tip: If you want to eat at the beach, buy something before you stop. Visit us right across the street from Shark’s Cove. Enjoy those white sandy beaches with one of North Shore Taco’s award-winning fish tacos. Let’s not forget how perfect our pineapple tiki will look in your next Instagram post at #northshoretacos.
4. Get Lost at Dole Plantation’s Pineapple Maze
Dole gives Hawaii visitors a “pineapple experience” of a lifetime. From tangy frozen desserts to large stretches of pineapple gardens, the best part of this experience is the pineapple shaped Maze, once claimed the title world’s largest and finest.
Wander at your own pace or make it a competition to see who can figure out the maze first! Loser buys the winner a Dole Whip.
You cannot leave the plantation until you’ve tried a Dole Pineapple Whip. This is a pineapple soft serve. Tangy and cold. Perfect for Hawaii’s hot and humid climate.
Ask to add Li Hing Mui Powder to your Dole Whip. This sweet and sour secret local ingredient will change your life and how you eat pineapple forever. Locals enjoying topping off fruits such as pineapple, apples, and watermelon with Li Hing Mui Powder, which is actually made from plums. Give it a try. You won’t regret it!
