Haleiwa Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience Haleiwa. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Oahu's Ultimate Tour: Dole, Turtle Snorkel, Pali Lookout & More

• Ultimate Pearl Harbor Circle Island

• First Day Must: Oahu Sunrise & Circle Island Adventure

• Oahu Ultimate Circle Island: 30 Spots, 10 Epic Stops

• Best of Oahu Full-Day Small-Group Island Tour

While it's free to visit Haleiwa on your own, there are plenty of affordable guided tours that offer transportation, beach activities, and expert insights regarding the North Shore town. Circle island tours that include Haleiwa start at around US$49, while private guided options start at US$899 for up to six guests.

Yes, Haleiwa is worth visiting, as it's a welcome contrast to the busier beaches of Waikiki. The laid-back North Shore town is known for its surf culture, local shops, and food spots, with sea turtles frequently spotted along its shores. A guided circle tour of Oahu offers an extra-special way to make the most of your Haleiwa visit, with an expert on hand to share local knowledge. Select tours also include a snorkeling stop where you're likely to encounter sea turtles in the water.

Per one customer who booked the Oahu's Ultimate Tour: Dole, Turtle Snorkel, Pali Lookout & More, "Starting our island adventure with a full island tour was a great way to see what there is to offer and know what to do for the rest of the trip! Our tour guide (Chief Rob) was amazing, super knowledgeable, and very funny! We highly recommend doing a circle island tour if you have the time!"

Located along Oahu’s North Shore, Haleiwa is known as a laid-back surfers’ paradise. In addition to its picturesque beaches, the town boasts many plantation-era buildings dating back to the mid-19th century. Some have been converted into restaurants. Haleiwa is also unique for its arty vibe (galleries abound) and food trucks.

Although only an hour’s drive apart, Haleiwa and Waikiki have distinct flavors. Waikiki is more developed, and most agree it has better beaches and a thumping nightlife. If you’re looking for a buzzy and busy vacation, then Waikiki is your pick. Haleiwa draws surfers, beach bums, artists, and hikers.

If you want to hit the waves, head to Waimea Bay, famous for big-wave surfing—waves can reach 20 feet (6 meters). But the ocean isn’t the only game in town. Hikers can explore the jungle and swim in Waimea Falls, or enjoy panoramic views from Ehukai Pillbox, a short loop trail.

Shark encounter tours are popular in Haleiwa: Both caged swims and cage-free shark dives are offered. Not enthused by sharks? Consider a more traditional snorkeling tour to spot sea turtles and colorful corals. Or, take a macadamia nut farm tour, ride ATVs, or go on a helicopter tour.

You’ll find plenty of beaches on Oahu’s North Shore. One popular spot is the south side of Haleiwa Ali’i Beach Park near Haleiwa’s Old Town. Pupukea Beach Park, made up of striking volcanic rocks, is recommended for reef snorkeling. Sunset Beach, as the name suggests, is renowned for its sunsets.

That depends if you’re looking to swim or surf. For surfers, the best time to catch offshore winds is in late fall and winter, roughly from October through February. January is especially popular. If you’d rather pack a snorkeling mask, then think summer. That’s when the waves are flat and calm.

There are tons of fun things to do when you're done visiting Haleiwa. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in Oahu:

• Pearl Harbor National Memorial

• Oahu North Shore

• Halona Blowhole

• Diamond Head

• Dole Plantation

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Oahu.