Haleiwa, HI Travel Guide

Highly Rated Restaurants and Cafes

Haleiwa is known for its delicious food scene, featuring a variety of local cuisine and fresh seafood. Here are some of the top-rated restaurants and cafes to check out during your visit:

If you’re looking for fresh seafood, look no further than Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck. Located on Kamehameha Highway, this food truck is known for its garlic shrimp plates and has a 4.1 rating with over 7,500 reviews on Google. Be sure to bring cash as they do not accept credit cards.

Other Highly Rated Options

Kono’s North Shore is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, serving up local favorites like acai bowls and loco moco. With a 4.4 rating on Google and over 2,000 reviews, this casual eatery is a must-visit for foodies.

For a taste of Thai cuisine, check out Elephant Thai Food. This restaurant has a 4.5 rating on Google and over 1,500 reviews, with customers raving about the pad thai and green curry. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.

If you have a sweet tooth, head to Waialua Bakery for delicious pastries and baked goods. This bakery has a 4.6 rating on Google and over 1,000 reviews, with customers raving about the cinnamon rolls and malasadas. They also offer gluten-free options.

• Be sure to check the hours of operation for each restaurant, as they may vary.
• Some restaurants may have limited seating or be takeout only.

Pro-tips

Try the garlic shrimp at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck and be prepared to wait in line during peak hours.

For a more upscale dining experience, check out Haleiwa Beach House or Opal Thai.

Did You Know?

Haleiwa is home to the famous Matsumoto Shave Ice, which has been serving up sweet treats since 1951.

The North Shore is also known for its food trucks, which offer a variety of cuisine from around the world.

Local Cuisine and Street Food

Haleiwa is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide variety of local cuisine and street food options to choose from. One of the most popular spots for delicious and authentic Hawaiian shrimp dishes is Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck.

Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck is located at 66-472 Kamehameha Highway, and has a rating of 4.1 stars with over 7,657 reviews. Their menu features a variety of shrimp dishes, including the classic Garlic Shrimp and the Lemon Butter Shrimp. They also offer plates with rice and macaroni salad, making it the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal.

For those looking for a unique and authentic Hawaiian food experience, be sure to try the local staple, poke. This dish consists of diced raw fish, typically ahi tuna, marinated in soy sauce and other seasonings. One of the best places to try poke in Haleiwa is at the Kahuku Superette.

Kahuku Superette is located at 56-505 Kamehameha Highway, and has a rating of 4.5 stars with over 1,000 reviews. Their poke bowls are made fresh daily and are a must-try for any seafood lover.

• Other popular local cuisine and street food options in Haleiwa include:
• Matsumoto Shave Ice – a classic Hawaiian treat featuring shaved ice topped with flavored syrups and sweetened condensed milk
• Ted’s Bakery – famous for their pies and pastries, as well as their plate lunches featuring local favorites like kalua pork and laulau
• North Shore Tacos – serving up delicious and fresh tacos with a Hawaiian twist

Pro-tips

Be sure to try the different types of poke available, including spicy ahi and shoyu poke. And don’t be afraid to ask the locals for their recommendations!

Did You Know?

Hawaiian cuisine is heavily influenced by the many different cultures that have migrated to the islands over the years, including Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, and Portuguese.

Conclusion

Haleiwa, HI is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique blend of local culture, sustainable businesses, and breathtaking scenery. From the delicious shrimp plates at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck to the stunning views at Waimea Valley, there is something for everyone in this charming town.

While it may be tempting to stick to the tourist hotspots, we highly recommend exploring the lesser-known spots like the Haleiwa Farmers Market and the Haleiwa Art Walk. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into the local culture and provide an authentic experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

And don’t forget to support the sustainable businesses in town, like the North Shore Soap Factory and the Green World Coffee Farm. These businesses are committed to preserving the beauty of Haleiwa for generations to come.

• Make sure to try the garlic shrimp plate at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck – it’s a local favorite!
• Take a dip in the refreshing waters at Waimea Bay.
• Explore the historic surf town of Haleiwa and learn about its rich history.

Pro-tips

Visit the Haleiwa Farmers Market early in the morning for the best selection of fresh produce.

