When most people think of Hawaii, they think of Waikiki Beach. Of course, Waikiki is a beautiful tourist location, no doubt about that. However, there is much, much more to the Hawaiian island of Oahu than just Waikiki.
If you have not been to Oahu north shore, you have certainly been missing out on a very special part of Hawaii. You see, here you will find a completely different world, far away from the hustle and bustle of the Oahu center of tourism to be sure.
Going to North Shore Tours Oahu Hawaii means that you will travel across the island, past the Dole Pineapple plantation visitor center. Along the way, you are surrounded by pineapple orchards and you can see Oahu’s famous Pali mountain range in the distant. If you take the left cut-off to Waialua, the west end of Oahu north shore, some of the most fantastic hang gliding in the world takes place there.
Turning right from Waialua on the north shore road, you can travel to the eastern end at Kualoa Ranch. The entire shore road is dotted with communities and natural beauty that you will not experience any place else on Oahu.
Oahu north shore is for people looking for the laid back and easy lifestyle for which people used to travel to Hawaii. The tourist center of Waikiki seems remote and frankly, just as crowded and stressful as the big city you might have left to come on vacation.
There are many resorts on the Oahu north shore; however, the ambience is much different from Waikiki. The resorts seem more isolated and carefree. Of course, you have all the water sport and beach amenities as Waikiki, but it is just plain different and I think better.
If you are staying in Waikiki, you should rent a car and take a day trip to Oahu north shore. Stop anywhere along the road and go to the beach. You will see Waimea, which is the most famous surfing area in the world. If the weather is right, the size of the waves will absolutely amaze you. Also amazing is that there will be surfers out in the water, probably local residents of Oahu north shore who left work early just to surf.
Down the road from Waimea is Three Tables Beach. Three huge flat rocks keep this small cove protected from the massive breakers. It is a good place for children to play in the water.
As you progress down the road from Three Tables, the landscape becomes even more rugged and beautiful. Try to stop at some of the art galleries along the way. You will not be disappointed. It seems like when people go to Oahu north shore, there attitude changes and they become mellower.