
Waialua Sugar Mill
A historic sugar mill transformed into a vibrant hub of local shops, cafes, and artisan treasures on Oahu's North Shore.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Farmers market buzz

Waialua Sugar Mill
Best Time
Farmers market buzz
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic sugar mill transformed into a vibrant hub of local shops, cafes, and artisan treasures on Oahu's North Shore.
"This is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone!"

🚗 Drive Carefully on Mill Road
The road to the mill can be rocky, so drive slowly and carefully. :car:
☕ Sample Local Coffee & Treats
Don't miss the coffee and chocolate samples after a tour! :coffee:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mele Mele Bakery
Waialua Sugar Mill
Savor artisanal matcha lattes and baked goods made with local ingredients. A sweet escape!
Waialua Coffee
Waialua Sugar Mill
Sample locally grown coffee and chocolate, with tours offering a peek into their production.

Vintage & Thrift Finds
Various shops within the mill
Hunt for unique vintage clothing and local treasures. A thrifter's paradise!

Saturday Farmers Market
Waialua Sugar Mill grounds
Experience fresh produce, local art, and delicious food stalls every Saturday morning.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Plan Your Visit Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully on Mill Road
The road to the mill can be rocky, so drive slowly and carefully.
:car:☕ Sample Local Coffee & Treats
Don't miss the coffee and chocolate samples after a tour!
:coffee:🛍️ Discover Unique Souvenirs
Find local crafts, soaps, and surf shop apparel. Perfect gifts!
:gift:⏰ Check Shop Hours
Individual shop hours vary; confirm before you go.
:clock:Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully on Mill Road
The road to the mill can be rocky, so drive slowly and carefully.
:car:☕ Sample Local Coffee & Treats
Don't miss the coffee and chocolate samples after a tour!
:coffee:🛍️ Discover Unique Souvenirs
Find local crafts, soaps, and surf shop apparel. Perfect gifts!
:gift:⏰ Check Shop Hours
Individual shop hours vary; confirm before you go.
:clock:🧊 All-Natural Shave Ice
Enjoy delicious shave ice made with natural ingredients.
:ice_cream:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Waialua Sugar Mill's charming atmosphere and diverse offerings, calling it a 'hidden gem' with something for everyone. The unique shops, local coffee, and natural shave ice are frequently praised, though some note that the secret is out, leading to crowds.
"Absolutely must visit!!! So charming, so many things to see! They also have ALL NATURAL shave ice!!! No artificial color or flavors! There are so many shops, so many local offerings! This is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone!"
Laura Dutra (Laura)
"Great coffee, food, cigars, soaps, gifts and a whole bunch of things to be had at the Old Waialua Sugar Mill. The secret is definitely out, so expect to be one of many people visiting when you go, but you’ll find interesting and unique items, food and drink. The main reason that we visit them when we’re on O’ahu is to pick up some of our favorite soaps from Filthy Farmgirl. My favorite is Filthy Cowboy, but they have a bunch of great ones. Check them out, it’s worth the drive!"
Tarl Smith
"Very cool to see here, just as shown in the TV show Lost. Lots to see inside, kinda like a small market. Once in awhile there is also a Farmers Market. Coffee is fabulous!"
Jean-Francois LeBlanc
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Waialua Sugar Mill is located on the North Shore of Oahu. If you're driving from Honolulu, take the H2 North and then follow Kamehameha Highway towards Haleiwa. Turn onto Goodale Avenue, and then Kealohanui Street. Be aware that the road leading to the mill can be rocky, so drive slowly.
Yes, there is parking available at the Waialua Sugar Mill. It's often plentiful, especially during weekdays, though it can fill up during the Saturday Farmers Market.
While it's most convenient to visit with a car, some visitors have used ride-sharing services. Public transportation options are limited for reaching this specific location directly.
The mill is a collection of repurposed buildings. Follow signs for specific shops like Mele Mele Bakery or the North Shore Arts Center. The area is generally walkable once you arrive.
Yes, you can take a tour of the Waialua Coffee process, which often includes samples of their coffee and chocolate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no general admission fee to enter the Waialua Sugar Mill grounds. You only pay for purchases made at the individual shops and eateries.
The operating hours vary by shop. Many shops are open from around 9 AM to 5 PM on weekdays, and the Farmers Market runs from 8:30 AM to 1 PM on Saturdays. It's best to check the specific hours for any shop you wish to visit.
No, the Waialua Sugar Mill Farmers Market is free to enter. You'll pay for any produce, food, or crafts you decide to purchase.
For the Waialua Coffee tour, it's advisable to check their availability or inquire upon arrival, as advance booking details are not always widely advertised.
There are no age restrictions for visiting the Waialua Sugar Mill. It's a family-friendly destination.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Local Finds
