Choose from snorkeling, a picnic or simply just take in the surroundings that make you appreciate the history of this rock formation, and of all of Oahus natural beauty. Things to Do on Oahu for Adventure Seekers. Lunch is included and the food is really good too, youll love the kalua pork! This means that state law prohibits certain activities (like fishing for one), within these areas. A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you wont be able to keep to yourself. Find this local favorite on the East Shore of Oahu! Built in the 16th century, Kane'aki Heiau is considered the best preserved heiau on Oahu. Veer off the main streets and head for Monsarrat or Kapahulu Avenues. Hanauma Bay is the most popular spot for tourists to spot a turtle or explore the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Then enjoy spectacular panoramic ocean and mountain views of Oahus famous North Shore from long, high, and extra-quiet zip lines ranging from 500 to 2,400 feet. Atlantis Submarines offers a one-of-a-kind underwater experience giving guests a close-up view of an array of sea creatures, exotic coral reefs, and numerous sunken vessels without getting wet. Oahu. Oahu has some of the finest food on the islands, but when the noise and nightlife gets a bit much, the time has come to look for a more local-driven, quieter experience. House of Mana Up Hawaii Features products from local markers and artisans that highlight homegrown ingredients, thriving cultures and woven textiles in the Hawaiian Islands. 1Before Visiting these Oahu Hidden Gems 2Byodo-In Temple 3Ka'ena Point State Park 4Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden 5Mermaid Caves/Cove Oahu 6Electric Beach 7China Walls 8Kawela Bay 9Goat Island (Mokuauia Island) 10Kahuku Farms 11Lanikai Pillbox Hike 12Halona Blowhole + Beach Cove 13Moku o Lo'e/Coconut Island 14Waimea Falls 15Sharks Cove I lived on Oahu for two years and loved adventuring from the beaches to the mountains to the waterfalls! Here at Best of Oahu, you will be treated to an insider's view of fantastic Honolulu attractions, dreamy Oahu beaches, and unique Hawaiian culture around the island! As much as locals rely on the tourist trade, there are always going to be a few places theyd like to keep for themselves, or at least, not be as well known. Oahu, The Gathering Place, is Hawaiis most populated island, home to almost a million people. For a few dollars, you can rent yourself a surfboard and join the masses trying their hand at surfing at the famous Waikiki Beach. This can be a dangerous spot for those not familiar with the ocean and her mighty strength. Away from the city at Kaena Point or at Makapuu seem to be the most popular. by: Victoria Derrick. As the sun rises 20 or more people sit atop the bunker with views all the way to the beach and down into the valleys on either side. There are A LOT of surf spots in WaikikiCanoes, Ala Moana, Queens and Kaisers just to name a few. Oahu Bucket List Series P.S. But this spot is only for the very experienced. Located in the Kekaulike Market, 1039 Kekaulike St #113, Honolulu for the most delicious poke bowls. This article will provide a list of the best hidden gems in Oahu that are perfect for your next trip. to the ocean on the east coast of Oahu. It can be hard to spot, especially because it is in a forest-type area! Destination & Tourism, Best Destinations for Travelers Who Hate People MERCH!! 25 Best Snorkeling Spots in Oahu, Hawaii (with Map) December 6, 2022 Hawaiian green sea turtles, tropical fish, moray eels, and rainbow corals are just a hint of the impeccable underwater world thriving in the North Pacific Ocean surrounding Oahu island. Where: Ka'ena Point State Park, Waialua, Oahu. Warm white sand and clear blue water along 227 miles of coastline make Oahu snorkeling a top activity. If you see yourself as someone who prefers the roads less traveled some of these may be for you. 5. This is located in Waimnalo and is also a camping site. Book your tour: Majestic Full Day Circle Island Tour(Best-selling tour). Another hike on Oahu worth waking doing for sunrise is the Lanikai Pillbox Hike. During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! Its truly an experience theyll remember forever so dont wait any longer. Very popular place for surf lessons because the white water from the set waves out back funnels into the little bay-like setup making it a great place to teach surfing. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. 