15 Awesome Things to do in Haleiwa, Hawaii

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Looking for the best things to do in Haleiwa? You’ve come to the right place!

Haleiwa is the main town on Oahu’s legendary North Shore, and it’s easily one of my favorite places to escape the busy energy of Honolulu. Every time I come back, I fall in love with its laid-back surf culture, incredible local eats, and scenic beauty all over again.

Whether you’re visiting on a day trip from Waikiki or spending a little longer up north, Haleiwa is packed with iconic North Shore experiences—from shark cage diving and surf lessons to boutique shopping, shave ice, and more. So let’s get to it!

Getting to Haleiwa

Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Haleiwa is surprisingly easy to reach, even if you’re staying in Honolulu or Waikiki. Since there aren’t any major resorts right in town, most visitors come up for the day—and it makes for the perfect North Shore escape. Whether you want the convenience of a guided tour or the freedom of driving yourself, here are the best ways to get there:

1. Take a Guided Tour – If you want to explore more of Oahu without worrying about driving, a guided tour is hands-down the easiest option. This full-day island tour takes off from Honolulu and hits all the iconic sights around the island, including the North Shore and 1.5 hours to wander around Haleiwa. It’s perfect if you’re short on time and want a stress-free way to see the island’s top sights in one day.

2. Shuttle from Waikiki – Looking for something affordable and simple? This round-trip shuttle from Waikiki is a great choice. It brings you to Haleiwa for a few hours, with fun stops along the way at places like the Dole Plantation and Green World Coffee Farm—two places we absolutely loved on our recent trip. It’s an easy middle ground between a full tour and driving yourself.

3. Drive Yourself (Rental Car) – Driving to Haleiwa is a great option if you want total flexibility. We suggest picking up a rental car in Waikīkī just for the day, which helps you avoid those pricey hotel parking fees (often around $50 USD per night!) while still giving you the freedom to explore the North Shore at your own pace. We always book through Discover Cars, so we can easily compare prices, read reviews, and choose the most convenient pick-up and drop-off locations.

Things to do in Haleiwa, Hawaii

1. Dive with sharks

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: Multiple departure times throughout the day 
• Highlights: Boat ride out from Haleʻiwa Harbor to shark habitat, float in a secure shark cage to see Galapagos and sandbar sharks up close (no scuba experience required), learn about shark behavior from expert crew, possible sightings of turtles, dolphins, or whales depending on season
• Inclusions: Guided shark cage diving experience, use of snorkeling equipment, expert crew
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,300+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes 
• Price: Check prices here! 

Shark cage diving is one of the most unique experiences you can have on Oahu, and Haleiwa is hands-down the best place to do it. In fact, Oahu’s North Shore is widely considered the top spot for shark diving in Hawaii, so if this is on your bucket list, you’ll want to plan it here.

Tours depart right from Haleʻiwa Harbor and head offshore to deep, clear water where sharks naturally frequent. And, great news, you don’t need any scuba experience for this activity! You’ll float in a secure cage just below the surface while sharks swim freely around you, which makes it both thrilling and accessible. Most tours regularly spot Galapagos and sandbar sharks, and depending on the day, you might also see dolphins, turtles, or even whales in winter.

What makes this experience so special is how close you get. Seeing sharks from a boat is one thing, but being in the water with them, even in a cage, gives you a completely different appreciation for these animals! Along the way, the guides share information about shark behavior, safety, and conservation, which helps replace fear with respect and understanding.

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you can only really do here, shark cage diving in Haleiwa is sure to deliver. 

Book this epic shark cage adventure here, before it sells out!

2. Go paddleboarding on the river

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: Multiple departure times throughout the day
• Highlights: Guided paddleboard adventure on the peaceful Haleiwa River, scenic views of lush wetland landscapes, birdwatching and wildlife sightings, gentle water conditions ideal for all skill levels
• Inclusions: Paddleboard and safety gear rental, guided paddleboarding instruction, experienced local guide
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check prices here!

