Oahu North Shore Tours
51 Reviews
Surfing is king on Oahu’s North Shore, where summer’s placid snorkeling spots are transformed into pounding 40-foot (12-meter) waves come winter. On land you’ll find a peaceful respite from hectic Honolulu, with scenic waterfall hikes, sleepy farms selling tropical fruit, and food trucks doling out garlic shrimp.
The Basics
There are a number of options for exploring the North Shore. Head to the water for a surfing or stand-up paddle board lesson, a sunset catamaran cruise, or a shark cage diving excursion. On land, tour the area’s rich farms, hike to Waimea Valley Falls, explore the fields and jungles of Kualoa Ranch, or see the island from above on a helicopter tour. While many tours leave from nearby Waikiki, it’s also possible to visit the North Shore on a day trip from Honolulu. Some full-day excursions include visits to Pearl Harbor, Hanauma Bay State Park, or the Dole Plantation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Only expert surfers should attempt to ride the North Shore’s massive winter waves.
- Parking can be difficult to find, especially during the winter surf season.
- Bring sun protection, comfortable shoes, and plenty of water.
How to Get There
Oahu’s North Shore stretches for more than seven miles (11 kilometers) and is located 30 miles (48 kilometers) from downtown Honolulu. During winter, the one-way road along the North Shore’s “seven-mile miracle” of popular surf beaches can back up for hours, so it’s best to visit on a tour to avoid the hassle of driving and parking.
When to Get There
The North Shore’s summer and winter seasons each have their benefits. In summer, seas are calm and you can to take beginner surf lessons, go kayaking, or enjoy some of Hawaii’s best snorkeling. Winter is the busiest time to visit, when expert surfers hit the waves and other visitors stick to the safety of land. If you opt for a winter visit, it’s best to arrive early (before 9am) to score a parking spot.
Must-See North Shore Spots
Don’t miss the historic Haleiwa Beach town, with its clapboard shops, surf boutiques, and restaurants. The Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay are some of the most famous North Shore beaches, while Turtle Beach offers a chance to see sunbathing Hawaiian green sea turtles.
Address: Kamehameha Highway, Haleiwa, Ohio 96712, USA
Admission: Free
68 Tours and Activities to Experience Oahu North Shore
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Zipline Tour On Oahu's North Shore
Feel the adrenaline rush of soaring from the top of Oahu’s longest ziplines on this guided tour. Start with a short ATV ride to the top of a mountain. Then enjoy spectacular panoramic ocean and mountain views of Oahu's famous North Shore from long, high and extra-quiet ziplines ranging from 500 to 2,400 feet. Along the way, encounter rappels, sky bridges, scenic boardwalks, and a couple of surprises for some fun activities that challenge in a safe and controlled way.
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From
$181.19
From
$181.19
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Oahu Shark Dive
Set out from Oahu’s scenic North Shore to the depths of the big blue Pacific, where you have the chance to observe wild sharks from inside an underwater shark cage. Thanks to your professional, experienced crew, the Oahu shark dive is completely safe as they know the predators’ behavior, and the underwater cage provides proven safety against all different species of sharks. Whether you’re in the cage with sharks right in front of you or watching from up in the boat, Oahu shark diving is a Hawaii activity you’ll definitely never forget.
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From
$109.26
From
$109.26
Oahu Circle Island Small Group Tour
Experience Oahu’s top sights on a small-group tour. Relax while your guide takes care of driving, and makes sure you don’t miss any key spots. Visit Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole, and Diamond Head Crater, then explore Haleiwa town and try some local flavors for lunch. Get some cultural insights from your guide and finish the day with a great overview of the island.
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From
$136.29
From
$136.29
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Highlights of Oahu Tour: Circle Island, North Shore, Turtles & Local Food
Get a comprehensive overview of Oahu's landmarks and highlights on this circle island tour. Enjoy a small-group setting to ensure personal attention from your local guide while seeing over thirty local attractions. See the surf and sand at Waikiki Beach, taste some samples of Dole pineapples, learn about the history of Haleiwa town. Get the insider info about favorite local eateries and see filming locations for various movies and television shows. Round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels is included.
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From
$167.61
From
$167.61
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Royal Crown of Oahu - 60 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On
Explore Hawaii’s island of Oahu by air on this helicopter tour. Fly above the island and many of its most well-known landmarks, such as Diamond Head, Sacred Falls, the Dole Plantation, and Pearl Harbor. On this ride, choose your departure time and whether or not you’d like the helicopter doors on or off.
