Solo Hawaii Adventure Pt. 1
On the way to Australia, I made a two-day pit stop in Hawaii. My biggest reason for visiting was to break up the long, international flight. But I also hadn't been to Hawaii since I was 15, so I was definitely overdue!
My first day was spent exploring the town of Haleiwa. I'd had many recommendations to make this town a priority, so it was the first thing on my to-do list! I started the day with a stop at Waialua Bakery (which was a must, according to my friend Lauren) for an avocado sandwich as well as an ice cream sandwich with homemade chocolate chip cookies and ice cream! Then, after a bit of shopping, it was time for my second round of dessert at Matsumoto Shave Ice for a Hawaiian style snow cone.
Since my entire morning had consisted of food, I decided to use the afternoon to burn a few calories by hiking to Waimea Falls. The hike ended up being more of a long walk, but well worth the time and entrance fee!
Waimea Valley is absolutely stunning, as well as educational. There are a lot of places to stop and learn more about the valley and Hawaiian history as you make your way to the falls. Then, once you're there, you can throw on a life jacket and cool off in the water.
I ended my day with a quick trip to Hukilau Beach (Which really isn't the best for swimming, but it was almost completely empty, so I went for it.) and dinner at my favorite food stop on the North Shore—the food truck park in Kahuku! I ate at this park three times during my stay, and everything I tried was delicious! From the street corn to the frozen yogurt... I'd eat there again in a heartbeat!
If you're heading to Oahu's North Shore sometime soon, definitely check out the places I've mentioned. I highly recommend them all!