Haleiwa Town: At the gateway to Oahu's legendary North Shore, enjoy a quiet lunch and casual stroll in Haleiwa Town. More than the laid back surfing center it seems, Haleiwa Town is filled with local style and rustic ambiance, as well as quaint shops, understated restaurants, and charming art galleries. Once the commercial and social center of Oahu, Haleiwa is a small village treasure, rich with island history. From local favorites such as "the worlds best burger" at Zagat-rated Kua Aina Sandwich Shop to landmarks like the new North Shore Surf Museum, the town offers abundant rewards. Haleiwa becomes the center of island festivities with the annual Hale'iwa Sea Spree in May, and O'ahu Taro Festival in September followed by the grand Haleiwa Craft Festival in October.

Planet Surf  If surf's up ( and on O'ahu, it almost always is ), you should take advantage of it. This shop can provide you with all the necessary equipment for a day at the beach: snorkel gear, boogie boards, surfboards and long boards. In addition, it facilitates diving trips and surfing lessons and offers board repair. If you prefer to stay dry for the day, rent out a bicycle. Hop on and cycle yourself around the island. 66-119 Kamehameha, Haleiwa. (808) 637-5002

Ala Moana Center is the largest shopping mall in both Honolulu and the state.  Amid gardens, pools, fountains and sculpture, more than 220 stores sell products from the entire Pacific area. (808) 955-9517

Bike Shop (The)  Whether you're looking to rent a bike for a solo cruise through Honolulu's parks or take a leisurely guided tour downtown, this is the first place to call. The store also sells all kinds of cycles, including mountain bikes, BMX bikes and road bikes. Featured brands include Shimano, Campagnola and Cinelli. The Bike Store's Honolulu City Lights Tour is a fun, unique way to tour the city. The tour costs USD30 per person, and it's recommended that you reserve your space ahead of time. (808) 596-0588

Island Soap & Candle Works This place is above and beyond modern body-beautiful boutiques such as Sephora and the Body Shop. Not only does it offer handmade natural products, it also allows people to observe as the products are made. Watch highly trained craftsmen hand-pour candles and bars of soap. Other products for sale include shower gels, floral water, massage oil and lotion. Everything is natural, unique, and possessed of an intoxicating island fragrance. This is a perfect place to purchase a gift for a loved one or for yourself.  (808) 596-0588