Field Guide: Pupukea

Aside from world-famous surfing locations, Pupukea has hikes, shops, trading posts and an open mic for the musician inside you.

Shark’s Cove Surf Shop

Owned by professional surfer Liam McNamara (in photo), Shark’s Cove Surf Shop rents out surfboards, snorkels, stand up paddling equipment and whatever else you need to hit the waves. “We also have storage lockers for customers to stash their valuables instead of leaving them in their cars,” says store manager Luis Real. “It’s much safer, since I hear there are about three car break-ins every day.” The store also has seasonal surf tours. 59-053 Kamehameha Highway, 630-0390.

Photo: David Croxford

Waimea Valley

Since the valley changed ownership from the National Audubon Society to Hiipaka in 2007, the biggest change is the name, says the public relations representative for the park, BJ Whitman. “Waimea is not referred to as a park, but the valley Waimea,” she says. In addition to the extensive garden of tropical plants from all over the world, Waimea Valley hosts ancient Hawaiian cultural demonstrations, has various trails to hike throughout the park, and endemic Hawaiian animals and plants. 59-864 Kamehameha Highway, 536-9739.
 
 

Photo: David Croxford

Beach Boutique

Right next to Shark’s Cove Surf Shop sits the Beach Boutique, owned by Brandi McNamara, the surf-shop owner’s wife. The boutique sells sarongs, necklaces, bracelets, swimsuits and an assortment clothes for both men and women. It also sells Sea Maid clothes, McNamara’s label. She designs everything for the brand. 59-053 Kamehameha Highway, 630-0390.

Did You Know? Overlooking Waimea Valley sits a state monument and historical site: Pu‘u O Mahuka Heiau. According to the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Web site, three sailors from the British Navy ship HMS Daedalus, captained by George Vancouver of the British Royal Navy, were captured by Native Hawaiians and sacrificed at the heiau in 1792. The monument is accessible by car, but be ready for speed bumps galore.

Photo: David Croxford

Kava Roots Cafe

This two-year-old cafe serves cold açai and smoothies in a lounge-type room painted purple. “It’s supposed to look like an açai bowl,” says cafe worker Emily Erickson. In addition to the food and lounge set up, Kava Roots has a small stage where local musicians can come and play during the café’s open mic sessions on Saturdays. A “bottomless cup” of kava can also be purchased during the performances for $5. 59-059 Pupukea Road, 638-5282.

Country Cycles

Since its inception in 2000, this bicycle shop has changed from retail to rental and repair. For $10 a day, you can rent a beach cruiser and skip the North Shore weekend traffic hassles while hopping from beach to beach. Or, if you have a problem with your own bike, bring it in to the shop’s owner, Kevin Chadick, for a tune-up or fix. 59-059 Pupukea Road, 638-8866.