Oahu’s North Shore is known for surfing and a thrill as much for the surfer as the spectator. Waimea Bay’s sparkling waters and dynamic waves heighten the adventure that awaits, in any form, shopping, seaside dining or sightseeing.
Start the day with a sunset hike along Waimea Bay Beach’s coastline, but watch your distance for crashing waves. You’ll see local and visiting surfers dotting the waters, one of the world’s most renown. If waking up early on vacation is not your idea of a vacation, sleep in but start the day later with a walk here before heading to breakfast. Surf-themed hearty breakfast items include omelets, sweet bread French toast, breakfast quesadilla and good coffee are on the menu at Café Haleiwa, a casual shack serving surfers and their admirers. While in Haleiwa town, explore the art galleries and shops. It’s the essence of old Hawaii and the laid-back atmosphere supports the need to leisurely stroll through art galleries (including that of the prominent ocean artist, Wyland) and shops. You’re certain to find a handcrafted souvenir to take home.
Planning a trip to the North shore of Oahu? Check out our wide selection of North Shore vacation rentals.
While there’s no time to explore all 1,800 acres of Waimea Valley, stretching from the mountains to the sea, you’ll enjoy the natural and native beauty of this cultural and heritage site. Gardens, heiau, ancient Hawaiian settlements and depending on the day, live performances are what you’ll see on a day trip to Waimea Valley, and not just music but cliff divers too.
For more places to stay on the North Shore, take a look at our North shore condos.
Polynesian Cultural Center is an all day activity, however, you can select packages to suit your level of interest. If you arrive at noon and plan on dinner elsewhere, you can have a good day’s worth of entertainment and culture. Have lunch at one of the many shrimp trucks on your way, before arriving, and fill up with an inexpensive but substantial lunch plate. The Polynesian Cultural Center has a small snack area as well for quick bites to tide you over till dinner. An alternative to this attraction is the Dole Plantation, with a maze, place to write your name on the leaf of a tree and enjoy a tasty Dole whip (frozen yogurt dessert).
Head back to your vacation rental or hotel and dress up for a great dinner at one of the Turtle Bay Resort restaurants. Ola, Palm Court and 21 Degrees North each offers upscale and innovative cuisine in an indulgent setting, perfect to sip cocktails and dive into a good steak. Choose from buffets of sumptuous offerings or small plates or sushi or more. Finish the day with a moonlight stroll; Turtle Bay on the North Shore has a plentiful five-mile expanse of sandy beach for a nighttime jaunt.
If you would prefer to stay at Turtle bay on the North Shore, check out our Turtle Bay condos.