Things to do in North Shore, Oahu

Our most recommended things to do in North Shore, Oahu

Oahu: Shark Cage Dive on the North Shore

Oahu: Shark Cage Dive on the North Shore

Swim with the sharks during this tour that offers you the unique adventure of a shark dive, while ensuring your safety at all times. Discover the wonders of the sea on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii alongside a certified guide. Bring your own masks and snorkels or use the ones provided on board. Your guide will give you a safety briefing at the start of the tour and will answer all your questions concerning this special adventure. See up to 200 feet (60 meters) in the crystal-clear, cobalt blue water. Depending on the season, you will encounter such magnificent animals as the Hawaiian Green Sea turtles, playful dolphins, and Humpback whales. Admire the sharks from the ship's deck, or experience the rush of entering the shark cage which allows you to be only inches away from sharks that can grow up to 15 feet (5 meters) in length. Capture pictures with your underwater camera of their grace and majesty in the water. Have 20 minutes to marvel at the sharks and cherish this unforgettable moment. Up to 8 people can be in the cage at the same time, so you can experience the sharks with someone you love.

Oahu: Oahu Ultimate Grand Circle Island Tour

Oahu: Oahu Ultimate Grand Circle Island Tour

Discover the best of the island of Oahu on a guided day tour from Honolulu. Enjoy beautiful scenery and views from locations such as the Diamond Head State Monument, the Kahala Scenic Route, Makapu'u Point, and Turtle Beach as you learn about local history. After meeting in central Honolulu, depart to your first stop of the day, the Diamond Head State Monument. Stroll through the famous East Honolulu neighborhood and enjoy a breathtaking sunrise view over Maunalua Bay. Travel along the Kahala Scenic Route, known for its large concentration of expensive real estate and beachfront properties, which include some of the most expensive in the entire state. Visit the Halona Blowholetake "postcard-worthy" photos to show off to your friends. Continue to Makapu'u Point and capture stunning images of Rabbit Island's crater and cliffs. Experience firsthand why many famous movies were filmed at this location. Drive along Kauai's windward coast, from Waimanalo onward to Kualoa. Right before heading to Kualoa's Mac Nut Farm, stop for shave ice and ice cream. Try some free coffee samples, mac nuts, and take a picture in front of the Kamehameha Statue. Visit the appropriately named Turtle Beach on the North Shore and spot Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles. Enjoy some free time for swimming or sunbathing and this beautiful beach. Then, visit vintage farms and the surfer town of Hale'iwa as you learn about Hawaii's surfing culture and big wave competitions. Next, learn about Hawaiian pineapples at the Dole Plantation. Wander through the largest pineapple maze here, and you can find gifts for your loved ones. Finally, stop at the Green World Coffee Farm where you can enjoy samples of coffee and tea to sip while perusing the storefront. Afterward, relax on the journey back to Honolulu.

Honolulu: Oahu Island Full-Day Guided Tour by Bus with Lunch

Honolulu: Oahu Island Full-Day Guided Tour by Bus with Lunch

Uncover Oahu’s majestic grandeur on a full-day day trip. Ride in a spacious and air-conditioned bus and be captivated by the unique beauty and the dramatic history that is found behind every corner. Take an unforgettable journey through the history of the island. Be picked up from the comfort of your accommodation. History comes alive before your eyes as you weave your way up the Koʻolau Mountains to the Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout where King Kamehameha I battled to unite the Hawaiian Islands.  Shortly after, gaze at the beautiful Byodo-In Temple, a replica of the Byodo-in Temple in Japan, built to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants in Hawaii.  Cruise along 7 miles of world-famous surfing beaches on Oahu’s north shore and sample the local flavors along the way. Waimea Valley and its waterfalls await you, discover this beautiful place steeped with history, spirituality and island traditions.  Follow your guide through the botanical gardens of this vast and tranquil setting. Learn how deeply embedded tradition is in today’s Hawaiian culture. Stop at the historic Dole Plantation surrounded by rows of pineapples and fields of sugarcane. Hear about how this plant became a symbol of Hawaii before returning to your accommodation. 