Paddling the Haleiwa River is an iconic activity in town and doesn’t involve any of those big waves that the North Shore is famous for! Instead, you’ll glide along the calm river surrounded by greenery and birds.

The adventure starts on the water with a quick orientation from your guide, who shows you the basics of paddleboarding and points out interesting plants and animals along the way. The river itself is very gentle, so it’s ideal for beginners, families, or anyone who just wants to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace. We loved being able to look around instead of battling choppy waves. In fact, it almost feels like a mini nature tour!

If you’d prefer a bit more one-on-one help, you can also book a private paddleboard lesson instead of the group adventure, which is great if it’s your first time on a board or you want to gain confidence. Alternatively, you can also book this sunset paddleboard tour. The sky looks super pretty and the paddleboards actually have glowing lights underneath them to help you spot marine life, including green turtles.

Grab your spot on this daytime paddleboarding tour or book the sunset option here!

3. Attend a traditional luau  

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 5 pm 
• Highlights: Authentic Polynesian luau feast, cultural demonstrations, traditional dances from across the Pacific, fire knife performance, flower lei greeting, full access to Waimea Valley’s gardens and waterfall grounds
• Inclusions: Admission to Toa Luau at Waimea Valley, entrance to Waimea Valley botanical gardens and Waimea Falls, flower lei greeting, Polynesian show and cultural performances, luau feast with drink tickets depending on seating option
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 3,300+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes 
• Price: Check prices here! 

Only 15 minutes away from Haleiwa, this luau at Waimea Valley is such a special experience and easily one of our favorite things to do on the entire North Shore. What really sets it apart is that your ticket includes admission to Waimea Valley, so you can explore the lush botanical gardens and walk to the famous waterfall before the luau even begins. 

We highly recommend arriving early so you have time to wander the gardens at a relaxed pace. We found the walk to the waterfall really easy since it’s fully paved, and the scenery along the way is beautiful. You can even swim at the base of the waterfall, which is such a cool bonus! Just make sure you don’t book this luau on a Monday, as Waimea Valley is closed that day.

Once the luau starts, the experience only gets better. The cultural activities and demonstrations are interactive and informative, giving you insight into Polynesian traditions before dinner is served. And the food is delicious, with a generous buffet that includes classic Hawaiian dishes (we loved the kalua pork!) and plenty of options to try.

The show itself was fantastic and felt authentic rather than overproduced. You’ll see traditional dances from across Polynesia, finishing with an energetic fire-knife performance that had the whole crowd hooked. Overall, this luau is an amazing way to combine nature, culture, and entertainment in one place, and it’s absolutely worth planning around if you’re visiting the North Shore.

Book this luau here for a fantastic 2-for-1 deal including Waimea Valley admission!

4. Visit Sunset Beach and the Banzai Pipeline

Visiting Sunset Beach and the Banzai Pipeline is a must when you’re headed to Haleiwa, especially during the winter surf season. This stretch of coastline is famous for its powerful waves and is one of the best places in the world to watch professional surfers in action.

We visited when the waves were only around eight feet high, and it was still incredibly impressive to watch. I say “only” because on bigger days, the waves here can reach 20 feet or more! 

Sunset Beach is also a great spot to walk along the sand, and we found some beautiful shells while we were there. It’s normally a fantastic place to watch the sunset too, although we were a bit unlucky with cloudy skies on our visit.

Just down the road is the Banzai Pipeline, officially known as ‘Ehukai Beach Park. This is one of the most famous surf breaks in the world and the location of several major surfing competitions. Even if there isn’t a contest on while you’re here, it’s still amazing to watch surfers take on these powerful, perfectly shaped waves.

5. Take a surf lesson

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: 10 am or 1 pm
• Highlights: Learn the basics of surfing with a professional instructor, beach technique and safety briefing, practice riding gentle waves in beginner-friendly water on the North Shore (world-famous surf destination)
• Inclusions: Surfboard and all necessary equipment, professional instruction, beginner surfing lesson in small group setting
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here! 

