13 Best Things to Do on the North Shore of Oahu

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If you’re planning your trip and searching for things to do on the North Shore, you’ve come to the right place! The North Shore of Oahu holds such a special place in my heart. On my first trip to Oahu, we stayed here for a week, and let me tell you—it was the best decision ever! This part of the island feels like pure magic, with its laid-back vibe, iconic surf spots, lush landscapes, and endless aloha spirit.

As someone who’s spent a summer living on Oahu and countless days soaking up all its charm, I can confidently say this is my favorite slice of paradise (with Kailua and Kaneohe coming in close behind). I’m so excited to give you the best things to do on the North Shore and show you why this area is so special!

Best Things to Do on the North Shore

1. Toa Luau

Luau tickets are a little pricey, but this is an experience you need to have on Oahu. After lots of research, I chose Toa Luau, and it did not disappoint! The basic package we chose included:

• A flower lei
• Cultural activities
• A kava ceremony
• A luau dinner (so good!)
• A Polynesian show
• One drink ticket
• Admission to Waimea Valley (normally $25)

We arrived early to explore Waimea Valley, which offers a gorgeous botanical garden walk leading to a waterfall. It’s touristy, and you are required to wear a lifejacket, but it’s beautiful and worth a visit.

Luau tickets are a little pricey, but I do feel it’s something you need to experience in Oahu. You learn a lot about the history and culture of Hawaii, all while enjoying some truly amazing food, drink, and entertainment.

Activities like this book up quickly, so be sure to book your tickets in advance! If you book here they have the lowest price guarantee, plus you have free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

2. Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is one of the best things to do on the North Shore for an immersive cultural experience. It features six Pacific Island villages—Hawaii, Samoa, Aotearoa, Fiji, Tahiti, and Tonga and offers interactive exhibits and live performances showcasing traditions and arts.

You can enjoy a nighttime performance for an additional fee that includes songs and dances from all across Polynesia, and the Lagoon offers a canoe parade that highlights each Polynesian culture’s characteristic dances.

3. Waimea Valley

Waimea Valley is a lush paradise, complete with a dreamy 45-foot waterfall you can actually swim in! The stroll to the falls is an easy, 1 ½-mile round trip along a paved path that winds through jaw-dropping botanical gardens and fascinating historical sites.

Changing rooms by the falls make it easy to dive in and freshen up after. Admission is $25—unless you’re doing the Toa Luau, then it’s free (score!).

Oh, and don’t forget bug spray—it’s your best friend here!

4. Diving with Sharks

Waking up at dawn to cage dive with sharks? Sounds wild, right? Honestly, it’s the best time to go—while you’re still half-asleep and your nerves haven’t fully kicked in! The boat ride out feels like forever, especially with the cage hanging ominously off the back, but once you’re in the water, it’s surprisingly calming.

I’ve done it twice—once in the cage and once without! Swimming freely alongside massive Galapagos sharks was absolutely terrifying but equally incredible.

The guides are pros, making you feel safe even in the heart-pounding moments.

Book your tour with a cage here or without a cage here—either way, it’s an experience you’ll never forget! Whether you’re feeling the rush of being surrounded by sharks in the cage or swimming freely without it, you’ll feel a deeper connection to the ocean, and you just might find yourself wanting to come back for more!

Check out my Reel from when I went without a cage!

5. Cliff Jumping at Waimea Bay

Waimea Bay is stunning, with its golden sands and vibrant blue waters offering a much more relaxed vibe than Waikiki. While cliff jumping is one of the more adrenaline-packed things to do on the North Shore, the breathtaking scenery alone makes Waimea Bay worth visiting.

Climbing to the top of the cliff at Waimea Bay definitely got my nerves going as I stared down at the water below. But once I made the leap, the rush of adrenaline from hitting the water made me want to do it again and again! If you’re into adventure, this spot will definitely get your heart racing and leave you craving more!

Be sure to check water conditions and arrive early to snag parking, as spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Lifeguards are on duty for added safety!

Weather you decide to jump or not, Waimea Bay is totally one of the best free things to do on Oahu!

6. Surf Lesson

This 2-hour excursion comes with all the gear, a quick 15-minute practice session, and even a turtle tour. If you’re lucky enough to snag a local guide, like I did, you’ll get patient instruction and plenty of laughs.

My total time standing on the board? Three glorious seconds—but every wipeout was worth it! Surfing in Hawaii is an unforgettable experience, even if you’re just learning the ropes.

7. Watch Pro Surfers at Banzai Pipeline

If you’d rather stay dry, the Banzai Pipeline on the North Shore is an absolute spectacle to watch! This legendary surf spot is famous for its towering waves that break over shallow reefs, creating perfect tubes for surfers to ride.

