When you’re on vacation, you want to take pictures to preserve the memories. You may also want to share these pictures with all of your followers on social media! That’s why we want to share some of the best places on Oahu to take pictures. Here are 7 picture-perfect places to visit in Oahu: (more…)
One of the most popular questions we get asked is, “Where are the best local places to eat??”. So you asked and we listened! Here is a list of our top 5 favorite places to eat along the North Shore.
1.Seven Brothers
Seven Brothers is a locally owned burger restaurant and they seriously have the juiciest, most mouth watering, homemade burgers. They also have a variety of milkshake flavors including Nutella, Chocolate, Peanut Butter, and more! There are plenty of options for burgers fit for the whole family, with homemade fries and fry sauce that will always leave you wanting more. They also have some options of healthy and delicious salads.
There are two locations near CLIMB Works Keana Farms. The closest is in Kahuku, Seven Brothers at The Mill, located near the gas station. As you exit our Zip Line you will take a left and pass the stop light you will see a gas station on your right. Seven Brothers is behind the gas station on the left. This location exclusively offers a Coconut Macadamia Nut Shrimp served with rice, green salad and sweet chili sauce.
The other location is to the right of our zip line and in the Foodland Shopping Center near Taco Bell and Pizza Hut. You will find this other location with nothing but chill local vibes. It’s a perfect place to visit post zip-line to fill that appetite you gained from our tour!
We definitely recommend ordering the Shem burger with fries and a Nutella milk shake.
Address: 56-565 Kamehameha Hwy. Kahuku, HI 96731
2.Ken’s Fresh Fish
Another local shop that is relatively new but definitely worth your time is Ken’s Fish! If you have a love for seafood this is your place. Ken catches his fish and sells it fresh! The most popular seller is the Ahi Katsu plate. “Ahi” is a yellow finned tuna and “Katsu” is a style of cooking where the fish is breaded and fried. You have the option of getting it cooked the way you like it, for example: well done, medium well, or medium. It’s served with rice and a green toss salad, as well as a special sauce used to give the crispy ahi an extra bang.
Have you ever heard of Poké? (Pronounced “poh-keh”) Poké is raw fish, but don’t let that freak you out because it’s absolutely a must try! Ken’s has a variety of poké, the most popular is by far the Spicy Ahi. Once you choose your fish they’ll create the bowl and serve it with rice, you’ll be so happy you gave this a try. They also offer combination plates with shrimp, ahi katsu, or even garlic butter ahi.
Ken’s Fresh Fish is located to the right of our zip-line course in a green building about 3-5 minutes away. But, just a heads up, they only take cash.
We recommend ordering the regular Ahi Katsu medium done and the Spicy Ahi Poké.
Address: 55-730 Kamehameha Hwy. Suite 102 Laie, HI 96762
3.Kahuku Farms
If you’re a vegetarian, or just looking to eat healthy while on vacation, this place is for you! Kahuku Farms is located to the left of our course about 1.5 miles down the road. It has an all vegetarian menu and has our favorite smoothies with all sorts of flavors from Haupia Pineapple to a green Super Kale smoothie. They also have a kids menu for the keiki. The two most popular items ordered are the Farm Pizza with side salad and the Panini.
The Farm Pizza is like none other! And the side salad is served with a sweet lilikoi (passion fruit) dressing which is available for purchase on its own. If you have a bit of a sweet tooth they also have amazing banana bread sundaes, as well as savory lilikoi butter mochi that will leave you wanting a whole box to take home. They also have the option of getting the pizza with gluten free bread.
We recommend ordering the Farm Pizza and Side Salad with a smoothie of your choice. For dessert, the banana bread sundae or a couple of lilikoi butter mochi would fill you right up.
Address: 56-800 Kamehameha Hwy. Kahuku, HI 96731
4.Papa ‘Oles
If you want something a little more local style, Papa ‘Oles offers plate lunches all local style. The food is definitely worth trying! Everything from the Garlic Chicken to the Pulehu Ribs are delicious! All the plate lunches are served, in either mini or regular size, with rice and mac salad. The food does take some time to make but, we promise, it is definitely worth the wait, and the portion sizes make it worth every penny. Some of the items on their menu include: Garlic Chicken, Teri Chicken, Teri Chicken Salad, Pulehu Ribs, Kalbi Ribs, Roast Pork with Gravy, and Garlic Shrimp. Occasionally they will even have Banana Cream Pie or Peanut Butter rolls to satisfy your craving for sweets.
Papa ‘Oles is located in the town of Hau’ula which is about 15 minutes to the right of our Zip Line Course.