Oahu’s North Shore is world famous for surfing, so where better to take a beginner surf lesson than here in Haleiwa? Even though this coast is known for massive winter waves, there are beginner-friendly spots with gentle waves where lessons take place, so it’s a great place to learn.

The lesson starts on the beach with a quick safety briefing and an introduction to the basics, like paddling, popping up, and positioning on the board. We found the instructors really good and patient, which makes a huge difference if you’re nervous or completely new to surfing. Our friend had never surfed before, and she was riding her first wave in less than 10 minutes!

What makes learning to surf on the North Shore so memorable is the setting. You’re surfing in a place that’s legendary in the surfing world, with beautiful scenery all around you and a much quieter and more local feel than Waikiki. The small group size also means you get more personal instruction and helpful tips throughout the lesson.

Whether this is your first time trying to surf or you’ve always wanted to give it a go in Hawaii, a surf lesson in Haleiwa is a fun way to connect with the island’s surf culture. And don’t just take our word for it, because this class has great reviews! It is very popular, though, so you’ll want to snap up your place sooner rather than later.

Book this top-rated surf lesson here, before it sells out!

6. Eat some of the best local food

One of the best things to do in Haleiwa is eat your way through town—this laid-back North Shore surf spot is home to some of the most iconic local food on Oahu.

First up, you have to stop at the famous Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Haleiwa. It’s legendary for a reason! Just a quick tip: bring $2 cash for parking near the food trucks. It’s totally worth it to be close, especially around lunchtime.

Once you arrive, you’ll see lots of picnic tables nearby, but they’re assigned to different trucks—so make sure you sit at the ones for Giovanni’s after you order. There’s often a line, but don’t worry…it moves fast. The last time we were there was on a Wednesday at lunch, and we only waited about three minutes for our food!

I highly recommend ordering the classic shrimp scampi plate—the garlic shrimp over rice is unreal. Honestly, it’s some of the best shrimp I’ve ever had, and the portion is generous, so it’s great value too.

And of course, no visit to Haleiwa is complete without shave ice. One of the most famous spots on the island is Matsumoto Shave Ice, located right in town. We went for the classic Rainbow combo (strawberry, lemon, and blue pineapple), with vanilla ice cream at the bottom – yum!

Related Read: Only have time for a day trip? See our 1-day North Shore itinerary to see exactly how we plan the perfect quick visit!

7. Take an e-bike tour

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: 8 am or 11 am
• Highlights: Ride with ease through Haleiwa town center, Haleʻiwa Boat Harbor, Haleʻiwa Beach Park, and Kaiaka Bay Beach Park; take in coastal views and learn local history along the way
• Inclusions: Electric bike, helmet, guide
• Rating: 5 stars (check out the great reviews)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Looking for a fun, active way to explore more of the North Shore without driving or getting too sweaty in the Hawaiian sun? This guided e-bike tour is such a great option, especially if you want something that’s adventurous but still relaxed and scenic.

The ride is about two hours and takes you through some of Haleiwa’s most picturesque spots, all with the ease of an electric bike (so you cover more ground without exhausting yourself). You’ll cruise past charming plantation-style buildings in Haleiwa town center, roll by the colorful boats at Haleʻiwa Harbor, and ride along seaside paths with views over Haleʻiwa Beach Park and Kaiaka Bay Beach Park—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking up the coastal vibe.

One of the things that really makes this tour stand out is the personal touch from the guides, who share stories about local history and culture, like the historic Rainbow Bridge. Most groups are small (max four people), so it feels personal and not rushed, and the e-bikes are easy to handle even if you’re not an experienced cyclist.

Whether you’re on your first trip to Oahu or just want a scenic, active outing, this Haleiwa e-bike tour is a fun way to see the North Shore from a new perspective! 

Book the tour here and you don’t pay a cent until just before you go!

8. See the turtles at Laniakea Beach

One of the most unforgettable things to do while visiting Haleiwa is heading to Laniakea Beach, famously nicknamed Turtle Beach. This spot is one of the best places on Oahu’s North Shore to see Hawaiian green sea turtles (AKA honu) resting right on the sand.

