Haleiwa Town

One of my absolute favorite places on Oahu! If you're heading to the North Shore, you have to stop here. It's a laid-back surf town with a perfect mix of history, local charm, boutique shopping, awesome food, and that easygoing aloha vibe you won't find in Waikiki. The town itself is small, walkable, and full of character, old plantation-era buildings turned into art galleries, shave ice stands, surf shops, and cozy cafe's. It's got that, local but cool, feeling, like the kind of place where surfers stroll barefoot into coffee shops and you'll hear live ukulele music floating out of a backyard somewhere. It's also the unofficial gateway to the North Shore's famous beaches like Waimea Bay, Pipeline, and Sunset Beach, so it makes a great stop before or after a beach day. Whether you're grabbing a plate lunch, shopping for handmade jewelry, or just strolling around with a shave ice in hand, Haleiwa is a total vibe.

Tips for Visiting

Get the Shave Ice: You have to try Matsumoto's Shave Ice, it's legendary. Expect a line, but it moves fast and it's worth it.
Support Local Shops: Skip the chain stores and check out boutiques like Guava Shop, Polu Gallery, or North Shore Soap Factory for unique finds.
Come Hungry: There's great food here, from shrimp trucks like Giovanni's to local grinds at Kono's, plus cool cafes and dessert spots.
Parking Gets Tight: Street parking fills up fast, especially midday and on weekends. There are a few lots tucked behind buildings, so look around before circling endlessly.
Sunset Stroll: Time your visit for golden hour and head toward Hale'iwa Beach Park or Laniakea Beach (just outside of town) to catch the sunset and maybe even spot a sea turtle.
Relax and Wander: Don't rush it, Hale'iwa is best explored slowly. Walk around, browse the shops, talk to people, and soak in the atmosphere.