Accents Pick up take-home treasures, accessories, and jewelry at Accents, our on-site gift shops. The 2-hour experience of seeing whales will for sure take your breath away. It is the most convenient place on the island to learn how to surf with many surf schools and board rentals. There is an option for a fully guided kayak tour, including a professional guide, safety gear, and lunch! The road to heaven is said to be one of the scariest in Oahu, so if youre driving here, take care. The glass-bottom floor of the boat allows you to see sea life as it swims by and also gets a great view of one of the many shipwrecks on the coast of Oahu. If you want a small, intimate luau that feels like you are hanging out in a family members yard, this is the luau to do. Feel the adrenaline rush while soaring from the top of Oahus longest ziplines on this guided tour. Do you love Hawaii? Thank for your continued support. There are plenty of awesome spots on Oahu to get a good look at the stars each night. Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight Over Oahu. Surf at Sunset 3. Not many tourists hit this spot. Book your tour: Atlantis Submarine Adventure. Theyll be able to explore nature like never before while learning about Hawaiian culture along the way too! But can you get off the beaten path and find the bridge? Bowls range from $6 to $15 depending on where you buy them from. From Wiliwilinui Ridge you can make out Waikiki, a city of white buildings seemingly a world away from the ridges we are roaming. 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! Combine all the best parts of Oahu in one awesome yoga session on the Ocean while watching a sunset come down one side of Ala Moana, while palm trees line the other side of the bay. You will find a large pool of water and even a rope swing. Here are some of the secret beaches in Oahu! Aside from the fabulous beach and suitable waves for surfing, people can enjoy themselves as there . The Mermaid Caves are literally a secret place in Oahu and should be kept that way! This cruise will let you see the beauty of the colorful sunset in Oahu with a view of the island at night as the artificial lights glow and cover the place. Highly rated hidden gems in Oahu's North Shore: Top hidden gem activities. Thankfully, tourists do not visit this beach and park area, so you can have the beach almost all to yourself! Secret Photo Spots Oahu 25. Book your tour: Oahu Whale Watching Excursion. Because it is on a small island off the bay, it is protected from high surfs. The sheer stature of the coastline is intriguing, almost daring visitors to follow it. Samurais in Aiea for awesome ice treats. While you are up there check out one of the best beaches on the North Shore. Come along see these beautiful mammals at their best on our exciting eco-friendly whale watching excursion. Despite this, Oahu has its share of magic just like the other Hawaiian Islands. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. This gorgeous park is located on the northwest coast of the island, and is home to many secluded beaches and hiking trails. A cascading waterfall in the middle of the forest is a peaceful spot to enjoy the afternoon. BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle/Booze) 8. New Orleans & Company, How Smart Payments Can Help Alleviate Future Travel Chaos What to do on Oahu? Three Peaks or Olomana Trail is a treacherous looking hike with three steep peaks that can be seen all the way from Lanikai. Our team is constantly working on new content for this blog so make sure to subscribe below and check back often for updates! You can read a full review HERE. The tour picks you up at 7:15 in the morning at selected Waikiki hotels and the itinerary includes Diamond Head Lookout, Tropical Hawaiian Coffee, and Macadamia Nut Farms, ChinaMans Hat, North Shore Shrimp Trucks, North Shore Fruit Stand, the legendary Sunset Beach, Turtle Snorkeling, and Dole Pineapple Plantation. Descending to 100 feet underwater is an adventure in itself. Here are the most Instagrammable places in Oahu- including several hidden gems I found myself! Oahu's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Oahu's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. Some things are happy to remain in the shadows. It has rock climbing, turtles, underwater tunnels and huge waves in the winter. Visiting in winter? MERCH!! Cant decide? But there's far more to Hawaii's capital city than surfing. Noreen Kompanik Visitors just have to know where to find it. Overseen by looming mountains, the fields of cane stand almost proudly while being housed in red dirt and sheltered by banana trees, and dense guinea grass. Despite what its name might suggest, the Dead Mans Catwalk provided more amazingviews than perils. The Maunawili hike is another trail into the jungle! The best way to experience Manoa Falls is with an experienced tour guide who can explain all of the local flora and fauna, most of which is unique to Oahu. One of the best experiences I had on Oahu was swimming with the beautiful spinner dolphins on this exact tour. A forest setting you would expect in the Pacific Northwest of the Mainland is a great spot to have an afternoon hike. 24 Restaurants That Serve the Best Breakfast in Oahu, According to Locals. Around the corner is the historic Dole Plantation surrounded by rows of pineapples and fields of sugarcane. Panama, Complimentary Advisor Toolkit During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! Below are our favorite off-the-beaten-path places on Hawaii's Big Island. The best way to find the hidden gems along the north shore is to drive along Kamehameha Highway and to pull over at any fruit stand, beach, or place that looks interesting to you. Essentially a poke bowl is raw fish, most commonly Ahi and rice. 