oahu secret spots

Click Here to book your tour of the North Shore Zipline Tour in advance (Often sells out weeks in advance). To get you started, here are a few of my favorite hidden gems. Its truly an experience theyll remember forever so dont wait any longer. Its been a wild ride. The views from each location are simply breathtaking and will leave you speechless when you arrive at each spot. If you are looking for some secret things to do in Oahu, check out Kahuku Farms. Oahu, The Gathering Place, is Hawaiis most populated island, home to almost a million people. A sunset cruise on a 53-foot catamaran takes you south toward Hawaiis iconic Diamond Head. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. Taste of Leonard's Bakery starts with malasadas - a deep-fried ball of dough that tastes like heaven. When you turn the other way at the top . Hidden Gems: 8 Secret Things to Do in Oahu Hawaii Dillingham Ranch (most instagrammable places in oahu) Dillingham Ranch is one of the best photo spots you can visit in Oahu! Soar through the North Shores jungles on a thrilling zipline tour. A beach park uncrowded and unusual is how this part of Oahu is described. Where: Anywhere off the main strip. This tour company takes people out and lets them swim with sharks without a cage! Onboard a sailing Catamaran drinking tropical Hawaiian cocktails and relaxing while enjoying the legendary sunset and the magnificent Hawaiian coast. This is the busiest tourist spot in Hawaii. There you will find the places where the locals eat. Secret Island is a hidden peninsula on the windward side of Oahu in Kaneohe. It sounds like there would be few venturing into the water however, this is the most crowded beach on a weekend. Poke Bowls became my favorite food on Oahu. You might also be interested in reading about the best turtle beach in Hawaii! It is a natural beauty and should be kept as an off-the-beaten-path on Oahu to ensure it is kept beautiful. Find Inner Peace at the Byodo-In Temple. Plan out your next trip today by checking out this article right now! Join a full-day tour and discover all of Oahus best locations. The entire sweeping coastline is stuff vacation fantasies are made of. 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. Book your lesson: One hour Waikiki surf lesson for two people. For exmaple, they havent had any injuries or incidents in 20 years of operation. These secret places arent just great for adults but also perfect for kids as well! Discover short videos related to secret spots on oahu on TikTok. The atmosphere at surf events is like no other sporting events. Most mornings, you can spot dolphins out in the ocean here! 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. The Big Island has the stunning Waipio Valley and the rugged volcanic landscape. 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. 4. This rental company is a not-for-profit, with proceeds helping to fund Kamaaina Kids and Heeia State Park! The North Shore of Oahu is famous for surf, beaches, and the chill vibes. As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip. 3212 Monsarrat Ave. and two other locations in Honolulu, (808) 392-8862, bananbowls.com. Halona Cove 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. 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. One of my all-time favorite beaches is the one at Waimanalo Bay Park. Kahala Hotel Last but not least on my list of 5 secret Oahu locations is the Kahala Hotel. If there is something you are curious about, theres a live tour guide so feel free to ask all you want! Take a tour instead. Bowls range from $6 to $15 depending on where you buy them from. 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. Source: adamkresina on Instagram. I have createdthe Ultimate Oahu bucket list for inspiration about the best things to do on Oahu, Hawaii. 30. My personal best was 12:15 but I have seen people fly up much quicker. Halona Cove. do you need a permit to fly the drone in Hawaii? It was purchased by Voyager Submarines, cleaned up, and sunk in 1999. Most people think of O'ahu strictly as a beach vacation interspersed with hiking and awash with cocktails. Theres a great deal that offers you a one-hour and riding a wave lesson for two people at once. Magic Island 4.5 (134 reviews) Parks Open all day It is not easy to find, but you should find your way relatively easy if you head over to Nanakuli Beach Park. 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. of the trail you can see the turquoise water of the east coast and the panoramic views. If you go, be sure to try the acai bowl, it is the best Ive tasted! Book your tour: Majestic Full Day Circle Island Tour(Best-selling tour). Hanauma Bay is the most popular snorkeling beach on Oahu with hundreds of tourists visiting each day. This site has a lot more to do than just a waterfall; you can explore the botanical gardens and eat delicious food! tively short hike but dont be fooled. The morning sun slowly warms the sandy beaches of Waikiki as your guide takes you on a journey through the history of the island. Aloha! The Halona Blowhole is on the east side of Oahu and is one of the most popular things to do on Oahu. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you struggle with being on a beach with hundreds of tourists, check out Kawela Bay. The Makapuu Lighthouse hike is one of the most popular things to do on Oahu. 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. this is my secret spot !!! Check Out The 5 Best Lanai Lookout Tours Here. Don't let this discourage you however, as this hike offers some spectacular views of Oahu. However, the beaches of this island are incredible. One of the best parts about Kahuku Farms is the delicious fresh food youll find there. It can be extremely dangerous, especially with strong surf. Have you visited any of these hidden gems on your trip to Oahu? I include a map and photos as well! Oahu Instagram and Photography Spots Overview. 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 . The Pillbox hikes on Oahu are another favorite photo spot for tourists. 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. You can book yourself onto a guided tour that includes pick/up and drop-off from your Waikiki hotel. Helena's Hawaiian Food: As you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, you shouldn't judge a restaurant by it either. Waimea Bay is my favorite beach on Oahu. There is a tour that includes transport, assistance, food, and someone to carry your water and guide you along the way. Where: An hour northwest of Honolulu on the leeward coast, In the municipality of Waianae, Oahu. 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). Secret O'ahu: sights only the locals know about. While not technically a beach, this location is in fact a stretch of lava rock cliffs and edges extending high above sea level. There are A LOT of surf spots in WaikikiCanoes, Ala Moana, Queens and Kaisers just to name a few. It is a 3.5-mile hike and is not too difficult. Maybe its because they think twice about the location, or maybe because the call from the Cocktail lounge was far too strong on that day. One of the most popular hikes on Oahu, Koko Head Stairs is a relatively short hike but dont be fooled. Its like swimming in a giant aquarium, but staying dry the whole time! Towns like Laie, Waimea, and Haleiwa are good places to explore. It is relatively safe but I wouldnt recommend this hike for people in good shape as there are moments where you need to use ropes to pull yourself up steep segments. 22. It is truly a magical experience. It's a little slick in spots so just be cautious! Airlines & Airports, The Top 20 Most Powerful Travel Agencies in 2022 A cascading waterfall in the middle of the forest is a peaceful spot to enjoy the afternoon. Heads up this trail is illegal also although still heavily frequented daily. 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. Lots of visitors to Hawaii hear about luaus in the tourist magazines from the airport. You dont need to be a good swimmer as you just hold on inside the cage. 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. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. Visit sites like Diamond Head, the Pali Lookout, Mokoli'i Island, and Laie Point. The hike takes a few hours if you are quick and 5-6 hours if you are a slower hiker. A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you won't be able to keep to yourself. Take a Hike 5. Guest Author, Discover the Animals of Panama on World Wildlife Day . Some of the links in my content may be affiliate links. Jumping off the rock is one of the most iconic things to do on Oahu. 9k followers. 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Best secret spots near me in Honolulu, HI Sort:Recommended All Price Open Now 1. Strong swimmers only, please. Only a few yards high they make the area a perfect spot to hang out for the day. The sheer stature of the coastline is intriguing, almost daring visitors to follow it. On Oahus, most eastern point sits the Makapuu Lighthouse. Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight Over Oahu. I include a map and photos as well! They also have tours if you are interested in going with a group or want more fun facts about the gardens. Around the corner is the historic Dole Plantation surrounded by rows of pineapples and fields of sugarcane. Are you looking for some new adventures on Oahu? Ka'ena Point State Park After a drab drive, inspiration awaits at little-visited, yet . There is nothing wrong with the traditional Oahu tourist spots, and you should check them out during your vacation as well. Thanks to the calm, shallow waters, Hanauma Bay is Oahu's best snorkeling spot for everyone but especially fun for families with children. Entrance to the lookout is free, although you do have to pay for parking. Hawaii Beaches. When parking in the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail carpark, there is another attraction close by. Koko Head. China Walls. Circle the island of Oahu and its many points of interest on this guided adventure. It is about a 30-minute drive from Waikiki. If you are looking for a place to snorkel on Oahu, this is the best place . 