Surf, Snow and Stoke with Dakine
Why settle for one adventure when you can have two? Japan’s epic snow is worth every mile, but a stop in Hawaii takes the journey to the next level. As the birthplace of surfing, Hawaii offers the perfect complement to Japan’s powder-filled adventures. Dakine, masters of snow and surf culture, and Ski.com, experts in epic ski vacations, teamed up to craft this dreamy itinerary. Snowboard Niseko, surf Oahu and head home with bragging rights that only come from tackling the best of both worlds.
Day 1: Arrive in Niseko
Kick off your Niseko adventure by settling into your accommodation at the luxurious and modern Setsu Niseko, located in the heart of Hirafu Village, the epicenter of activity and excitement. Spend the afternoon strolling through the village's charming streets.
As the sun sets, head to your reservation at Bang Bang, a beloved izakaya serving up succulent yakitori, sashimi, and wagyu beef. End your evening with a relaxing soak in the exclusive onsen onsite at Setsu. Relax in the heated waters as you imagine yourself effortlessly floating through Japow the next day.
Day 2: First Taste of Japow
Dive into Niseko’s world-famous powder with a local guide arrange by your Ski.com Mountain Travel Expert. You, your crew and your guide will explore Niseko secret stashes, tree runs and side-country. After scoring some of the best pow of your life, give your smile a well-earned rest. Break for lunch at Hanazono Edge Restaurant, located at the base of the Hanazono Lift, where you can fuel up with local favorites.
After a full day of shredding, reward your efforts with a visit to Rikka Spa, a beautiful onsite spa located at Setsu. Book a massage in advance for the best shot at muscle recovery. Your pow days are endless here.
Day 3: Off-Piste Powder and Après
Snag some breakfast and fuel for a full day of exploring. Join your local guide as they take you to the snowiest mountain of the day, carefully selecting from Niseko, Rusutsu, Kiroro, or Moiwa for the ultimate experience. Explore some of the best off-piste, tree-lined runs and legendary backcountry terrain.
Post snowboarding or skiing, grab a steaming bowl of ramen at Bar Moon to fuel up for a night of après-ski Japan style. As night falls, head to the iconic Bar Gyu—or “Fridge Door Bar”—where a vintage Coca-Cola fridge serves as your gateway to a cozy world of craft cocktails and Japanese whiskies.
Day 4: Cultural Immersion
After two full days of charging powder, you may want a solid rest day. Join a sushi-making class and master the art of crafting perfect rolls or visit a local shrine to soak in Japan’s rich traditions and history. Afterward, warm up with a bowl of spicy tan-tan ramen in Hirafu Village. Finish the night off soaking in the private onsen at Setsu to recharge for the next adventure of sand, sun and waves.
Day 5: Aloha – Ease into Island Life
Say goodbye to Japow and get ready to switch snow gear for board shorts and bikinis. Hawaii is your perfect stopover on your way back to the States – you’ll be riding waves and drinking a mai tai by sunset. Grab your rental car, boards and bags and cruise straight to the North Shore, where you’ll stay at the iconic Turtle Bay Resort.
After checking in, take a surf lesson or paddle right out at Velzyland, a local favorite for consistent rights. For dinner, hit Lei Lei’s Bar & Grill at the resort to refuel after your first session.
Day 6: Legendary Breaks and Chill Vibes
Start the morning by watching pro surfers at the world-famous Banzai Pipeline. For beginner-friendly spots, head to Chun’s Reef, offering smooth rolling waves and soft bottoms. Refuel with garlic shrimp from Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Haleiwa before heading back to Turtle Bay Resort and spending the day snorkeling and spotting turtles.
Day 7: Epic Waves and Underwater Adventures
For advanced surfers, start your day early at Ehukai Beach Park (just down the road from Pipeline) for clean morning sets. Mid-morning, head to Sharks Cove for snorkeling and underwater exploration. Fuel up on lunch at the Beet Box Café.
If you’re up for more action for the day, don’t miss Banzai Skatepark, a fun and flowy skatepark. Wrap up the day with tacos and poke bowls at Pupukea Grill, then rest up for more waves tomorrow.
Day 8: Honolulu and Waikiki Adventure
Start your day in Waikiki with an early surf at Canoes, then refuel at Hau Tree Lanai, where macadamia nut pancakes and ocean views set the tone.
Explore Hawaii's rich culture at the Honolulu Museum of Art or Iolani Palace, and shop Waikiki’s boutiques and the Royal Hawaiian Center. Wrap up with a sunset stroll along Waikiki Beach, where you’ll discover live music and hidden gems.
Day 9: Windward Exploration
Begin your morning with gentle ocean waves and the chance to spot sea turtles at Turtle Bay Point, just steps from the resort’s doors. After, visit the tranquil Byodo-In Temple or try kite surfing at Kailua Beach Park.
For adventure seekers, tackle the Mt. Olomana Trail, a challenging hike with epic views. On your way back to the North Shore, stop at Chinaman’s Hat and Kualoa Regional Park for iconic island views.
Day 10: Last Waves and Aloha Goodbye
For your final day, wake up early and have one last paddle out at Turtle Bay Point. Follow it up with a hearty breakfast at Kahuku Farms Cafe, a cozy spot with delicious food. On your way back to Honolulu, stop by Laniakea Beach one more time to say goodbye to the turtles and reflect on the epic surf sessions.
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