The Northshore Hawaii is a beautiful place to visit and explore. This area is full of things to do, from surfing to fishing, to exploring the many beaches. There are many ways for people to enjoy themselves in this area.
Let’s go over everything you need to know before visiting Hawaiis north shore, from the best time to visit, to the best things to do!
- Where is Hawaii's Northshore
- Visitor Tips for the North Shore Hawaii
- North Shore Hawaii Weather
- Best North Shore Hawaii Hotels
- North Shore Hawaii Things to Do
- Hiking
- Enjoy the Scenic Drive along Kamehameha Highway.
- Historic Haleiwa Town
- Experience Kualoa Ranch – Windward Countryside
- Watch a Sunset
- Surfing Haleiwa & Stand Up Paddleboarding the River
- Eat at Giovannis Shrimp Truck and Grab A Smoothie at Sunrise Shack
- Visit the Best North Shore Hawaii Beaches
- Observe A Sea Turtle at Laniakea Beach.
- Toa Luau to End the Evening
- Polynesian Cultural Center
- Go Snorkeling at Sharks Cove.
- Take a Photo at the Haleiwa Surfer Sign.
- Waimea Bay Beach Park
- Dole Plantation
- Oahu North Shore Surfing
Where is Hawaii’s Northshore
The Northshore of Hawaii is on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu.
How to Get to Oahu North Shore
By Car: The easiest way to get to the North Shore of Oahu is to drive. Take the H-1 freeway west to the Kamehameha Highway (Route 83) exit. Follow Route 83 north to the town of Haleiwa. The North Shore begins just north of Haleiwa.
By Bus: Another option is to take the bus. The city bus system, The Bus, has a Route 83 that travels from Waikiki to the North Shore.
Visitor Tips for the North Shore Hawaii
The North Shore of Hawaii is a beautiful and serene, and reminds me of the best place to visit in Thailand.. Some tips to make your visit more enjoyable include:
1. Bring sunscreen and a hat – the sun is intense on the North Shore and you will want to protect yourself from getting a sunburn.
2. Bring insect repellent – there are lots of mosquitoes and other insects on the North Shore, so you will want to protect yourself from getting bitten.
3. Bring a swimsuit and towel – the North Shore is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, so be sure to take advantage of them and go for a swim.
4. Be prepared for the weather – Hawaii’s North Shore is known for its unpredictable weather, so be sure to pack a jacket or raincoat, just in case.
5. Check the surf report – the North Shore is famous for its world-class surfing, so be sure to check the surf report before you visit to see what the conditions are like.
6. Drive carefully the North Shore is a rural area, so be aware of the locals and drive carefully.
7. Bring your camera – the North Shore is one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii, so be sure to bring your camera and capture the beauty of this unique area.
8. Be prepared for the crowds – the North Shore is a popular destination, so be prepared for the crowds.
9. Enjoy the restaurants and shops – Hawaiis North Shore has a great selection of restaurants and shops, so be sure to check them out.
North Shore Hawaii Weather
The weather in Hawaii differs from what you might expect. The weather can change rapidly and it’s important to be prepared for any situation.
Summer
The summer months are from May through October, with temperatures ranging from 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (21-32 degrees Celsius) during the day, falling to around 60 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius) at night.
This is also the rainy season, but there are usually only a few days each month where rain will fall throughout the entire day. The rest of the time, showers pass quick.
Winter
Winter is one of the most popular times to visit Hawaii, as temperatures rarely dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius), making it warm enough to go swimming nearly every day of the year!
However, because of high waves and strong winds associated with storms coming from Asia, surfing conditions can be poor during this time of year.
Northshore Hawaii on Map
Best North Shore Hawaii Hotels
The Kahala Hotel and Resort is a luxury hotel in the affluent Kahala neighborhood of Honolulu, on the island of Oahu, in the U.S. state of Hawaii. The hotel is owned by Tokyo-based Prince Hotels, Inc. and operated by Aqua Hotels and Resorts.
The hotel’s property includes the main hotel building, a spa, two restaurants, and a bar. The hotel has 418 guest rooms and suites, most with ocean views. A pool, a fitness center, and a business center are at the hotel.
