Visit the hub of O’ahu’s surfing culture to hire or buy a board, learn your surfing history and then practise riding the waves.
Leave behind the high-rise hotels of Waikiki for this century-old surfing village on the North Shore. The majority of the buildings in Hale’iwa look just as they did back in 1898, when the construction of the former Hale’iwa Hotel put this small town on the map. Whether you’re a surfer or a beach-walker, browse the tiny shops of Hale’iwa for equipment and souvenirs.
Brush up on your surfing history at the North Shore Surf and Cultural Museum. Also known as the Hale’iwa Surf Museum, its collection holds photographs and videos of legendary surfers, 1930s surfboards and other memorabilia such as old competition posters. Ask the curator about upcoming events to witness your own piece of local surfing history. Nearby shops offer snorkelling, surfing, boogie boarding and kayaking gear.
Relax on Hale’iwa Ali’i Beach. Just offshore, you’ll see kids learning to surf in the waves. Come to the beach in July for ArtFest, when you can see a range of visual and performance art. The festival has many activities for children.
Giant sea turtles nest along Hale’iwa Ali’i Beach, returning each year to the same spot. Make sure to watch for them as you walk along the beach. Don’t be tempted to feed or touch the turtles, as they are protected in Hawaii and it’s illegal to do so.
Paddle up into the jungle on the Anahulu River, which passes under the twin-span Rainbow Bridge. Paddleboards and outrigger canoes are available for hire. Rent an outrigger canoe for the most authentic experience. Similar boats have been used in Hawaii for more than 2,000 years.
Sample shave ice from one of the beachside vendors. This North Shore specialty consists of a pile of syrupy ice pieces with ice cream or bean paste at the bottom and sweetened condensed milk on top. Try syrup with the flavour of local fruits like lilikoi, lychee or guava.
Drive an hour north of Honolulu to reach Hale’iwa Beach. Parking is plentiful and you can easily walk around the small town once you’re here.
