15 Awesome Things to do on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii 

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

Planning a trip to Oahu’s North Shore? Well, you’ve come to the right place! 

The North Shore is famous for its world-class surf, relaxed beach towns, and some of the most beautiful coastline on the island. Some travelers choose to stay here, but it’s also easy to take day trips from Honolulu and Waikiki. Either way, this region definitely deserves more than just a quick stop, but it’s easy to miss some of the best experiences if you don’t know where to look.

Now, after exploring the very best of the North Shore multiple times, we’re here to share all our insider tips and the best things to do, so you can make the most of your time in this incredible region. Let’s get into it!

Getting to the North Shore

The first thing you need to figure out is how to get to the North Shore! Some people do opt to stay here, but it’s also easy to take a day trip from Honolulu or Waikiki, which is what we usually do. You’ve basically got three main options for how to explore the North Shore:

1. Take a guided tour (easiest option)

This is the best choice if you don’t want to worry about driving or planning. Guided tours are very popular among first-time visitors to the North Shore, and they usually include transport from Waikiki or Honolulu. This North Shore bus tour is a great option and includes our favorite stops like Waimea Falls, where you can even swim by the waterfall, plus the famous Dole Plantation. 

And if you want to see even more of the island in one go, we think that this full Circle Island tour is perfect. We took a Circle Island tour on one of our first trips to Oahu, and it’s ideal if you’re short on time or just want to get your sightseeing done fairly quickly, so you can enjoy more lazy days on the beach! 

2. Drive yourself (most freedom)

If you prefer to explore at your own pace, renting a car can be a really fun way to explore the North Shore. We have used Discover Cars to rent cars in Honolulu (and worldwide!) as they make it easy to compare prices and providers. Our top tip would be to rent a car just for a day trip, as this means you can avoid having to pay the huge hotel parking fees in Waikiki – they’re typically $50 USD per day, so this can save you a big chunk of change! 

3. Stay at the North Shore

Staying at the North Shore gives you more time to explore the area, and it also offers a quieter and more laid-back vibe than Honolulu and Waikiki. It’s a fantastic option if you like to spend early mornings at the beach, or want to spread activities out over a few days instead of rushing through on a day trip. We think that Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore is a great option, and we’ll share even more recommendations at the end of this article!

Things to do on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii 

1. 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 on Oahu’s North Shore is such a fun way to mix a bit of adventure into our beach time. The North Shore 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 a break from the beach or something a little more adventurous to add to your itinerary. It’s easy to combine with other North Shore stops like Waimea Valley or Haleiwa, and it ends with everyone smiling and buzzing with adrenaline – no wonder it has 3,600+ glowing reviews!

Book this exciting zipline adventure here and enjoy free cancellation!

2. 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! 

This luau at Waimea Valley is such a special experience and easily one of our favorite things to do on Oahu’s 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!

3. Visit Sunset Beach and the Banzai Pipeline

Visiting Sunset Beach and the Banzai Pipeline is a must when you’re on Oahu’s North Shore, 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.

4. 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 the North Shore is hands-down the best place to do it. In fact, Oahu 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 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.

This is an unforgettable North Shore activity and a great way to break up beach days with something truly memorable. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you can only really do here, shark cage diving on the North Shore is sure to deliver. 

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

5. 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.

6. Eat at the famous Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck

Eating at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck is basically a rite of passage on the North Shore! It has a couple of locations, including Haleiwa and Kahuku, and both are insanely popular for a reason. There’s usually a line, especially at lunchtime, so you might have to wait a little while, but I promise it’s totally worth it.

We ordered the classic shrimp scampi plate, and it was SO good. The shrimp were juicy and swimming in garlicky butter sauce, and they came with a generous scoop of rice to soak it all up. I’m still thinking about it now! 

If you’re spending the day exploring the North Shore, Giovanni’s is the perfect casual lunch stop. It was one of the best meals I’ve ever had in Hawaii, so don’t skip this one!

