Learn about the North Shore of Oahu

Although the North Shore of Oahu is only about an hour-and-a-half drive from Honolulu, it's a world away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Much more laid back than the rest of the island, the communities along the shoreline offer residents a taste of country living at a relaxed and peaceful pace. With a warm and welcoming climate year round, area beaches are favorites of surfers and anyone who loves water sports. And during the winter, waves often reach 30-40 feet as the best surfers from around the globe gather on the North Shore to compete in the planet's biggest and most prestigious surfing competitions.

The North Shore covers the Pacific coastline from Kaena Point to La'ea and includes famous Waimea Bay, stunning Sunset Beach and the legendary Banzai Pipeline, just off Ehukai Beach Park. While the waves make the North Shore the perfect place for surfers to call home, the area's other attractive features have convinced people from all walks of life to settle there, too. With a variety of housing options that run from modestly-priced condos just a block from the beach to multi-million dollar mansions with spectacular views of the turquoise ocean and majestic mountains, this piece of paradise has proven to be irresistible.

The two Turtle Bay golf courses boast amazing ocean views and gorgeous tree-lined fairways. Charming Haleiwa Town has lots of local shops, art galleries and eateries that feature a variety of American, ethnic and island dishes. And for a change of pace from spending lazy days at the beach, residents can enjoy exploring the tropical orchards and forests of koa and ironwood trees on horseback along the hilltop trails that are adjacent to the magnificent Ko’olau Mountains.