301 Route 17 N, Suite 1150, Rutherford, NJ 07070 USA | Telephone: (201) 902-2000, Last updated: 02:03 PM ET, Mon March 25 2019, 10 Most Sacred Indigenous Sites in the US, How Travel Advisors Can Capitalize on the Latest Travel Trends, Vacation Rental Bookings Rise in January 2023, Kansas City to Open First New Airport Terminal in 50 Years, FAA Adopts New Safeguards After System Failure Delayed, Canceled Flights. Starting at $109-139/person. of the trail you can see the turquoise water of the east coast and the panoramic views. If you just want someone to show you, the best option is to take a professional with you. This gorgeous park is located on the northwest coast of the island, and is home to many secluded beaches and hiking trails. Lunch and Dinner Restaurants in Honolulu: 1. Discover Panama with Taggea Tours by Viajes Yarilena and Probably the best views in Oahu, along with Diamond Head. Turtle Bay Resort Oahu . This is perfect for travelers who just want to chill with sunsets and cocktails! It can be extremely dangerous, especially with strong surf. Known as "The Forbidden Isle", Niihau island is one of the best-kept secrets in Hawaii. This was one of my all-time favorite things to do on Oahu. THE WEEKLY #309: 6 YEARS AS A TRAVEL BLOGGER, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR: WHATS IN MY BACKPACK. But after sleeping at more than 50 Oahu hotels, Oyster reporters have come across a good handful of under-appreciated hideaways. At the summit, there is an old satellite atop a small bunker. Most often, you dont see volcanic rocks on Oahu. The catwalk referred to the cement slab that some claim was a possible war-era installation or was previously used asa launching strip for hang gliders. Book your tour: Oahu Whale Watching Excursion. Try some of the other local favorites eating spots. Here is the complete series: Food: The 10 Most Delicious and Satisfying Must Eats in Honolulu, Hawaii Instagram: The 10 Most Instagrammable Places in Oahu Hidden Gems: 8 Secret Things to Do in Oahu Hawaii Go Cliff Jumping at the China Walls (secret things to do in Oahu). For exmaple, they havent had any injuries or incidents in 20 years of operation. Maui's Secret Cove, for example, is a popular spot for wedding ceremonies, and Kauai's Secret Beach can be found easily on Google. Ka'ena Point State Park. Copyright Journey Era, 2022 | Sitemap | Privacy Policy. Not only is this a secret beach not many know about, but this is also an amazing hiking opportunity as well! My personal best was 12:15 but I have seen people fly up much quicker. The soft serve pineapple whip is like no other ice-cream youve had before. From Lanikai or Kailua Beach a kayak to the mokes will take about thirty minutes. There is a tour that includes transport, assistance, food, and someone to carry your water and guide you along the way. Despite this, Oahu has its share of magic just like the other Hawaiian Islands. However, the beach area is only for extremely talented swimmers due to the strong waves. READ NEXT 25 of the Best National Parks in the USA (Beautiful + Diverse!) Below are our favorite off-the-beaten-path places on Hawaii's Big Island. Around the corner is the historic Dole Plantation surrounded by rows of pineapples and fields of sugarcane. Click Here to book your tour of the North Shore Zipline Tour in advance (Often sells out weeks in advance). 9 Somewhat Secret Spots in Oahu. Im Jackson, an Australian adventure traveler who has been on the road for eight years now. Nicknamed Neck Break Beach the waves at Sandy Beach are unforgiving. This lookout point is on the East Side of Oahu, and worth a quick few minutes! Here's our favorite hidden spots on Oahu. Keep your eyes peeled for the playful Spinner Dolphins who live in these waters. If you go, be sure to try the acai bowl, it is the best Ive tasted! A traditional coconut pudding many locals crave. All Rights Reserved. Hanauma Bay. The water is super clear and beautiful turquoise color, plus the sand is extremely soft. Were here to help! Picnic on the Beach 2. I tried quite a few of them during my time on Oahu and of the more well-known trucks, I enjoyed Romys. Most people think of O'ahu strictly as a beach vacation interspersed with hiking and awash with cocktails. Visiting in winter? This island is home to seabirds, not goats. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. 13 Not So SECRET HIDDEN GEMS in OAHU HAWAII ! Where: K Hana Distillers. Kaneohe Sandbar. The best snorkeling tour on Oahu is the Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. Each Friday the Hilton puts on a FREE blockbuster fireworks display. There are beautiful trees along the beach, which is another great Oahu photo spots! If you take a leisurely walk up you can expect to finish between 30 minutes and 1 hour. Despite what its name might suggest, the Dead Mans Catwalk provided more amazingviews than perils. New Orleans & Company, How Smart Payments Can Help Alleviate Future Travel Chaos Magic Island 4.5 (134 reviews) Parks Open all day It is about a 30-minute drive from Waikiki. Respect the land and try to keep it a relaxing and peaceful spot for everyone else around you. Goat Island is a tiny little island off the coast of Laie Bay. tively short hike but dont be fooled. Kahala Hotel Last but not least on my list of 5 secret Oahu locations is the Kahala Hotel. The tour departs from the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki and takes you to a submarine dive spot. Kawela Bay, Oahu A lovely