The views from each location are simply breathtaking and will leave you speechless when you arrive at each spot. 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. Book your tour: Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise. 50 Most Instagrammable Places in Oahu in 2021 (with Map & Photos) Here are the most Instagrammable places in Oahu- including several hidden gems I found myself! Oahu. This is the only remaining real dairy farm business in Hawaii, and long shall it remain so. The morning sun slowly warms the sandy beaches of Waikiki as your guide takes you on a journey through the history of the island. Book your tour: North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour. inone day. 4. Because it is a non-practicing Buddhist temple, all visitors are welcome. HALE'IWA, OAHU (ALI'I BEACH PARK): Reef break. 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 Live like a local and discover Honolulu with our pick of the hidden gems and secret spots in and around the city. 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. Have you visited any of these hidden gems on your trip to Oahu? 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! This is my Journey Era. Image by Ignacio Palacios/Getty Images. Photography Tour: Full-Circle Island Photo Tour, Photography Tour: Sunset Photography Tour. The ship was confiscated in the1990s for carrying more than 90illegal immigrants toHawaii. Here Are The 12 Best Kept Secrets In Hawaii - OnlyInYourState If you'd like to help even more, be sure to check out my Patreon as well. After twenty minutes of hiking, you will find a small platform/pillbox that has a peace sign painted on it. Keep your eyes peeled for the playful Spinner Dolphins who live in these waters. Youll never run out of things to do on this fantastic island. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. A forest setting you would expect in the Pacific Northwest of the Mainland is a great spot to have an afternoon hike. 8 Secret Places To Explore in Hawaii - Travel Off Path It can be hard to spot, especially because it is in a forest-type area! Phoa,. If not, we recommend giving them a try. Book your tour: Majestic Full Day Circle Island Tour(Best-selling tour). There are no paved roads or commercial buildings here, just beautiful Hawaii nature as far as the eye can see. Oahu Instagram Spots and Photography Destinations. PUA'ENA POINT: Slabby reef out at the main peak. The views of the Koolaus are worth it all. The rougher the day the bigger the spray from the blowhole usually. 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 . Book your tour: Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Catamaran Cruise. This gorgeous park is located on the northwest coast of the island, and is home to many secluded beaches and hiking trails. Turtle Bay Resort Oahu . This rental company is a not-for-profit, with proceeds helping to fund Kamaaina Kids and Heeia State Park! 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. Stuart Schuffman. 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. Set sail along the turquoise waters of Hawaiis coast heading towards Ko Olina coast. Starting at $109-139/person. Best Oahu Snorkeling Beaches - Hawaii Snorkeling Secrets! The Complete A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you won't be able to keep to yourself. Travel Agent, 19 Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts with the Finest Dining Bellow's Beach Park. 24 Restaurants That Serve the Best Breakfast in Oahu, According to Locals. Book an Airbnb 4. Itinerary includes --> Waikiki Pickup (7:00 am - 7:30 am) But these are some of the best hidden gems in Hawaii that will take your vacation to the next level! Descending to 100 feet underwater is an adventure in itself. Soar through the North Shores jungles on a thrilling zipline tour. The perfect place for a much-needed vacation. Kahala Hotel Last but not least on my list of 5 secret Oahu locations is the Kahala Hotel. 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. Despite this, Oahu has its share of magic just like the other Hawaiian Islands. - https://teespring.com/stores/zay-solis-merchUSE CODE "zay20"(no caps) FOR 20% OFF PURCHASEGET TRANSITIONS HERE - https://sellfy.com/p/Xg51/SEND FAN. 17 Must Eat Places in Oahu: Where to Find the Best Food - Wanderly For a few dollars, you can rent yourself a surfboard and join the masses trying their hand at surfing at the famous Waikiki Beach. 22 Best Oahu Instagram Spots (2023) - Hawaii Travel with Kids I'm off to Oahu on Wednesday, what are some hidden treasures - reddit Support of local industry allows Hawaii and its business owners to remain viable and self-sustaining. It is family and dog friendly and a great way to see some fantastic views of the east side. If you take a leisurely walk up you can expect to finish between 30 minutes and 1 hour. If you follow the path all the way to towards the ocean and venture down the cliffs you will find a small rock bridge. Destination & Tourism During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! This means that state law prohibits certain activities (like fishing for one), within these areas. You can swim in the pool below this beuautiful Oahu waterfall. You could also try Night SUP yoga with Led lights in what is an epic experience near Waikiki. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. On Oahus, most eastern point sits the Makapuu Lighthouse. Leonard's Bakery. This is perfect for travelers who just want to chill with sunsets and cocktails! Fringed by a beautiful beach of white-tinged sand, it all sits in a volcanic crater protected from the elements. 