YAHglobal Why are you reading an article about a grocery store on a guide to authentic Hawaiian experiences? Because Foodland at Shark’s Cove is not just a grocery store, it’s a gathering place for locals and visitors on the North Shore of Oahu. It has been for decades.
It all started in the late 1970s when the chain (est. 1948) added a location on the corner of Pupukea Road and Kamehameha Highway. It was an overnight hit. For the first time you could get a loaf of bread, cup of sugar, or roll of toilet paper after dark without having to knock on your neighbor’s door. As the years passed it became a place where you’d run into friends and purposely congregate before and after surfing at one of the North Shore’s famed breaks. Visitors eventually caught on too, relying upon the store to refuel them before the long ride back to Waikiki. To date, it has become as synonymous with the seven mile miracle as Banzai Pipeline, except everyone is welcome to enter.
Looking for a place to kill some time the next time you’re on this side of the island? Come to Foodland. Here’s why.
What Makes the Foodland in Pupukea One of the Coolest Places to Hangout on the North Shore of Oahu
Celebrity Hot Spot
Are you a big NFL or NBA fan? Imagine what it would be like to shop at the same grocery store as Tom Brady or Steph Curry. That’s what it’s like for pro surfing fans who enter Foodland. Resident surf stars who regularly pop into the store include the likes of Jamie O’Brien, John John Florence, Carissa Moore, and even Kelly Slater. Then there are local and visiting celebrity musicians such as Jack Johnson and Metallica’s Kirk Hammett who can be found wandering the aisles. Hollywood A-listers like Jason Momoa, Sean Penn, and Jonah Hill also grab necessities from the star-studded supermarket. If TMZ is camped out anywhere on the island, it’s here.
Central to Some of the North Shore’s Best Activities and Attractions
Aquarium-esque snorkeling across the road
Foodland is the midpoint to many of the North Shore’s top attractions. One of Oahu’s most popular places to snorkel is right across the road, while Waimea Bay and Valley is a 10-minute walk away. To the northeast is Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach and all of the hidden gem beaches in between. Shark’s Cove’s famous food trucks are also next door to the grocery store, as are North Shore Surf Shop activity rentals. There’s nothing like a day well spent riding along Ke Iki and Ke Nui Roads on your rented beach cruiser only to return this North Shore nucleus. Due to its central location there’s little wonder as to why we all arrive at Foodland for an après-activity hangout.
They Sell Everything
Did you forget to bring something for your day of fun on the North Shore? It doesn’t matter, as Foodland probably has it. From snorkels and boogie boards to slippers and sunglasses you’ll find what you need.
What if it’s your last day on the island and you’ve forgotten to buy souvenirs for the folks back home? Fret not, as the grocer has every imaginable souvenir, from premium Kona coffee and macadamia nuts to key chains and Hawaiian shirts.
Happy Hour All Day Long
The North Shore isn’t exactly a nightlife hub. Breakers may be open until 11 PM but they’re over in Haleiwa Town. If you’re staying at one of the vacation rentals between Pupukea and Kahuku your evening festivities will most likely occur on the lanai of your Airbnb or VRBO. As a result you’ll need a place to grab libations with an island splash. The standing coolers at Foodland is where its at. They have an impressive selection of locally crafted beer, seltzers, and spirits. Hawaiian brands include Maui Brewing Company, Waikiki Brewing Company, and Ola Brew along with delectable liquors for mixing tropical cocktails such as Kula and Koloa Rum to name a few. In fact, the liquor section here is where lively conversations happen. Hang around long enough and you may get invited to a sunset BBQ or nearby party.
If spirits aren’t your thing (or it’s simply too early) you’ll also appreciate the on site Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. The convenient cafe is where early risers gather for pre-surf (etc.) caffeination.
Famous Foods You Came to the North Shore For
The creator of the coconut cream (haupia) pie is found at Foodland
Another reason everyone flocks to Foodland Pupukea may seem obvious, but we’re not talking about Kraft Dinner and Oreos. Instead, we’re referring to celebrated Hawaiian delicacies that you’ve been dying to try. World famous Ted’s Bakery pies are found in the pastry case, which is good news since the island’s best bakery either has a mile long line or is closed. You can also score fresh Spam Musubi, poke, and other Hawaiian plates in the deli. There may not be candles and cozy tables crowned with gingham tablecloth, but this is fine dining, country style.
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