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. We've updated both travel guides with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and those who've been a time or two as well). Riptides can also occur, so be prepared. Airlines & Airports, The Top 20 Most Powerful Travel Agencies in 2022 And in 2000, she won a James Beard Award. The entrance fee is just $5 but if you prefer to join a guided tour to show you the way and share stories and history with you, I can recommend this top-rated tour, which combines Diamond Head hike and the easy Manoa Falls hike in one day! I include a map and photos as well! Every December through April, thousands of Humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii. The paved trail that takes you there is one of themost popular hikes on Oahu because of how accessible it is and the amazing views it presents. The surf here gets a reputation for toying with even the most experienced riders. 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. 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. Hoomaluhia means to make a place of peace, and the botanical gardens are nothing but peaceful! The morning sun slowly warms the sandy beaches of Waikiki as your guide takes you on a journey through the history of the island. Try out this hidden gem of Honolulu if you can swim extremely well, climb up wet rocks, and need an adrenaline rush! 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. Set sail along the turquoise waters of Hawaiis coast heading towards Ko Olina coast. Many love to explore the incredibly clear water in the caves and watch as the sun rays hit the water. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? The hike takes a few hours if you are quick and 5-6 hours if you are a slower hiker. Located in the Kekaulike Market, 1039 Kekaulike St #113, Honolulu for the most delicious poke bowls. You can book yourself onto a guided tour that includes pick/up and drop-off from your Waikiki hotel. Its one of the most unique things to do on Oahu and definitely off the beaten path. We saw sharks, turtles, plane wrecks, and shipwrecks. Oahu. Located in Kahaluu, you can go and walk on these sacred grounds. This trail is one of the top five most popular things to do on Oahu. Primarily primitive lava rock, this is perfect for those who like a bit more peace and quiet. Of course, some of the best-kept secrets of Oahu are the beaches! This is a post in my Oahu Bucket List series. It is not easy to find, but you should find your way relatively easy if you head over to Nanakuli Beach Park. One of the coolest luaus in Hawaii is Toa Luau up at Waimea Valley in North Shore Oahu. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Watching a surf comp is one of the best things to do on Oahu no matter what island you are on. do you need a permit to fly the drone in Hawaii? Hawaii. Where: Hanapepe Pl, Honolulu, HI 96825, United States. If you are looking for a peaceful spot to relax away from tourists, the Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens is another one of the hidden treasures on Oahu. 2022. Im Jackson, an Australian adventure traveler who has been on the road for eight years now. Explore around the corner and try and spot the semi-enclosed salt water rock pool created by someone with much, much more money than myself. Book your tour: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. Some of the links in my content may be affiliate links. 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! Makapuu Lookout. If you take a leisurely walk up you can expect to finish between 30 minutes and 1 hour. Most often, you dont see volcanic rocks on Oahu. It isnt incredibly deep but usually, it is just deep enough. The entire sweeping coastline is stuff vacation fantasies are made of. 9k followers. PUA'ENA POINT: Slabby reef out at the main peak. To get you started, here are a few of my favorite hidden gems. Soar through the North Shores jungles on a thrilling zipline tour. Stuart Schuffman. You have many to choose from as the winter season comes. Marvel at the Views from the Nuuanu Pali Lookout. Starting at $109-139/person. Wave direction : Right and left. China Walls. This lookout point is on the East Side of Oahu, and worth a quick few minutes! A beautiful canoe or kayak paddle to theMokulua is a great escape for the day to an