The breathtaking North Shore of Oahu is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Known for its legendary surf breaks, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, this tropical haven offers a myriad of thrilling activities that will leave you captivated and craving for more.
In this blog post, we’ll explore eight exciting activities on Oahu’s North Shore that are guaranteed to make your visit an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, a water sports enthusiast, or simply seeking relaxation, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your sunscreen, and let’s dive in!
Hiking The North Shore
The North Shore is blessed with an abundance of breathtaking trails that cater to all fitness levels. Lace up your hiking boots and venture into the lush wilderness of Waimea Valley. Here, you’ll find a variety of trails leading to stunning waterfalls, botanical gardens, and ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites. The popular Waimea Valley Trail is an easy hike suitable for all ages and offers a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural history.
Great North Shore Hiking Trails
- Ka’ena Point Trail: This scenic coastal hike offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and leads you to the westernmost point of Oahu, where you can spot seabirds and Hawaiian monk seals.
- Ehukai Pillbox Hike: This short but rewarding trail takes you to a World War II pillbox bunker and provides panoramic views of famous surf breaks like Pipeline and Sunset Beach.
- Waimea Valley Trail: Explore the lush Waimea Valley and its botanical gardens on this family-friendly hike, which leads to a majestic waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip.
Surfing The Famous North Shore
Surfing is undoubtedly one of the biggest draws of the North Shore. Home to world-famous breaks like Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay, this coastline offers a haven for surfers from around the globe. If you’re an experienced rider, challenge yourself on the towering winter swells. For beginners, there are plenty of surf schools that provide lessons and equipment, allowing you to catch your very first wave in no time. Surfing along the shores of Oahu is something you’ll never forget.
Popular North Shore Surfing Spots
- Pipeline (Ehukai Beach): Known as one of the most iconic and challenging surf breaks in the world, Pipeline attracts experienced surfers seeking powerful barrels and big waves.
- Sunset Beach: A popular spot during the winter months, Sunset Beach offers consistent and powerful waves that attract both professional surfers and spectators.
- Waimea Bay: Famous for its massive waves that can reach up to 30 feet (9 meters) in the winter, Waimea Bay is a legendary surf spot that has hosted renowned surf competitions like the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational.
Not looking to participate in the big waves? Just watch instead!
If the thought of surfing a huge wave sounds like a bit too much adventure for you, join us on one of our Big Wave Adventure tours, where you can watch some of the pros tackle some huge waves!
Snorkeling Oahu’s North Shore
Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of Oahu’s North Shore and explore the vibrant marine life that thrives beneath the surface. Places like Shark’s Cove and Three Tables are known for their exceptional snorkeling opportunities. Slip on your mask, grab your snorkel, and get ready to encounter colorful fish, sea turtles, and beautiful coral reefs. Don’t forget your underwater camera to capture the local wildlife! There are even plenty of snorkeling boat tours that you can take, that get you up close and personal with marine life that normally doesn’t come close to shore.
Great North Shore Snorkeling Locations
- Shark’s Cove: Located in Pupukea Marine Life Conservation District, Shark’s Cove offers crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life, making it a popular snorkeling destination.
- Three Tables: Adjacent to Shark’s Cove, Three Tables features a series of submerged rock formations that create shallow tide pools teeming with colorful fish and other marine creatures, perfect for snorkelers of all skill levels.
- Kuilima Cove: Situated near Turtle Bay Resort, Kuilima Cove is a sheltered bay with calm waters and a sandy bottom, providing excellent snorkeling conditions for observing tropical fish and occasionally even sea turtles.
Shark Diving: Get Up Close with Predators
For adventurous souls seeking an adrenaline rush, diving with sharks is an experience like no other. Join a guided tour and venture into the deep waters off the North Shore, where you’ll have the chance to observe sharks up close and personal. It’s a thrilling encounter that will leave you in awe of these magnificent creatures. If you’re on the fence, rest assured that shark diving is much safer than you think!
Come Shark Diving With Us At Ocean Outfitters!
This one-of-a-kind adventure allows you to get up close and personal with these creatures while maintaining a safe and respectful distance. Led by expert guides, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey where you get to see sharks in their natural habitat. With a focus on conservation and education, Ocean Outfitters provides an immersive and responsible shark diving experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for these incredible apex predators. Contact us to learn more about shark diving, or book today!
Horseback Riding
Embark on a horseback riding adventure through the picturesque landscapes of Oahu’s North Shore. Ride along sandy beaches, explore lush forests, and traverse rolling hills with the refreshing ocean breeze on your face. This unique activity allows you to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the island in a much different way than most people are used to. Find a place that looks the best to you and enjoy it!
Golfing
If you’re a golf enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to know that the North Shore boasts world-class golf courses set against stunning coastal backdrops. Challenge your skills on courses designed by renowned architects, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and dramatic cliffs as your backdrop. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, playing a round of golf in this tropical paradise is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Ziplining
For an adrenaline-fueled adventure with a bird’s-eye view, ziplining on Oahu’s North Shore is an absolute must. Strap into a harness, step off the platform, and feel the exhilaration as you glide through the air, suspended high above the stunning landscapes below. As you zip from one platform to another, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and the sparkling ocean in the distance. With professional guides ensuring your safety, ziplining offers an unmatched combination of adventure, thrill, and breathtaking scenery that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Helicopter Tours
For a truly awe-inspiring experience, take to the skies on a thrilling helicopter tour of the North Shore. Marvel at the majestic coastline, cascading waterfalls, and lush valleys from a bird’s-eye view. While it is a bit more expensive than most activities on this list, the helicopter’s panoramic windows offer uninterrupted vistas, allowing you to capture breathtaking photographs of this tropical paradise. With an experienced pilot guiding you, you’ll gain a unique perspective of the North Shore’s natural wonders and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Explore Oahu with thrilling adventures!
Oahu’s North Shore presents an array of exciting activities that showcase the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From exhilarating snorkeling boat tours that reveal hidden underwater treasures to captivating helicopter tours that offer breathtaking aerial views, these experiences allow you to immerse yourself in the wonders of this tropical paradise.
So, get ready to make a splash, soar through the sky, and create lasting memories on Oahu’s North Shore. Whether you choose to dive into the vibrant marine world or witness the breathtaking landscapes from above, these activities promise to ignite your sense of adventure and provide an unforgettable journey in paradise.
