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10 Best Things to Do in North Shore, Oʻahu
April 05 ,2023

Not far from Prince Waikiki is North Shore, O‘ahu — home to some of the best adventures in Hawaii. While there’s so much to see and do here in lively Honolulu, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to explore every corner of the island. 

 

Much like in Honolulu, there are countless things to do along the North Shore, from discovering beaches to experiencing water adventures, or simply exploring the diverse and distinct coastline. 

 

If you want to get the most out of your trip to Hawaii and travel the island, we’ve put together a list for you! Here are 10 of the best things to do in North Shore, O‘ahu, during your Prince Waikiki getaway.

Watch the Pros at Banzai Pipeline

 

surfer on a backlit blue wave, getting barrelled on hawaii's north shore

 

Banzai Pipeline is known throughout the world for its legendary waves. During the summer, locals and travelers alike love to explore nearby Ehukai Beach Park, but from October to April, some of the best surfers in the world flock to the area to brave the epic breaks.

 

The Banzai Pipeline is definitely for experienced surfers only. However, you can still catch an adrenaline rush just by watching from the shore! The barreling waves filled with skillful surfers make for an exhilarating environment and an impressive sight to see. 

 

Snorkel at Shark’s Cove

 

Scenic view of Sharks Cove, Hawaii, a small rocky bay side of Pupukea Beach Park

 

With crystal clear water and abundant marine life, Shark’s Cove is one of the most beautiful bays in Hawaii for snorkeling.

 

Don’t worry, you’re actually not likely to see any swimming sharks here! Shark’s Cove gets its name from the surrounding reefs that resemble the shape of a shark. Instead, you’ll find colorful fish, coral reefs, lava formations, and maybe even green sea turtles. The pools throughout the cove are made up of small caves, tunnels, and crevices, making it quite the playground for both marine life and snorkelers as fish dart in and out of the many nooks as if playing hide and seek. 

 

Swim with the Sharks 

 

But if you do want to get up close and personal with the sharks of Hawaii, why not go all in and swim with the sharks? North Shore Shark Adventures will bring you three miles out into the Pacific Ocean in search of curious schools of sharks. 

 

This is an amazing opportunity to swim with the sharks in their natural habitat from the safety of a diving cage. Once you’re in the water and see the ocean creatures mingling about, you’ll realize how graceful they are. 

 

North Shore Shark Adventures even offers pickup in the Waikiki area, so when you’re staying with us here at Prince Waikiki — no need to worry about renting a car or booking a taxi! 

 

Try The Thrill of Skydiving 

 

Another exciting adventure on the North Shore — or should we say above the North Shore — is skydiving!

 

Imagine soaring high above the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean with the lush green landscapes below, the wind in your face, and your heart pounding with excitement. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of freefalling through the tropical skies. Plus, with expert instructors at Skydive Hawaii, and top-of-the-line gear, you’ll feel supported every step (or jump) of the way. 

 

One last piece of advice? Don’t forget to enjoy the breathtaking views along the way — it’s not every day you get to see Hawaii from this perspective! 

 

Jump From the Waimea Cliff

 

Boy jumps off a cliff into the ocean at Waimea Bay in Hawaii at sunset.

 

Waimea Bay Beach Park is home to a massive, seemingly misplaced lava rock formation. Often cited as one of the best things to do on the North Shore, we think it’s worth adding to your Hawaii bucket list! Every day, dozens of locals and travelers leap from the rock into the warm, turquoise sea. 

 

The Waimea Bay cliff is the perfect location to get a taste of cliff jumping on the island, without being too extreme.

 

But if you’re not up for jumping off the 30-foot cliff, it’s still a lot of fun to watch others climb up the massive rock and plunge beneath the ocean. Plus, the beach has a picnic area where you can enjoy lunch, and a sand volleyball court.

