Things to Do

11 Best Things To Do In North Shore Oahu

All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) tour with your buddies or family is fine way to enjoy your visit to the North Shore, Oahu
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Things to do in North Shore Oahu involve Shark Cage Diving, Zipline Tour, A Hike to Waimea Falls and more. The region has a lot to offer for adventure tourists.

The island of Oahu has five divisions: North Shore, East, Central, Leeward, and Waikiki & Honolulu. The North Shore experiences high tides thus it is a popular surfing destination.

However, the northern region of Oahu is not just about surfing. Here, we will guide you through the best activities and experiences on the North Shore, Oahu. 

1. Shark Cage Diving

Things to do on North Shore Oahu is Shark Cage Diving from within a polyglass window. You will see the giant sea creatures up close on this two-hour adventure.

The journey begins from the North Shore by boat and then you will hop in the floating cage. You will catch sight of the Galapagos and Sandbar sharks in their natural habitat.

Book the Shark Cage Diving In Oahu tour package for $135 per person. Hawaiian Shark Encounters is the tour provider and admits up to 9 visitors per group.

Tourists watch sharks from within a Polylass window of the floating cage
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Experience the thrill of witnessing sharks face-to-face in the pristine waters of Oahu. The mask and snorkel gears are provided before you get on the floating cage.

Additional Information about the tour is provided below:

  • Departure Location: Haleiwa Boat Harbor, Haleiwa, HI 96712
  • Age Limit: 5 years and above
  • No Scuba experience is needed

2. Take A Zipline Tour

Things to do in North Shore Hawaii is to go on an adventurous zipline tour. Book a trip with CLIMB Works Keana Farms for $192.93 per person.

Experience the adrenaline rush as you soar from the top of Oahu’s longest ziplines. This guided tour starts with a short ATV ride to the top of the mountain.

People take on the thrilling ziplining at CLIMB Works Keana Farms
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As you glide, enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the ocean and mountain of Oahu. Getting on these ziplines ranging from 500 to 2,400 feet is a definitely an adventurous things to do on Oahu.

Along the way, you will encounter rappels, sky bridges, and scenic boardwalks. To add to the thrill, there are a couple of surprises and challenges installed in a safe and controlled way.

Some additional details about the tour:

  • Departure Location: CLIMB Works Keana Farms Zipline Tour, 1 Enos Rd, Kahuku, HI 96731 
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • All taxes and handling charges are covered
  • Free Parking facility onsite

3. A Hike To Waimea Falls

Things to do on the North Shore is a waterfall hike in the wonderful Waimea Falls. The place is accessible via a paved path or a shuttle through the scenic botanical garden.

You can reach the foot of the 45-foot-tall waterfall via an easy 1.5 miles hike along the Waimea River. There, visitors can cool off at the regularly monitored stream water.

Waimea Falls is among the best and easy waterfall hikes in Oahu that is worth your time. The valley features several cultural and archaeological sites waiting to be explored.

Waterfall hikes in Oahu is one of the most satisfying summer getaway
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Waimea Valley Site is open to the public from 9 am to 5 pm daily. You need to get a ticket to enter the location and wearing a life jacket is mandatory.

If you are interested in a full-day guided tour, 1 Epic Tour LLC offers an exciting tour package. Free Byodo-In Temple and Waimea Waterfall Circle Island Day Tour is an 8-hour trip.

Some additional details of the trip include:

  • Price: $129 per person
  • No. of visitors: 100 per group at max
  • Pickup is offered

4. Polynesian Cultural Center Tour

North Shore Hawaii things to do includes a Polynesian Cultural Center tour in Laie. This family-oriented tourist destination is located at Hukilau Marketplace.

The Cultural Center welcomes guests from Monday to Saturday from 12:30 pm to 9 pm. Visitors will get a chance to experience the rich heritage of the Pacific Island on this guided tour.

You can plan your visit to Polynesian Center by visiting their official website polynesia.com. This way you can save up to 10% on select packages on advance booking.