secluded and protected beach, Kawela Bay is close to Oahu island's northern tip. I did this tour with my family and they loved it. Lyon Arboretum 430 Gardens Educational sites By Cruiser26741642330 Make your reservation in advance and drive past the busy parking lot and crowd at Manoa Falls to this botanical gem! Aala (highest peak on Oahu) or Stairway to heaven - super nice views (payoff at the top is really worth it) Treats/Deserts: Jung's shave ice on King st. for cheap and good shave ice. Hidden Gems of Oahu with Waimea Botanical Garden. Alan Davis Beach. However, you can get a bowl with octopus, squid or other types of seafood. Crystal clear waters wash upon a long stretch of beach with a backdrop of Makua Valley and cliffs that seem to encapsulate the secluded beach. But can you get off the beaten path and find the bridge? Huge waves crash directly onto sand or only a few feet of water. A reef prevents large waves from reaching the sandy shore and it's a terrific place to feel at one with nature and enjoy a quieter stretch of sand away from the tourist crowds. You could also try Night SUP yoga with Led lights in what is an epic experience near Waikiki. 100 feet below the surface lies The Sea Tiger, which is a former Chinese trading vessel originally named Yun Fong Seong No. Map of all the Best Oahu Instagram Spots. Towns like Laie, Waimea, and Haleiwa are good places to explore. Book your tour: Two-hour shark dive on Oahu. While there will be people, its not overcrowded, and somewhere that locals will take their younger children for an outing. Travel Agent, 19 Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts with the Finest Dining I have createdthe Ultimate Oahu bucket list for inspiration about the best things to do on Oahu, Hawaii. Secret Beach Oahu. I hope you enjoyed this guide to the best things to do on Oahu and found a few activities for you and your family to do while on vacation. Aloha! This luau is run by a Samoan family that incorporates a lot of Samoan traditions in addition to Hawaiian culture. The current is pretty strong on the way to Goat Island, especially when the tide rises, so be extra careful. Acai berries are a superfood native to Central and South America. Do you love Hawaii? The result of banning the kinds of activities that can hurt or kill marine life is that there is an abundance of sea life in . There is a great kayak rental at Kaneohe that sets up the kayaks on the beach for you so you can paddle out Chinamans Hat. I include a map and photos as well! Your email address will not be published. It is important wherever you are granted an invitation to local secrets that mindfulness and respect are extended. Stunning, Welcoming. From hiking trails and waterfalls to beaches and luaus, we have everything covered in this guide. Aug 28, 2013 4 min read. Where: Sharks Cove, Haleiwa, HI 96712, United States. The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. Here are some of the secret beaches in Oahu! 2022 13. If you are looking for some secret things to do in Oahu, check out Kahuku Farms. No worries take a look at these 13 places as potential options (or pick one from each category) and make a plan now before you go! For 20 minutes under the water, youll be surrounded by around a dozen sharks or even more. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is the first place you should add to your Oahu bucket list. From authentic Hawaiian fast-food joints to picturesque drives usually overlooked by visitors, here are nine Oahu secret spots to make your next trip unique. And Kauai has the colorful Waimea Canyon and tropical North Shore coastline. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. This is why it is one of my favorite spots to go to. North Shore Tacos Head to open-air North Shore Tacos (formerly known as Surfin' Tacos) for tacos island-style: laden with fresh fish, cilantro, and the joint's Secret Surf Sauce. Water rushes in with waves, filling the cave before being spat out with great force. Watch the sunrise from Lanikai Pillbox hike. Tropical Yet Metropolitan. Get up early and head to the east coast of Oahu before the sun rises. Around the back of the islands, youll find quite a few good cliff jumping spots and also the Queens bath, which is one of my favorite spots on Oahu. 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While not technically a beach, this location is in fact a stretch of lava rock cliffs and edges extending high above sea level. 