Vacation on Oahu's North Shore

Oahu’s north shore is best known for its big waves and world class surfing yet there is much more to enjoy along this beautiful stretch of shoreline than just the waves. If you stay at any one of the many North Shore Oahu vacation rentals, you will have easy access to the North Shore attractions including great shopping, important cultural sites, impressive botanical gardens and much more.

The small town of Haleiwa is known as the gateway to Oahu’s north shore and provides lots of great shopping opportunities including surf shops, boutiques, and and art galleries that feature everything from hand-blown glass to pottery, paintings, locally-made arts and crafts and other unique Hawaiian treasures.

At the North Shore Surf and Cultural Museum you an see antique surfboards and learn about the history of the sport as well as some of the legends of big wave surfing.
The botanical garden at the Waimea Valley Audubon Center provides insight into native flora and fauna as well as cultural sites and great views of Waimea Falls.

One of the most stunning cultural sites on the north shore is Puu O Mahuka Heiau above Waimea town. This is the largest and also the oldest Hawaiian religious site on the island and also provides a panoramic view of the north shore coastline. To the west is Kaena Point where humpback whales are often seen breaching offshore

Nearby at Dillingham Airfield you can take a glider ride or go skydiving for a thrilling adventure in the skies above Oahu’s north shore. Some other activities on this northern coast of Oahu include golfing at the opulent Turtle Bay Resort or horseback riding over the region’s rolling country hills.

Dining opportunities abound on Oahu’s north shore. From traditional Hawaiian plate lunches to the sumptuous cuisine prepared by some of Hawaii’s top chefs, there are more than 30 different venues that offer everything from Thai, Chinese, Mexican, Italian, and of course Hawaiian cuisine.

The north shore is also a rich agricultural region where local farmers provide many of the fresh vegetables to local restaurants, just as the local fishermen provide these eateries with an abundance of delicious seafood.

While rough seas and huge waves can make swimming very dangerous on Oahu’s north shore during the winter months, the summer brings calmer seas that are ideal for snorkeling, swimming, diving, sailing, kayaking and other ocean activities. Visitors and locals alike enjoy the crystal blue seas and romantic sunsets on the many pristine white sand beaches.

Though many think of Oahu’s north shore as mostly a haven for the world’s best surfers and for a place to watch the sports best ride the giant waves at such breaks as Waimea Bay and Banzai Pipeline, the region actually has many other attractions.

Oahu’s north shore has something for everyone, coveted north shore real estate, cultural celebrations, farmer’s markets, arts festivals, swimming competitions, triathlons, polo tournaments, meticulously planned botanical gardens, and also preserved natural areas that provide educational as well as enjoyable ways to enjoy your Hawaii vacation.

Kauai is a little more remote than the other islands. Check out the quaint west side of Kauai.

Many people think of Maui as the resort of Hawaii, but it definitely has its share natural beauty and secluded beaches. Maui's west side has some of the most spectacular views and seashores in Hawaii.

Also on Kauai, if you are checking out the famed Na Pali Coast, check in with Captain Andy's. A great tour operator that can give you the works. Their site also has a lot of useful information on Kauai's northwestern oceans, whales, and history.