Visitors enjoying a boat ride at Polynesian Cultural Center
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Visitors can choose from Super Ambassador Lu'au Package and Ali'i Lu'au Package. Experiences offered on the tour include:

  • A visit to authentic Island villages
  • Royal Ali'i Luau feast along with live entertainment
  • HA: Breathe of Life, an action-packed evening show

The Center covers an area of 42 acres of tropical splendor. The place is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Some additional details are listed below:

  • Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762
  • Price: From $189.95 to $269.95 per adult
  • Free onsite parking facility

5. Enjoy Toa Luau At Waimea Valley

Best North Shore things to do in Oahu is to visit the famous Toa Luau at Waimea Valley. Witness the rich Hawaiian cultural performance as you feast on traditional cuisines.

Toa Luau is a Dinner Theatre situated in Pupukea that offers Hawaii's most authentic luau show. Here, guests can participate in cultural activities such as kava ceremonies, lei making and more.

A basic guided tour of Toa Luau is available for $115 per person. The luau ticket also gives you access to Waimea Falls and Waimea Botanical Garden.

Artists beautifully dressed in traditional Hawaiian attire perform at Toa Luau
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There are three distinct types of Luau packages that you can choose from with different schedules. The first show starts at 12:30 pm and the second show at 5 pm.

  • Silver Packages - $115 per adult
  • Gold Package - $145 per adult
  • VIP Package - $175 per adult 

Anyone aged 13 years and above is considered an adult and needs to pay the above-mentioned price. For children aged 5 to 12 years, discounts are provided accordingly.

6. Horseback Riding in Kahuku

Best North Shore things to do Oahu is horseback riding in Kahuku. You get to witness the beauty of the northern shores of Oahu and the beautiful countryside.

On a guided tour provided by Gunstock Ranch, your guide will match you with a suitable horse. Thereafter, he/she will lead you along a scenic mountain trail with a wonderful ocean view.

Horseback Ride Like an Authentic Paniolo in Kahuku is a 1 and half hour tour package. You can secure a booking for just $120.13 per adult.

Tourists set out on a horseback riding tour on the North Shore countryside, Oahu
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A horseback riding tour is a popular outdoor activity in Oahu. Gunstock Ranch has an extensive family-friendly tour lineup for an inclusive riding experience. 

Their offering begins from children's pony rides to advanced private trail rides. Furthermore, you can make multiple stops for photo ops at the lookout points.

Some additional information:

  • Departure Location: Gunstock Ranch, 56-250 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731
  • Age Limit: 7 years and above
  • No. of travelers: 12 per group at max
  • Free Parking Facility

7. Snorkeling At Shark's Cove

Oahu North Shore things to do can be snorkeling at Shark's Cove in Pupukea. This snorkel spot is located between Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline.

The best time to get in the waters at Pupukea is from October through April. Summertime sees nice waves so it is well-suited for adventurous watersports.

Shark's Cove is surrounded by black lava rock and it falls in the marine life conservation zone. This cove is among the best places to snorkel in Oahu

A lady snorkeling in the pristine waters in Hawaii with Surf N Sea
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Scuba Diving Magazine rated Shark's Cove as one of the 'Top Twelve Shores Dives in the World'. Furthermore, the place is also home to different variety of fish, octopuses, and sea turtles.

The healthy coral and interesting rock formations are where the fish all hide. You can explore these beautiful areas while snorkeling. You won't need Flippers but wearing water shoes will help a lot.

Despite the name of the cove, there are no sharks in the water at this location. Some amenities that you will find onsite include:

  • Onsite restrooms
  • A Parking Lot
  • Snorkel Rentals

8. Take A Stroll at Haleiwa Town

North Shore Oahu things to do is to take a stroll at the famous Haleiwa Town. The lively town is the social and artistic hub of northern Oahu.

The town is located just about an hour's drive from Waikiki. The laid-back surf town is buzzing with local style and tropical ambiance.

The iconic Haleiwa sign, famous for its photographic value, welcomes tourists to the town. This place is often considered the epicenter of the North Shore. 