The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort, is a premiere beachfront destination on Oahu’s world-famous Waikiki Beach. Blending contemporary comfort and Hawaiian charm, the resort offers a unique experience with impeccable service and luxurious amenities. Unparalleled ocean views and legendary Hawaiian hospitality complete the unforgettable experience.
The Halekulani, on Oahu’s world-famous Waikiki Beach, is the perfect place to experience the epitome of luxury Hawaiian hospitality.
This AAA Five Diamond Award-winning hotel offers stunning accommodations and breathtaking views of Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean. The hotel’s legendary service, cuisine, and amenities are unparalleled.
The Halekulani is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate, and experience the true essence of Hawaii.
The Sheraton Waikiki is a AAA Four Diamond Award-winning hotel on Waikiki Beach. The hotel offers 696 guest rooms and suites, five dining venues, a fitness center, and two pools.
The Marriott Oahu North Shore is a beautiful hotel on the North Shore of Oahu. This hotel offers amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the island. The Marriott North Shore features a variety of guest rooms and suites, as well as a variety of on-site restaurants and bars. Guests can enjoy swimming in the hotel’s pool, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the island of Oahu.
North Shore Hawaii Things to Do
The North Shore of Oahu is a region of Oahu, Hawaii, that is known for its gigantic waves and surfing. The region runs from Ka’ena Point to Turtle Bay. Haleiwa, in the region, is a popular tourist destination for its restaurants and shops.
Hiking
Hike the Ehukai Pillbox Trail – The Ehukai Pillbox Trail is a great hike for those looking for a more challenging workout. The trail is just over two miles long, and it features several steep inclines and declines. Some abandoned pillboxes make for a great stop for a break on the trail. The views from the top of the trail are also worth the effort, as they offer a significant look at the coastline and the surrounding mountains.
The Kaʻena Point Trail – Kaena point is a moderately difficult 6-mile out-and-back hike that takes you to the end of the road on the northwestern tip of Oʻahu, with incredible views of the ocean and the neighboring islands.
The hike begins on the mauka (inland) side of the road and quickly gains elevation as it winds through a series of switchbacks. After about 2.5 miles, you’ll reach the junction for the Waiʻaleʻale Ridge Trail, which continues another 3.5 miles to the summit of Waiʻaleʻale, one of the wettest places on Earth.
At the end of the road, the trail continues onto the Kaʻena Point Natural Area Reserve, a rugged and windswept peninsula with stunning views of the ocean and the neighboring islands. Be sure to stay on the trail, as the cliffs and rocky coastline are dangerous and can be deadly.
The Koko Crater Trail – It is a steep, but rewarding hike that leads to the top of Koko Crater. The views from the top are stunning, and the hike is popular with locals and visitors alike.
The Olomana Trail – It is a challenging three-peak hike that offers amazing views of the North Shore coastline. The hike is popular with locals and visitors alike.
The Waimea Valley Trail is a beautiful 3.5-mile hike that takes you through the botanical gardens of Waimea Valley, past waterfalls, and through the rainforest. This hike is perfect for all levels of hikers, and Hawaii has some of the best hiking in the US. And the views are stunning.
Turtle Bay Resort – The resort is spread out over 800 acres of verdant landscape, and its many amenities include two championship golf courses, a full-service spa, seven restaurants and bars, and a variety of beach activities. Rooms are spacious, and many have stunning ocean views. Turtle Bay Resort is the perfect place to experience all of Oahus North Shore. As you would imagine, it is not too far from turtle beach.
Laie Point Trail –The Laie Falls is a series of waterfalls in Laie, Hawaii. The falls are on the Koolau mountain range and are accessible from the Laie Point Trail.
Some of the most popular hiking trails on Oahu’s North Shore include the Lanikai Pillbox Hike, the Koko Crater Trail, and the Olomana Trail. And the trails are just as good as hiking in San Diego.
Enjoy the Scenic Drive along Kamehameha Highway.