Laniakea Beach is only about 10–15 minutes from Haleiwa town, making it an easy stop to add into your day between surfing, food trucks, and exploring the area. Turtles can appear year-round, but you’ll have the best chance of spotting them between 11 am and 2 pm, when they’re most likely to come ashore to relax.

Just remember—these turtles are protected wildlife, so it’s important to be respectful. You’ll need to keep your distance, and you’re not allowed to touch or feed them. Volunteers are often nearby, helping make sure the turtles stay safe and undisturbed.

If you’re spending some time in Haleiwa, this is one of the easiest and most magical nearby experiences you can have—and it’s completely free!

9. Hike to Waimea Falls

Hiking to Waimea Falls is one of the easiest and most rewarding things to do on Oahu’s North Shore! Okay, so as big hiking fans, we may be a little biased, but this one is low-effort and high-reward, so almost anyone can enjoy it. But if you don’t feel like walking, there’s also a shuttle you can take for around $10 USD each way.

The hike is located inside Waimea Valley and leads to a gorgeous waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The walk to the waterfall takes about 30 minutes each way and follows a fully paved path, which makes it stroller-friendly and suitable for all fitness levels. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautifully maintained botanical gardens filled with tropical plants, flowers, and towering trees, so the walk itself is part of the experience.

At the end of the trail, you’ll reach Waimea Falls, where swimming is often allowed, and lifeguards are on duty. Swimming was closed when we visited due to heavy rain the night before, which can happen depending on conditions. If swimming is important to you, it’s a good idea to call the morning of your visit to check the waterfall status at (808) 638-7766.

Even though we weren’t able to swim, we still thought that Waimea Falls was well worth the visit. The waterfall is stunning and peaceful, and walking through the valley was a great way to slow down and enjoy the natural beauty of the North Shore.

10. Soar on the Island’s longest ziplines 

• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Time: Multiple departure times throughout the day
• Highlights: Fly across Oahu’s longest ziplines, panoramic views of the North Shore coastline and mountains, ATV ride to the top of the course, sky bridges and rappels, lush farm and jungle scenery
• Inclusions: Guided zipline tour, all safety equipment, professional guides, ATV ride to the launch point, access to all ziplines and obstacles
• Rating: 5 stars (check 3,600+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

This zipline tour in nearby Kahuku is well worth doing while you’re here on the North Shore. This part of the island is already stunning from the ground, but seeing it from above really gives you a whole new perspective!

The experience starts with an ATV ride up to the top of the course, which is a fun bonus in itself, and the great views start right away! From there, you’ll tackle a series of long ziplines, sky bridges, and short rappels, all set above lush farmland with sweeping views toward the coastline and mountains. The ziplines here are the longest on the island, so you really get that flying feeling as you glide across the landscape.

The guides do a great job of ensuring everyone feels comfortable and that the vibe stays fun and relaxed. You don’t need any previous experience to do this tour, and the equipment and instructions are very straightforward.

Overall, this is a great North Shore activity if you want something a little more adventurous to add to your itinerary – no wonder it has 3,600+ glowing reviews!

Book this exciting zipline adventure here and enjoy free cancellation!

11. Shop!

One of my favorite ways to slow down in Haleiwa is simply spending a little time browsing the local shops. The town has such a fun, laid-back vibe, and shopping here feels more like wandering through a small beach community than a touristy mall.

A great place to start is the Haleiwa Store Lots, a charming little shopping area filled with local boutiques, surf shops, and unique island finds. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a souvenir that actually feels special—whether that’s handmade jewelry, beachwear, or local art.

While you’re here, grab a coffee from Island Vintage Coffee, which is our go-to for a quick caffeine boost (and their acai bowls are amazing too!). Then pop into places like Whalers General Store or one of the nearby surf shops for classic North Shore style.

And if your visit lines up with a Wednesday afternoon, don’t miss the North Shore Country Market (Wednesdays from 12–5 pm). It’s a super fun local market with small vendors, snacks, and crafts. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or just soaking up the small-town energy, this is a perfect easy stop during your day in Haleiwa!

