Things to do in

North Shore, Oahu

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

This popular circle island tour takes you on a scenic excursion around the beautiful island of Oahu. Enjoy a relaxing drive along the slopes of Diamond Head and see of some of Oahu’s most impressive homes in the Kahala area. Get ready to capture the view of windward Oahu from the scenic (and blustery) Nu’uanu Pali Lookout. The tour continues along the coastline past the famous Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach, and Makapu’u Point. At Waimea Valley swim in a waterfall-fed pool (weather permitting). Visit Byodo-In Temple at the Valley of the Temples on the windward side, set against the majestic Ko’olau Mountains. Take a moment to reflect and take in the beautiful temple grounds, including traditional Japanese gardens and koi ponds. See the world-famous North Shore beaches of Sunset, Banzai Pipeline, and Waimea Bay, home to big wave surfing and surf competitions like the Vans Triple Crown of Surf. Take in the local vibe at quaint Haleiwa Town with time for shopping at boutiques and surf shops and grab a shave ice from famous Matsumotos. Enjoy a brief stop at Dole Plantation to peruse the information displays and presentations, as well as browse for gifts at the country store. This is sure to be an unforgettable experience on Oahu. You'll be returned to your hotel after a full and unforgettable day.

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, and the Diamond Head Beach Lookout, 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.

The Oahu All-Inclusive Pass gets you free admission to the island's top activities, attractions, and tours, offering the ultimate in convenience, savings, and flexibility. Choose between a 2- to 7-day pass at a low, pre-paid price and pay nothing at the gate. The more you do, the more you save. Simply check your digital guide on the Go City app for any instructions, including how to make advanced reservations for selected activities, then show your pass on your mobile device (or in printed format) at each attraction for admission. You can save up to 50%* compared to full retail admission prices. Included activities, attractions, and tours with the Oahu All-Inclusive Pass: Cultural and Historic Sights • Ka Moana Luau at Aloha Tower OR Aloha Kai Luau at Sea Life Park (choose 1) • Polynesian Cultural Center • Battleship Missouri Memorial • Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum • USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Tour • Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum • Bishop Museum Honolulu • Iolani Palace • Queen Emma Summer Palace Tours and Cruises • Makani Catamaran Sail • Secret Island Beach Activities at Kualoa Ranch (choice of 1 Kualoa Ranch activity per day) • Circle Island Tour: Hidden Gems, Byodo-In Temple & Turtle Spotting • Ocean Voyage Adventure at Kualoa Ranch • Kualoa Ranch: Fruit & Farm Tour • Pearl Harbor & Honolulu City tour • Guided Hike on the North Shore • North Shore Soap Factory Tour Outdoors • Diamond Head Hike: Shuttle & Self-guided Hike • Rainforest, Waterfalls, and Movie Sites: Shuttle & Self-guided Hike • Makapuu Lighthouse & Halona Blowhole Tour • Waimea Valley • Waterpark: Wet ‘n’ Wild Hawaii • Sea Life Park Hawaii • Stand-Up Paddleboard Nature and Turtle Tour • 3-Hour Kayak or SUP Rental (choice of 1) • Waikiki: Sunset Beach Yoga • Shoreline Fishing Experience on the North Shore • Hawaiian Style Rentals: Bike Rentals • Coconut Palm Basket Weaving on Sunset Beach • Hawaiian Lei Making on Sunset Beach • Waikiki Surfboard Rental • Lyon Arboretum Please note attractions and tours are subject to change. Check the free app or included digital guide for an up-to-date attraction line-up including instructions before you go. *Savings based on sample itineraries on Go City website.