isolated island. Be sure to do the hike on a day with big swell so you can watch the huge waves roll in one after another from up in the mountains. Insider Secrets: 13 Tips for Traveling to Oahu, Hawaii 1. Big Island Bees The Hawaiian monk seal is the only seal native to Hawaii and is one of only two mammals nativeto the islands. Sandys is right around the corner if you get bored and want to go get smashed by some waves. A few of our favorites include breakfast tacos at Konos, loco moco from Cinnamons, the deli at Foodland for fresh poke, the musubi from 7-Eleven, and shave ice from Uncle Clays House of Pure Aloha. So inspirational is the history and the people responsible for this agri-success (new word!) Or do you just want to experience a fun and relaxing evening with absolutely no itinerary? Oahu is home to some of the most gorgeous attractions, like the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, Tantalus, the Ka'a'awa Valley, and the Byodo-In Temple. Maui has tons of gorgeous waterfalls along the Road to Hana as well as the lush Upcountry Maui. by: Victoria Derrick. Book your tour: Oahu Full-Circle Island 60 minute Helicopter Tour, Book your tour: 25-minute Waikiki Helicopter Tour. The Stairway to Heaven was one of my favorite things to do on Oahu. 6. Known as "The Forbidden Isle", Niihau island is one of the best-kept secrets in Hawaii. This list of 10 somewhat secret spots in Oahu Hawaii will get you off the beaten path and away from the tourist hot spots! There are shuttle options for those who cannot hike, which is great for families wanting to swim by the waterfall! Kaena Point State Park is a great hiking spot in Oahu Kaena Point State Park Kaena Point State Park is one of the hidden gems in Oahu not many people know about. Don't let this discourage you however, as this hike offers some spectacular views of Oahu. It's obscured from view by the vegetation that lines the section of Kamehameha Highway, and is deemed inaccessible (to the public) due to its location on the other side of the Moli'i pond. Theres actually this great tour that does kayaking, stand-up paddleboard, and a short waterfall hike all. Maybe not so much hidden but a gem to be experienced, nonetheless. Leonard's Bakery is a spot that takes you back to the old days, with their old-fashioned storefront. Whether its exploring the island or spending time with your family, these places are sure to make your vacation unforgettable. You might also be interested in reading about the best turtle beach in Hawaii! There are many more gorgeous places will provide endless family fun and zillions of postcard-perfect photo . You can read my full review HERE. You wont believe how beautiful all of these spots are until you see them yourself. . In fact, most of them have official names, and are relatively easy to find. Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular Oahu attractions. Not necessarily in that order. Most mornings, you can spot dolphins out in the ocean here! Only a short drive or a 30-minute walk up the hill from Waikiki is the much more relaxed Cromwells beach. 9 Somewhat Secret Spots in Oahu. These are my most popular blog post and guides from the beautiful island of Oahu to help you plan your trip! The cove is primarily a lava-rock beach which is a remarkable sight, and you can appreciate the history of the island's formation through these natural features. There are A LOT of surf spots in WaikikiCanoes, Ala Moana, Queens and Kaisers just to name a few. tively short hike but dont be fooled. Koko Head. Not only do you get the chance to swim with these friendly giants and tons of tropical fish, but you'll also get a catamaran cruise from Waikiki. 1. A helicopter tour over this amazing island will be the number one memory you take home with you from your vacation. A traditional coconut pudding many locals crave. The North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour is the most easily the most epic and most unique activity on Oahu. For 20 minutes under the water, youll be surrounded by around a dozen sharks or even more. If you're ready for a true locals only challenge, try a visit to the secret Mermaid Cave. Your email address will not be published. The Plantation offers tours and has a huge hedge maze. 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. Parasailing is the perfect activity on Oahu as the sun sets so you can enjoy the beautiful colors from up high, looking down on the city. I include a map and photos as well! Click the button below. This neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii will give you a surfing experience like no other. Where: Anywhere off the main strip. Due to the power plant emitting warm water into the ocean, the sea life there is stunning. This is something your friends back home wont believe and it is one of the unique activities in Oahu. It is a natural beauty and should be kept as an off-the-beaten-path on Oahu to ensure it is kept beautiful. This article will provide a list of the best hidden gems in Oahu that are perfect for your next trip. Book an Airbnb 