You’ve already got your to-go bag with water, a towel and swimsuit, a beach blanket, suntan lotion and shades. Grab your fully charged car and you’re ready for your outdoor adventure.

Rated by Tripadvisor as the No. 11 restaurant on the island, Ono delivers a tasty and particularly fresh poke (we also like the seaweed salad!) from their hole-in-the-wall locale. Parking is limited and may take an extra minute to find, but your patience will be rewarded. It’s really that good.

There are so many sights along this magnificent drive traversing the island’s scenic eastern shore. Don’t miss Mokoli'i Island, one of several offshore isles around Oahu. Once upon a time, Mokoli’i was considered part of Hawaii’s hallowed grounds and provided a home for the local monarchy. Make sure to stop a lot on your drive, enjoy the sights and at least once stare off to an ocean that stretches as far as you can see.

These are just two of the dozens of Hollywood productions filmed here at Kualoa Ranch, making this a must-visit for fans of any of them. But there’s so much more to do at Kualoa Ranch, such as ziplining and riding on horses or ATVs. But be sure to make a reservation before you go - Kualoa Ranch is a favorite of everyone visiting the island.

Pro tip: while Giovanni's is the more popular shrimp truck option, we found Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp to be far tastier (don’t forget to order 2 extra garlic oil sides - they are delicious even on their own). If you are vegan, you must check out Raised by the Waves, a 100% plant-based eco-friendly cafe. Their motto is “Waves (and food) will bring us together” and we couldn’t agree more.

While waiting on your car, walk along the beach on the right hand side of the resort for a chance to see sea turtles who waddle their way out from the ocean for an afternoon tan on the rocks and sand. Or, try your hand at surfing on the famous North Shore waves. We highly recommend Jamie O'Brien Surf Experience if you want a lesson, and they have boards for rent with only a 1-minute walk to the water.

As the sun prepares to set, head to the home of the finest surfing on Earth. The barreling waves are imposing and unforgiving, but that’s because they are so huge. The greats of the sport come here to test themselves, hoping they catch the wave of the year at the place also known as the Banzai Pipeline because in the winter, waves can exceed 20-30 feet! You’ve got your blanket - now it’s time to see where legends are borne.

Did you know shave ice originated from Japan in the early 1900s? Hawaiians put their own twist on it, adding tropical flavors like the beloved “rainbow flavor” while adding ice cream for additional foundation. We find Aoki’s is as good or better than any you will enjoy on the island.

It’s been a full day and it’s time to go home. But if you have the time, make plans to spend the night on the North Shore of Oahu. You can find some gorgeous views from AirBnbs between Velzyland Beach and Sharks Cove.

Get up early, grab a quick coffee and go. Drive to the northernmost Honolulu car path at Kaʻena Point Trail Parking Lot and hike the six-mile round trip trail that’s unlike any other found on the island. You'll walk along the rugged coastline of extreme natural beauty that is also drier than one might expect. It’s a moderate hike, and because of the rocky nature of the walk, be sure to wear sturdy shoes.