Oahu’s north shore is home to country rats, and Honolulu is home to city rats. The pace of life has become slower and more relaxed, with few haute couture boutiques and fast food chains. But don’t think it means the fun is over! There are endless stunning beaches and stretches of yellow sand. There are corals and rocks beneath the surface of the water, and many colorful fish inhabited inside, which will make Finding Nemo fans scream. There’s also the tranquil Hawaiian rainforest, which makes you feel like you’re in the Avatar scene instead of being hundreds of meters from the beach. If you’re traveling to Hawaii, be sure to take the time to visit the other side of Oahu’s north shore.
Best Things to Do on the North Coast of Oahu
Waimea Bay
Waimea Beach is a great place for snorkeling beginners. The sand extends into the water, but rocks, coral, and fish are not far away. Many beautiful fish hide between the rocks and the occasional coral. If you don’t have your own equipment, snorkeling equipment can be rented at nearby Sharks Cove. Try to avoid going on weekends as the beach can be crowded.
Beach Under Sunset
The long stretch of sand of Sunset Beach is perfect for stretching out, reading a good book and relaxing with the sound of the waves. The beach is long, so it’s easy to find a place away from the crowds even on weekends. The sunset here is said to be one of the most beautiful in the world, and it is well worth the wait at the end of a long beach day.
Turtle Bay
While Turtle Bay Resort has most of the amenities in the area, all beaches in Hawaii are public, including Turtle Bay Beach. It’s a great snorkeling spot with lots of rocks and corals for fish to get in and out quickly, and as the name suggests, turtles are also here. Water shoes or fins are recommended.
If you’re more interested in paddle, head to Kuilima Bay on the other side of the resort. The protected sandy beach is a great place to relax and is more comfortable than Rock Turtle Bay.
Hauula Ring Road
The North Shore is more than just beaches! On the other side of the highway, the lush Hawaiian jungle awaits you to explore. The Hau’ula Loop Trail is a well-maintained trail, but if you don’t know what you’re looking for, it can be hard to find the trail’s starting point. It starts at the end of Hau’ula Homestead Road in Hau’ula. Walk to the end of the road and go through the yellow gate, bypassing the second gate and following the road until you see a sign pointing to the forest. The trail is about 4 kilometers long and passes through multiple elevation and vegetation changes, while also offering some amazing views. Be sure to bring mosquito repellent and be prepared to put on muddy shoes when it rains!
How to Get to the North Coast of Oahu
Bus 55 departs from Ala Moana Center in Honolulu and serves the North Shore, with regular stops at all the best beaches, dining trucks and snorkeling spots. Affordable at $2.50 per trip, with free pick-up allowed within 2 hours of boarding. Be careful not to miss the stops, as they are not advertised on most buses.
The Best Place to Eat on the North Coast of Oahu
North Shore Tortillas
They are famous because they have the best fish tacos in Hawaii. I tried fish and chicken, I personally prefer chicken but the fish taco is also delicious. The food trucks at Sharks Cove and the restaurants in Hau’ula are busy, but the Mexican-style décor makes for a cool feeling. Try the pineapple salsa to bring sweetness to the regular tomato variety.
Papaole
It’s a well-kept local secret with an unobtrusive entrance and no markings, and I wouldn’t have gone inside if it weren’t for a group of locals feasting on the outdoor seating area next door to Hau’ula Dominos Pizza. The menu is simple, but everything looks great. I tried the cheeseburger and fries and to be honest, it was one of the tastiest burgers I’ve ever had. I didn’t expect a burger with only meat and cheese to be so perfect! If you want to try local cuisine, they also offer many local specialties.
Dining Car
There are plenty of food trucks along the Kamehameha Highway offering different specialties, from shrimp to Thai dishes to tacos. At dinner time, many places are crowded with locals and tourists. Romy’s Kahuku shrimp truck is one of the most popular shrimp trucks on Main Street, serving freshly harvested shrimp, simple side dishes, and local desserts.
North Shore Accommodation
Backpackers Holiday Hostel
Backpackers Vacation Inn and Hostel is ideally located opposite Waimea Beach with a bus stop right in front. It is the only lodge on the North Shore with private rooms and dormitories, and at the time of writing, beds in dormitories cost $30 per night.
Airbnb
There are plenty of Airbnb B&Bs on the North Shore, and that’s where we chose to stay. We chose to live in a Volkswagen Combi van under a palm tree in Hau’ula, about 100m from the beach. It’s affordable, and it’s cool! Comfort is also good. As with all Airbnbs, there are many price points and qualities, so do your research before booking.
Turtle Bay Resort
Turtle Bay Resort is a superb facility on the North Shore. Located in Turtle Bay, it offers many five-star facilities, including a large golf course and tennis courts. Room rates match for wealthier travelers, but you get what you pay for, and you won’t be disappointed with the views or amenities.