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. You can camp in the Sherwood Forest part and be a few steps away from this amazing hidden gem on Oahu. Waikiki is a famous spot for surfing. 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. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Located in Kahaluu, you can go and walk on these sacred grounds. Visitors just have to know where to find it. There isnt a much better way to enjoy than sunset than aboard a yacht with a cocktail! Jurassic Park and Lost filmed scenes in this lush green area. Dream Vacations. Despite this, Oahu has its share of magic just like the other Hawaiian Islands. If you follow the path all the way to towards the ocean and venture down the cliffs you will find a small rock bridge. It is best accessible when it is low tide. Aug 28, 2013 4 min read. Book an Airbnb 4. . These secret(ish) activities will ensure a wonderful trip to Kauai with kids or without. I think a scenic helicopter flight is my favorite activity to do on Oahu by far! Keep scrolling to see my top 13 Oahu hidden gems worth adding to your Oahu itinerary! Theyll be able to explore nature like never before while learning about Hawaiian culture along the way too! Where: Hanapepe Pl, Honolulu, HI 96825, United States. . Below are our favorite off-the-beaten-path places on Hawaii's Big Island. Off the beaten path, amongst a Honolulu neighborhood you'll find Helena's, she's been serving authentic Hawaiian plates since 1946. Oahu has tons of amazing places to eat. The tour takes you just a few miles offshore where you will put on a snorkel and get inside a cage. Support of local industry allows Hawaii and its business owners to remain viable and self-sustaining. Visitors just have to know where to find it. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Accents Pick up take-home treasures, accessories, and jewelry at Accents, our on-site gift shops. I did this tour with my family and they loved it. cooland on keeamoku for assortments of cold treats. 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. Respect the land and try to keep it a relaxing and peaceful spot for everyone else around you. If you want a more authentic experience, these are hands-down the best luaus on Oahu. Tread lightly. 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. Its one of the most unique things to do on Oahu and definitely off the beaten path. I did this tour with my family when they came for vacation and it was an incredible experience youll never forget. This list of 10 somewhat secret spots in Oahu Hawaii will get you off the beaten path and away from the tourist hot spots! 5. 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. Here's our favorite hidden spots on Oahu. Image by Ignacio Palacios/Getty Images. The view makes it spectacular. So inspirational is the history and the people responsible for this agri-success (new word!) Simply Wander | Family Friendly Travel Guides. It is easy to climb onto the rock and from there you can join the crowd of nervous jumpers who wait their turn to leap off the rock. Pictured below is a shot I took at Waimea Bay a week before the Eddie. The beauty of this luau tour package is that you get to experience traditional performances and story-telling before enjoying a buffet luau. Mahalo! Your email address will not be published. The Stairway to Heaven was one of my favorite things to do on Oahu. Ask a local. This is a hike none of the other tourists in the hotel will even know exists. PUA'ENA POINT: Slabby reef out at the main peak. While onboard, you will enjoy the delicious buffet and some chitchats with other passengers. It has rock climbing, turtles, underwater tunnels and huge waves in the winter. Hotel & Resort, Copyright 2023 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. Be prepared for masses of tourists. That means that if you purchase a product or service that I reccomend, I get a small cut of the sale. The Kona region is known for having sunny mornings, high rain and little wind. Your tour begins with a short ATV ride to the top of a mountain. It is also named Mokuauia Island. Subsequently, you have likely heard that the only way to get to the Kona coffee comes from the Big Island of Hawaii, but it's also incredibly fresh in Oahu. Marvel at the Views from the Nuuanu Pali Lookout. 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. Book your tour: North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour. 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. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. See whales, guaranteed, or come again for free! Samurais in Aiea for awesome ice treats. 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. The Big Island is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Kilauea. Locally produced means the finest in all dairy products, which is exactly what this dairy farm offers. Enjoy Sunrise Views on the Stairway to Heaven Hike. 