We recommend ordering the Garlic Chicken or Kalbi Ribs and Peanut Butter Rolls.
Address: 54-316 Kamehameha Hwy. #9 Hauula, HI 96717
5.Ted’s Bakery
Let it be known, this is no ordinary bakery. Ted’s is famous for the best pies on the island! A fan favorite is the Chocolate Haupia Pie. It is perfect after a full day of activities to munch on and close the day. But it’s not all about the pies, they also sell cakes, donuts, cookies, and even plate lunches! Located on the North Shore, about 20-25 mins to the left of our location, is where you’ll find this little bakery. Parking can be hard but you should definitely stop by if you have the time too. Pick up a pie to take home or grab a Chocolate Dream Cake for a party!
We recommend ordering the Loco Moco with the Chocolate Haupia Pie for dessert.
Address: 59-024 Kamehameha Hwy. Haleiwa, HI 96712
Remember that these are just our top 5, but there are so many more!!! Give these places a try or explore some other amazing grinds. The great thing about Hawaii is that there are so many local finds! You can easily find something new everyday.
When you join CLIMB Works for a zipline adventure in Hawaii, you have the unique opportunity to explore one of the most spectacular places on earth! Our tours not only include Oahu’s longest ziplines ranging from 500 feet to nearly a half mile long, but tons of fun surprises along the way! Here are just 4 awesome bonus perks of ziplining on Oahu with CLIMB Works: (more…)
Some things are just worth the extra time! Want the perfect day from ziplining to horseback and ATV riding, relaxing on the beach, surfing, shopping and eating amazing food?? While not being able to rent a car can be frustrating and you may feel limited to what you can see and do, we want to show you some of our favorite places that are right next door!
After ziplining with us, here are the places you should check out:
#1 Kahuku Food Trucks
If you’re craving seafood, burgers, dessert, or even a little shopping, the Kahuku Food Trucks and surrounding area offer it all.
Some of our favorite trucks are Ono Yo, D&L Seafood, Kahuku Famous Shrimp, and Nelly’s Tacos (just to name a few). Around the corner is Seven Brothers at the Mill (this is where you can find the best burgers!) and Raised by Waves (health conscious, plant based food!) .
These local finds are always our “Go To” places!
Around the trucks you can check out little shops and pick up some souvenirs, or explore the local art at either the Art Box Gallery near Nelly’s Tacos or in Raised by Waves!
What we love about this area is that it is all locally owned and operated! So you know that when you’re shopping you’re directly helping the local community.
#2 Gunstock Ranch
Another locally owned and family run business since the early 2000’s have the best horseback riding tours on the island! Not only that but they offer Eco-Tours where you can plant your own Legacy Tree and help the rare Native Hawaiian plants from going extinct.
They also offer off-road adventures in a guided UTV tour where you’ll explore the Ko’olau Mountains and back country in a fun off-road experience. So if you enjoyed the ATV ride you had with us, you’re definitely gonna want to give this tour a try too!
#3 Mālaekahana State Recreation Area
Across the street from Gunstock Ranch is this little gem tucked away from the main road. You follow a road into the park, so not many people know that there is a beach right in there!
This area is a perfect way to end the day relaxing on the beach with plenty of shade or sun if you’d prefer. There are even some fire pits, picnic tables, and bathrooms so you have all your needs covered!
Mālaekahana also has a camp ground so if you’d like to stay the night you can! They even rent out surf boards so you can try your skill on some good beginner waves.
——
So whether you’re taking public transportation, getting an Uber, or even if you have a car, don’t worry! Within walking distance from us are these 3 must sees and dos that are worth making those early morning trips to our little piece of heaven!
There are many wonderful diving and snorkeling sites on the North Shore you can access during the summer. Bear in mind North side becomes unsafe towards the winter months due to the intense and, frankly, legendary wave action it receives. The North Shore is a fantastic place to interact with some amazing wildlife and beautiful reef systems.
Before we get into some of the sites, there are some things one should bear in mind when getting in the water.
Be aware of the currents and waves! If you are unfamiliar with a location, a great way to ensure your safety is to ask a lifeguard or a local, someone who is familiar with the way the ocean acts in the area. Currents such as rip currents can pull you very far distances.
Never go alone and always make sure someone knows your plans! This is a cardinal rule with SCUBA divers and freedivers, but it also applies to snorkelers. Take a buddy with you! Not only is sharing the experience more fun, but it is far safer having someone to watch your back.