12. Hike the Ehukai Pillbox Trail

If you want one of the best views on the North Shore without committing to a long, intense trek, the Ehukai Pillbox Trail is such a great option. It’s a short hike with a big payoff, and it’s one of my favorite things to do near Haleiwa when I’m craving a little adventure (and an epic photo spot!).

The trail is located near Sunset Beach, just a quick drive from Haleiwa, and it’s about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round trip, making it a perfect quick outing. The path climbs up the hillside to panoramic lookout points over the coastline, and from the top, you’ll get sweeping views of the turquoise water and golden beaches below.

The hike is named after the pillboxes, which are old World War II military bunkers built as observation points to help protect the island. Today, they’re covered in colorful graffiti and have become a really unique landmark along the trail. Standing on top of one with the ocean stretching out in front of you is one of those “only in Hawaii” moments.

Most people can complete the hike in under an hour, but it can be steep and muddy after rain, so wear proper shoes and bring water. For such a short trail, the views are absolutely next-level—and it’s the perfect way to experience the rugged beauty of the North Shore just outside Haleiwa!

13. Horseback Riding in nearby Kahuku

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Time: 9 am, 11 am, or 2:30 pm 
• Highlights: Scenic guided horseback ride through lush pastures and rolling terrain, panoramic views of Oahu’s countryside and ocean, gentle pace suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike
• Inclusions: Guided horseback riding experience, all safety gear, professional guide instruction
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes 
• Price: Check price here!

This horseback ride is such a peaceful way to experience Oahu, and it feels extra special on the North Shore. Instead of crowds or busy beaches, you’re out in the open countryside! Kahuku is roughly a 30-minute drive from Haleiwa and is one of the northernmost parts of the island. We think this quiet, rural area is perfect for exploring on horseback!

This 90-minute ride moves at a relaxed pace, so it’s suitable for both beginners and more experienced riders. Before heading out, the guides match you with a horse based on your comfort level and give a quick safety briefing, so even first-timers can start out feeling confident. Once you’re on the trail, it’s all about soaking in the scenery. You’ll ride through green pastures and rolling terrain, with beautiful views stretching toward the mountains and ocean.

We think that this experience offers a really nice change of pace from driving between North Shore stops or spending all day at the beach. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and they’re happy to answer questions or help you feel more comfortable if you’re new to horseback riding.

If you’re looking for something relaxing, scenic, and a little bit different while visiting the North Shore, this horseback ride is a great choice. It’s a lovely way to slow down and enjoy a quieter side of Oahu. And judging by the stellar reviews, we’re not the only ones who think so!

Book this peaceful horseback ride here and enjoy free 24-hour cancellation!

14. Visit a plumeria farm

For something totally unique (and seriously beautiful) while you’re in Haleiwa, make time to visit Little Plumeria Farms, a hidden gem right on the North Shore. This fragrant flower farm is one of the most peaceful and memorable stops you can add to your day, especially if you want a break from the beaches and crowds.

Plumeria flowers are one of the most iconic symbols of Hawaii, and walking through rows of blooming trees here feels like stepping into a tropical dream. The air smells incredible, and the whole farm has such a calm, welcoming vibe. It’s a wonderful place to learn more about how plumeria are grown, why they’re so meaningful in Hawaiian culture, and of course, to snap a few gorgeous photos surrounded by vibrant blossoms.

One of the coolest experiences they offer is a lei-making tour, where you can create your own fresh flower lei to take home. They even have special sunset lei-making sessions, which would be such a fun and romantic way to spend an evening on the North Shore.

Just keep in mind that plumeria are seasonal, and the best time to visit is during peak bloom from April through October. If you’re looking for a slower, more local experience near Haleʻiwa, this is such a lovely one to add to your itinerary!

15. See the Dole Plantation

The Dole Plantation is a must-visit on Oahu, especially if it’s your first time on the island. If you’re making the trip up to Haleiwa from Honolulu, it’s on your way! It’s about 15 minutes outside of Haleiwa, and we usually plan to make a quick stop here when we’re driving by.