A tacos shop and eatery at Haleiwa Town Center in the North Shore, Oahu
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The streets are busy and bustling with excited flocks of tourists and locals. Roadsides are lined with local shops, swim and surf rental shops, restaurants, food trucks and shopping centers.

There are many things to do and explore while you are at Haleiwa. Some of them are listed below:

  • Check out the surf shops lined up on the Kamehameha Highway
  • Go on a shopping spree at the Haleiwa Town Center
  • Try the delicious Shave Ice at Matusmoto's 
  • Dine in at a local restaurant and garner the flavor of traditional Hawaiian cuisines

9. Watch The Waves At Banzai Pipeline

To do things in North Shore Oahu is to watch the high-rising ocean waves at the Banzai Pipeline. This surf reef break is located off Ehukai Beach Park in Pupukea.

The Banzai Pipeline which is also commonly referred to as Pipeline or Pipe is famous for its tubular waves. Here the shallow water and coral reef combine to resemble the shape of a pipe.

The high waves are definitely an awe-inspiring sight to witness. The experience is further elevated by the scenes of professional surfers riding through the Pipeline.

A spectacular scenes of giant waves at Banzai Pipeline and a pro surfer in action
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Surfing at this place is only for professionals since it is too risky for untrained people. The Banzai Pipeline also hosts some of the most prestigious surfing events in the world.

The best time to visit the Pipeline is during the winter i.e. from November to February. During this time, the waves are the largest and attracts top-level surfers.

Additional information about 'Ehukai Beach Park is given below:

  • Address: 59-337 Ke Nui Rd, Haleiwa, HI 96712
  • Opening Hours: 6:30 am to 8 pm daily
  • Free onsite parking

10. Beachfront ATV Adventure Tour

Make your visit to North Shore, Oahu adventurous by taking on an ATV tour. Book a thrilling tour package offered by North Shore Stables for $129 per person.

North Shore Stables is an ATV service provider nestled in the quiet, historic countryside of Waialua. The Beachfront ATV Adventure and Farm Tour is a 45-minute of thrilling driving package offered by the company.

On this tour, visitors can drive their own All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) through active farmlands and onto the signature racetrack. Furthermore, you will also pass by a gorgeous coastline with an oceanfront view.

Visitors at North Shore Stables in Oahu enjoying ATV racing on a muddy track
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Upon arrival, visitors will also get a chance to watch and feed the adorable farm animals at the petting zoo. Then, you will be introduced to a humble sliver of the captivating history of Waialua.

This is the kind of riding experience where you will get all dusty and muddy so, dressing accordingly is highly recommended. A few details are listed below:

  • Departure Address: North Shore Stables, 67-221 Waialua Beach Rd, Waialua, HI 96791
  • Age Limit: 10 years and above
  • ATV helmet and safety goggles are provided
  • Admissions to North Shore are covered 

11. Go For A Swim At Waimea Bay Beach Park

To go swimming at Waimea Bay Beach Park is one of the perfect ways to spend summer on the North Shore in Oahu. You might also get a chance to spot dolphins and turtles here.

Waimea Bay Beach Park is a famous public that offers a breathtaking view of the Pacific. The ocean conditions are favorable for swimming and other watersports during summertime.

The beach offers an upbeat ambiance and has a lot to offer for beach-goers. You can travel to the park with your family and organize a picnic, lie down in the sun, or take a dip in the water.

A beautiful view of the sandy beach at Waimea Bay Beach Park
Source : tripadvisor

Waimea Bay Beach is located just 5 miles north of Haleiwa town. Amenities available at the park are listed here:

  • Lifeguard Stations
  • Onsite parking
  • Picnic Tables
  • Showers and restrooms
  • Few eateries

Waimea is well-known among beach-goers for its 30-foot waves in the winter. It is a renowned spot to watch professional and daring surfers in action.

Water activities that you can enjoy at Waimea other than swimming involve Bodyboarding, Surfing, Snorkeling, Fishing, Rock Climbing and more.

Some FAQs

What to do in North Shore Oahu?

Shark Cage Diving, Zipline Tour, and Hiking to Waimea Falls are some of the best things to do in North Shore Oahu.