Summer-Fall 2026 • Hawaii Military Guide 263 he North Shore of Oahu is world famous for its spectacular surfing and beaches that include legendary Banzai Pipeline and Sunset. This iconic coastline also boasts a number of laidback beach towns spanning from Kaena Point to Kaaawa that still retain that old Hawaii country vibe. WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAY A world away from big city bustle, the North Shore delivers a “stay-cation” experience you’ll want to enjoy time and time again. With rural charm, famous surfing beaches and small towns popping up amid agricultural areas, this is icing on the paradise cake. Whether for a day or the weekend, you’ll find your personal nirvana between relaxation and revved up action. SUGARCANE TO SURF Drive through Haleiwa Town and you will notice the old sugarcane era plantation homes that were influenced by the Waialua Sugar Company. The sugar mill can still be viewed in Waialua, although it is now home to businesses that include legendary surfboard shapers. In 1898, Benjamin Dillingham opened a hotel on the North Shore and constructed a railroad to connect his Haleiwa Hotel to Honolulu. From then to now, this jewel has welcomed vacationers and residents alike. Further down the coast, Kahuku, Laie and Hauula were once sparsely populated villages with fishponds and heiau (traditional Hawaiian temples). When the land was divided between 1846 and 1848, it was cut up into parcels that ran from the mountains to the Pacific. Many of today’s North Shore towns retain the ahupuaa names. Remnants of Hawaii’s past remain on the North Shore with rural agriculture lifestyles as the norm. KAENA POINT STATE PARK Farrington Highway travels from the country town of Waialua to secluded beaches of Mokuleia and to Dillingham Airfield. At the end of the road, you’ll find Kaena Point Natural Area Reserve and a trailhead to a rigorous coastal hike that’s notoriously hot but packed with incredible views that frequently include sightings of albatross and monk seals. Want to offroad? Register with the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. No permit is required for those on foot or bicycle. T
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