On our last visit, we rode the Pineapple Express Train, which takes you through the pineapple fields while sharing a bit of the plantation’s history. Along the way, you also see other crops grown here, like cacao, which was really interesting. Seeing the fields in person definitely gave us a better appreciation for how pineapples are grown, and we loved seeing the baby pineapples up close!

After the train ride, we spent time wandering the grounds and learned how to pick out the perfect pineapple. And of course, you can’t visit without trying the famous Dole Whip. It’s a creamy, dairy-free soft serve made from pineapple puree, and I swear it tastes even better when you’re eating it right at the plantation.

Because it’s located between Honolulu and the North Shore, the Dole Plantation fits perfectly into a day trip and doesn’t take up your whole day. It’s a fun, memorable stop that adds a little variety to your North Shore itinerary and gives you a taste of Hawaii beyond the beaches.

Where to Stay on the North Shore near Haleiwa

Now that you know what to get up to while visiting Haleiwa and the North Shore, we can help you find a great place to stay! I’ll be honest, though, there aren’t any hotels in Haleiwa itself, and most visitors, including us, choose to do day trips, rather than stay overnight.

Since the hotel options are limited, it’s more expensive to stay on this side of the island. But if you want to avoid the commute (and the notoriously bad Honolulu traffic!), it’s definitely worth thinking about. If you decide to go the day trip route, then our where to stay guide for Honolulu and Waikiki has some great hotel options there instead!

The Ritz-Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay – $$$

The Ritz-Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay is the ultimate luxury retreat on Oahu’s North Shore. Rooms are spacious and serene, each offering panoramic ocean views. The resort boasts a collection of world-class amenities, from four oceanfront swimming pools to farm-to-table dining at Alaia and six other restaurants and bars. Whether you’re exploring hiking trails, surfing the North Shore’s iconic waves, or unwinding at the spa, there’s an experience here for every mood.

Rates go for $700 to $2,000+ USD per night, depending on the season and room type, making this splurge-worthy stay a bucket list experience. Treat yourself and reserve this North Shore haven here!

Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore – $$

Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore is located in Laie, a charming town often considered part of the North Shore. This modern hotel is right across from the beach and offers easy access to some of the area’s top spots, like the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Rooms are simple and comfortable, with modern touches like flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and mini-fridges. Families especially love the pool and outdoor lounge areas, which create a laid-back vibe perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.

Its location and warm hospitality make it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience the North Shore’s natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. Rates usually start around $320 to $450 USD per night, depending on room size and season. Secure this cozy North Shore stay before it fills up here!

Backpackers Vacation Inn and Plantation Village – $

If you plan to spend most of the day out and about exploring, then staying at Backpackers Vacation Inn and Plantation Village is a great way to save a buck or two! It’s a friendly and welcoming spot that’s within walking distance of Shark’s Cove and lots of food trucks. You can either book a dorm bed for maximum value, but there are also cottages, studios, and private rooms available.

The property does feel slightly dated, and it’s certainly not as flashy as some of the major resorts, but it’s very homey and welcoming. If you prefer a more “mom and pop” feel over big hotel chains, we have a feeling that you’ll like this place! Private rooms start from $120 USD per night, while dorm beds start at $50 USD. See all options and book your stay here!

Renting a Car in the USA

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the USA

• Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
• Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
• Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
• Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

A visit to Haleiwa and Oahu’s North Shore is the kind of easygoing and fun addition to your Hawaiian vacation that we always crave. While I adore Waikiki, sometimes I need to escape the crowds, and Haleiwa is perfect for that. Grabbing a shave ice, spending time on Sunset Beach, and taking in the Waimea Valley are activities that never get old. Plus, the Toa Luau, shark diving, and epic ziplining course are highlights you’ll be talking about long after you clean the sand out of your suitcase!

Whether this is your first visit to the Hawaiian Islands or you’re returning again, our Hawaii blogs are a great place to start. We help you narrow down the best activities and even have hotel and restaurant recommendations to help you spend more time relaxing and less time planning. I hope your trip to Hawaii is amazing!

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