1. One of the most unique boat tours on Oahu is the Atlantis Submarine, a tour that takes you below the surface to see the beauty of the underwater world. Also, see famous places like Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay. I hope my travels give you the motivation to set off on an epic adventure of your own. However, a beautiful hike winds around the cliffs above the bay leading towards the oceans edge. Great instructors make this possible for even the least athletically inclined. photo by leonard's bakery. Heads up this trail is illegal also although still heavily frequented daily. You also need to complete a few basic rock climbs to complete the trail. Download your copy of our I will never endorse anything fake or not worth considering. New Orleans & Company, Complimentary Itinerary Building Assistance If world-class entertainment and food werent enough on the beautiful beaches of Oahu, then why not take to the waters with the Oahu Sunset Dinner Cruise. If you prefer to do the tour with a guide and includes hotel pick/up and drop-off from Waikiki it could be a good option. Strong swimmers only, please. You can climb around on the rocks, take in the beauty, or go along the beach shore. That's a lot to explore. take about thirty minutes. As Melville says, "It is not down on any map; true places never are." So, if you want to find Mermaid Cave, keep in mind that most of us are guests on Oahu, and part of the joy of being in . Or do you just want to experience a fun and relaxing evening with absolutely no itinerary? 3212 Monsarrat Ave. and two other locations in Honolulu, (808) 392-8862, bananbowls.com. Book your tour: SUP, Kayak & Waterfall Hike Oahu Tour. Maui has tons of gorgeous waterfalls along the Road to Hana as well as the lush Upcountry Maui. Prices shown for: 1 Rm, 2 Guests. Ka'ena Point State Park After a drab drive, inspiration awaits at little-visited, yet . This is the most popular hike on Oahu and probably the most popular thing to do on Oahu aside from visit Waikiki Beach. This area is really beautiful during sunrise and just after as the mountains will be lit perfectly and Chinamans Hat is a nice silhouette out in the water. The atmosphere at surf events is like no other sporting events. It is the most convenient place on the island to learn how to surf with many surf schools and board rentals. This is my Journey Era. There is also a lot of accommodation, restaurants and nightlife opportunities. Another amazing Oahu luau worth checking out is the Experience Nutridge luau. Around the back of the islands, youll find quite a few good cliff jumping spots and also the Queens bath, which is one of my favorite spots on Oahu. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. this is my secret spot !!! Many love to explore the incredibly clear water in the caves and watch as the sun rays hit the water. What the passengers will love is the round trip transportation they arrange for each and every one. Circle the island of Oahu and its many points of interest on this guided adventure. Its like swimming in a giant aquarium, but staying dry the whole time! Located on the windward side of Oahu, Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden is simultaneously one of the top attractions in Oahu and also a great place to get (somewhat) away from the crowds in iconic spots like Waikiki Beach. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Hours: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM LEARN MORE. Aside from the fabulous beach and suitable waves for surfing, people can enjoy themselves as there . Hollow barrels if big enough. Click the button below. Oahu has tons of amazing places to eat. This is also a very kid-friendly beach because the waves are almost always calm. Copyright 2023 Journey Era | Mediavine Trellis Child - Journey Era on Trellis Framework by Mediavine. Places located off the beaten track can be the very thing that keeps a multitude of tourists milling about. Have you ever thought about swimming with sharks? This rental company is a not-for-profit, with proceeds helping to fund Kamaaina Kids and Heeia State Park! Book your lesson: One hour Waikiki surf lesson for two people. This hike is a popular place for locals to work out, and tourists to take in some incredible sights! This waterfall is a beautiful gem on Oahu to visit and explore the culture of Hawaii a bit more! 303. One of my all-time favorite beaches is the one at Waimanalo Bay Park. These affiliates don't cost you anything extra and help me keep the site going. Hanauma Bay. This neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii will give you a surfing experience like no other. Theyll be able to explore nature like never before while learning about Hawaiian culture along the way too! You wont believe how beautiful all of these spots are until you see them yourself. Hoomaluhia means to make a place of peace, and the botanical gardens are nothing but peaceful! Five pillboxes in total line the ridge, which takes less than an hour to hike. Along the way, encounter rappels, sky bridges, scenic boardwalks, and a couple of surprises for some fun activities that challenge in a safe and controlled way. 