Oahu: North Shore Experience and Dole Plantation

Oahu: North Shore Experience and Dole Plantation

Discover the incredible sights of the idyllic island of Oahu, and immerse yourself in the local culture as you try authentic dishes and ice cream. Marvel at the emerald blue water of the Pacific from the famous Halona Blowhole, while watching water spurt out into the air. Soak in the spectacular views at the North Shore, as you pad through soft sand at the iconic beaches of Sunset Beach and Alii Beach. Admire astonishing waves that can reach up to 25-50 feet high during the winter season. Satisfy your tastebuds at Kahuku Sugar Mill as you try a range of local dishes at eateries such as Giovanni's Shrimp Truck, Mike's Huli Chicken, and Da Bald Guy. Cap off this unforgettable trip with the world-famous Dole Pineapple Whip Soft Cream at the Dole Plantation.

From Honolulu: Oahu 60min Helicopter Tour with Doors Off/On

From Honolulu: Oahu 60min Helicopter Tour with Doors Off/On

Hop aboard a helicopter and admire Oahu’s landmarks on a guided flight tour from Honolulu. See the Waikiki skyline from above, fly past Diamond Head, and round the volcanic cliffs to Makapu’u Lighthouse. Choose a private or shared tour, with your choice of an on-or-off door experience. Make your way to the local partner’s helipad to begin your experience. Ascend above the city and follow the Windward Coast, with breathtaking views of the Ko’olau Mountains in the distance. Listen to your guide's live tour commentary. Pass Lanikai Beach and see its gorgeous coral formations. Cruise over Kaneohe Bay and discover why this place is regarded as one of the most scenic locations on Earth. Glide past the “Chinaman’s Hat” off the east coast of Oahu. See the Ka’a’awa Valley—the historic home of the island’s kings. Plus, take in views of the lush rainforest surrounding the Sacred Falls. Continue onto the North Shore to spot surfers at the Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay. Loop back to Honolulu and get a glimpse of the pineapple-tastic Dole Plantation. Finally, pass over the iconic Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, before returning to the helipad.

Oahu: North Shore Cageless Shark Snorkeling Tour

Oahu: North Shore Cageless Shark Snorkeling Tour

Join Oahu's original North Shore boat crew on a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Take a plunge beneath the waters of the North Shore and interact with sharks. Snorkel alongside your experienced guide, and keep your eyes ready to see ocean life. You may spot, dolphins, whales, sandbar sharks, Galapagos sharks, hammerheads, and even tiger sharks. Look for turtles and endemic fish as you traverse the blue Hawaii waters. A safety diver will be with you as you swim, helping you to understand the ocean and its residents. Water can get up to 250 feet deep and guests are encouraged to be experienced swimmers. Enjoy the water and animals in a small group of only 8.

Oahu: Magnum P.I. Doors-Off Helicopter Tour

Oahu: Magnum P.I. Doors-Off Helicopter Tour

Experience Oahu from above on this doors-off helicopter tour with the helicopter from Magnum P.I. Upon checking in at Magnum Headquarters, be greeted by a friendly staff. Get ready to have a lot of fun producing your very own Magnum P.I. Ferrari Video highlighting amazing visual effects using green screen technology. After a brief safety presentation to ensure you are properly equipped, climb aboard one of the actual choppers used in the Magnum P.I. TV Series. The legendary 4-passenger Hughes 500D helicopter is flown with doors-off to give you the best photo opportunities possible. The third-largest and most populated island in Hawaii, Oahu offers several incredible sights. Honolulu is Hawaii’s capital city and home to the beautiful Waikiki Beach and other historic must-sees, including Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor. The only way to truly appreciate it all is through a helicopter tour over Oahu. TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: Your helicopter tour begins with a beautiful view of Keehi Lagoon and continues over historic Honolulu Harbor, Aloha Tower, and the Natural Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. While flying over these beautiful landmarks, you’ll also get an incredible birds-eye view of the Koolau mountains, Ala Moana Beach Park, and Waikiki Beach. Next on the tour are some of Oahu’s most stunning vistas, including Kaawa Valley, Sacred Falls, the North Shore, and more. Finally, your tour concludes with a breathtaking view of Oahu’s most historic sights, including Pearl Harbor, the Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri. Magnum Helicopters is truly one of the most unique helicopter experiences in the country. Don't settle for less, Fly Magnum.

