Kahuku

Want to visit the beautiful North Shore but on a tight budget? Camping is the trick. On my last two trips to Oahu this has been our primary base camp for our adventures. The campground sits only a 5 minute drive east of Turtle Bay resort, right next to the town of Laie. This means is only 10-20 minute drive to every major surf spot on the North Shore. You're also close super close to the big pa...

Once you get to the Turtle Bay resort, you just follow the signs to Kawela Bay/ the Stables. From there the signs are super easy to follow, with options ranging from 0.5mi to 3.0mi. and you can do this as a simple out-and-back or as a longer loop that takes you through Banyan forests, beaches and eventually Kawela Bay itself. It's not a technical hike by any means, just a series of casual path(...

Pounders is located just south of La'ie Beach Park. Pounders can get big during winter months, with waves bouncing and barreling off of the cliff to the south. Mostly though, the waves are much more mellow and fun for just about anyone. If you continue to walk along the shore and round the corner, you'll find Bathtub Beach. This is a nice local beach with typically calm water due to an off-shor...

This hike starts directly across from Banzai Pipeline, the famous barreling wave at Ehukai Beach.  It only takes half an hour to get to the pillbox so it's a great hike to do at sunset but bring a headlamp.  IF you don't hike at sunset it's still an incredibly beautiful hike with views of Pipeline from above and Sunset Beach and Velzyland to the east.   Park along Kamehameha Highway like you ar...

The hike to the Waimea Falls offers both the natural beauty of a tropical rainforest, as well as the unique, in situ opportunity to learn about local history. Although this hike can be crowded, it is definitely worthwhile to see and swim in this amazing Hawaiian waterfall. The approximately mile-long, flat path to the falls is lined with larger-than-life, exotic flowers, while large trees loom...

Pupukea is located on the North Shore of Oahu.  This beautiful spot is a great place to catch the sunset.  During the winter time there can be very large surf, so be extra careful not get too close to the water's edge. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists to just relax and enjoy the Islands of Hawaii.

Are you looking to get away from the crowds at Hanauma Bay? If you've got your family or it's just you and a few friends looking to do some snorkeling, free diving or exploring underwater caves, then Shark's Cove is your spot. There is no fee to enter the cove, just park on the side of the street and walk in. You may want to bring sandals or water shoes as it's a little rocky getting into the w...

Even though the North Shore of Oahu is known for big waves in the Winter, in the Summer months (northern hemisphere) there can be a ton of great beaches to relax at and spend the day. Three tables is one of those places that can be sometimes overlooked, but well worth the stop if you are headed up that way. With plenty of shade, small pools, and sand, it's a great place to bring the whole famil...

If you're looking to get away from the summer crowds of Waikiki, you should consider heading to the North Shore, especially in the summer. Although this season is considered the off-season on this side of the island, it simply means the North Shore transforms into a gentle, family-friendly 7-mile stretch of pristine beach. There is no better place to head than Waimea Bay. It's centrally located...