Related Read: Want some more ideas on what to see? Our 5-day Oahu itinerary covers all the highlights so you can spend less time planning and more time relaxing!

7. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center 

• Duration: 5-9 hours
• Time: 12:15 pm 
• Highlights: Self-guided exploration of six Polynesian island villages with cultural demonstrations, all-you-can-eat island-inspired buffet dinner with live music, silver-level seating at the HĀ: Breath of Life evening show, immersive performances with music, dance, and fire knife dancing
• Inclusions: Admission to Polynesian Cultural Center village exhibits, Gateway Buffet meal with live music, silver-level seating at the HĀ: Breath of Life show
• Rating: 4.5 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes 
• Price: Check price here!

Visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center is a full-day experience and one of the most immersive cultural attractions on Oahu. If you want more than a quick show or luau, this is the option to choose!

Your visit starts in the afternoon with time to explore six Polynesian island villages, each representing a different culture from across the Pacific. The experience is self-guided, so you can move at your own pace, joining hands-on activities, watching cultural demonstrations, and chatting with knowledgeable staff who bring each village to life. There’s also a relaxing canoe ride through the lagoon, which is a nice break between villages.

Later in the day, you’ll head to the Gateway Buffet, which is one of the center’s most popular dining options. The buffet features a wide variety of island-inspired dishes and desserts, served in a relaxed setting with live music and a stunning 360-degree mural. It’s a great alternative to a traditional luau and offers plenty of choices for different tastes.

The day wraps up with silver-level seating at HĀ: Breath of Life, an incredible evening show featuring more than 100 performers. The production combines music, dance, storytelling, special effects, and fire knife performances to tell a powerful story rooted in Polynesian culture.

This experience also supports a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Pacific Island cultures and funding local education. It’s a must-do if you want a deeper understanding of Polynesia, and it’s high on our list for our next North Shore visit.

Book your tickets for the Polynesian Cultural Center here, and pay nothing until 48 hours before you go!

8. See the Dole Plantation 

The Dole Plantation is a must-visit on Oahu, especially if it’s your first time on the island. It’s a super famous stop, and it really does live up to the hype, as it’s a fun way to experience Hawaiian history and food.

Of course, we had to check out this famous plantation for ourselves, and we had the best time! 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 tiny 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.

9. Explore Haleiwa town 

Haleiwa is a laid-back surf town, and spending a few hours exploring is one of the best ways to soak up that famous North Shore vibe! It’s quite small but very pretty, with lots of colorful storefronts, surf shops, art galleries, and casual eateries. 

One stop you absolutely shouldn’t miss is Matsumoto Shave Ice, which is famous for its refreshing shave ice. It’s one of the most popular spots in town, especially on warm days. There’s almost always a line, but we found that it moves quickly. I highly recommend the Rainbow combination of strawberry, lemon, and blue pineapple with a scoop of vanilla ice cream in the center! This is the classic North Shore treat that you don’t want to leave without trying.

While you’re in town, take a walk through the Haleiwa Store Lots, a small cluster of local shops and boutiques that’s fun to browse. And if you happen to be visiting on a Wednesday between 12-5 pm, check out the North Shore Country Market. It’s a great spot to find local food, handmade goods, and souvenirs.

We also like Haleiwa because it fits in well with other North Shore stops, so you won’t need to go out of your way to explore. It’s the perfect place to just chill for a while and grab a snack while you soak up that relaxed, surf-town charm.

10. 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? Even though the North Shore 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 orcompletely 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 on the North Shore 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!

11. Go paddleboarding on the river in Haleiwa

• 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 the perfect choice if you want a water-based activity that doesn’t involve big waves! Instead of the open ocean, 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!

12. Shop and eat at the Kahuku Food Trucks 

Casual, local food is one of my favorite parts of traveling in Hawaii, and if it’s something you also enjoy, then shopping and eating at the Kahuku Food Trucks is a must! This famous stretch is packed with food trucks, small stands, and a handful of cute shops, all set up along the road, so the best way to explore is just to take a stroll and try a few different things along the way.

