Oahu is, perhaps, the most-visited Hawaiian island and is known for its dazzling Waikiki Beach lined with skyscrapers and luxury resorts. Honolulu is bustling with tourists enjoying the many activities and attractions of the heavily-populated area of the island. However, the best kept secret of the island may be found along its less-traveled northern shore.
Here, you can visit the famous surfing town of Hale'iwa and browse specialty boutiques for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and knick-knacks. Look on while experienced surfers hang ten on gigantic turquoise waves to compete in world-renowned surfing competitions... or simply relax and unwind on one of the several secluded beach areas.
Surrounded by Nature
Step off the beaten path in Waimea Valley and hike along a paved path through lush native Hawaiian gardens and greenery. Your reward awaits at the end of the trekk with the gorgeous Waimea falls splashing into a pool of clean water suitable for swimming (life jackets and lifeguard provided!).
Keep an eye out for native plants and wildlife as you hike and take advantage of the several epic photo op locations along the trail. After the hike, be sure to stop by the farmer's market at the trailhead and try some of the authentic honey shaved ice... you will not be disappointed!
Luxury Included
If you are searching for a resort experience on the North Shore, the pristine Turtle Bay Resort sits on the edge of Kuilima Point with a backdrop of jagged lava rocks highly-contrasted against the deep blue of the ocean surrounding it. You will enjoy experiencing both sunrise and sunset from different areas of the expansive resort. A personal favorite was watching the sun sink into the ocean from the vacant lava-crusted point, surrounded by crashing waves on both sides.
One of our favorite features of the Turtle Bay Resort was the private lanai overlooking the ocean. Since we traveled in January, the whales were active. There were a few mornings that we sat in our wicker chairs with coffee for several peaceful hours just watching the whales frolic off the shore.
Snorkelers Welcome
Kuilima Cove is a few steps from the resort doors and is protected from the dangerous currents found at most of the other beaches on the North Shore (we stayed in January when the North Shore currents are quite strong). It makes for excellent swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. Fortunately, the resort provides complimentary snorkel gear and towels to guests. We utilized them daily and had an unforgettable snorkel experience.
On our first day, we had a lucky encounter with a sea turtle and were able to swim alongside it for several minutes! There is a reef in the center of the cove that's home to a variety of colorful fish and sea creatures. We were even able to spot an octopus!
Food for Everyone
The food selection on the North Shore is like none other. We enjoyed mouth-watering tropical drinks and dishes just steps from the resort's beach area at Roy's Beach House. The resort itself boasts several dining options from casual to formal. We especially enjoyed the Kula Grille and even took advantage of room service a few times throughout our stay!
Off the resort, food trucks abound; parked at various locations along the North Shore that boast a variety of scrumptious meals that you won't find anywhere else! Don't pass up the opportunity to try some garlic shrimp at one of the many amazing food trucks scattered along the northern windward side of the island.
Rich Culture
You can't write an article about Oahu's North Shore without including a piece about the rich culture. We learned so much on our trip. While Native Hawaiians have their own unique culture, Hawaii is truly a melting pot of so many diverse cultures. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center for an experience that will completely immerse you in the traditions and rich history of the islands.
It's just a short drive to the Valley of the Temples in Kahaluu. Here you will find beautiful landscaping set against a backdrop of distinctly-Hawaiian mountains. Drive reverently through the expansive cemetery, pay a small admission fee, and visit the Byodo-In Temple. You will not be disappointed.
At first, we were a little skeptical that a resort so far away from the activity of Honolulu could provide the once-in-a-lifetime experience we were looking for. However, we are so glad that our rural roots and desire to relax away from the hustle and bustle of a city pushed us to try Turtle Bay. We had a spectacular stay... away from the traffic and noise of the city while still experiencing Pearl Harbor and the highlights of Honolulu. We recommend the North Shore experience to everyone!