Kamehameha Highway is a scenic roadway on the north shore of the island of Oahu in the state of Hawaii. They designated the highway a National Scenic Byway on November 21, 2002. The road follows the shoreline for much of its length, offering views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding mountains.
We also know the Kamehameha Highway as State Route 83. It begins in Kahuku at the intersection of State Route 9 and State Route 260 and ends in Haleiwa at the intersection of State Route 99 and State Route 803.
Historic Haleiwa Town
Historic Haleiwa Town is a historic town on the North Shore of the island of Oahu in the U.S. state of Hawaii. It is in the Waialua District, on the north side of the mouth of the Waialua River. Haleiwa is a small town with a population of about 2,800. It is best known as a tourist destination for its beaches, surfing, and historic Haleiwa Town.
Haleiwa was founded in 1885 as a sugarcane plantation town. It was the first town on the North Shore of Oahu. The original town center was at the intersection of Kamehameha Highway (Route 83) and Haleiwa Road (Route 803). They moved the town about a mile to the west in the 1920s when the Waialua River was dammed to create Lake Wilson (now known as Kahana Bay).
The historic Haleiwa Town is a popular tourist destination. It is home to several art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. The town is also home to the North Shore Surf Museum, which is in the Waialua Sugar Mill.
Experience Kualoa Ranch – Windward Countryside
Experience Kualoa Ranch – Windward Countryside, home to panoramic ocean views, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls. With horseback riding, ATV tours, and zip lining, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Kualoa Ranch. This ranch was also used in filming Jurassic Park. (Another famous move filmed in Hawaii is Forgetting Sarah Marshall).
Watch a Sunset
There is nothing quite like watching a beautiful Kauai sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is ablaze with colors, from orange and red to purple and blue. It is a sight that cannot take your breath away.
There are plenty of places to watch the sunset on the Northshore Hawaii, including beaches, parks, and overlooks. Whether you want to relax and take in the view or enjoy a romantic evening with someone special, there is a spot perfect for you.
Here are some of the best places to watch the Kauai sunset:
• Hanalei Pier: This is a popular spot for watching the sunset, and for good reason. The pier offers a perfect vantage point to see the sun dip below the horizon, and the view of the mountains in the background is simply stunning.
• Ke’e Beach: Another magnificent spot for watching the sunset is Ke’e Beach, which is at the end of the road on the North Shore. The beach is right next to the ocean, so you can enjoy the sounds of the waves as the sun sets, maybe even imagine some of the quotes about the sunset..
• Ha’ena Beach: If you want to watch
Surfing Haleiwa & Stand Up Paddleboarding the River
The Northshore Hawaii of Oahu is world famous for its enormous waves and surfing. But there’s more to this beautiful and rugged coastline than just surfing. Just a few miles inland from Haleiwa, the town that anchors the North Shore, the Waialua River offers great stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) and kayaking.
The river is wide and calm, and the scenery is beautiful. There are a few small rapids, but nothing that should give you too much trouble. The river flows through a rainforest, and there are plenty of places to stop and take a break or just enjoy the view.
If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to explore the North Shore, SUP or kayaking on the Waialua River is a great option.
Eat at Giovannis Shrimp Truck and Grab A Smoothie at Sunrise Shack
The Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck has some of the best seafood on the North Shore of Oahu. The shrimp is fresh and delicious, and the prices are very reasonable.
Sunrise Shack is a popular spot on the Northshore Hawaii for its delicious smoothies and stunning views. The shack is in the town of Haleiwa and is the perfect place to stop for a quick snack or drink while exploring the area. The shack is brightly colored and decorated with flowers, and the views from the porch are breathtaking. Be sure to snap a few photos while you’re there!
Visit the Best North Shore Hawaii Beaches
The North Shore of Oahu is famous for its world-class surfing. The seven-mile stretch of beach from Haleiwa to Waimea Bay, and many others. It is home to some of the biggest waves on the planet. Probably the best thing to do when visiting Hawaii’s Northshore.
Sunset Beach on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, is arguably the most famous.
The North Shore of Oahu is famous for its world-class surfing. The seven-mile stretch of beach from Haleiwa to Waimea Beach is home to some of the biggest waves on the planet.