Honolulu: Oahu Island Highlights Tour with Multiple Stops

Honolulu: Oahu Island Highlights Tour with Multiple Stops

Spend the day exploring Oahu’s most scenic sights, unique culture, and rich history. Travel from Diamond Head Crater along the southern coast to the famous surfing beaches of the North Shore. Get a complete overview of all the scenic points from your tour driver. An experienced tour driver will provide a complete overview of all the scenic points that the “Heart of Hawai‘i” has to offer. Some of the featured sites include: (*Denotes a stop) • Diamond Head Hawai‘i’s most recognized landmark. • Exclusive Kahala Estates Hawai‘i’s Gold Coast. • Hanauma Bay Lookout* Formed within a volcanic cone, this marine ecosystem offers spectacular views (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays) • Halona Blowhole Lookout* Where a volcanic lava tube propels water up to the sky. • Waimānalo Town Known for its local flavor and numerous plant nurseries. • Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout* With panoramic views of the coast line to the sheer mountains veiled by the clouds. • Chinaman’s Hat The basalt islet in Kaneohe Bay is shaped curiously like a hat. According to Hawaiian mythology, the island is formed from the remains of a giant lizard or dragon’s tail tossed to the ocean. • Hukilau Marketplace (Polynesian Cultural Center)* Pounders restaurant is a farm fresh island style dining restaurant, serving fresh produce from island farms, Hawaii-raised grass fed beef, locally caught seafood, savory delights from the Pacific Rim. • La‘ie Hawai‘i Mormon Temple Contains breathtaking lush tropical gardens of Hawaiian foliage and flowers, cascading water features and more. • North Shore Surfing Beaches The surfing mecca that attracts surfers from around the world for the massive winter waves and Hollywood for the 7 miles of picturesque beaches. • Dole Plantation* Visit Hawai‘i’s Pineapple Experience, see pineapple varieties and try the delicious Dole Whip.

Oahu: 16-Point Guided Circle Tour with Snorkeling and Dole

Oahu: 16-Point Guided Circle Tour with Snorkeling and Dole

Be sure not to miss one of Hawaii's top excursions that will guide you to the finest sights on Oahu, and leave you in total amazement. It’s the amazing Tour Guides that will make all the difference in this action-packed day. They will spoil you rotten by telling funny stories, giving their knowledge of Hawaii, and sharing the precious culture of Hawaii with You. Whether this is your first trip to the islands, or you’re a seasoned veteran, this exclusive 16-Point Circle Island Tour combines the best highlights that Oahu has to offer, and serves them up into a full-day adventure that you will always remember! Take in the beautiful vistas of the Dole Plantation on the North Side, and the Halona Blowhole on the South Coast. Discover a Hawaiian nut plantation with free all-you-can-eat Macadamias and Kona coffee to drink. Come see the green sea turtles on the North Shore. Learn about Hawaii and its unique culture from the most dynamic tour guides in Hawaii. This tour will bring you relaxation, excitement, awe, and all the emotions in between! Enjoy visits to major Oahu hot spots like Chinaman’s Hat, North Shore Beaches, the Diamond Head Beach, and Nu‘uanu Pali Lookouts, along with a ton of spots that are “off the beaten path.” This experience is ready to show you some major fun and give you the lay of the land. Please bring a swimsuit, extra clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, bag, & camera. We will provide bottled water, but please bring some cash for lunch.

