Locals will tell you that a visit to Haleiwa wouldn't be complete without a stop at Matsumoto Shave Ice, where lines of sun-soaked people wait patiently to treat themselves to a rainbow-colored snow cone with a scoop of ice cream and adzuki beans. Its good stuff!
This sleepy little town, nestled comfortably along Oahu's North Shore, is a complete 180-degree turn from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. Believe it or not, Haleiwa was once a booming resort town. With a population of about 2 thousand, the old plantation town character is preserved in many of the buildings, making this a popular destination for tourists and residents alike, visiting surfing and diving sites along the north shore.
Haleiwa was established by the missionaries, Rev. and Mrs. John Emerson, in 1832. In 1899 with the building of the Haleiwa Hotel and the Oahu Railroad, the town began to grow and thrive. Today, this quaint town is the unconventional shoppers' dream for art, crafts, clothes, and surfing items. Because of this it is nearly impossible to find a good place to stay in Haleiwa during the winter months. You can stay at or visit Mokuleia. It is a beautiful and remote area just 15 minutes west of Haleiwa. This would be a great place if you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the North Shore surf scene. Waialua is a residential beach area about 5 minutes west of Haleiwa. Haleiwa includes everything from the main town to Sunset Beach and Velzyland. Haleiwa would be a good choice if you want to be in the center of the surf scene.
Less than an hour's drive from Waikiki, Haleiwa is the perfect place to spend the day. Park your car and take a stroll down Haleiwa's main street which is lined with surf shops, cafes, boutiques and art galleries. The North Shore's most famous beaches are an easy drive from Haleiwa, as are cultural parks and museums. Visitors to this rustic yet charming spot will find a multitude of activities and treasures that will appeal to all their senses, style, adventure and taste.
Haleiwa is Oahu's art hub. Galleries abound, offering everything from hand-blown glass, wood-working and pottery to watercolors and undersea paintings. Many shops also carry a wide selection of locally-made arts and crafts. Meet the artists at work and watch them as they create their artwork.
Snorkeling and diving are great ways to explore Haleiwa?s undersea world. The clear waters of Three Tables and other bays and coves are excellent for underwater activities. For those who prefer activities above water, look into kayaking along the Anahulu River. For the adventurous, many ocean shops offer lessons and equipment for surfing, kayaking, scuba diving, wind surfing, and body boarding. Boat and snorkeling tours, fishing and sailing are also available.
Haleiwa is also a popular destination for pro and amateur surfers. Many surfers move to Haleiwa during the winter months to ride some of the best waves on the planet. Its fertile lands, rich with diverse vegetation and prime water spots, are some of the star activities. As its land is elevated at approximately 20 feet, this town offers a lot of sweeping panoramic ocean views from its ridges and small mountain spots. A short visit to this place would take anyone on a head-on collision with the finest things that this tropical island could offer -- truly scenic mountains, landscapes, and ocean views.
Haleiwa was also home to quite a number of sugar plantations and refineries and one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island.
From the vast pineapple plantations near Wahiawa, to the tropical orchards of Waialua, to the more than colorful atmosphere of Haleiwa town, there's plenty to do and see. Travel down the road and you come upon the world-renowned beaches of Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and of course Waimea Bay. Take a hike in Waimea Valley or explore Peacock Flats in Mokuleia on the Waianae Range. Stop by a roadside stand in Kahuku and pick up a fresh papaya or savor a fresh catch shrimp plate. Catch an authentic Polynesian canoe pageant at the Polynesian Cultural Center and you have the makings of a fun-filled time on the North Shore. Let Haleiwa be the highlight of your experience.
With all these spots to choose from, you would want to have a good and peaceful walk on any of the parks that line up this town's fine land. Maybe even a quiet walk on its beautiful shores would do both your nerves and your heart good. The Waimea Bay, an astoundingly interesting beach of Haleiwa, provides a night sky and cool ocean winds to wipe off a traveler's worries and troubles. What a great place to be on vacation!