Look don’t touch! The coral is beautiful but it’s also vulnerable. Touching the coral can pass bacteria and other pathogens that can harm the animal. Corals are also very fragile so try not to stand on them! You may be lucky enough to see some Hawaiian Green sea turtles, be sure to apply this rule to them as well. They’re vulnerable animals as well and getting to close can put unnecessary stress on them.
Shark’s Cove: Shark’s Cove may seem intimidating based solely on the name, but don’t worry! This site isn’t named for shark sightings, but rather for the sharp lava rock that makes up this cove; so be sure to bring your water shoes! This area has a shallow tidal pool just off of Kamehameha Highway that’s great for families to splash around in during the day. To the left of the tide pool is the actual cove where the water gets deeper and the snorkeling gets better! You’ll see quite a few fish in this area as well as a good deal of turtles. For the divers, this spot is fantastic. There are plenty of caves and swim-throughs to explore. Just be aware that this area becomes unsafe during our winter swells.
Three Tables: Next to Shark’s Cove, this area is similar in wildlife, but with the difference being in the strange table-like formations from which this beach gets its name. This space isn’t as enclosed and it is easier to get distracted and swim out too far where there is a fairly strong offshore current.
Turtle Bay: Turtle Bay is both a beach and a resort. It’s a nice enclosed space that doesn’t tend to get too rough or deep. There’s some coral and fish life easily observed from the surface.
Kawela Bay: Near Turtle Bay, this beach is also enclosed and relatively calm. The water is pristine and clear, making it a good spot for floating on the surface and snorkeling. Also a spot where turtles frequent.
Haleiwa Trench: A man-made trench accessible from the Haleiwa Beach Park, this is a good spot for freedivers and SCUBA divers to get depth they can’t elsewhere on the North Shore.
We hope you enjoy your time while exploring the world below ours, but always keep in mind your own limitations when trying new things. While we encourage you to push yourself to grow we want you to stay safe! The ocean is an amazing place that should be treated with great respect. If you get tired, remember to go in and take a break, you can always go back out. Mahalo and #alwaysCLIMB!
One of the delightful surprises of the zipline tours at CLIMB Works is that they offer the BEST views of Oahu’s North Shore! While most folks simply drive up to see the area’s famous beaches, our guests have a special opportunity to enjoy a stunning bird’s eye view! Here are the top 4 reasons why our ziplines in Hawaii are the best way to experience the beauty of Oahu’s North Shore: (more…)
Make the most of your visit to Oahu’s North Shore by combining a ziplining adventure at CLIMB Works with a visit to Hawaii’s top attraction, the Polynesian Cultural Center! Whether you have limited time on the North Shore or just want to save some money, these packages offer the most economical and convenient way to maximize your vacation time! Here are the top 4 reasons to book one of our Polynesian Cultural Center Packages: (more…)
Traveling to Hawaii? Here are some thing to keep in mind!
While tourism greatly benefits the local economy, visitors should always be conscious of the culture they are stepping into and be willing to adapt. Doing this will gradually bridge the gap between locals and tourists, creating genuine relationships, and a more respectful environment for all.
Here are 5 simple ways to embrace our way of life, using our favorite motto and acronym “Always CLIMB” (Challenge, Learn, Inspire, Master, and Believe).
CHALLENGE yourself and others to keep our island clean by cleaning up after yourselves. Whether it be at the beach or on a hike, taking a trash bag with you helps eliminate the waste that would otherwise be left behind and later amongst our wildlife. Taking the initiative to pick up any other trash you see along your way is always a good habit too, so let’s challenge ourselves to do better and keep our island clean.
LEARN to drive with aloha. This isn’t the mainland and you’re on vacation, so give yourself time to enjoy the scenic views and try not to be in a rush going from place to place. Now that DOESN’T mean drive EXTRA slow to look at turtles on the beach, (pull over and let traffic flow if you’re into that sorta thing) but it DOES mean throwing a shaka out as you cross lanes, not to drive recklessly, and not to beep your horn so much. The speed limits are a lot slower on the North side of the island so again, take in the beauty of the breathtaking Ko’olau mountains and the miles of roadside beaches. You’ll be SO glad you did!
INSPIRE others to respect the wildlife in the mountains, in the water or those sleeping on the shores. Remember that you are a guest in THEIR home and the last thing anyone would want is some stranger poking them, and if you didn’t know before, touching/petting sea turtles is illegal and can harm them. We want to especially emphasize this with any endangered wildlife or other protected areas.
