TOP 5 ACTIVITIES
From thrilling adventures to serene escapes, uncover the best experiences this island paradise offers.
CTTO: Haleiwa Town
Stand-up paddleboarding down the river in Haleiwa
Stand-up paddleboarding down the river in Haleiwa offers a serene and picturesque way to experience the island's natural beauty. As you glide through calm waters, lush greenery lines the banks, with palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze. The tranquil flow of the river contrasts with the majestic backdrop of the Waianae Mountains, while the occasional turtle or fish breaks the surface.
Whether you're an experienced paddler or a beginner, the peaceful surroundings make it a perfect escape, offering both relaxation and adventure in the heart of North Shore.
Kayak to Goat Island
Take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard out to Goat Island (also called Mokuleia Island), located off the coast of Mokuleia Beach. It’s a short paddle, and the island offers great opportunities for exploring its natural beauty.
The waters around the island are clear and often home to sea turtles and other marine life. You can also enjoy views of the North Shore coastline and nearby mountain ridges. The island is uninhabited, making it an ideal spot for some quiet time in nature.
CTTO: tripadvisory
Explore the Pu’u O Mahuka Heiau
For those interested in Oahu's ancient history, a visit to Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau, the largest Hawaiian temple (heiau) on Oahu, is a must. It’s located above Waimea Bay and offers both a historical experience and stunning views of the surrounding area. The heiau is a sacred site that once served as a religious and cultural gathering place for ancient Hawaiians. It’s a peaceful spot where you can learn about the island’s history while enjoying breathtaking views of the coastline.
Take a Boat Tour to See Dolphins and Whales
A boat tour from the North Shore is a fantastic way to experience Oahu from the water and see some of its amazing marine life. You can go on a dolphin-watching tour, where you’re likely to spot spinner dolphins, or if you visit in winter, whale watching tours will give you the opportunity to see humpback whales migrating through Hawaiian waters. These tours offer a unique and memorable way to experience Oahu's natural beauty.
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Kōkua Learning Farm
The Kōkua Hawaiʻi Foundation is a non-profit organization founded by musician Jack Johnson and his wife, Kim, dedicated to supporting environmental education in Hawaiʻi’s schools and communities. Based in Haleʻiwa, the foundation offers programs such as ʻĀINA In Schools, which connects children to local food systems through gardening and nutrition education. Additionally, the foundation operates the Kōkua Learning Farm, a hands-on educational site that hosts monthly Community Work Days, inviting families and volunteers to engage in sustainable farming practices.
Through these initiatives, Kōkua Hawaiʻi Foundation fosters lifelong environmental stewardship among Hawaiʻi’s youth and communities. They also operate a beautiful store and café on-site, offering fresh, local products—a must-visit if you’re in Haleʻiwa!
Kōkua Learning Farm Community Workdays take place on the first Saturday of each month from 9:00am-11:30am. Projects may involve mulching, weeding, ʻōpala collection, nursery work, planting and harvesting.
Learn more here