The best place to sunbathe on the Northshore Hawaii is Sunset Beach. The beach has a wide expanse of sand and is in a beautiful setting with views of the mountains and the ocean.
Malaekahana Beach – This is a secluded beach on the North Shore of Oahu. We know it for its beautiful sunsets, clear waters, and gentle waves.
The beach is accessible by car, and there is a small parking lot near the beach. There is also a public restroom and a shower available.
Malaekahana Beach is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. It is also a popular spot for surfing and boogie boarding.
North Shore Beach on Oahu is a must-do activity for visitors to the island of Oahu. The crystal-clear waters, soft white sand beaches, and amazing views are just a few of the reasons to make the trip.
Pūpūkea Beach Park – pupukea beach park is one of the most popular beaches to visit on Northshore, Hawaii.
Rocky Point – Some popular things include hiking, swimming, and sunbathing. There are also a few great restaurants and bars in the area, as well as a few shopping options.
Northshore Hawaii is also a great place to go surfing, and there are several world-class surfing beaches in the area. Overall, the North Shore is a great place to visit for anyone looking for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. It also has an amazing coastal area.
Other popular beaches include.
- Waimea Bay Beach Park
- Ke Iki Beach
- Haleʻiwa Beach Park
- ʻEhukai Beach Park
- Laniakea Beach
- Tables Beach
Observe A Sea Turtle at Laniakea Beach.
Laniakea Beach on the north shore of Oahu is a great place to see Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu). We can often see the turtles resting on the beach or swimming in the waves.
Toa Luau to End the Evening
The luau will end with a traditional toa dance. The toa is a dance of celebration, performed by a man and a woman. The man leads the dance, and the woman follows him, imitating his steps.
And the Toa Luau is the most popular spot on The Northshore Hawaii.
Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center is a 42-acre theme park on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, United States. It is owned and operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). The center is dedicated to the history, culture, and arts of Polynesia.
Go Snorkeling at Sharks Cove.
This is a must-do if you are visiting the North Shore of Oahu. Shark’s Cove is a great place to see a variety of fish and if you’re lucky, you might spot a shark or two.
Another significant activity on the North Shore is stand-up paddle boarding. There are a few places you can rent boards and paddle out into the waves.
Take a Photo at the Haleiwa Surfer Sign.
The Haleiwa Surfer sign is a popular spot for photos on the Northshore Hawaii. It is in the town of Haleiwa, just north of the world-famous Banzai Pipeline.
Waimea Bay Beach Park
Waimea Bay is one of the most popular surf spots on the North Shore Oahu. It is also a great place to watch the surfers, bodyboarders, and kayakers. The beach park has a large grassy area, picnic tables, and restrooms. There is also a small snack bar on the premises. I have to say the beaches are more beautiful than the best beaches in California.
Dole Plantation
The Dole Plantation is a tourist attraction in Wahiawa, on the island of Oahu, in the U.S. state of Hawaii. It is open to the public from 9 am to 5 pm. The plantation is best known for its pineapple displays, maze, and train ride. It is also the site of the world’s largest maze, which is made of over 14,000 plants.
Oahu North Shore Surfing
The North Shore of Oahu is world famous for its gigantic waves and surfing. It holds one of the biggest surfing competitions in the world. The biggest waves in the world are found here, and the best surfers in the world come to ride them.
These waves aren’t for the faint of heart though! Make sure you have the proper skills. There are many places to get surfing lessons, from beginner, intermediate, and professional. like surf n sea, or North Shore Surf Shop.
Hawaii is an amazing state. I mean, just look at Volcano National Park in Hawaii. Northshore Hawaii surfing is one of the best adventures.
But the North Shore’s biggest attraction is its natural beauty. The area is home to some of the world’s most legendary surfing spots, including Pipeline and Waimea Bay. And the dramatic mountains and valleys that make up the shoreline are hikers’ and cyclists’ paradise.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an active outdoor adventure, the North Shore of Oahu is a must-see destination. It doesn’t have active volcanoes like the big island. But it is just as beautiful.