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. 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. Visiting a waterfall is a must-do activity on Oahu and Lulumahu is one of the most unique things to do outside of Waikiki. Hawaii Vacation. Oahu Travel. Hanauma bay is a longtime favorite of water lovers, but sadly, the big number of tourists caused serious damage on the reef. READ NEXT 25 of the Best National Parks in the USA (Beautiful + Diverse!) You can also see a sea cave. Hanauma Bay and Nature Preserve. As a small replica of the Byodo-In Temple in Japan, this one was built to commemorate the Japanese people who lived in Hawaii for over a hundred years. Your tour begins with a short ATV ride to the top of a mountain. Ride an ATV to the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views of Oahu. If you want an extra adventure, you can also camp there! 'Secret Spots' of Oahu Photography Tour 2023 - viator.com This is one of the less popular things to do on Oahu but it was by far one of my favorite hikes on the island. If you're ready for a true locals only challenge, try a visit to the secret Mermaid Cave. I did this tour with my family when they came for vacation and it was an incredible experience youll never forget. We saw sharks, turtles, plane wrecks, and shipwrecks. 10 Hidden Gems of Oahu | TravelPulse The hike is 2.7 miles one way and shows off the volcanic coast, tide pools, arches, and so much more. Any idea where to start? 40 Things You Have To Do In Oahu - The Globe Wanderers This tour is perfect for visitors who stay in Oahu for a short time but still want to see what Oahu has to offer. See the map below for all locations: 1. 9 Of The Greatest Snorkeling Spots In Oahu, Hawaii - Journeying The Globe A friendly low-key environment on the beach while surfers ride some mental waves out in the water. Located in the Kekaulike Market, 1039 Kekaulike St #113, Honolulu for the most delicious poke bowls. Halona Cove To get you started, here are a few of my favorite hidden gems. Warm white sand and clear blue water along 227 miles of coastline make Oahu snorkeling a top activity. Most often, you dont see volcanic rocks on Oahu. 92-1770 Kunia Rd #227, Kunia Camp, Oahu. Enjoy a slice of paradise, complete with cocktails. Five pillboxes in total line the ridge, which takes less than an hour to hike. It is located on the island's leeward (west) side in Makaha Valley and . Check Out The 5 Best Lanai Lookout Tours Here. If you want a more authentic experience, these are hands-down the best luaus on Oahu. There are tons of things to do in Waikiki but surfing has to be at the top of your list. With regular waves breaking perfectly for beginners' surf lessons, Waikiki beach is one of the first beaches that visitors to Honolulu flock to. 30. One of the most popular hikes on Oahu, Koko Head Stairs is a relatively short hike but dont be fooled. The words The Dead Mans Catwalk were constantly being spray painted on the 6-yard strip that led out to a steep drop-off down the face of cliffs. It does have strong currents, so wear fins and be extra cautious as you snorkel. It is accessible by kayak or a short swim. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. 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. Only a few blocks back from Lanikai Beach is the beginning of the Lanikai Pillbox Trail(Kaiwa Ridge), known for being one of the easier trails on the island of Oahu. Thanks to the calm, shallow waters, Hanauma Bay is Oahu's best snorkeling spot for everyone but especially fun for families with children. $; 54-296 Kamehameha Hwy., Hau'ula, www.north-shore-tacos.com. Oahu is home to some of the most gorgeous attractions, like the Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden, Tantalus, the Kaaawa Valley, and the Byodo-In Temple. Don't let this discourage you however, as this hike offers some spectacular views of Oahu. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. Best Oahu Hidden Gems: Secret Places in Oahu You'll Want to Check Out It is important wherever you are granted an invitation to local secrets that mindfulness and respect are extended. What better way to see Oahu than from hundreds of feet up in the air. 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. I lived on Oahu for two years and loved adventuring from the beaches to the mountains to the waterfalls! The North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour is the most easily the most epic and most unique activity on Oahu. See Tripadvisor's 116,798 traveler reviews and photos of Oahu's North Shore hidden gem attractions. 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. 13 Not So SECRET HIDDEN GEMS in OAHU HAWAII ! These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. 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. Not necessarily in that order. There are beautiful trees along the beach, which is another great Oahu photo spots! 1) Mermaid Cave. Only a few yards high they make the area a perfect spot to hang out for the day. Book your kayaking tour: Kaneohe Guided Kayak and Snorkel Tour. But it is better to swim to protect the coral below. 