THE BREAKDOWN: 5 Best Active Adventures on Oahu's North Shore
Hello from Bri Steel, Broker/Realtor® & Owner of Cocolani Realty!
Oahu's North Shore is a goldmine for individuals who enjoy being active, with breathtaking scenery, adrenaline-pumping activities, and a touch of Hawaiian culture. It's a fantastic spot to explore, with stunning landscapes and a diverse range of landforms. It is well-known for its massive waves, which attract surfers from all over the world, but there's so much more to explore than just surfing!
So, if you're constantly looking for the next great outdoor activity, here are my five favorite adventures on the North Shore. Grab your gear and prepare to plunge in!
This trek in Waimea Valley provides a fantastic blend of environment and culture. The 3.5-mile round-trip route to Waimea Falls is ideal for a relaxing walk or a quick jog. Along the route, you will pass through beautiful botanical gardens with over 5,000 plant species, many of which are important to Hawaiian culture. As you travel deeper into the valley, you'll come across old Hawaiian archaeological monuments such as traditional hale (houses) and heiaus (temples), which will provide you with insight into the island's history.
The hike's highlight is Waimea Falls, a spectacular 45-foot waterfall that flows into a wide pool where you may swim to cool down. The trail is well-kept and very easy to follow, making it suitable for people of all fitness levels. Lifeguards are on duty, and life vests are available to assure everyone's safety. The falls are especially beautiful when it rains, however the route can get somewhat muddy. I recommend wearing appropriate walking or running shoes, taking swimwear and a towel, and always checking the weather forecast before you head out. If you can, try to visit in the morning – it's quieter and offers a more peaceful experience.
The Ehukai Pillbox Hike, commonly known as the "Sunset Pillbox Hike," provides an exciting climb with magnificent panoramic views of the North Shore. This 2-mile round-trip hike starts near Sunset Elementary School and goes to two World War II-era bunkers. The trek itself is quite difficult, with steep portions and rocky terrain, so come prepared for a workout.
At the summit, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the blue ocean and the well-known Banzai Pipeline surf break. The pillboxes, now covered in bright graffiti, provide interesting historical and artistic photo opportunities. Along the trail, you may see native birds and seasonal wildflowers, adding to the natural splendor. For the greatest experience, begin your journey early to avoid the heat, pack lots of water, and wear sturdy and comfortable hiking shoes. Be cautious near the edges of the pillboxes, as the drop-offs can be steep.
Waimea Bay is a must-see destination for both adrenaline seekers and beach lovers. Swimming, snorkeling, and cliff diving are popular summer activities in the bay's serene crystal-clear waters. The big rock at the bay's edge is a favorite cliff diving destination, providing a thrilling plunge into the deep blue underneath. If you're brave enough to take the plunge, you can, but remember safety first - check the conditions and observe others before attempting the jump.
In the winter, Waimea Bay transforms into a surfing destination, with waves reaching up to 30 feet and attracting some of the world's top surfers. Even if you don't surf, seeing the experts ride these enormous waves is an incredible experience. Always check the ocean conditions before swimming, since even calm summer waters can become dangerous with sudden shifts in weather. Bring a snorkel to explore the vivid underwater environment, and utilize the beach's amenities, such as bathrooms and showers, to clean up after your trip.
Turtle Bay Resort is ideal for a day of surfing followed by a relaxing evening. The resort has various surf areas appropriate for all ability levels. Beginners may take lessons from skilled instructors, while experienced surfers may rent a board and blast the waves. Because the surf breaks are so close together, it's easy to move from water to land activities.
After you've finished catching waves, come to The Point Sunset & Pool Bar for a great meal. They use fresh, local ingredients, and the sunset view over the ocean is stunning. It's a relaxed ambiance, ideal for sipping a unique cocktail and eating some delicious seafood. They frequently include live music from local performers, which adds to the Hawaiian atmosphere. Make a dinner reservation ahead of time to get the greatest sunset view!
Sunset Hills, also known as Pupukea, is located on the northern slopes of the Pupukea Paumalu Forest Reserve and features a huge network of MTB-specific routes suitable for all skill levels. These paths, which partially overlap with the Ehukai Pillbox trail, are must-sees for mountain bike enthusiasts. Riders may enjoy pleasant rides or take on more difficult courses with steep climbs and beautiful descents.
Don't have your own bicycle? No problem—rent one from a nearby shop. Just make sure it's in decent condition before heading out. Always use a helmet and safety gear; the terrain is rough and unpredictable. To protect yourself and the environment, stick to defined pathways. Mountain biking may be challenging, so bring lots of water and some energy snacks. Keep a watch out for native plants and animals; you could come upon something beautiful along your journey.
On Oahu's North Shore, every trail, wave, and route present a new opportunity to explore the island's stunning beauty and culture. So, gather your adventure gear and head out to see the limitless outdoor activities that make the North Shore a must-see destination for every enthusiast.
At Cocolani Realty we bring a fresh and innovative “boutique” approach to real estate in the Hawaiian Islands. In the process, we make dreams come true.
Looking to sell? We will make your home SHINE. Listings like ours that are beautifully presented and professionally inspected sell faster and for more money.
Looking to buy? We help our clients write offers that WIN. We are competitors at heart and negotiators at work. We get results.
Call or email us to set up an appointment with our broker and owner, Bri Steel.
Bri Steel
Broker/Realtor® + Owner
Cocolani Realty
831.200.6338
bri@cocolanirealty.com
Bri Steel at the Cocolani Realty office with her two mini Aussies Kiwi and Fiji.
