What to Do on Oahu, According to a Local Surfer

Sunset’s Insider Guide series highlights seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts. Follow along as we learn where to eat, drink, stay, and shop.

Courtesy of @tina.cohen

Meet the Insider: Tina Cohen O’Brien, co-founder and co-owner, Aokai Swim.

Location: North Shore, Oahu

Born and raised as an avid surfer on the North Shore of Oahu, Tina Cohen O’Brien and her sister Sally practically lived in swimwear. The duo launched Aokai—whose name is a portmanteau of “ao,” meaning blue in Japanese; and “kai,” meaning ocean in Hawaiian—as a representation of growing up half Japanese on the shores of the islands. O’Brien took a moment between designing, modeling, and shooting to share her favorite spots to visit while visiting Oahu’s North Shore, world-renowned for its big waves and laid-back lifestyle.

EAT

Courtesy of the restaurant

For something casual and easy, Pupukea Grill is every local’s go-to. Owned and operated by two sisters, it’s located across from the famous snorkeling beach Shark’s Cove, which has plenty of parking. The Hawaiian bowl and poke bowl are favorites. For something sweet, head to Matsumoto Shave Ice. Since 1951, this shave ice spot has offered the perfect after-surf delight. The syrups are made daily by owner Stanley Matsumoto, who lives across the street from the popular shop. Always add ice cream in the center! For a feel-good lunch, order the ahi sandwich or açaí bowl at Nalu Health Bar & Cafe. And at Banzai Sushi Bar, executive chef Hide Takahashi from Tokyo makes the perfect White Dragon and Hamachi Ponzu rolls.

DRINK

Courtesy of the resort

Head over to Coffee Gallery Hawaii for the best coffee. I get an oat milk cappuccino, but if you like sweet drinks, the mocha freeze made with coffee and ice cream, topped with whipped cream will blow your mind. At Sunset bar at The Ritz-Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay, you can watch the surfers a few feet away while the sun sets with a cocktail in hand. I get the chichi piña colada, but they’re known for their mai tais. There’s nothing like it!

DO

Michael Pfister/Unsplash

Book in for a surf lesson at Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience at The Ritz-Carlton. Jamie O’Brien, who admittedly is my husband, is a well-known big-wave surfer in our community, and all of our employees are certified in first aid, lifeguarding, and CPR. While the waves are big during the winter swells, Waimea Bay has beautiful waters for swimming in the summer. Banzai Pipeline is known as one of the gnarliest waves on the planet. With many famous, professional, and expert surfers out in the water, it is great to watch in the winter. Always be sure to ask a lifeguard before entering the water. For something on land, the Ehukai Pillbox hike is not too long, and easy to find. It’s a great place to get a photo of yourself looking over the North Shore coastline.