The Tiny Town In Hawaii With The Most Scrumdiddlyumptious Restaurants

Voted as the state’s favorite small town by HAWAII Magazine, Haleiwa seems like a world away from bustling Waikiki. This sleepy surfer town on Oahu’s north shore has a laid-back vibe and charming aesthetic, but also luxuries like killer beaches, art galleries galore, adorable shops, and stellar vacation rentals. The charming oceanfront town is also home to the most scrumdiddlyumptious restaurants. From local favorite food trucks to upscale restaurants with ocean views, here are 12 of the best eateries you’ll find in Haleiwa.

Tony B./Yelp

Katherine A./Yelp

For New Orleans-inspired Cajun and Creole cuisine served in a casual atmosphere with picnic table seating, be sure to stop at this Haleiwa favorite.

66-472 Kamehameha Highway

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Haleiwa Joe's - Haleiwa/Facebook

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Jenna M./Yelp

This classic Hawaiian restaurant not only serves up some of the freshest seafood around but is also located in quite the picturesque setting. An iconic Hawaiian seafood restaurant, Haleiwa Joe’s original location is found in — you guessed it — Haleiwa. The other location is found in windward Oahu at the Haiku Gardens.

66-011 Kamehameha Highway

Chriszalin P./Yelp

Banzai Sushi Bar/Yelp

With traditional floor seating, a cool vibe, fresh fish, stellar specialty drinks and an impressive selection, Banzai Sushi Bar is easily the best spot on Oahu’s North Shore — and maybe even the entire island — for sushi.

66-246 Kamehameha Highway

Celina Y./Yelp

Lilian N./Yelp

Haleiwa is a haven for food truck lovers, and there's little better than Surf N Salsa, an unassuming spot that serves up the most mouthwatering Mexican food. Everyone knows that quality Mexican food can be hard to find in Hawaii, but you won't need to look much further than this bright food truck.

66521 Kamehameha Highway

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Brian D./Yelp

Christopher I./Yelp

Located near the picturesque Haleiwa Harbor is this eatery known for its surf 'n' turf, pupu platters, and colorful cocktails, as well as a pretty gorgeous terrace.

62-540 Kamehameha Highway, Haleiwa, HI 96712

Melanie S./Yelp

The Mix Plate/Yelp

Craving a breakfast burrito, Kalua pork, or a creamy milkshake? Head to Kono's. Don't forget to order the mouthwatering kalua pork sliders from this casual, counter-serve eatery.

66-250 Kamehameha Highway, Suite G110

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Yuka Y./Yelp

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Eric Molina/Flickr

Founded out of an old 1953 bread truck in more than 20 years ago, Giovanni’s would tour Oahu’s north shore, stopping along the side of the road for a few hours at each location. Serving up just a few shrimp recipes, locals loved the food, and word began to spread. And thus, a movement was born. You see, Giovanni’s was the first shrimp truck on Oahu’s north shore. Giovanni’s opened their second location in Haleiwa in 1997, and now, more than 23 years later, the unassuming eatery is an iconic fixture on the north shore — and a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

66-472 Kamehameha Highway

Jane L./Yelp

Meagan K./Yelp

For the perfect pre-adventure breakfast, Haleiwa Bowls serves up the best acai bowls and smoothies around. The small shack may not look like much, but sometimes the best foods come from the most surprising locations.

66-030 Kamehameha Highway

Malia H./Yelp

Nikki A./Yelp

This modern, casual dining restaurant is unlike anything else you'll find in Haleiwa. Bring a group of friends for pupus, cocktails, and a fabulous time.

66-111 Kamehameha Highway

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Matt M./Yelp

Christina M./Yelp

For mouthwatering organic, vegetarian breakfast and lunch options on Oahu's north shore, look no further than this colorful, informal eatery.

66-437 Kamehameha Highway

Suzanne W./Yelp

Kalani E./Yelp

This cozy diner serves up scrumptious modern and classic American fare with a focus on breakfast and brunch foods. Their outdoor seating makes this the perfect spot to enjoy the morning breeze coming from the nearby Pacific.

66-460 Kamehameha Highway

Jay T./Yelp

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Vince L./Yelp

Don’t forget dessert at one of Hawaii’s most famous shave ice shops! What once began as a small grocery store has transformed into so much more — t-shirts, souvenirs, snacks and, of course, their famous shave ice. On a hot summer day, the store produces more than 1,000 shave ices.

66-111 Kamehameha Highway #605

Want to do more than just eat in Haleiwa? Check out some of our favorite spots here.