Attractions
Arnold Palmer Golf Course
The largest and best maintained golf course on the North Shore, these 18 holes are full of gorgeous beachside views. You can finish off your round with a delicious dinner at Lei-Lei’s Bar and Grill, which sits right on the rough’s edge.
Kahuku Food Trucks & Market
The Kahuku Food Trucks are a staple of the north shore. At the heart is world famous shrimp truck Giovanni’s, the first of an ever growing maze of food from all over the world. To accompany it are the many market stands selling Hawaiian keepsakes, clothing, and all manner of souvenirs.
Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is the North Shore’s crowing attraction (maybe besides the beaches). Here you’ll find reconstructions of what it was like to live as an ancient islander, with sections for each major Polynesian country. There are shows, food, shops, and a canoe ride that takes you down the Laie Lagoon (highly recommended as a first stop). Don’t miss the night show, an incredible live performance of “Ha: Breath of Life.”
Brigham Young University - Hawaii
Brigham Young University Hawaii (commonly abbreviated BYUH) is one of the largest universities in Hawaii. Home to students from all over the world, the school specializes in business and science. It has a gorgeous campus with many activities open to the public.
Hukilau Marketplace
The newly constructed Hukilau Marketplace is the shopping and food hub of the Polynesian Cultural Center, but you won’t need a ticket to get in. With many restaurants, food carts and trucks, and stores, the Hukilau Marketplace is often buzzing with locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re exploring the PCC or looking for a bite to eat, this spot can’t be beat.
Old Kahuku Sugar Mill
Kahuku’s historic sugar mill produced sugar from 1893 to 1971 and has since become a small food and shopping district. Many of the surrounding buildings are original, and much of the milling equipment can still be found displayed around the area. Situated right between the two food truck centers, the Kahuku Sugar Mill is a must stop for any interested in Hawaiian history—or great food.
Germaine’s Luau
Destination with entertainers performing traditional dances of the Pacific & a Polynesian buffet.
Gunstock Horse Tours
Situated on Oahu’s picturesque North Shore, Gunstock Ranch offers an authentic Hawaiian experience far away from the big crowds and up close with nature.
Paradise Helicopters
“Hawaii’s largest locally owned and operated helicopter company. Aloha Spirit is the coordination of heart and mind to emote good feelings. Experience the culture of harmony and pleasantness that makes Hawaiʻi unlike anywhere else on the planet.”
Kailua Chocolate Factory
“We strive to make the most delicious chocolate in the world. This cannot happen without sourcing the highest quality cacao and obsessing over every step in the chocolate making process, from roasting to tempering. We craft all of our chocolate in-house, from bean-to-bar, allowing us to have complete control over each nuanced step in the process.”
Paradise Cove Luau
The newly constructed Hukilau Marketplace is the shopping and food hub of the Polynesian Cultural Center, but you won’t need a ticket to get in. With many restaurants, food carts and trucks, and stores, the Hukilau Marketplace is often buzzing with locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re exploring the PCC or looking for a bite to eat, this spot can’t be beat.
Hawaiian Temple Ruins
Kahuku’s historic sugar mill produced sugar from 1893 to 1971 and has since become a small food and shopping district. Many of the surrounding buildings are original, and much of the milling equipment can still be found displayed around the area. Situated right between the two food truck centers, the Kahuku Sugar Mill is a must stop for any interested in Hawaiian history—or great food.
Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is the site of the USS Arizona Memorial as well as many other military-based attractions. The base is still operating, but there are tours, old equipment and weaponry, and much more to see.
Waialua Soap Factory
“Located in the historic Waialua Sugar Mill on the north shore of O`ahu, Hawai`i, you can find us inside the Bagasse bin, the huge cone shaped building at the front gate. Schedule a Behind-the-Scenes Tour to learn how we handcraft our full Hawaiian Bath & Body® collection with 100% natural ingredients and 200% Aloha! We believe in creating natural skin care products that are gentle on the skin and safe for our environment! Get Clean! Go Green!”
Mike’s Surf School
“We are a licensed, insured and permitted surf school on the north shore of Oahu. We offer surf lessons. for beginners, intermediate surfers or even advanced surfers. We offer (1-1) private surf lessons, also (1-2) semi private surf lessons, or group surf lessons (1-3 min). Operating everyday Monday through Saturday at 10-12pm or 2-4pm. All lessons are 2 hrs long. We begin with a 20 minute land lesson, then a 10 minute safety talk, then spend up to 90 minutes in the water safely catching waves.”
Mokuleia Sky Diving
“Skydive Hawaii® was again selected as Hawaii's #1 Skydiving Company in 2020 by people making their first jumps. Our Skydiving facility is the largest facility in all of Hawaii. We have a few open and comfortable area for our guest to observe skydivers jumping while they wait. We have recently upgraded our video room, so you are able to view your purchased skydive video right after you jump.”
Kualoa Ranch
“With not one, but two listings on the US Department of the Interior’s National Register of Historic Places since the 1970’s, Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve is owned and managed by sixth generation descendants of Dr. Gerritt P. Judd. Kualoa’s mission is to enrich people’s lives by preserving Kualoa’s sacred lands and celebrating its history. Established in 1850, Kualoa’s company vision is to be a role model as stewards of these amazing 4000 acres named Kualoa, Hakipu’u and Ka’a’awa.”
Beaches
Hukilau Beach
The closest and simplest of the beaches listed, Hukilau is perfect for when you just want to go to the beach. Enough space to lounge and sunbathe, some fun shorebreak, and clear blue water on most days—Hukilau Beach is simple, nearby, and safe.
Castles
If you’re a total beginner to surfing, you probably should begin your career here. If you know what you’re doing on a surfboard, then you probably don’t need to read this list.
Pounders
Pounders is known for its shorebreak and boogeyboarding. It’s not for beginners, and is a spot frequented by locals. Unless you’re pretty comfortable bodysurfing, maybe just stay on the beach. Sometimes there is a trampoline built into the pillars of the old dock, but don’t hold your breath. This beach is fun if you’re lucky or know what you’re doing.
Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is the envy of all other beaches on the north shore. Theres a lot that makes Waimea special, from its long sandy shores to its deep crystal clear water. But nothing quite surpasses the rock. It’s easy to climb and has a variety of heights to jump from. A must visit, but don’t expect just to pull up—make a day out of it. Get there early for parking.
Keikis
Keikis is a popular beach for all day lounging. It’s relatively wide shoreline of fine pale sand provides plenty of space to set up camp. But it is most known for its powerful shorebreak, and caution should be taken when wading into the ocean here. Large, heavy waves can come out of nowhere—but thats also what makes it fun.
Shark’s Cove
Shark’s Cove is the most unique option here. It’s known for its snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as some easier cave diving. There is a section of open water that can get quite deep. Further to the left of the cove is a shallow maze of reef that often pokes above the water, providing the perfect playground for kids to discover the marine wildlife. Be sure to watch where you step—the rocks are full of wana (sea urchin) and sometimes eel.
More:
More beaches
Sunset
Makapuu
Waikiki
Sandy’s
Hikes
Hau’ula Loop
Sunset Pillbox
Laie Falls
Wailele Falls
Kaillua Pilbox
Koko Head
Manoa Falls
Diamond Head
Spots
Ala Moana Mall
Winward Mall
Old Haleiwa Town
Tabora Art Gallery
Attractions
Kualoa Ranch
Honolulu Zoo
Iolani Palace
Honolulu Art Museum