Oahu’s north shore is home to pristine white sand beaches with crystalline turquoise waters, exquisite coral reefs, a charming surfing town, lush mountains, tree-lined roads, vibrant sunsets, and famous waves that attract professional surfers from around the world. Quite frankly, it is easily one of our favorite places in all of Hawaii. And while we’ve always known how incredible Oahu’s north shore was, now it’s being recognized by the world: this incredible place was listed as one of the world’s best destinations for 2018 by National Geographic Travel.

Each year in their December/January issue, National Geographic compiles its "Best of the World" list, containing 21 must-visit destinations across the globe for the upcoming year.
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National Geographic splits its picks into three categories — cities, culture, and nature — choosing seven must-see destinations for each category. We bet you can guess which category Oahu’s north shore fell into: nature, for obvious reasons.
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National Geographic urges readers to visit the north shore to support local farmers and experience rural life.
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"World-famous for its big waves, the North Shore is the rural neighbor of increasingly sprawling Honolulu. Local farms, such as Poamoho and Kahuku, are helping (as the ubiquitous bumper stickers state) "Keep the Country Country" by cultivating homegrown crops and agritourist experiences."
Anthony Quintano/Flickr
Only two other locales in the United States made the list: Cleveland, Ohio was recognized in the culture category, and San Antonio was listed as a must-visit city.
Oahu’s beautiful north shore is famous for its massive waves and professional surf competitions during the winter months…
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...and incredible snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming in the summer months.
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From Turtle Bay to Kaena Point and everywhere in between, this beautiful stretch of Hawaiian coastline is a nature-lover’s paradise.
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You’ll find countless incredible beaches home to vibrant sea life and honu...
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...lush, green mountains towering in the distance...
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...a ton of local farms cultivating homegrown crops and agri-tourist experiences...
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...and plenty of stunning vistas full of natural beauty.
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Did we mention the unforgettable sunsets?
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There is truly no better place than Oahu’s north shore, but don’t take our word for it: National Geographic Travel agrees. As would Vimeo user Ryan Larson, who compiled this simply stunning footage of this unique destination.

Did you know that Haleiwa, the main town on the north shore, is home to some of the island’s best restaurants and plenty of quirkiness?

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