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From
$325.00
From
$325.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Photo Adventure of The North Shore, Hawaii
Spend the day exploring and photographing the North Shore of O'ahu during this full day of activity from Waikiki. Visit a local coffee farm and learn about the cultiviation of 100% Hawaiian coffee. Then head to Sunset Beach, Banzai Pipeline, and the historic Haleiwa town, as well as Waimea Falls. Round-trip transportation from your Waikiki hotel included.
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From
$119.95
From
$119.95
Surf Lessons on the North Shore of Oahu
Enjoy a 2-hour surfing lesson with an experienced guide who is also a professional lifeguard in Hawaii. Learn to read the surf and ride the waves during a lesson that includes instruction on the beach followed by practice in the warm waters of Oahu’s North Shore. This family-friendly experience provides plenty of customized attention and fun, along with the chance to view the sea turtles that are commonly found in this area.
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From
$69.75
From
$69.75
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Private Secret Oahu Circle Island Tour
Circle the island of Oahu and its many points of interest on this guided adventure. Learn about Hawaiian history and culture while exploring the coastline. Visit sites like Diamond Head, the Pali Lookout, Chinaman’s Hat, and Laie Point. Also, see famous places like Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay. For lunch, try some fresh Hawaiian shrimp from one of the local food trucks (own expense). And if time permits, check out some of the secret spots for viewing sea turtles and monk seals.
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From
$166.00
From
$166.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Intimate North Shore Eco-Fun Waterfall from Waikiki
Spend the day immersed in small town Hawaii on an intimate tour of the North shore. See famous big wave surfing beaches, explore the quaint surfing village of Haleiwa town, and enjoy a traditional Hawaiian lunch. Take an easy hike to Waimea waterfalls and swim below the rushing water. Explore Waimea Valley botanical gardens and see the fragrant flowers used to make traditional lei. This tour is ideal for visitors wanting to see a slower pace side of the island.
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From
$147.36
From
$147.36
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Private North Shore of Oahu Tour
Explore the North Shore of Oahu with a private guide who showcases the Hawaiian island's top sights. Visit scenic lookouts and historical sites such as Diamond Head, Chinaman's Hat, Waimea Bay lookout, and more. You'll also stop for a delicious lunch (own expense) and visit a Japanese Buddhist temple on a tour that includes private guide and vehicle, entrance fees, live commentary, and hotel pickup and drop-off from Honolulu.
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From
$178.88
From
$178.88
North Shore Turtle Cove Guided Snorkeling Tour
Go snorkeling off Oahu's North Shore on a guided snorkeling tour. Head out to open water from the beach for the chance to see fish, green sea turtles, and other Hawaiian marine life in their native environment. Snorkeling equipment is provided. A private option is available if you prefer a more personalized experience or need assistance in the water.
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From
$86.77
Price varies by group size
From
$86.77
Price varies by group size
Best of Oahu: Pearl Harbor, Dole Plantation, Polynesian Cultural Center
Discover Hawaiian history and culture in one day during this small-group tour of Oahu. Start your day off at the Pearl Harbor memorial site to learn about the U.S. and World War II. Then, head to the Polynesian Cultural Center to learn more about Pacific Islanders and local culture. Conclude your tour to the famous Dole Plantation where you can sample the famous Dole Whip and other pineapple treats.
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From
$219.00
From
$219.00
Small Group North Shore Circle Island Tour
Visit the top stops of the North Shore of Oahu with this small-group tour. You'll see dozens of local points of interest, including the Dole Plantation, Haleiwa Town. Turtle Beach, and North Shore surf spots, to name a few. You'll also have plenty of time to stop and snack at local food trucks before making your way back to your hotel.
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From
$143.10
$35.78 savings
From
$143.10
$35.78 savings
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
6-Hour Private Customized Luxury Convertible Tour of Oahu's North Shore
Explore Oahu’s North Shore on a six-hour, fully customizable, private tour with space for four passengers plus your driver. Visit top sights like Banzai Pipeline and sunset beaches and swim, snorkel, or boogie board with equipment provided. Your driver can suggest stops to sample local delicacies like chocolate haupia pie, and garlic shrimp. Have time to look at boutiques and surf shops in Haleiwa town, and opt for a visit to the Dole Pineapple or Green World Coffee plantations if you choose.