MASTER the art of taking off your shoes as you enter someone’s home. This might seem odd but is definitely a sign of respect to your host. Just FYI, you know there’s a good party going on if you see a million pairs of slippers outside the front door! Just remember to take home the right pair of shoes at the end of the night
BELIEVE in ancient myths and sacred places and respect them. There are sacred sites called Heiaus, or places of worship, all over the island and if you’re lucky to be able to explore one, please review any specific rules that may be onsite. An obvious rule would be to not touch or take anything that would cause damage to the site or yourself. And when they say it’s bad luck to take lava rocks home with you, don’t chance it and give TSA a reason to slow down the lines even more. There are literally thousands of souvenirs you can take home with you so if you’re smart you’d listen to this one and get yourself the box of macadamia nut chocolate instead. You’ll thank me later.
No matter where you travel in the world it is important to respect the culture of a place. Sometimes you can’t avoid looking like a tourist, but by following these five simple steps you’ll be able to blend in a little better. Keep in mind that these are just a few ways to travel smart but there are many more! Aloha isn’t just a word, it’s a way of life, and we want you take this spirit with you. ALOHA!
Words to keep in mind when trying to decide whether or not to surf a wave; “If in doubt, don’t go out.”
Beginner
Family friendly beach that offers beginner waves for all ages or intermediate surfs looking for a fun day with friends. There are multiple wave breaks and it’s a short paddle from the beach. Just keep in mind there can be a lot of people and surf schools here making it a crowded place.
There are multiple sections to these waves, allowing for multiple surfers to enjoy a long ride on smooth sloped wave. It caters to both the shortboarders and long board riders. This spot can be one of the most crowded places in regard to surf schools.
This spot is located West of Turtle Bay and is protected from the giant waves that batter the North Shore in winter months. The shape of Kawela Bay, and the reef, diffuses the power and intensity of the swells making it an ideal spot for small rolling waves; perfect for beginners to enjoy. What is amazing about Kawela Bay is that it is one of the most protected coast lines along the North Shore and tucked away from the road keeping it less crowded. The bay offers quiet and serene beaches that the whole family can enjoy, even if they’re not surfing. However, there are a lot of rocks on the bottom and water can be murky so be careful when snorkeling and swimming.
Intermediate
Note: Although these waves offer amazing rides the conditions may change and can be dangerous to battle. Always consult with the local lifeguards if you’re unsure.
Conditions vary but usually remain the same. When a swell hits it can be challenging because of the shallow reef located on the left that can ding your board and head. Only ride these waves if you’re comfortable turning with your board.
The waves here are a little more than a beginner wave, but not an overwhelming power making it perfect for going from beginner to intermediate. Be sure to go right and enjoy the long ride, but keep in mind that the inside section can get a little steep and pitchy. You can go to the left but the water tends to be more shallow in this direction. When resurfacing be mindful of your feet to prevent from kicking the reef.
On a smaller day there are two peaks where a surfer can go left and right. The right goes on a shallow reef and the left dies out onto deep water, making it an ideal wave for both regular and goofy foot surfers.
Experienced
Note: These are where the surf competitions are held during the big wave winter months. You need years of experience before you can think about surfing here.
This is one of the locations for the Triple Crown Surf Competition, as well as the Sunset Beach Pro and many others. It is a far paddle to reach the break and the inside is shallow and reefy. The waves will get pretty big but if they reach beyond 15+ feet they can become unsurfable.
The waves here tend to be very steep and break on a shallow reef. The reef is pocketed with caves that can hold you under for minutes at a time and have caused very serious injuries and deaths. This is the third and last stop on the Triple Crown and home to the Billabong Pipe Masters!
This location is one of the most famous waves of the North Shore. Energy from giant storms off the gulf of Alaska generate momentum through miles of ocean that meet a shallow reef where Waimea is located. The water below the surface is moving faster than the surface making the section difficult with up to 30 foot drops. Before you can get out to the actual break, you need to battle the shore break it is one of the heaviest breaks on the island with steep sections and strong currents. It is no place to play around when it’s breaking big.
*depending on condition locations can vary from beginner to experienced. Check Surfline for info on surf conditions to determine shredibility or talk to a local surf instructor.
DOs and DON’Ts of surfing in Hawai'i
DO:
DON’T:
We understand that some folks may feel nervous about joining one of our zipline tours in Oahu for the first time. However, you have absolutely no reason to worry because we have an excellent reputation for safety! You can feel confident that safety is always our first priority, so join us on an unforgettable adventure among the beauty of the North Shore! If you are still feeling a bit intimidated, check out these top 4 reasons not to be nervous about experiencing our Oahu zipline tours: (more…)
