Here’s a collection of recommended spots on Oahu’s North Shore, including sightseeing areas, local eats, shopping, beaches, and spiritual power spots.
This region on Oahu’s northern coastline is known for its rich natural environment and a nostalgic, laid-back atmosphere.
With its endless stretches of untouched scenery, it’s the perfect place to soak up Hawaii’s natural beauty and enjoy a relaxing, unhurried vibe.
Everything is listed in alphabetical order, so you can easily browse the table of contents to find places you want to visit or activities you’re interested in.
Popular Tourist Spots on Oahu’s North Shore
In addition to outdoor activities, the North Shore is known for attractions where you can enjoy local specialties like coffee and pineapple, as well as places to learn about Hawaiian culture and history—offering plenty of experiences that feel uniquely Hawaiian.
Depending on the season and daily conditions, you can freely choose what you want to enjoy for the day!
Dole Plantation
Dole Plantation is a staple tourist destination, renowned as the undisputed headquarters of Hawaii’s pineapple industry.
Hawaii imports most of its food from the U.S. mainland, but thanks to Dole, pineapple self-sufficiency is 100%!
Originally a small gift shop in Wahiawa, it has since grown into pineapple fields as far as the eye can see.
The grounds offer plenty of attractions — a maze, a train, and garden tours — so it’s more than just a place for souvenirs and pineapples.
The site is enjoyable for visitors of all ages, so be sure to stop by when touring the North Shore.
→ View more about Dole Plantation
Gunstock Ranch
Gunstock Ranch offers a relaxed, Hawaiian-style horseback riding experience set in a wide, natural landscape.
Spread across 900 acres, the property offers views of the North Shore coastline and the majestic Koʻolau mountain range.
The ranch also leads Oahu’s first forest restoration effort called the Hawaii Legacy Forest, making it a place focused on environmental conservation.
Rides and scenery at sunset are especially popular — experiencing the coastline from horseback at dusk is a memorable treat.
Being a bit of a hidden gem, the operation runs small, friendly groups, so if you have the chance, be sure to visit.
→ View more about Gunstock Ranch
Haleiwa Sign
The Haleiwa sign is a popular photo spot often regarded as a symbol of the North Shore.
Its stylish appearance leads many to think it’s a tourist attraction, but in fact it is a simple sign that marks the entrance to Haleiwa Town on the North Shore.
Many assume it’s located inside the town, but it’s actually along Kamehameha Highway, which runs parallel to the town.
Because it’s not found within the town itself, we often get asked, ‘Where is it?’
If you want a photo with the sign, step out of town for a moment!
It’s easy to miss, so keep an eye out when searching for it.
→ View more about Haleiwa Sign
Popular Eats on Oahu’s North Shore
There are actually many foods that you can only enjoy on the North Shore, which is part of what motivates people to travel all the way from Waikiki—even though it’s the furthest area from town.
From farm-fresh fruits to burgers and garlic shrimp, the North Shore is full of must-try local flavors you’ll want to experience at least once.
Giovanni’s
Giovanni’s is the most popular spot for Hawaii’s B-class gourmet favorite, garlic shrimp.
There’s no plate lunch that beats their perfectly seasoned garlic shrimp.
Giovanni’s seasoning is exceptional — once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
I’m so obsessed I eat it about once a week. Seriously. Haha.
Be sure to stop by at least once during your stay in Hawaii.
Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp
Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp is a famous garlic shrimp restaurant in Kahuku on the North Shore.
They have no locations elsewhere in Hawaii — this specialty shrimp spot can only be enjoyed in Kahuku.
True to its reputation — it was once selected as one of the “Top 5 Lunches to Try in America”, tourists visit every day.
While many shrimp joints close in the late afternoon, this one stays open into the evening, so it’s great if you arrive late.
The restaurant is large and serves quickly, making it especially recommended for those who want to enjoy the popular garlic shrimp without waiting in line.
→ View more about Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp
Popular Shopping Spots on Oahu’s North Shore
The North Shore is the most rural area on Oahu, so you won’t find large shopping malls here!
Instead, the area is known for offering plenty of fresh produce straight from local farms and many unique items that can only be found in Haleiwa Town.
Polynesian Treasures
Feel the traditions of Hawaii at the Polynesian Treasures Hawaiian craft shop.
Many pieces are handmade by local artists who live in Haleiwa Town, and you’ll find a wide selection on display.
From the well-known protective charm Mahiole to lucky accessories like Fish Hooks, the shop is packed with one-of-a-kind items.
It might not be for everyone, but for fans of Hawaiian goods, this store is irresistible.
There are many products you won’t find elsewhere, so be sure to take a look.
→ View more about Polynesian Treasures
Snoopy’s Surf Shop
The world’s first official Snoopy store themed around surfing, Snoopy’s Surf Shop.
A collaboration between Hawaii and Snoopy, the shop sells lots of Snoopy items featuring him surfing.
After the first store opened in 2018 in Haleiwa Town on the North Shore, long considered the surfing capital, it quickly became a landmark nearly as popular as the sun-tanned Snoopy in Waikiki.
The second location opened in 2020 near Diamond Head, making it even more convenient to visit from Waikiki.
Look for the sign featuring Snoopy wearing a “JOE SURFER” logo T-shirt and carrying a surfboard — each store has exclusive items, so be sure to check out both locations.
→ View more about Snoopy’s Surf Shop
Popular Beaches on Oahu’s North Shore
The North Shore is a treasure trove of natural beauty, home to beaches where you can see plenty of marine life—including tropical fish, sea turtles, and Hawaiian monk seals.
Within a relatively small area, you’ll find all kinds of beaches: sea turtle–spotting beaches, crystal-clear beaches, snorkeling spots, and world-class surf beaches!
Waimea Beach
Waimea Beach is a shoreline where you can enjoy astonishingly clear water and hugely powerful big waves.
If someone asks which beach to recommend on Oahu’s North Shore, this is the one I name first.
In summer it becomes an incredibly clear and beautiful beach—arguably the clearest in Hawaii—spacious and perfect for relaxing, napping, or swimming.
Despite how beautiful it is, it still feels like a hidden gem because it’s relatively unknown to some international visitors.
In contrast, during winter you can sometimes see massive waves well over 10 meters—spectacles rarely seen in many parts of the world.
It’s a fantastic beach you can enjoy in any season.
→ View more about Waimea Beach
Popular Spiritual Power Spots on Oahu’s North Shore
There are several power spots on the North Shore said to bring various kinds of blessings, such as safe childbirth, victory in battles, business success, financial luck, and healing.
Hawaii as a whole is believed to be filled with a mystical energy known as mana, and you can truly feel that presence in this area!