During our last trip in February, Tom and I took the time to thoroughly enjoy the island of Oahu together. There’s so many things to do and see, so we listed below some of our main stops along the North Shore (South Shore/Waikiki guide here plus where we stayed here). Starting with Waikiki Beach, the stops are in geographical order for easy driving and in case you want to use this guide to plan your future trip.
1. Dole Plantation
Three words that everyone on earth knows about: Pineapple dole whip.
2. Giovanni's Shrimp Truck
The shrimp truck that started all shrimp trucks, it’s worth a stop if you haven’t tried before (we like the shrimp scampi flavor). Once you’re done and driving along the road again, stop by the North Shore Marketplace just a minute down the road and grab a freshly cracked coconut.
3. Matsumoto Shave Ice
This place is iconic and as we were driving through on a weekday, we popped in cause there was no line. Plus I really like the clothing boutique that’s located within the same plaza :).
4. Laniakea Beach aka Turtle Beach
Known better as Turtle Beach because of its beachside natives, its hard to believe how big and majestic these creatures are. They’re difficult to miss and occasionally you’ll see one swimming its way in. Parking might be tough, but its definitely worth stopping to get a glimpse of these guys
5. Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is a good site to watch the big waves in February. We’ve come before and did rock jumping in the summer, but in February the waves looked too rough to be doing so. There is also a hike nearby, so be sure to check out both the beach and hike if you have time.
6. Sunrise Shack
A cutesy happy shack off located right off the highway in North Shore (and right near Sunset Beach). Order a juice or bowl, sit on the colorful benches in the area they call the Zen Den, and enjoy you’re order next to the wandering chickens living on site.
7. Crooked Palm Tree
Yes – Crooked Palm Tree is recognized as its own destination on Google maps. It’s located on Sunset Beach near the Pipline where the waves are MASSIVE. Don’t expect to come here for leisurely swimming as the lifeguards will loudly call you off the beach (it can be amusing to watch). But if you’re a pro surfer, this is the place for you. If not, then you can sit with the masses who’ve come to ooh and ahh at the waves and watch the surfers. Also, keep an eye out for the funky cute crabs! We picked up Cafe Iyasume masubis earlier in the morning from Waikiki and enjoyed them on the beach.
8. Turtle Bay Resort for Drinks and Food
Where Forgetting Sarah Marshall was filmed, but where I prefer to get my burger fix. There’s two bar areas at Turtle Beach, one is Roy’s Beach House that is right near the beach (plus there is happy hour – we love the lava flow here and the short ribs on happy hour). The other is near their pool where we ordered the burger. If you’re on this side, look towards the ocean and keep an eye out for the blowhole.
9. Haleiwa Beach House for Sunset Dinner
After a long day exploring the North Shore and if you’re headed back to Waikiki, stop by the Haleiwa Beach for dinner or drinks. The restaurant has an entire wall of retractable windows facing the beach that they raise during sunset so you can soak in the pink and orange hue skies. If you’re hungry but want something on the lighter side, the baby arugula and watercress salad is so good.
