Travel Tips
Taking the Bus
Oahu’s public bus service, The Bus, serves the entire island.
Route 52 starts at Ala Moana Center, travels through the center of the island, and ends in Haleiwa. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to travel from Ala Moana Center to Haleiwa.
Route 55 starts at Ala Moana Center, travels along the windward (east) coast and proceeds along the North Shore until ending in Haleiwa. Allow about 2 hours from Ala Moana Center to Haleiwa when taking Route 55.
For more information on fares, routes, and timetables, please visit thebus.org. You may also download the official bus app, “Da Bus,” on iTunes or Google Play.
Bus & Minivan Tours
Many tour providers visit the North Shore, sometimes called “Circle Island” tours. These guided tours eliminate the need to drive or rent a car, and will visit a set list of places and attractions depending on the tour you choose.
Renting a Car
There are two ways to reach the North Shore: Through the center of the island, or a more scenic drive up the windward (east) coast. The main highway upon reaching the North Shore becomes one lane in either direction. When driving through the center of the island, traffic is normally heavier on weekends coming into Haleiwa around midday. When leaving via the center-island route, by late afternoon traffic may also be slow going out of Haleiwa.
For driving directions to Haleiwa, please click here.
What to Bring
Depending on your planned activities, you may want to bring:
- North Shore Map
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and/or sun-protective clothing
- Swim and snorkel gear
- Beach towels, beach blanket
- Water, snacks
- Sandals (closed-toe shoes for hiking)
- Small cooler for fresh fruit or vegetables
Know Your Ocean Ability
We strongly recommend visiting lifeguarded beaches if you are planning to enter the ocean, especially if you are new to the North Shore. Don’t hesitate to check in with a lifeguard to discuss current ocean conditions.
Common Hawaiian Words
aloha (ah-LO-hah): hello; welcome; love; goodbye
mahalo (mah-HAH-lo): thank you
wahine (wah-HEE-nay): woman
kane (KAH-nay): man
keiki (kay-EE-kee): child or children
hale (HAH-lay): house
kama’aina (kah-mah-AYE-nah): native Hawaiian or local resident
makai (mah-KYE): to the sea
mauka (MOW-kah): to the mountains
ono (OH-no): delicious
pau (pow): finished
pau hana (pow HAH-nah): quitting time at work