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From
$430.77
per group
From
$430.77
per group
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Private Circle Island Sunset Photo Tour
This comprehensive tour of Oahu hits many of the island’s most iconic locations such as the Dole Plantation, Waimea Valley, Shark's Cove, Byodo-In Temple, Halona Blowhole, and more. You’ll also visit several beaches where you’ll have time to take photos. Along the way, sample tropical fruit, macadamia nuts, coconut water, and other island fare.
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From
$299.48
Price varies by group size
From
$299.48
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
North Shore Biking Adventure
Travel from Honolulu to the North Shore of Oahu for a full-day tour that includes a bike tour along the Seven Mile Miracle, a world-class surfing destination. Stop at Kualoa Park's Dinosaur Mountain, Turtle Beach, the old town of Haleiwa, and a beach where you can swim and snorkel. Includes lunch, bike and snorkel equipment, transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
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From
$169.00
From
$169.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Aloha Circle Island Tour - Full Day Adventure
Combine a circle island tour of Oahu with the chance to swim and snorkel on this all-day adventure. With pickup and drop-off in Honolulu, you can make it around the island in a single day and without even renting a car. All transportation and the use of snorkeling gear is provided for you so you can get the most out of your tour. You'll stop at all the must-see Oahu spots and listen to in-depth guided commentary as you travel.
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From
$109.95
From
$109.95
Swim with Sharks (cage-free)
Leave your preconceptions about sharks at the door and get up close to these sleek creatures on this unique ocean experience. Head out from Haleiwa, on the North Shore of O’ahu, and spend roughly half an hour swimming with the sharks living in the area. Don’t worry, though: even if you aren’t swimming in a cage, you’re still in safe hands, with a guide on board and a safety diver swimming with each group.
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From
$153.85
Price varies by group size
From
$153.85
Price varies by group size
North Shore Stand-Up Paddleboard Lesson
Ride a stand-up paddleboard down a sheltered river during a 2-hour lesson on Oahu’s scenic North Shore. Choose a small-group, semi-private or private lesson, then paddle alongside your instructor as you practice balancing, steering and maneuvering your board. Take your first paddle, or improve your skills with tips from your skilled instructors, then watch for bright fish and sea turtles as you explore a tranquil cove and enjoy this traditional Hawaiian water sport.
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From
$80.13
From
$80.13
Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour
Explore Oahu's most popular spots all in one day on this tour, including transportation to and from your hotel. Travel comfortably around the island in an air-conditioned coach or minivan as you pass by Diamond Head and North Shore Surfing Beaches. Make stops at the Dole Plantation, Kualoa Ranch, Byodo-In Temple, and a variety of lookout points.
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From
$114.00
From
$114.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Oahu Secret North Shore Tour
See all the sights of Oahu’s North Shore and let your private guide do the driving. Skip the crowded tour bus and see the incredible historical sights and beaches in comfort on this tour adventure. Your guide gives you insider insight into the region’s highlights as well as taking care of your needs, including water, snacks and breaks.
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From
$156.00
From
$156.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Private Circle Island Tour With Beaches and Local Food
Circle the island of Oahu on this private tour for a maximum of five passengers. Discover the turquoise waves, famous for surfing and the soft sand beaches, as well as more than 30 other popular attractions. Get personalized attention from your guide as you visit attractions such as the Dole Plantation, historic Haleiwa town, and various locations made famous by feature films. Snacks, bottled water, and round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels are included.
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From
$223.95
Price varies by group size
From
$223.95
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Grand Circle Island Tour with Snorkeling with the Turtles
Circle most of the island of Oahu on a full-day tour by minibus limited to 20 passengers, a smaller group than typical island coach tours. With an informative guide, you’ll make about a dozen stops, including the chance to see Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat during an hour of snorkeling on Oahu’s North Shore. Get a comprehensive overview of top attractions such as Diamond Head, Makapu’u Beach, Halona Blowhole and the Dole Plantation. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Waikiki is included.
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From
$91.69
$39.30 savings
From
$91.69
$39.30 savings
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Family-Friendly Private Circle Island Tour of Oahu
Get the most out of your time in Oahu with the help of someone who knows the island and all its ins and outs on this private tour. Your customized itinerary takes you to the places you request, and your private guide's commentary is based on your interests. Plus, you get to decide how long you want to spend exploring the island. See beautiful spots, including Makapu’u Lighthouse, Koko Head, and some of Hawaii’s popular beaches. Also, get a chance to view the areas that have been used in filming big hits, such as ‘Jurassic Park.’
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From
$202.82
Price varies by group size
From
$202.82
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff