Bellow's Beach Park. The Byodo-In Temple is another secret of Oahu worth sharing. Hike up the Diamond Head Crater for epic views of Waikiki. Book your tour: Oahu Whale Watching Excursion. It is an official seabird sanctuary, so some parts of the island are marked, and you cannot enter. It is about a 30-minute drive from Waikiki. Hanauma bay is a longtime favorite of water lovers, but sadly, the big number of tourists caused serious damage on the reef. Dont worry about the gear as the tour guide will provide you snorkel gear like goggles and masks. The soft serve pineapple whip is like no other ice-cream youve had before. Maybe not so much hidden but a gem to be experienced, nonetheless. It has rock climbing, turtles, underwater tunnels and huge waves in the winter. Take a tour instead. 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. Location: 63 S Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786, USA. Things to Do on Oahu for Adventure Seekers. If you're visiting Oahu soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Oahu Visitor Guides. So inspirational is the history and the people responsible for this agri-success (new word!) Book your lesson: One hour Waikiki surf lesson for two people. See All Oahu Hotels. This luau is run by a Samoan family that incorporates a lot of Samoan traditions in addition to Hawaiian culture. Or if you are like me you will need a lesson. I will never endorse anything fake or not worth considering. There are A LOT of surf spots in WaikikiCanoes, Ala Moana, Queens and Kaisers just to name a few. However, what most people dont do is venture down the cliffs to the tide-pools on the waters edge. It is best accessible when it is low tide. From Lanikai or Kailua Beach a kayak to the mokes will take about thirty minutes. The white sand, clear blue water, and never ending small waves make this a perfect spot for beginners to become a grommet (supposedly this means beginning surfer). 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! All aboard the Haleiwa Queen, enjoy the clear view of the Pacific Ocean floor as you cruise over live tropical reefs and one of Hawaiis shipwrecks. If you see yourself as someone who prefers the roads less traveled some of these may be for you. Destination & Tourism, Best Destinations for Travelers Who Hate People They contain more antioxidants than most berries including cranberries and even blueberries. 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. You can climb around on the rocks, take in the beauty, or go along the beach shore. 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. Prices shown for: 1 Rm, 2 Guests. Find this local favorite on the East Shore of Oahu! There are beautiful trees along the beach, which is another great Oahu photo spots! Book your tour: Oahu Full-Circle Island 60 minute Helicopter Tour, Book your tour: 25-minute Waikiki Helicopter Tour. And in 2000, she won a James Beard Award. I include a map and photos as well! On Oahus, most eastern point sits the Makapuu Lighthouse. Big Island Bees Are you looking for some new adventures on Oahu? Hours: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Most Acai bowls often come topped other fruits and berries and even granola, sothey are actually quite filling. Aloha! After twenty minutes of hiking, you will find a small platform/pillbox that has a peace sign painted on it. These secret(ish) activities will ensure a wonderful trip to Kauai with kids or without. The sheer stature of the coastline is intriguing, almost daring visitors to follow it. Theyll be able to explore nature like never before while learning about Hawaiian culture along the way too! The Makapuu Lighthouse hike is one of the most popular things to do on Oahu. 2022 13. Only a few yards high they make the area a perfect spot to hang out for the day. A spicy sauce or seasoning covers the fish. There is an epic tour that takes you all around the island to all of the iconic spots including to the dole plantation. Locally produced means the finest in all dairy products, which is exactly what this dairy farm offers. Only a short drive or a 30-minute walk up the hill from Waikiki is the much more relaxed Cromwells beach. Most mornings, you can spot dolphins out in the ocean here! 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. Book an Airbnb 4. 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. There are many more gorgeous places will provide endless family fun and zillions of postcard-perfect photo . All Rights Reserved. Cant decide? Enjoy the buffet meal, including fresh seafood, kalua pork, and tropical fruit Watch the sunset and enjoy entertainment from Hawaiian musicians, hula dancers, and fire twirlers. The water here entices you in where you will catch a glimpse of the varied sea life. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Descending to 100 feet underwater is an adventure in itself. Arena for high-performance surfing. Live like a local and discover Honolulu with our pick of the hidden gems and secret spots in and around the city. The hike takes a few hours if you are quick and 5-6 hours if you are a slower hiker. 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While it is quite beautiful and such a fun adventure, this snorkeling location is not for beginners. If you do go, be sure to wear some sort of water shoes, because there can be rocks every now and then. Enjoy Sunrise Views on the Stairway to Heaven Hike. Kane'aki Heiau. 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. Hi! The Stairway to Heaven was one of my favorite things to do on Oahu. Ka'ena Point State Park wraps its far-reaching and rugged arms around the coast of one of the most photogenic places on Oahu. Be incredibly careful in this area as it has claimed the lives of strong swimmers in the past after they were swept off the rocks. 3. Not only do you get the chance to swim with these friendly giants and tons of tropical fish, but youll also get a catamaran cruise from Waikiki. Dream Vacations. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. There are no paved roads or commercial buildings here, just beautiful Hawaii nature as far as the eye can see. Stunning, Welcoming. 1. I hope my travels give you the motivation to set off on an epic adventure of your own. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. by: Victoria Derrick. The North Shore of Oahu is famous for surf, beaches, and the chill vibes. I have createdthe Ultimate Oahu bucket list for inspiration about the best things to do on Oahu, Hawaii. It is important to know that this hike is illegal and off-limits. 