Oahu North Shore: Surf Bus Tour, Waimea Falls & Haleiwa Lunch

Summary

North Shore surf culture, Waimea waterfalls and Haleiwa flavors in one day

You’ll ride the Surf Bus with local guides who know Oahu’s North Shore inside out—tasting fresh macadamias, swimming beneath Waimea Falls, exploring historic Haleiwa for lunch and maybe spotting sea turtles if you’re lucky. Every stop feels personal and unrushed—a day full of salty air and small surprises you’ll remember long after.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled up to the Surf Bus in Waikiki just as the sky was still waking up—someone nearby was already laughing, coffee in hand. Our guide (I think his name was Maka?) greeted us with this easy grin that made me feel like we were about to see “his” Oahu, not just some checklist. The bus had that faint sunscreen-and-salty-air smell you only get on islands. First stop: macadamia nut farm. I’ll be honest, I ate way too many samples—crunchy, sweet, then that weirdly satisfying creaminess. Li tried to teach me how to say “mahalo” properly; she still teases me about it.

The drive along the Windward coast is something I didn’t expect to hit so hard. The Koolau Mountains looked almost painted on—misty edges, all those deep greens—and then suddenly there’s ocean everywhere. We stopped at Waimea Valley and split up: some went for the waterfall swim (cold but worth it), others wandered through gardens thick with flowers I’d never seen before. My favorite part? Floating under that waterfall with sunlight flickering through the spray—so yeah, I still think about that moment sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Lunch was in Haleiwa town. It’s got this old sugar-plantation vibe—wooden storefronts, surfboards leaning against fences, everyone moving slow like they’re on island time. We grabbed poke bowls and sat by the river where a couple of kids were trying to spot turtles (they actually found one). Afterward you could kayak or just wander around; I ended up with sticky fingers from shave ice and a random seashell in my pocket. On the way back we cruised past Sunset Beach and Pipeline—the waves weren’t huge this time of year but you could feel why surfers are obsessed with this place. It’s not polished or perfect here; it just feels real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — North Shore sightseeing and activities

• Drive along Oahu’s Windward side
• Stop for coffee and macadamia nut tasting
• Visit historic Haleiwa Town for lunch and shopping
• Kayak or paddle board on Anahulu River
• Choose activity: swim, snorkel, bike, or stroll
• Snorkel at Shark's Cove marine sanctuary
• Visit Waimea Valley botanical garden and swim at waterfall
• Drive by Pineapple Dole Plantation
• Pass by Waimea Bay beach
• Pass by Sunset Beach
• Watch surfers at Banzai Pipeline (winter only)

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Oahu North Shore tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for selected Waikiki hotels.

Can I choose my activities on the day trip?

Yes, you can decide between options like snorkeling, kayaking, biking or visiting Waimea Valley once you see your choices that day.

Does the tour include entry to Waimea Falls Park?

Yes, admission to Waimea Falls Park is included in your tour price.

Are meals or lunch provided during the tour?

No set meal is provided but you'll have 1.5 hours in Haleiwa town for lunch at your own expense.

What equipment is included for activities?

The use of snorkel gear, bicycles, kayaks or stand-up paddle boards is included without extra charge.

Is this Surf Bus tour suitable for families with kids?

Yes, it's suitable for all fitness levels and infants can ride on laps or in strollers.

How long do we spend at each stop?

You’ll have around 1–1.5 hours at main stops like Waimea Valley and Haleiwa; timing may vary slightly depending on group choices.

Will we see professional surfers at Banzai Pipeline?

If it’s winter surf season and conditions allow, there will be a stop to watch surfers tackle Pipeline waves.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from select Waikiki hotels and drop-off at the end; entry fees for Waimea Falls Park are covered; there’s a cooler onboard for your drinks; plus all rental gear—snorkel sets, bikes, kayaks or paddle boards—is included so you don’t need to bring anything extra except your towel and sense of adventure.