Discover Oahu North Shore

Waimea Valley & Waterfall Adventure

Tour Highlights & Video

A Journey Through Nature, Culture, and Surf

Explore Oahu’s North Shore, where stunning landscapes meet rich Hawaiian heritage. Visit Waimea Valley to stroll lush botanical gardens, learn about ancient culture at sacred heiau, and swim beneath the majestic Waimea Falls (conditions permitting).

Drive the iconic “Golden 8 Miles,” home to legendary surf spots and massive winter waves, and stop in historic Haleiwa for garlic shrimp or refreshing shave ice. Along the way, you may spot unique wildlife, like the Pacific golden plover or endangered monk seals. Experience the North Shore’s beauty, history, and surf culture with a private guide.

Best of North Shore in 8 hours

Swim Beneath a Majestic Waterfall

Visit Waimea Valley, home to Oahu’s most family-friendly waterfall. Stroll along a paved path through lush gardens to reach Waimea Falls, where lifeguards ensure a safe, refreshing swim in its tranquil waters (conditions permitting).

Explore a World-Class Botanical Garden

Discover over 5,000 plant species from Hawaii and beyond at Waimea Valley’s botanical garden. Wander through vibrant
displays of native, rare, and endangered flora, each with a story rooted in Hawaiian culture and conservation.

Step Into Hawaii’s Cultural Past

Immerse yourself in Hawaiian history at ancient heiau (temples) and archaeological sites nestled within Waimea Valley. Learn about sacred traditions and the island’s deep spiritual connection to the land.

Visit a Historic Surf Town

Explore a serene North Shore town with charming shops, local eateries, and stunning scenery. Savor garlic shrimp or shave ice,
and keep an eye out for Pacific golden plovers and other unique wildlife in this peaceful retreat from city life.

Your Private North Shore Tour Itinerary

(Fully customizable to match your interests and preferences)

Waimea Admission Included ($25/person)

Pick-up & Drop-off Included (Honolulu & Waikiki)​

Cruise Ship Pick-up/Drop-off Honolulu Harbor (Pier 2, 10 & 11)

Comfortable Air-conditioned Premium Mini-van

Cold Bottled Water, Sunscreen, Umbrellas

Photographer with High Quality Camera

Ko Olina Resorts Pick-up & Drop-off for Additional Fee (Aulani, Four Seasons, Beach Villas, Marriott)

Cost of Lunch

Gratuity

Pickup Details

Our guide will be in touch with you prior to your tour as well as on the day of the event to confirm all the details of your itinerary, including pick-up and drop-off locations.

At start time, look for a Black Chrysler Pacifica Limited Van with the company logo and Aina Explorer Private Tours, PUC No. 1242-C on the side.

Surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Transportation is wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Most travelers can participate

Child/booster seat rental available for an additional fee. Easily add it during booking.

Stroller accessible

This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

We understand that life happens, so we’re happy to offer a full refund with more than 24-hour notice!

Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

  • Cash
  • Credit card
  • Venmo, Apple Cash
  • Website Booking using FareHarbor
Maureen_S
Fun and educational
Great day around the island. Totally customizable and not rushed. From tourist attractions to local food stops, a fun and educational day.
Harold_D
Highly recommend this excursion
John was great to work with from the onstart. He communicated promptly…answered all my questions…offered advice and even found suggestions for a luau on Maui. He was kind, patient, and willing to customize the day to meet our expectations. We liked his basic itinerary so we used it as a guideline, added a few places based on his recommendations, and had a wonderful experience! Our lunch stop was perfect. We highly recommend Aina Travel and John! Exceptional customer service.
Stephan_U
A real highlight
This private tour, guided by John, was a highlight of our Hawaii holidays. John was a very friendly and highly competent guide, who showed us many interesting placed. He has a bright historical background, a great knowledge on the plants of the islands and donated our family a long lasting impression on Ohau. Stephan and family (from Germany)
Yogesh_A
Friendly driver and a great guide in Honolulu
John is a mannered and polite person. He’s highly knowledgeable and he took us to the points of our interest in a friendly manner. I will definitely suggest my friends to hire him for future trips to Honolulu.

FAQs

On this tour, you’ll explore Waimea Valley, including its family-friendly paved path to Waimea Falls, where you can swim under the waterfall (conditions permitting). You’ll stroll through a botanical garden featuring over 5,000 plant species, visit ancient Hawaiian heiau (temples), and archaeological sites, and drive along the iconic North Shore surf beaches. The tour concludes in Haleiwa, a historic surf town offering shopping, dining, and serene landscapes.

Yes! Waimea Falls is one of Oahu’s most family-friendly waterfalls, with a paved path leading to the falls and lifeguards on duty for safety. It’s an ideal spot for a refreshing swim amidst beautiful natural surroundings.

You may see Pacific golden plovers, endangered Hawaiian monk seals, and other native species during the tour. Waimea Valley also offers opportunities to spot vibrant birdlife and learn about the local ecosystem.

The tour typically lasts around 8 hours and includes visits to Waimea Valley, scenic drives along the North Shore surf beaches, and free time to explore Haleiwa. Your guide will provide insights into the area’s natural beauty, cultural history, and local cuisine.

Your guide will help you choose from a selection of delicious dining options to match your preferences. Savor local favorites like garlic shrimp, huli huli chicken, traditional Hawaiian dishes, freshly picked fruits from local stands, and refreshing shave ice or other tasty treats.

Didn’t see your must-visit spots on this itinerary?

We’ve Got You Covered! Take a look at our other tour options or get in touch for a free consultation to plan a tour that fits your interests.

Let’s make your Oahu experience exactly what you’re looking for.

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Set Itinerary Admissions included

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Admissions not included

Customizable