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. The North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour is the most easily the most epic and most unique activity on Oahu. Leonard's Bakery is a spot that takes you back to the old days, with their old-fashioned storefront. Picnic on the Beach 2. Accents Pick up take-home treasures, accessories, and jewelry at Accents, our on-site gift shops. Secret Beach Oahu. The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. Click Here to book your tour of the North Shore Zipline Tour in advance (Often sells out weeks in advance). Book your tour: Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise. Koko Head. Its a whole evening of presentations, games, activities, and some of the best luau food Ive ever had. Gunstock Ranch. Book your tour: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. View from Lanikai Pillboxes Hike on Oahu The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is around a mile long and usually takes around 40 minutes, depending on your hiking ability. Aug 28, 2013 4 min read. Sharks Cove is a beach park in Oahu that you'll feel like is a well-kept secret due to its uncrowded and unusual features. The tour departs from the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki and takes you to a submarine dive spot. 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. This neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii will give you a surfing experience like no other. Everyone hates waiting in a long queue but on this tour, youll be able to skip lines for a hassle-free excursion. Taste of Leonard's Bakery starts with malasadas - a deep-fried ball of dough that tastes like heaven. From Wiliwilinui Ridge you can make out Waikiki, a city of white buildings seemingly a world away from the ridges we are roaming. The tour takes you just a few miles offshore where you will put on a snorkel and get inside a cage. Hanauma Bay is the most popular snorkeling beach on Oahu with hundreds of tourists visiting each day. Primarily primitive lava rock, this is perfect for those who like a bit more peace and quiet. If you're ready for a true locals only challenge, try a visit to the secret Mermaid Cave. 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. You can also see a sea cave. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. this is my secret spot !!! 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! See the map below for all locations: 1. See Tripadvisor's 116,798 traveler reviews and photos of Oahu's North Shore hidden gem attractions. The Kaneohe Sandbar is located in the middle of Kaneohe Bay in-between Chinaman's Hat and Coconut Island, and may or may not be covered with water depending on the tide. They guarantee to have you standing up and riding a wave! Oahus famous farm-to-glass distillery never gets the applause it deserves. 3212 Monsarrat Ave. and two other locations in Honolulu, (808) 392-8862, bananbowls.com. Strong swimmers only, please. Destination & Tourism $; 54-296 Kamehameha Hwy., Hau'ula, www.north-shore-tacos.com. Theres actually this great tour that does kayaking, stand-up paddleboard, and a short waterfall hike all. Most people think of O'ahu strictly as a beach vacation interspersed with hiking and awash with cocktails. China Walls. . Come along see these beautiful mammals at their best on our exciting eco-friendly whale watching excursion. 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. Despite this, Oahu has its share of magic just like the other Hawaiian Islands. Im Jackson, an Australian adventure traveler who has been on the road for eight years now. 1. Heads up this trail is illegal also although still heavily frequented daily. Each Friday the Hilton puts on a FREE blockbuster fireworks display. 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 pillboxes at the top of the hikes are full of colorful graffiti and offer a nice view of the ocean. See whales, guaranteed, or come again for free! There is a bike path that runs from Sunset Beach to Waimea Bay that is a great way to spend the day exploring the hidden spots that . Watch popular content from the following creators: mellowyellowpay(@mellowyellowpay), Daniella Daniel(@daniella19889), DJ ill Will(@deejayillwill), layla(@lylamatar), kris(@kristheglobetrotter), Ashley Hernandez(@wildlyunconventional), Localkineting(@crazychazu), Ntxhi (See)(@whisperntxhi), Gabby(@gabriellewoolery_), tasia . You must get a picture here! Despite what its name might suggest, the Dead Mans Catwalk provided more amazingviews than perils. Below are our favorite off-the-beaten-path places on Hawaii's Big Island. Book your tour: Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki. This is by far the cheapest boat tour on Oahu but also one of the most interesting. Makua Beach (sometimes known as Tunnels Beach) is the perfect sunset spot in Oahu when you just want to get away from it all. The Maunawili hike is another trail into the jungle! Panama, Complimentary Advisor Toolkit Another amazing Oahu luau worth checking out is the Experience Nutridge luau. Oahu's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Oahu's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. But there's far more to Hawaii's capital city than surfing. It is family and dog friendly and a great way to see some fantastic views of the east side. It is also named Mokuauia Island. It takes about 30-minutes to reach the top of the trail to find old war bunkers. Not only is it a fun place to visit, but it is also the best Oahu Instagram spots to capture stunning pictures. Its only a few years old, so most tourists havent heard of it. 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. If you want to skip the crowded beaches of Lanikai and Kailua, head to Bellow's Beach in Waimanalo Bay. Pictured below is a shot I took at Waimea Bay a week before the Eddie. Find some in the following locations: Each one is unique and brings its own peace when you visit. This was one of my all-time favorite things to do on Oahu. Some things are happy to remain in the shadows. The entire Diamond Head Crater hike is quite scenic but it isnt until you reach the top that you have stunning views in all directions. Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular Oahu attractions. They are protected so once they swim onto the shore you must keep a safe distance from them and definitely dont touch them. Guest Author, Discover the Animals of Panama on World Wildlife Day The entire sweeping coastline is stuff vacation fantasies are made of. Halona Cove. I lived on Oahu for two years and loved adventuring from the beaches to the mountains to the waterfalls! 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. Places located off the beaten track can be the very thing that keeps a multitude of tourists milling about. Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight Over Oahu. Mermaid Cove is one of the best hidden gems of Oahu, in my opinion. Entrance to the lookout is free, although you do have to pay for parking.