You'll find a variety of shops including a bakery (Mele Mele Bakery), a coffee shop (Waialua Coffee), a surf shop (Waialua Surf Shop), a distillery (Haleiwa Distilling Company), a kava bar, and shops selling local crafts, soaps, and vintage clothing.
Souvenirs are available at several shops, including Waialua Surf Shop for apparel and accessories, and various artisan stalls at the Farmers Market for local crafts and art.
Look for locally sourced coffee and chocolate from Waialua Coffee, artisanal soaps from Filthy Farmgirl, and unique vintage clothing finds.
Waialua Surf Shop offers customized surfboards, surfing accessories, and branded clothing.
Yes, especially during the Saturday Farmers Market, you can find handmade crafts from local artists, including wood carvings and prints.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
You can enjoy baked goods and coffee at Mele Mele Bakery, coffee and chocolate at Waialua Coffee, and various food stalls at the Saturday Farmers Market. There's also a kava bar and an Okazuya cafe nearby.
Absolutely! Waialua Coffee offers locally grown beans, and Mele Mele Bakery serves high-quality matcha and coffee drinks.
Yes, you can find all-natural shave ice with no artificial colors or flavors, which is a popular treat.
While specific menus vary, bakeries and cafes often have options. The Farmers Market is a good place to find fresh produce and potentially vegan/vegetarian prepared foods.
An Okazuya is a Japanese-style deli that typically offers a variety of pre-made dishes, often including rice, fried items, and side dishes. Nani's Shave Ice & Okazuya is mentioned as a nearby option.
📸 📸 Photography
The repurposed industrial buildings, the historic architecture, and the vibrant local shops offer many picturesque opportunities. The surrounding North Shore landscape also provides beautiful backdrops.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission from shop owners before taking extensive photos, especially if it might disrupt their business.
The old sugar mill structures themselves are iconic. Look for unique signage, murals, and the general rustic charm of the repurposed buildings.
The golden hours of early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, ideal for capturing the atmosphere of the mill. Weekdays will also be less crowded for unobstructed shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in populated areas and private properties. It's best to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone near the Waialua Sugar Mill.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the road to the mill can be a bit bumpy, so drive slowly. It's a great spot for a casual day trip where everyone can find something interesting, from unique souvenirs to tasty treats. The open spaces within the mill grounds also allow for a bit of freedom to wander.
🛍️ Budget Travelers
While some items like custom surfboards or artisanal soaps can be pricier, there are plenty of smaller, affordable souvenirs and treats available. Consider packing your own water bottle to refill and enjoy the free natural beauty of the North Shore surroundings.
☕ Coffee & Food Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to try the all-natural shave ice or explore the offerings at the kava bar for a taste of local culture. The variety of culinary options ensures a delightful gastronomic journey through the Old Waialua Sugar Mill.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
This transformation from a working plantation to a community marketplace is a fascinating aspect of the mill's story. It represents a shift in the local economy and a creative approach to preserving historical sites. Visitors can appreciate this blend of history and modern commerce, making the Old Waialua Sugar Mill a unique destination that offers more than just shopping and dining. It's a place to connect with the island's past while enjoying its present-day local culture.
Exploring the Local Flavors
Beyond the cafes, the Saturday Farmers Market is a food lover's paradise, offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and prepared foods from various vendors. Visitors can also find unique treats like all-natural shave ice, a refreshing option without artificial ingredients. For those seeking a different kind of local beverage, the mill hosts a kava bar, offering a traditional Pacific island experience. Nearby, you can also find an Okazuya cafe for a taste of Japanese-inspired local comfort food.
This concentration of diverse food and beverage options makes the Old Waialua Sugar Mill a destination for foodies looking to experience authentic Hawaiian flavors and local entrepreneurship.
Shopping for Unique Treasures
For those with a penchant for vintage, several shops within the mill specialize in thrift and vintage clothing, offering a chance to find one-of-a-kind pieces. Beyond apparel, you can find artisanal soaps, such as those from Filthy Farmgirl, which are a popular reason for many visitors to make the trip. The variety ensures that whether you're looking for a unique souvenir, a piece of local art, or a stylish vintage find, the Old Waialua Sugar Mill has something to offer.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit