What to Do After Your Surf Lesson on the North Shore: Our Local Favorites

You’ve just finished your surf lesson on Oahu’s North Shore — you caught your first wave, soaked up the Hawaiian sun, and felt the true aloha spirit of surfing. We hope our guide on “Getting Ready For Your First Surfing Lesson” helped you feel prepared for the day!

Now that your session is over, you’re probably wondering what’s next. The North Shore is full of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Hawaiian experiences. Here’s a complete list of our local favorite things to do to keep the good vibes going.

Our Local Favorite Things to Do

1. Refuel with Local North Shore Eats

After catching waves, you’ll definitely want to refuel with some delicious island food. Surfing takes a lot of energy! Luckily, the North Shore is a foodie’s paradise, especially when it comes to casual, amazing grinds.

Grab a plate lunch with garlic shrimp, kalua pork, or loco moco.
Treat yourself to a fresh açaí bowl or refreshing Hawaiian shave ice.
Stop by one of the famous food trucks along Kamehameha Highway for poke, tacos, or Thai dishes.

2. Relax at Iconic North Shore Beaches

Sometimes the best thing to do after a surf session is… nothing. Your arms might feel like noodles, and just relaxing on the sand is the perfect plan. After your surf session, you can unwind or explore some of the most famous beaches in the world.

Waimea Bay – Perfect for swimming in summer and watching massive winter waves.
Sunset Beach – Known for its glowing evening skies and world-class surf.
Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach) – Spot Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) basking on shore.
Shark’s Cove – Great for snorkeling in calm summer conditions.

3. Explore Scenic Hikes and Nature Trails

Want to see the North Shore from a different angle? Stretch your legs and enjoy some of Oahu’s most scenic views. The mountains here are just as impressive as the ocean, offering incredible backdrops and lush trails.

Ehukai Pillbox Hike – A quick, rewarding hike overlooking the Banzai Pipeline.
Waimea Valley Trail – A lush botanical walk ending at a beautiful waterfall where you can swim.
Ka‘ena Point Trail – A coastal trail with stunning ocean views and native wildlife.
Private Guided Hikes – Check out Mahina Hawaii, a local tour company offering private island adventures. Their guides know the North Shore inside and out, from secret waterfalls to the best snorkel spots.

4. Experience More Ocean Adventures

If you’re still buzzing with energy and crave more time in the kai (ocean), there’s no shortage of ways to explore. You’ve seen the water from your board, now see it from a different perspective.

Shark Cage Tours – Safely see Galapagos and sandbar sharks in their natural habitat.
Whale Watching (Seasonal) – An absolute must-do if you’re here in winter (Dec–April) to see humpback whales.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) – Cruise the calm waters along the Haleiwa River.
Kayak or Canoe Tours – Enjoy peaceful paddles through coastal areas. You can also check out the Kayaks Haleiwa travel guide for more ideas.
Snorkeling & Scuba Diving – Discover Oahu’s vibrant marine life up close.
Fishing Charters – Book with Flyer Sportfishing to go deep-sea fishing for mahi-mahi or ahi. We personally know the crew at Flyer and they’re great at what they do.
Boat Tours – Our friends at Banzai Adventures run awesome boat tours out of Haleiwa, including whale-watching, shark swims, sunset cruises and big-wave watching tours.

5. Immerse Yourself in Hawaiian Culture

This place is so much more than just a beautiful beach. Experiencing the beauty of Hawaiian traditions and arts is a powerful way to connect with the island and understand its true spirit.

Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center for hula, luaus, and cultural exhibits.
Attend a local luau to enjoy Hawaiian food, music, and storytelling.
Take a farm or cacao plantation tour — see how macadamia nuts, coffee, and chocolate are grown.
Explore Haleiwa’s art galleries and local markets for handcrafted goods.

6. Get Outdoors and Find Adventure

Beyond the beaches, the North Shore offers incredible outdoor fun for every speed. If you want to get your adrenaline pumping or just see the aina (land) in a new way, here are some great options.

Ziplining Adventures – Soar over lush forests and valleys.
ATV or Horseback Riding Tours – Ride through scenic landscapes and private ranch trails.
Botanical Gardens – Explore stunning tropical gardens like Waimea Valley.
Helicopter Tours – Take in epic aerial views of the North Shore coastline and hidden waterfalls.

7. See the Island Beyond the North Shore

If you’re ready to explore more of Oahu, try a day trip. The North Shore is amazing, but letting a local show you the rest of the island is a fantastic way to see it all without the stress of driving.

Kualoa Ranch – Famous for movie tours, e-bike rides, and cultural experiences.
Pearl Harbor Memorial – A meaningful stop for history lovers.
Dole Plantation – Family-friendly with train rides and pineapple treats.
Circle Island Tours – Adventure Oahu the Right Way with ʻĀina Tours. Guided by real Hawaiians who know the island’s hidden gems, stories, and sacred spots. It’s the most authentic way to explore and experience the true spirit of aloha.

8. Relax, Recharge, and Restore

After a big day of surfing, sometimes your body just needs a reset. Treat yourself to some Hawaiian-style rest and recovery to soothe those paddling muscles and soak in the peace of the island.

Beachfront Yoga or Meditation Sessions – Center yourself to the sound of the waves.
Lomilomi Massage – A traditional Hawaiian massage to soothe tired muscles.
Float or Ice Bath Therapy – Great for post-surf recovery.

9. Shop and Taste Local

Want to take a piece of the North Shore home with you? The best souvenirs are often the ones you can taste! This is a great way to support local farmers and artisans.

Farmers Markets – Haleiwa Farmers Market and Waialua Market feature local produce and crafts.
Coffee Roasters & Bakeries – Try locally grown beans and Hawaiian pastries.
Craft Breweries or Distilleries – Taste locally made beers, rum, or kombucha.

10. Watch the Sunset in Paradise

Finally, there’s no better way to end your day. A North Shore sunset is pure magic, and it’s something you will never forget.

Whether you’re at Sunset Beach, Ehukai, or the Haleiwa harbor, watching the sky light up over the ocean is the perfect ending to an amazing day.

To learn more about all the world-famous surf spots you’re looking at, check out our North Shore Oahu Surf Guide.

Ready for Round Two?

Your private surf lesson is just the beginning! Keep the stoke alive by booking another session with North Shore Oahu Surf School. Our experienced local instructors will help you build confidence, improve your skills, and master the basic surfing skills you learned today.

Be sure to review our “10 Tips for Beginner Surfers” to really advance to the next level!

Book Your Next Surf Lesson Today!