Prime wave season is from November to February, with swells reaching up to 30 feet. January is extra exciting with the Billabong Pipeline Masters competition, where you can see pros tackle some of the most challenging waves in the world!

8. Laniakea Beach

Laniakea Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, is a must-visit spot on Oahu if you want to see Hawaiian green sea turtles. It’s one of the best places on the island to spot these incredible creatures, often seen lounging on the beach.

The beach is easy to access, with parking available across the street or along the road. Just be sure to respect the turtles and their space while enjoying the view!

9. Sharks Cove

Sharks Cove is a beautiful place for snorkeling on Oahu, with a slightly more peaceful alternative to the crowded Hanauma Bay. The shallow waters are home to vibrant marine life, including tropical fish and the occasional sea turtle.

Summer months are ideal for calm water conditions. Don’t forget to bring water shoes and reef-safe sunscreen! If you’re looking for great snorkels, I highly recommend these ones I used—super comfortable!

10. Explore Haleiwa Town

Haleiwa Town is a must-visit Oahu landmark and the charming heart of the North Shore! It’s a sleepy little laid-back beach town with quaint boutiques, delicious local restaurants, and iconic surf shops.

It’s the perfect place to stroll, enjoy local art, and grab a bite to eat. Don’t forget to snap a pic at the famous Haleiwa wings sign—it’s an Instagram-worthy spot that captures the essence of this relaxed beach town. Whether you’re shopping or just soaking in the surroundings, Haleiwa is a must-see destination!

11. Food Truck Fare

Food trucks are a big part of the culinary scene in Hawaii, and you’ll often find them gathered in food truck hubs. On the North Shore, some popular spots include the area near Sharks Cove and Haleiwa Town.

Shrimp and rice dishes are a local favorite, but keep in mind that shrimp is often served with the shell on. While it’s technically edible, peeling the shrimp enhances the experience for many (myself included)!

The food trucks are just the beginning of the North Shore’s food scene! If you’re craving more options, check out my list of the best restaurants on the North Shore. And while you’re exploring, don’t miss out on grabbing an acai bowl—these fruity, refreshing bowls are a must-try staple of the area. Perfect for cooling off after a day in the sun!

12. Dole Plantation

Did you know the Dole Plantation on Oahu offers more than just pineapples? You can take a tour, hop on a scenic train ride, or try your luck in the world’s largest maze.

But honestly, I went straight for the snacks—and wow! The Dole Whip (pineapple soft serve) and chocolate-covered pineapple are life-changing treats. If you’re exploring without a rental car, check out this epic day tour that covers the plantation, snorkeling, and more iconic island stops. Trust me, it’s a sweet (and scenic) adventure!

13. Go Ziplining

For more adventure, this 3-hour ziplining tour is a must-try! Kick off with an ATV ride to the top of a mountain for jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the North Shore’s ocean, farms, and lush green mountains.

Then, soar through 8 thrilling ziplines ranging from 500 to 2,400 feet, with added challenges like sky bridges, rappels, and scenic boardwalks. Don’t forget your close-toed shoes for this adventure!

Read one of the 1,600 5-star reviews for this activity and you’ll understand exactly why it’s on the list of best things to do on the North Shore.

How to Get Around Oahu

Depending on how long you’re staying I definitely recommend renting a car to get around! There are so many parts of the island to see. We snagged an amazing deal on a two-week rental, but prices vary, so book early for the best rates (most rentals offer free cancellations).

Check out Turo for unique car options too. If you’re staying mainly in Waikiki, you might skip the car for a bit, but it’s a game-changer for exploring the rest of the island!

Where to Stay on the North Shore of Oahu

If you plan on staying on the North Shore, accommodations are limited, and there are no high-rise hotels like in Waikiki. Here are some excellent options:

• Beach Side Studio: Features a fully equipped kitchenette, free parking, and is only 200 feet from the beach.
• Hawaii Oceanfront Beach House: Perfect for groups, with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and beachfront access.
• Blue Mahina at Sunset Beach: A stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom rental that sleeps 12, with incredible ocean views.

Check out all available options for your dates in Haleiwa here. Most properties book up several months in advance! So don’t wait to book.

Which of these fun things to do on the North Shore are you checking out first?!

One of the things I love most about the North Shore is its perfect balance of exhilarating experiences and laid-back, chill vibes. Whether you’re seeking adventure or just looking to unwind and soak in the serene beauty, the North Shore has something special to offer. It’s a destination that invites you to embrace both the thrill of exploring and the peace of simply being present. No matter what you choose to do, the North Shore guarantees memories that will stay with you long after you leave!

Before you go check out some of my other Hawaii posts including the best things to do in Kaneohe and Kailua and my epic Hawaii packing list ◡̈) If you plan to island hop check out my other island hopping itineraries:

Things to do in Lahaina

3 days in Kauai

3 days in Maui

4 days on the Big Island