Did You Know?

Haleiwa is home to the world-famous Triple Crown of Surfing competition.

Overall, Haleiwa, HI is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and authentic Hawaiian experience. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to explore all that this charming town has to offer!

Haleiwa, HI Itinerary

Welcome to Haleiwa, Hawaii! Get ready to explore the beautiful North Shore of Oahu with this 3-day itinerary filled with exciting activities, delicious food, and stunning scenery.

Day 1: Exploring Haleiwa Town and Beaches

On your first day, get acquainted with the charming town of Haleiwa, enjoy some local cuisine, and relax on the beautiful beaches of the North Shore.

Morning

• Breakfast at Haleiwa Bowls – Start your day with a delicious and healthy acai bowl or smoothie from Haleiwa Bowls. Located in the heart of Haleiwa town, this popular spot is a great way to fuel up for the day ahead.
• Stroll through Haleiwa Town – After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the historic town of Haleiwa. Browse the local shops, art galleries, and boutiques for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Afternoon

• Waimea Bay Beach Park – Head to Waimea Bay Beach Park for an afternoon of sun and surf. This beautiful beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
• Lunch at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck – For lunch, enjoy some mouthwatering shrimp dishes at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck. Located at 66-472 Kamehameha Highway, this popular food truck is known for its delicious garlic shrimp and no-frills atmosphere.

Evening

• Sunset Beach – As the day winds down, head to Sunset Beach to catch a breathtaking Hawaiian sunset. This picturesque beach is the perfect spot to relax and watch the sun dip below the horizon.
• Dinner at Haleiwa Joe’s – End your day with a delicious dinner at Haleiwa Joe’s. This local favorite offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, steaks, and island-inspired cocktails.

Day 2: Adventure and Wildlife

Get ready for an exciting day filled with adventure and wildlife encounters on the North Shore of Oahu.

Morning

• Breakfast at Kono’s – Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Kono’s. Known for their delicious breakfast burritos and kalua pork, this local eatery is a must-visit.
• Shark Cage Diving – For an adrenaline-pumping experience, book a shark cage diving tour with Hawaii Shark Encounters. Get up close and personal with these incredible creatures while learning about their importance to the ocean ecosystem.

Afternoon

• Turtle Beach – After your shark encounter, head to Laniakea Beach, also known as Turtle Beach. Here, you can observe Hawaiian green sea turtles basking in the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
• Lunch at Waialua Bakery – Grab a delicious sandwich or salad from for a picnic lunch on the beach.

Evening

• Polynesian Cultural Center Luau – In the evening, immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture with a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center. Enjoy a traditional luau, complete with a buffet dinner, live music, and Polynesian dance performances.

Day 3: Hiking and Scenic Views

On your final day, explore the natural beauty of the North Shore with a scenic hike and a visit to a botanical garden.

Morning

• Breakfast at The Beet Box Cafe – Fuel up for your hike with a nutritious breakfast at The Beet Box Cafe. This vegetarian cafe offers a variety of tasty dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
• Ehukai Pillbox Hike – Lace up your hiking boots and embark on the Ehukai Pillbox Hike. This moderate trail offers stunning views of the North Shore coastline and the famous Banzai Pipeline surf break.

Afternoon

• Waimea Valley – After your hike, visit Waimea Valley to explore its lush botanical gardens and beautiful waterfall. Take a guided tour to learn about the valley’s cultural and historical significance, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk through the gardens.
• Lunch at Pupukea Grill – Refuel with a tasty lunch at . This food truck offers a variety of fresh, locally-sourced dishes, including poke bowls and fish tacos.

Evening

• Three Tables Beach – Spend your final evening in Haleiwa relaxing on the beautiful Three Tables Beach. This secluded spot is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or simply enjoying the sunset.
• Dinner at Opal Thai – End your trip with a memorable dinner at Opal Thai. This authentic Thai restaurant offers a variety of flavorful dishes and a unique dining experience.

With this 3-day itinerary, you’ll experience the best of Haleiwa and the North Shore of Oahu. Enjoy your trip and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful Hawaiian paradise!