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 73 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Hawaii - Atlas Obscura There is nothing wrong with the traditional Oahu tourist spots, and you should check them out during your vacation as well. MERCH!! The road to heaven is said to be one of the scariest in Oahu, so if youre driving here, take care. This is why it is one of my favorite spots to go to. Plan out your next trip today by checking out this article right now! If you go, be sure to try the acai bowl, it is the best Ive tasted! Oahu Travel Guide for the Ultimate Vacation Experience 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. Hawaii Hikes. 25 Best Snorkeling Spots in Oahu, Hawaii (with Map) The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. Waimea Valley and its waterfalls await you, discover this beautiful place steeped with history, spirituality and island traditions. Waikiki Beach. One of the best experiences I had on Oahu was swimming with the beautiful spinner dolphins on this exact tour. 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). Hawaii's 'Secret Beaches' Are Surprisingly Easy To Find - HuffPost This lookout point is on the East Side of Oahu, and worth a quick few minutes! But what they don't realise is that there is a lot . If you struggle with being on a beach with hundreds of tourists, check out Kawela Bay. They also have tours if you are interested in going with a group or want more fun facts about the gardens. This is the most popular hike on Oahu and probably the most popular thing to do on Oahu aside from visit Waikiki Beach. 10 hidden gems in Honolulu GO Blog | EF United States Despite this, Oahu has its share of magic just like the other Hawaiian Islands. I will never endorse anything fake or not worth considering. Check out this list of the 10 best surf spots in Oahu, Hawaii, USA. Im Jackson, an Australian adventure traveler who has been on the road for eight years now. Below are our favorite off-the-beaten-path places on Hawaii's Big Island. Sandbar sharks circle around you as you snorkel out in the open ocean. Are you looking for some new adventures on Oahu? Places located off the beaten track can be the very thing that keeps a multitude of tourists milling about. Go there to avoid the crowds and the touristy, overpriced restaurants on Waikiki. You'll see the golden yellow sands of Makapu'u Beach down below, a whole bunch of reefs in the turquoise waters, and even a lighthouse! While there will be people, its not overcrowded, and somewhere that locals will take their younger children for an outing. Book your tour: SUP, Kayak & Waterfall Hike Oahu Tour. Theyll be able to explore nature like never before while learning about Hawaiian culture along the way too! Location: 63 S Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786, USA. The Kaena Point State Park connects the Westside and North Shore sides of the island. We hope you find something new or old favorites when exploring our content about Oahu. The Big Island has the stunning Waipio Valley and the rugged volcanic landscape. 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. It is also named Mokuauia Island. Cruise along 7 miles of world-famous surfing beaches on Oahus north shore and sample the local flavors along the way. by: Victoria Derrick. While You're at it, Avoid Shopping on Kalakaua 7. Taste of Leonard's Bakery starts with malasadas - a deep-fried ball of dough that tastes like heaven. These 12 places are some of Hawaii's best kept secrets, though don't worry, I haven't given away all of their locations. 21. 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. I hope my travels give you the motivation to set off on an epic adventure of your own. to the ocean on the east coast of Oahu. LOL . Makapuu Lookout. Hidden Gem Spots the Oahu Locals Love - Hawaii Guide Oahu Sacred Places - To-Hawaii 100 feet below the surface lies The Sea Tiger, which is a former Chinese trading vessel originally named Yun Fong Seong No. It is best accessible when it is low tide. This is definitely one of the best hidden gems in Honolulu. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is the first place you should add to your Oahu bucket list. Where: Anywhere off the main strip. China Walls got its name from Richard Okita, one of the first to surf this wave at Portlock Point in 1948. If you happen to venture out of the inner city, dont forget to try locally grown and made traditional foods. Secret Spots for Shopping on Oahu Global Village Hawaii If you're not in the mood to follow the crowds to bustling Ala Moana Shopping Center, there are plenty of unique boutiques to discover on Oahu. While you are up there check out one of the best beaches on the North Shore. Three Peaks or Olomana Trail is a treacherous looking hike with three steep peaks that can be seen all the way from Lanikai. There is more to this amazing island than meets the eye with many locally owned and secret places hiding in plain sight among the bright lights, Mai-Tais, and flip-flops. 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. Circle the island of Oahu and its many points of interest on this guided adventure. 10 Hidden Gems In Oahu For Your Hawaii Dream Vacation - Travelling Dany Ka'ena Point State Park After a drab drive, inspiration awaits at little-visited, yet . From hiking trails and waterfalls to beaches and luaus, we have everything covered in this guide. 8 Secret Things To Do in Oahu Hawaii | Travel and Blossom While all the beaches in Hawaii are gorgeous, some just take your breath away. Oahu also draws more visitors than any other . See whales, guaranteed, or come again for free! 3212 Monsarrat Ave. and two other locations in Honolulu, (808) 392-8862, bananbowls.com. Not only is it right next to the Turtle Bay Resort, almost no one goes there!