4. This 5-hour historic tour is a combination tour in which you will be guided through Pearl Harbors comprehensive history see the sunken USS Arizona, get a chance to visit the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, and stop by the landmarks of Honolulu metropolitan area. The Dole Plantation is a great spot to stop at on the way to the north shore for a tasty pineapple treat. Kawela Bay, Oahu A lovely secluded and protected beach, Kawela Bay is close to Oahu island's northern tip. Live like a local and discover Honolulu with our pick of the hidden gems and secret spots in and around the city. This whole-day tour is a combination of land and water excursion and will show you Oahus famous spots and hidden gems with sea turtle snorkeling on Oahu. Plan out your next trip today by checking out this article right now! Maybe its because most dont find the dairy industry interesting, but for all of us cheese lovers out there this is one not to miss. However, a beautiful hike winds around the cliffs above the bay leading towards the oceans edge. 1,547. This is by far the cheapest boat tour on Oahu but also one of the most interesting. Be prepared for masses of tourists. Its a whole evening of presentations, games, activities, and some of the best luau food Ive ever had. The water is super clear and beautiful turquoise color, plus the sand is extremely soft. Theresa Norton, Every State's Best Events This March This cliff offers a panoramic view of the island's northeast coast and is a short five miles from Honolulu. Mahalo! While there will be people, its not overcrowded, and somewhere that locals will take their younger children for an outing. Secret O'ahu: sights only the locals know about. Join a full-day tour and discover all of Oahus best locations. This is the only remaining real dairy farm business in Hawaii, and long shall it remain so. 5. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our top 13 hidden gems in Oahu! 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. The cement platform might be gone but the epic view is still as amazing as ever. One of the best parts about Kahuku Farms is the delicious fresh food youll find there. This is the busiest tourist spot in Hawaii. Destination & Tourism, Best Destinations for Travelers Who Hate People The atmosphere at surf events is like no other sporting events. Theres no doubt that lively Waikiki, historic Pearl Harborand 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. Get Naked and buy local! A beautiful canoe or kayak paddle to theMokulua is a great escape for the day to an isolated island. One of my favorite things to do on Oahu was to head to spitting cave on the east coast cliffs and watch the divers jumping off. 20. I was lucky enough to see a few monk seals both in the ocean and on shore. Hawaii Vacation. When it comes to hotels in Oahu, it's hard to find a refuge that hasn't already been discovered by the teeming hordes. From hiking trails and waterfalls to beaches and luaus, we have everything covered in this guide. Discover Panama with Taggea Tours by Viajes Yarilena and Bellow's Beach Park. 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 1. 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 It sounds like there would be few venturing into the water however, this is the most crowded beach on a weekend. Also, see famous places like Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay. Oahu Travel. Oh also if you want to see how terrible I am at surfing watch the video below. The pillboxes at the top of the hikes are full of colorful graffiti and offer a nice view of the ocean. HALE'IWA, OAHU (ALI'I BEACH PARK): Reef break. 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. The views from each location are simply breathtaking and will leave you speechless when you arrive at each spot. Where: Sharks Cove, Haleiwa, HI 96712, United States. 2411 Makiki Heights Dr, Honolulu, HI 96822-2547, USA Phone +1 808-526-1322 Web Visit website For some of the best views of Honolulu, take a drive on the road that circles Mount Tantalus. 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! Global Village Hawaii is one of our favorites! They guarantee to have you standing up and riding a wave! A friendly low-key environment on the beach while surfers ride some mental waves out in the water. Its one of the top things to do in Oahu for adrenaline junkies. 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. On Oahus, most eastern point sits the Makapuu Lighthouse. The beach is roughly 40 minutes from . Source: adamkresina on Instagram. . Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Discover short videos related to secret spots on oahu on TikTok. This is also a great place to watch the sunset in the summer or spot whales in the winter. Ask a local. All Rights Reserved. From Lanikai or Kailua Beach a kayak to the mokes will take about thirty minutes. A traditional Hawaiian luau is a must-do cultural activity on Oahu. Places located off the beaten track can be the very thing that keeps a multitude of tourists milling about.