If you’re visiting the island of Oahu, you’ll want to set aside a day to enjoy the beauty of the North Shore.
As Disney Vacation Club Members, our family is welcomed home by our friends at Aulani Disney Resort & Spa. It sits on a lovely corner of the island in Kapolei, between the Marriott Beach Club and the Four Seasons.
As much as we enjoy the resort life, we love to explore and try new things. The North Shore is a beautiful 45-minute scenic drive from Aulani. It’s more country, still very beautiful, and once you get there it’s waves for days!
On our most recent trip in May 2023, we spent a memorable day in the North Shore. I had no idea, we’d be spending Mother’s Day in Hawaii so this was a double blessing.
Here’s a breakdown of our day, and the places we recommend visiting.
Sunrise Shack: Fuel for the Day ☕
To stay within budget and save some time, we had breakfast in our studio and hit the road.
I couldn’t wait to get to the North Shore to try Bullet Coffee at the Sunrise Shack. Bullet coffee is an energizing coffee made with MCT oils (medium chain triglyceride) and unsalted grass-fed butter. The location we went to didn’t have any butter, they did recommend adding peanut butter, and I never say no to peanut butter.
This coffee kept me going all day long. After getting curious, I learned that MCTs help enhance mental focus, help reduce the risk of heart disease, and increase energy. Now, I’m no expert, so please do your own research.
Sunrise Shack is the cutest spot complete with chickens, cornhole, coffee, and acai bowls that fueled our day on the North Shore. We parked across the street where our breath was taken away by a beautiful beach. Talk about surprises at every corner.
Chasing Waterfalls at Waimea Valley
If you want to jump into a waterfall, visiting Waimea Valley is a must. Waimea Valley is a protected and sacred historical site. It’s a place that preserves Hawaiian culture. Visitors can learn about plant life, music, and the history of the land. It’s run by volunteers who help keep the legacy of Hawaiian culture and its ancestors alive.
Getting to the waterfall is about a 30-minute hike on a paved road through the lush green valley. It’s more like a leisurely walk. No need for hiking shoes, slippers will do just fine.
It took us a little longer because we stopped to take photos, admire the flowers, and partake in the scavenger hunt that was available for the keiki, that’s Hawaiin for children!
They learned 3 new Hawaiian words and the values behind them. We got to play traditional Hawaiian games and at the end, the keiki earned a pin. I love when we get to learn as a family while having fun.
So, the highlight of my Mother’s Day was visiting this beautiful waterfall. Right before you get to the spot, there’s a little cafe, bathrooms, and changing rooms. The cafe sells a variety of drinks and snacks, including shaved ice starting at $5 and our favorite, spam musubi.
After the bathrooms, you turn the corner and behold the waterfall. Cross the bridge, or stop to take a photo, then enter the excitement.
I loved being able to jump in with my keiki. Admittedly, I was scared at first, but once we got in, we had the best time. It was a proud mommy moment, to see my kids jump in, face their fears, and have the time of their lives.
My advice? Enjoy the warm sun, the cool water, and jump off the edge of the waterfall! Do it all. Live in the moment. Take it all in. My husband recorded us from afar. At one point, took my phone in with a waterproof case. I quickly put it back because it became a distraction. Plus, I couldn’t get any good photos or videos. I’ll admit, I was envious of a dad filming his kids with a waterproof GoPro. Maybe next time.
☑️ Things to Know Before Planning Your Trip to Waimea Valley
🗒️ What to bring: Because of the walk I encourage you to travel lightly; however, I’ll share a few key things you can bring.
First things first, bring or better yet, wear your bathing suit! The park has water filling stations so bring a reusable water bottle. Bring towels and water shoes, if you have them. They aren’t necessary, but I would have felt better walking on the rocks into the water with a pair on. Water shoes will also come in handy when you visit Shark’s Cove. More on that below. Most importantly, bring a waterproof camera to capture all the fun memories.
🗒️ Hours and Admission: There is an admission fee to enter Waimea Valley. They offer military and student discounts, so be sure to bring your IDs. At the time we went, we spent $82 for two adults, one student, and one child. They’re open from 9 am to 4 pm, Tuesday – Sunday, but are closed on Monday, so plan accordingly.
🗒️ Swimming in the Waterfall: Life jackets are available as part of your admission. There’s also a place to store your belongings if everyone in your party plans on jumping. I think the cost was $10 for a bin, but don’t take my word for it. We didn’t get one.
🗒️ Shuttle Transportation: If necessary, there is a shuttle that will take you to and from the entrance to the waterfall. Just know that It’s $10 each way. Again, we didn’t use this, although our 9-year-old wanted to.
North Shore Food Trucks @ Shark’s Cove
After all the walking and swimming we were hungry! On the way to Sunrise Shack, we noticed a bunch of food trucks with seating facing the beach so we decided to eat there. Our barista recommended Pupukea Grill, but it was in a different parking lot. If you’ve tried it, let me know what we missed.
The kids and I opted for tacos and quesadillas, while my husband ordered from a shrimp truck. I tried a shrimp and fish taco, I wish I ordered two shrimp tacos. They were so good. I noticed that most of the fish served on the island is Mahi. It’s a heartier fish, and not what I’m used to as a Cali girl. To me, the Mahi tasted more like chicken. My son gave his quesadillas two thumbs up.
P.s. Beware of hungry chickens. Do not feed them because they won’t let you eat in peace.
Shark’s Cove at Pupukea Beach Park 🦈
I asked around for some of the best places to snorkel and spot fish in their natural habitat. Shark’s Cove came up a handful of times, both in my online search and asking friends for recommendations.
Despite the name, there are no sharks. At least not that I saw.
I realized on the drive home that Shark’s Cove is in the same spot as Pupukea Beach Park. Shark’s Cove actually makes up part of the beach park. So, when you’re searching for the exact spot, use Pupukea Beach Park in your GPS. It’s right across from Foodland and the Shark’s Cove Food Trucks.
We were blown away at how clear the water is. I was able to see my toes wiggle in the water. The kids were able to point out a few fish, too. My son has an affinity for fish, so he was able to identify some, including a few mud skippers.
It was getting late and we didn’t have the right fear, so we didn’t stay too long. We plan to come back and bring water shoes and our snorkel gear so we’re more prepared. It’s very rocky, so proceed with caution, but also with great expectation that you’ll have an amazing time.
Heading Home
By the end of the day, we were all exhausted and really thirsty. With a 45-minute drive back to Aulani ahead we decided to stop by another favorite spot, 7-11! Our top picks are the teriyaki and original spam musubi and the spicy and original California hand rolls. My daughter loved that they also had mini versions of the instant Buldak Carbonera Ramen! So good and so spicy just the way she likes it.
With water, a canned Coke, and a fruit punch in hand, we drove home with the North Shore in our rearview mirrors. A day trip well spent, filled with adventures, memories, and a whole lot of promise for the rest of our vacation. It truly was the best day!
Your Turn 🌺
I’d love to hear from you now.
What are your favorite places to travel in Hawaii? Have you been to the North Shore? What are some of your recommendations? What’s your next travel destination?
Share your thoughts in the comments below. Aloha!
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