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Our team is constantly working on new content for this blog so make sure to subscribe below and check back often for updates! Book your tour: Atlantis Submarine Adventure. Makua Beach (sometimes known as Tunnels Beach) is the perfect sunset spot in Oahu when you just want to get away from it all. Find Inner Peace at the Byodo-In Temple. The Big Island has the stunning Waipio Valley and the rugged volcanic landscape. Phoa,. Thankfully, you can see some of the most instagrammable places in Oahu even if you're not a hiker! During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! Not only is it right next to the Turtle Bay Resort, almost no one goes there! The Aloha State has six unofficial beaches that are all called "secret." Ironically, some of these hidden spots aren't really so undiscovered. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Photography Tour: Full-Circle Island Photo Tour, Photography Tour: Sunset Photography Tour. Secret Island is a hidden peninsula on the windward side of Oahu in Kaneohe. Waikiki. The North Shore of Oahu is famous for surf, beaches, and the chill vibes. Panama Blog, Adventure and Culture in Tahitis Islands The circle island Helicopter tour will have you fly above all of the famous locations on Oahu, its simply a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Descending to 100 feet underwater is an adventure in itself. I had done some Oahu cliff jumping in the past but this spot was always a little bit sketchy for me at the time. Guest Author, Discover the Animals of Panama on World Wildlife Day The Plantation offers tours and has a huge hedge maze. This tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. Where: An hour northwest of Honolulu on the leeward coast, In the municipality of Waianae, Oahu. Its sort of tucked away in the hills above Honolulu at the first macadamia nut farm in Hawaii. However, the beaches of this island are incredible. Secret O'ahu: sights only the locals know about. Log in, Hi I'm Jamie! This trail is one of the top five most popular things to do on Oahu. Always go with someone and help each other out. The China Walls are a secret place to cliff jump . There's no doubt that lively Waikiki, historic Pearl Harbor and towering Diamond Head are still must-dos for first-time visitors, but the real soul of Oahu lies off its beaten paths on roads less traveled. If you're ready for a true locals only challenge, try a visit to the secret Mermaid Cave. Airlines & Airports, The Top 20 Most Powerful Travel Agencies in 2022 A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you won't be able to keep to yourself. It's a little slick in spots so just be cautious! The pillboxes at the top of the hikes are full of colorful graffiti and offer a nice view of the ocean. Visitors just have to know where to find it. Book your tour: Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Hawaiian Entertainment. However, what most people dont do is venture down the cliffs to the tide-pools on the waters edge. The entire sweeping coastline is stuff vacation fantasies are made of. Halona Cove. One of the best spots to get a Haupia Pie after a day of beaching it on the north shore is Teds Bakery. Waikiki is one of the most popular Oahu places to visit and its also really pretty. The Hawaiian monk seal is the only seal native to Hawaii and is one of only two mammals nativeto the islands. Enjoy Palladium Hotel Group's Cancun Resorts, TBO Empowers Travel Advisors to Control Commission, Explore the Greek Islands on a Fam Trip With Exodus Travels, For more information on History comes alive before your eyes as you weave your way up the Koolau Mountains to the Nuuanu Pali Lookout where King Kamehameha I battled to unite the Hawaiian Islands. On the far west side of Oahu, Makua Beach lies at the foot of majestic mountains, hiding behind a wall of trees. A helicopter tour over this amazing island will be the number one memory you take home with you from your vacation. Visit sites like Diamond Head, the Pali Lookout, Mokoli'i Island, and Laie Point. A secluded and remote slice of paradise perfect for a weekend spent getting in touch with nature, Malaekahana is a 37-acre campground surrounded by ironwood trees and backing up to a pristine white sand beach. Go for a walk to see where your next dining experience will take you. On Oahus, most eastern point sits the Makapuu Lighthouse. You can read a full review HERE. Learn about the best time to visit Oahu . There are many botanical gardens over the island of Oahu. After twenty minutes of hiking, you will find a small platform/pillbox that has a peace sign painted on it. Off the beaten path, amongst a Honolulu neighborhood you'll find Helena's, she's been serving authentic Hawaiian plates since 1946. See Tripadvisor's 116,798 traveler reviews and photos of Oahu's North Shore hidden gem attractions. Here are the most Instagrammable places in Oahu- including several hidden gems I found myself! While You're at it, Avoid Shopping on Kalakaua 7. Hike up the Diamond Head Crater for epic views of Waikiki. Located on Oahu's Western coast, Bellow's Beach is part of the longest stretch of sandy shoreline on Oahu, and many consider it one of the prettiest beaches on the island.

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