This is where you’ll find the original Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, which we mentioned earlier in this blog. It’s always buzzing and absolutely worth the stop if you’re craving garlicky shrimp! We also grabbed fresh fruit from a local fruit stand nearby, including the best mango and coconut, which was such a refreshing snack.

Beyond the food, there are a few small shops selling souvenirs and local products, plus plenty of fun photo ops with colorful trucks, signs, and palm trees in the background. If you’re driving the North Shore loop, Kahuku is the perfect lunch and souvenir stop, and it’s just a great way to experience the island’s food truck scene in one spot.

13. Horseback Riding in 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 especially special on the North Shore. Instead of crowds or busy beaches, you’re out in the open countryside with wide views, fresh air, and a totally different perspective on Oahu’s landscape. Kahuku is actually one of the northernmost parts of the island, and it’s a quiet, rural area that’s perfect to explore 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. Get a coffee at Green World Coffee Farm

Grabbing a coffee at Green World Coffee Farm is a great little stop, especially if you’re heading toward the North Shore. It’s right off the highway, so it’s a super convenient caffeine break that won’t take you out of your way!

We tried their house blend along with a really good chai latte, and both hit the spot. After ordering, you can wander around the property and see the coffee bushes up close, complete with coffee cherries growing on the branches. It’s pretty cool to learn that the seeds inside those cherries are what eventually become coffee beans. We also got to watch the coffee grinder in action! 

This place does get busy, so we recommend going first thing in the morning if you can. It was much quieter when we arrived early, and it felt like the perfect way to start the day before continuing on to the North Shore. It’s a quick stop, but a fun and educational one, and it’s way better than just grabbing coffee at a chain cafe.

15. Taste the smoothies at The Sunrise Shack 

Tasting a smoothie at The Sunrise Shack is a must when you’re exploring the North Shore! This spot was started by a trio of brothers and their friend right here on the North Shore, and it’s grown into one of the most popular breakfast stops on the island. In fact, they now have multiple locations on the South Coast and one in Long Beach, California, but the OG spot is here in Shark’s Cove! 

This bright yellow shack is best known for its smoothies and açaí bowls, all made with bright, tropical flavors that feel quintessentially Hawaiian! I ordered the Blue Dream smoothie, made with blue spirulina, mango, banana, and topped with coconut flakes, and it was so delicious – I wish I could have it for breakfast every day.

The vibe here is upbeat and usually busy, especially in the mornings. It’s a great place to stop before heading to the beach, going surfing, or starting a day of sightseeing. And if you’re not a big smoothie person, they also offer some yummy specialty toasts and sandwiches.

Where to Stay on the North Shore

Now that you know what to get up to on the North Shore, you just need a great place to stay! Below, we’ve outlined our favorite options if you’re planning to base yourself here for a couple of nights.

However, there aren’t that many choices on the North Shore compared to other parts of the island, and lots of people do just explore the North Shore via day trips rather than overnight stays. If that’s what you plan to do, be sure to check out our where to stay guide for Honolulu and Waikiki.

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 a reliable, budget-friendly stay 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!

Spending time at the North Shore is one of our favorite ways to get out of the hustle and bustle of Honolulu. The vibe here is so relaxed – it feels like a mini vacation during your vacation! Whether you want to wander through the Waimea Valley, eat at the famous food trucks, or try out one of the unique tours only offered up here, you won’t regret planning to explore this side of Oahu.

As you get ready to take an amazing getaway to the islands, have a look through all our Hawaii blogs! From relaxing on Waikiki Beach to driving the Road to Hana on Maui, we have tips, tours, hotels, and itineraries to ensure your vacation is unforgettable. Aloha!

21 Best Things to do in Waikiki, Hawaii

How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Maui, Hawaii: The Best 5-Day Itinerary

Where to Stay on Oahu, Hawaii: 4 Best Areas and Hotels