 

Observe the Honu: Our Hawaiian Sea Turtles

 

Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle Basking in the warm waters of Oahu

 

If you want to see Sea Turtles (also known as Honu) during your visit to Hawaii, Laniakea Beach is the place to be. They don’t call this place “Turtle Beach” for nothing. While we can’t guarantee a turtle sighting, you have some pretty high chances at this beach — especially if you visit between 11 am and 3 pm during the summer months. 

 

The sea turtles love to lounge on the shore and bask in the Hawaiian sun. And if you’re at the beach while the waves are calm, you might even catch a glimpse of the turtles in action swimming along the water. 

 

These gentle giants of Hawaii are a threatened species, so protecting and treating them with respect is essential. If you spot sea turtles, remember to stay at least 10 feet away, don’t touch or disturb the turtles, and do not feed them. Instead, enjoy their unique beauty from a safe distance.  

 

Explore Haleiwa

 

While on the North Shore, you’ve got to experience the laid-back town of Haleiwa. This little piece of paradise on O‘ahu is the perfect place to soak up the Hawaiian sun, stroll the historic district, and live like a local. 

 

From the colorful storefronts and boutiques like Hawaiian Island Creations to the mouthwatering hot and spicy shrimp at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, you won’t be able to resist the charm and flavor of this beach town. Spend the day and discover the town’s vibrant art scene, get a dose of Hawaiian history, and walk the warm sandy beaches. You’ll have an unforgettable experience exploring this tiny town with plenty of charm. 

 

Bathe Underneath a Waterfall

 

Waimea Falls, Waimea Valley, north Oahu, Hawaii

 

Picture yourself hiking along lush forestry, the sun peaking through the leaves, while on your way to a secluded waterfall and natural pool. This magical oasis is tucked away at the end of Waimea Valley Trail. It welcomes you to an open bath of water, inviting you to take a dip and bathe under the cascading waterfall. 

 

Not only is swimming amid the misting waterfall a breathtaking experience, but the surrounding scenery is full of bright green foliage, towering cliffs, and vibrant flowers. 

 

Visit the Dole Plantation

 

One of the more unique adventures on the North Shore includes a visit to the Dole Plantation. Explore everything pineapple at this iconic attraction as you make your way through the stunning plantation grounds and learn about the pineapple’s history and Hawaiian agriculture. 

 

There’s more than one way to explore the grounds. Board the Pineapple Express Train for a two-mile journey through Hawaii’s pineapple story. Wander through the grounds’ eight gardens, get a close-up view of the plants, and take in the sweet scent of fresh pineapples. Or, get lost in the Pineapple Garden Maze that stretches its paths of colorful plants over three acres. See if you can make your way through the largest maze in the world! 

 

Finally, before returning to Prince Waikiki, you must stop at the Plantation Grille to try the world-famous Dole soft-serve! 

 

Become Mesmerized by the Hawaiian Sunsets

 

Sunset Beach in Hawaii Islands, Oahu, Hawaii, USA

 

If you’re looking for the most magical experience while visiting Hawaii, watching the sunsets will leave you in awe. Prince Waikiki is conveniently located near some of the best beaches to watch sunsets on the island.

 

There’s no better place to say “goodbye” to an unforgettable day than on North Shore’s Sunset Beach — about a one-hour drive from our resort. Spend the day exploring the area, then head to the beach for Mother Nature’s special moment. As the sun slowly descends below the horizon, find a comfortable spot on the sand and prepare to be amazed by one of Hawaii’s most beautiful displays. The sky transforms into a blend of warm colors that are sure to dazzle and delight after a fantastic day on the North Shore. 

 

Experience the Best of the North Shore During Your Time at Prince Waikiki

 

First Timer's Guide to an O‘ahu Vacation

 

Prince Waikiki is the perfect home base for your Hawaiian vacation. With close proximity to the North Shore, renting a car and traveling around this charming area of O‘ahu for the day is easy. Spend your day adventuring, then head back for dinner at 100 Sails Restaurant and Bar or a relaxing evening by one of our pools

 

Start planning your Prince Waikiki getaway today by exploring our exciting offers and vacation packages.

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