I still remembered the warm ocean breeze on my face as I pulled into the driveway of the Courtyard Oahu North Shore in Lāʻie, Hawaiʻi. The North Shore had always been on my list of must-see places on Oʻahu, and I was eager to experience its legendary surf spots, laid-back towns, and cultural treasures. From the moment I stepped into the lobby, I could tell that this was not your average Courtyard Marriott. It had a distinctly island-inspired design, complete with local artwork and a friendly staff who welcomed me with fresh flower leis.
After dropping off my luggage, I walked a short distance to the hotel’s bistro for a quick breakfast. I had read that the Bistro served a hearty selection of breakfast staples, and it did not disappoint. Fueled and ready for the day, I then joined a property tour where I learned about the Courtyard Oahu North Shore’s unique offerings. The hotel was only a few minutes away from the beach—close enough that I could hear the faint crash of waves from my balcony. Its proximity to the Polynesian Cultural Center made it an ideal home base for anyone wanting to explore the North Shore’s cultural and historical sites without spending precious vacation time on the road.
Shortly after, I took advantage of a complimentary lei-making class in the lobby. I had always admired the intricate art of lei making, and participating firsthand was a memorable way to immerse myself in Hawaiian culture. Each fragrant blossom I strung together felt like a piece of the island’s history and beauty captured in a single strand.
Around lunchtime, I headed to Pounders Restaurant, just a short walk from the hotel. The restaurant was known for its farm-to-table approach, highlighting fresh local ingredients. I indulged in their signature dishes—perfectly grilled meats and refreshing tropical drinks. With a satisfied appetite, I decided to explore the local scene further by driving to the historic town of Haleʻiwa. On the way, I couldn’t resist stopping at one of the famous North Shore shrimp trucks for a quick sampling of garlic shrimp. The food truck culture here was vibrant, with colorful vans dotting the roadside, each claiming to serve the “best shrimp on the island.” It was impossible to choose a favorite!
Haleʻiwa Town itself had an old plantation charm that reminded me of the North Shore’s rich past. I wandered through the eclectic shops, picking up souvenirs, and eventually found my way to Matsumoto Shave Ice—an absolute must when visiting Haleʻiwa. Established back in 1951, Matsumoto started as a small grocery store and grew into a shave ice icon. I joined the line that snaked out the door (it was worth the wait!) and finally savored the soft, fluffy ice topped with tropical syrups. The classic rainbow flavor transported me back to the carefree summers of my childhood.
That afternoon, I returned to Lāʻie for the highlight of my trip: the Polynesian Cultural Center. I had read countless reviews about how this place was a celebration of Pacific cultures, and it truly lived up to the hype. The center showcased six main villages—Samoa, Tonga, Tahiti, Fiji, Aotearoa (New Zealand), and Hawaiʻi—each designed to immerse visitors in the traditions, languages, and arts of its respective island. I strolled from one village to another, watching demonstrations of coconut husking and fire-making in Samoa, listening to mesmerizing drumming in Tonga, and marveling at the vibrant dance performances in Tahiti. In Fiji’s village, I was welcomed with a friendly “Bula!” and invited to learn about kava ceremonies, while in Aotearoa, I discovered the powerful haka and the significance of Māori tribal tattoos. At the Hawaiian village, I gained insight into the islands’ rich heritage, from ancient chants to the importance of the taro plant in everyday life.
Before the evening festivities, I was treated to the Aliʻi Lūʻau: ‘Onipaʻa, an authentic luau dedicated to the legacy of Queen Liliʻuokalani. The word ‘Onipaʻa means “steadfast,” and I could feel that theme running through the entire performance. The luau buffet featured classic Hawaiian fare—kalua pork, poi, fresh fish, and tropical fruits—giving me an authentic taste of island cuisine. As I dined, performers took the stage to honor the queen’s life and the enduring spirit of the Hawaiian people. It was a moving tribute, blending dance, music, and historical storytelling into a single, unforgettable feast for the senses.
After dinner, I made my way to the Hā: Breath of Life show. This riveting production told the story of Mana and Lani, punctuated by extraordinary Polynesian dance, music, and heart-stopping fire-knife performances. The special effects and surround sound pulled me into the heart of the Pacific. It felt like a true celebration of life, love, and culture—universal themes that resonated with everyone in the audience, from couples on romantic getaways to large families seeking fun and education.
The next day, I woke up early to get ready for a new adventure: ziplining at Keana Farms. The drive through lush countryside hinted at the excitement waiting ahead. I discovered that Climb Works Keana Farms was more than just a place to zip through the sky. It was also a functioning farm, growing tropical produce beneath the very lines we soared across.
My guides explained how the farm’s produce helped supply local businesses and how Climb Works aimed to preserve the natural beauty of the land while offering thrilling tours. Whizzing high above pineapple fields and banana trees, I felt an exhilarating rush. The panoramic views of the North Shore coastline were breathtaking, adding yet another layer to this unforgettable experience.
Throughout my stay, I appreciated how the Courtyard Oahu North Shore served as the perfect launchpad for each day’s activities. Its welcoming ambiance, stylish décor, and on-site dining options set it apart from other Courtyard locations I had visited in the past. Nestled just steps from the beach, the hotel made it easy for me to squeeze in an early morning walk along the shore or a sunset stroll after a day full of exploration.
Reflecting on my time on the North Shore, I felt a profound connection to the land and its people. From the historic charm of Haleʻiwa to the cultural immersion at the Polynesian Cultural Center, every experience had its own unique flavor. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or simply looking for a serene beach getaway, this corner of Oʻahu offers a little piece of paradise for everyone. I left feeling more than satisfied—I left inspired, knowing that the spirit of aloha would stay with me long after my suitcases were unpacked back home.