Oahu: Circle Island Top Sights Full-Day Tour w/ Local Guide

Oahu: Circle Island Top Sights Full-Day Tour w/ Local Guide

Let your knowledgeable local guide take you on an unforgettable journey around Oahu’s most iconic landmarks, scenic viewpoints, and cultural treasures—all while you sit back and relax in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. With live narration, fascinating Hawaiian history, and insider tips, you’ll experience the island in a way that only a guided tour can provide—without the hassle of driving or parking. Your adventure begins with convenient pickup from select Waikiki hotels, followed by a drive past Diamond Head, Oahu’s world-famous volcanic crater. Travel through the exclusive Kahala neighborhood, known for its multi-million dollar beachfront homes. As you venture along Oahu’s stunning South Shore, take in sweeping ocean views, dramatic lava rock cliffs, and crashing waves as your guide shares stories of the island’s geological and cultural history. Drive past the Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach, and Makapu‘u Point, some of the island’s most picturesque coastal viewpoints. Stop at the Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout, a legendary site with panoramic views of Oahu’s lush windward coast. Here, you'll learn about the historic battle that helped unify the Hawaiian Islands under King Kamehameha I. Next, visit the serene Byodo-In Temple, a breathtaking replica of a 900-year-old Japanese temple, nestled against the majestic Ko‘olau Mountains. Walk through peaceful gardens, admire the koi ponds, and take in the tranquil atmosphere of this sacred site. Continue to Waimea Valley, a lush botanical paradise and sacred Hawaiian site. Walk through tropical gardens filled with native Hawaiian plants, waterfalls, and ancient archaeological sites. If conditions allow, take a refreshing dip in the waterfall-fed pool. Enjoy free time for lunch at the Waimea Valley café or choose to eat later in Haleiwa Town, where you’ll find a variety of local Hawaiian restaurants. As you travel along Oahu’s legendary North Shore, witness the island’s world-famous surf spots, including Sunset Beach, Banzai Pipeline, and Waimea Bay. These legendary waves attract surfers from around the world, and your guide will share insider knowledge on the island’s rich surf culture. Stop in Haleiwa Town, a historic surf village filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and laid-back island charm. Take time to browse, capture more photos, and enjoy a refreshing Hawaiian shave ice from the iconic Matsumoto’s Shave Ice— a treat available for purchase. Your final stop is at Dole Plantation, where you can enjoy a classic Dole Whip, Hawaii’s famous pineapple soft-serve (available for purchase). Wander through the plantation’s country store, where you can shop for unique island souvenirs, fresh pineapples, and locally made treats. With plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and insider knowledge from your expert guide, this circle island tour is the best way to experience the top attractions of Oahu in one incredible day—without the hassle of navigating island roads yourself.

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What people are saying about North Shore, Oahu

Overall rating

4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7
4.7 out of 5 stars
(1,536 reviews)
5 out of 5 stars

Charming, intelligent crew who answered all questions and explained everything clearly. The weather on our day was amazing! The ocean was an amazing shade of blue and unbelievably clear. 7 people decided to go into the cage at the same time, so the viewing time was doubled. The crew had everyone rotate around the crate after 10 minutes. I do recommend renting their go-pros if you do not have your own. The sharks were waaay bigger than I had expected and there were a lot of them. Underwater, you could even hear whale song and the go-pro picked it up. Be sure and take your anti-seasick pills. A couple of people had to get out of the cage and be ill over the side. I heartily recommend this excursion. It was amazing.

5 out of 5 stars

I came in as a total beginner, and to be honest, I was probably the worst in the group—but that didn’t matter at all! My instructor was incredibly patient, kind, and never gave up on me, even when I struggled the most. The energy, the atmosphere, and the people were absolutely amazing. Everything was perfectly organized, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Despite my lack of skills, I had the time of my life, and thanks to their incredible support, I’m already booking my next lesson! If you’re thinking about trying surfing, THIS is the place to do it. I can’t recommend it enough! 🌊🏄‍♀️✨

5 out of 5 stars

We saw lots of sharks, which were also very easy to spot from the boat. We had enough time in the cage to admire the sharks and other smaller fish. On the way there we could see dolphins and salmon jumping. We also happened to see a few whales jumping up from a distance. Definitely recommended.

5 out of 5 stars

Loved our tour so much. Met amazing people and our tour went to amazing places. And we also enjoyed our tour guide immensely. Friendly and knowledgeable..!!

5 out of 5 stars

Cap the tour guide was incredible, very knowledgeable and easy to get along with!! Would defiantly recommend!!