Pupukea HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Pupukea, Hawaii.
1. Shark's Cove
PREMIER SNORKELING DESTINATION
Shark's Cove is a renowned snorkeling spot in Pupukea with deep-blue waters and an excellent reef formation that provides habitat for marine life, including sea turtles. The cove offers great water exploring opportunities when seas are calm, though visitors should wear protective footwear for the sharp coral. Despite its name, the white-tipped reef sharks aren't usually a problem as long as visitors keep their distance and don't provoke them.
2. Banzai Pipeline
LEGENDARY SURFING WAVE
Banzai Pipeline is one of the most famous surf breaks in the world, located at Ehukai Beach Park in Pupukea. The massive winter waves create perfect barrel-shaped tunnels that attract professional surfers and international competitions. During summer months, the waters become calmer, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
3. Pupukea Beach Park
DIVERSE COASTAL SANCTUARY
Pupukea Beach Park encompasses three distinct areas: Sharks Cove to the north, Old Quarry in the center, and Three Tables to the south. The waters off Pupukea Beach are all protected as a marine-life-conservation district, making it perfect for observing Hawaii's underwater ecosystem. With its deep-blue waters, varied coastline, and mix of lava and white sand, this scenic stretch lives up to its name meaning 'White Shell'.
4. Three Tables
UNIQUE SNORKELING SPOT
Three Tables gets its name from the flat ledges rising above the water, creating a distinctive coastal formation. During summer months, the area provides excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities with coral, fish, small caves, lava tubes, and arches found in deeper waters further out. Access to Three Tables is located just beyond Old Quarry, with a few unmarked parking spots available for visitors.
5. Old Quarry
NATURAL ROCK FORMATIONS
Old Quarry features fascinating rock formations that appear as if cut by human hands but are entirely natural phenomena. The coastal tide pools create interesting microhabitats best explored during low tide in calm summer seas. Visitors should exercise caution due to the razor-sharp rocks, especially when accompanied by children.
6. Waimea Bay Beach Park
HISTORIC SURFING BEACH
Waimea Bay Beach Park is a legendary surfing location that helped launch big wave surfing in the 1950s. In winter, the bay transforms with massive waves attracting professional surfers, while summer brings calm waters perfect for swimming and jumping from the famous rock at the bay's edge. The crescent-shaped white sand beach offers beautiful views and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
7. Waimea Valley
CULTURAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS
Waimea Valley is a lush 1,875-acre historical nature park featuring botanical gardens, cultural sites, and a 45-foot waterfall where visitors can swim. The valley has deep historical significance as a sacred place for Native Hawaiians and offers daily cultural activities including hula performances and traditional games. Visitors can explore over 5,000 species of tropical plants while learning about Hawaiian culture and history through guided tours and exhibits.
8. Ehukai Beach Park
HOME OF PIPELINE
Ehukai Beach Park is home to the world-famous Banzai Pipeline surf break, hosting prestigious surfing competitions including the Billabong Pipe Masters. The beach features white sand shores and facilities including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas for visitors. During summer, the beach transforms into a more peaceful setting suitable for swimming and sunbathing.
9. Foodland Pupukea
LOCAL GROCERY AND POKE
Foodland Pupukea is a popular grocery store known for serving some of the best poke on the North Shore. The store offers a variety of fresh local products, prepared foods, and beverages that cater to both locals and visitors exploring the area. Its convenient location makes it a perfect stop for beach-goers looking to grab supplies or a quick meal before heading to nearby attractions.
10. Pupukea Grill
FRESH LOCAL FOOD TRUCK
Pupukea Grill is a beloved food truck serving fresh, locally-sourced Hawaiian plates and poke bowls. The casual roadside eatery offers generous portions at reasonable prices, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Its location near popular beaches makes it a convenient stop for hungry surfers and beach-goers looking for authentic Hawaiian flavors.
11. Sunset Beach
FAMOUS NORTH SHORE WAVES
Sunset Beach is a two-mile stretch of sand on Oahu's North Shore known for hosting prestigious surfing competitions during winter months. In summer, the beach transforms into a calm swimming destination with crystal clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The beach earned its name from the spectacular sunset views that paint the sky with vibrant colors each evening.
12. Haleiwa Town
HISTORIC SURF TOWN
Haleiwa Town is a charming historic community that serves as the cultural hub of Oahu's North Shore. The town features plantation-era buildings housing art galleries, boutiques, surf shops, and restaurants that combine local Hawaiian traditions with modern amenities. Visitors can enjoy activities ranging from shopping for unique souvenirs to sampling famous shave ice and fresh seafood from local establishments.
13. Turtle Bay Resort
LUXURY NORTH SHORE EXPERIENCE
Turtle Bay Resort is a luxurious oceanfront property spanning nearly 1,300 acres on Oahu's legendary North Shore. The resort offers world-class amenities including championship golf courses, horseback riding, hiking trails, and private beaches where guests might spot Hawaiian green sea turtles. Visitors can enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences featuring ingredients from the resort's own farm and the surrounding area.
14. Dole Plantation
PINEAPPLE EXPERIENCE CENTER
Dole Plantation began as a fruit stand in 1950 and has grown into one of Oahu's most popular attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. The plantation features the world's largest maze, a plantation garden tour, and a train ride that takes visitors through the history of pineapple cultivation in Hawaii. Visitors shouldn't miss trying the famous Dole Whip, a pineapple-flavored soft serve that has become an iconic Hawaiian treat.
15. Giovanni's Shrimp Truck
ICONIC NORTH SHORE EATERY
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck is a legendary North Shore institution known for its signature garlic shrimp plates that draw long lines of eager customers daily. The simple white truck covered in thousands of visitors' signatures offers a limited but perfected menu featuring shrimp prepared in various styles served with rice. What began as a small family business has become an essential culinary stop for anyone exploring Oahu's North Shore.