7 Must-Dos on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu is a beautiful island full of lots of culture, history, lush landscapes and gorgeous beaches. While we did not end up with the best weather while visiting over Thanksgiving in November 2017, we still had an unforgettable time visiting the island and staying on the North Shore. Not to mention, a bad weather day in Hawaii is a much better than a good weather day in any other U.S. city, amirite?

Here are the top things I would recommend doing when visiting the North Shore of Oahu!

1. Watch the surfers at the Bonzai Pipeline

During our stay, the Van’s World Cup of Surfing competition was going on at Sunset Beach and we had the pleasure of seeing some of the best surfers of the entire world compete. The waves at the Bonzai Pipeline are unlike anything I’ve ever seen, and the talent of surfers, regardless of if there is a surf competition going on, who are capable of surfing these giant waves are incredible. We spent hour after hour watching surfers, and it never got old!

2. Swim at Shark’s Cove

This small rocky bay, located in the North Shore, boasts beautiful blue water and an impressive amount of sea life. It’s one of the most popular spots to go snorkeling, so make sure to head to Shark’s Cove sooner than later as to avoid crowds. It’s also recommended that you do not wear sunscreen as to not disrupt the wildlife found in the cove.

Pro Tip: The bottom of the cove is covered in coral so be sure to wear water shoes if you plan on wading through the waters vs. swimming.

3. Devour Matsumoto Shave Ice

Need I say more? This delicious shaved ice place is located in a quaint little town called Haleiwa which offers some great island boutique shopping and more beautiful beaches!

4. Cliff Jump at Waimea Bay

After you stop in Haleiwa for the famous Matsumoto Shaved ice, consider cliff jumping at Waimea Bay for an island adrenaline rush! It’s located right between Matsumoto Shave Ice and Shark’s Cove, so it’s a perfect activity to do before or after you make those pitstops.

5. Go Hiking – Lanikai Pillbox Hike

There are plenty of hikes to go on on the entire island of Oahu, and a handful to do while visiting or staying on the North Shore as well. Check out this article to find some fun hikes to do while on the North Shore. I personally ventured out of the North Shore to hike the Lanikai Pillbox hike and Likeke Falls.

6. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center

Polynesian culture and traditions have always interested me as I grew up with Polynesian friends and was able to experience some of their traditions first hand as child. I knew when visiting the Oahu, specifically the North Shore, that this should be on the top of my to-do list.

Voted as Oahu’s #1 attraction, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a 42-acre Polynesian theme park that allows you to spend the entire day exploring the rich heritage of the Pacific Islands. I would recommend purchasing the Ali’i Luau Package well in advance!

7. Take Surf Lessons at Hukilau Beach

Learning how to surf has been on my bucket list for a while and what better place to learn than Hawaii? We took lessons through a native Hawaiian friend, but there are plenty of surf schools you can take from. If you’re able I would recommend getting private lessons so the teacher can really focus on your form and helping you progress personally. We found learning at Hukilau Beach on the North Shore was perfect for both our beginning skill level and for learning how to “read” the ocean so you’re set up for success.

Have you ever been to Oahu before? If so, what are your favorite things to do there when visiting? Comment below some of your favorite North Shore hikes since we weren’t able to go on any hikes specific to that part of the island!