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. There is no better way to start your day than with a short sunrise hike overlooking the ocean and amazing scenery. If you happen to venture out of the inner city, dont forget to try locally grown and made traditional foods. The trail takes you through a steady incline surrounded by trees until eventually, you emerge to a beautiful view that stretches out. Cockroach Cove is right next to Halona Blowhole. Always go with someone and help each other out. Its located on the Northeast side of Oahu and is usually much less populated than many of the other hikes on Oahu despite how beautiful it is. Aside from the fabulous beach and suitable waves for surfing, people can enjoy themselves as there . The Pali Notches are one of the most dangerous hikes on Oahu due to the strong winds that often frequent the trail, which has an unforgiving drop on both sides. These affiliates don't cost you anything extra and help me keep the site going. Locals know the best areas, after all, this is their island. 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. Phone +1 808-768-6861 Web Visit website This curved bay and state park is known for its year-round snorkeling and convenient accessibility. You wont believe how beautiful all of these spots are until you see them yourself. Book your kayaking tour: Kaneohe Guided Kayak and Snorkel Tour. At the summit, there is an old satellite atop a small bunker. Not only is it right next to the Turtle Bay Resort, almost no one goes there! hard (but worth it): Mt. They contain more antioxidants than most berries including cranberries and even blueberries. Sherwood Beach. The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. Copyright Journey Era, 2022 | Sitemap | Privacy Policy. For lunch, try some fresh Hawaiian shrimp from one of the local food trucks (own . If you're visiting Oahu soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Oahu Visitor Guides. Primarily primitive lava rock, this is perfect for those who like a bit more peace and quiet. Cruise along 7 miles of world-famous surfing beaches on Oahus north shore and sample the local flavors along the way. The best snorkeling tour on Oahu is the Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. Where: Ka'ena Point State Park, Waialua, Oahu. Discover amazing hidden Oahu waterfalls, the rugged & rustic Oahu North Shore, and famous Hawaiian surfing spots. Noreen Kompanik During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! Located in the Kekaulike Market, 1039 Kekaulike St #113, Honolulu for the most delicious poke bowls. Leonard's Bakery is a spot that takes you back to the old days, with their old-fashioned storefront. A traditional Hawaiian luau is a must-do cultural activity on Oahu. I was lucky enough to see a few monk seals both in the ocean and on shore. The current is pretty strong on the way to Goat Island, especially when the tide rises, so be extra careful. A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you wont be able to keep to yourself. Honolulu and Waikiki from Diamond Head on O'ahu. A traditional, magnificent example of Hawaiian self-sufficiency where rums are made from heirloom sugar cane. This is not a hike for the faint-hearted with a number of narrow parts of the trail with steep drop-offs. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. 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. Ka'ena Point State Park. Enjoy a series of ziplines, rappels, sky bridges, boardwalks, and more. HALE'IWA, OAHU (ALI'I BEACH PARK): Reef break. This beach and park area are on the eastern side of the island in a smaller town. Your guide will take you through the botanical gardens of this vast and tranquil setting. gallery icon Most Acai bowls often come topped other fruits and berries and even granola, sothey are actually quite filling. It is a great place to visit if you can! 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. 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. See Tropical Foliage at Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden. inone day. But it is better to swim to protect the coral below. It is an official seabird sanctuary, so some parts of the island are marked, and you cannot enter. Things to Do on Oahu for Adventure Seekers. 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. Pickup and drop-off service and equipment are included. A place popular with surfers and jumpers, these cliffs will partner with a beautiful sunset to greet everyone at the end of the day. 23. When he surfed the quarter-mile-long wave into the bay he thought it resembled the Great Wall of China. Click here to learn more. But there's far more to Hawaii's capital city than surfing. This is easily one of THE MOST POPULAR tours on Oahu. Ive got you covered with them all so see how many items on this Oahu bucket list you can tick off! 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. Valley of the Temples 365 Historic Sites Cemeteries By jt552233 The fireworks usually begin at 7:45 and hundreds of people fill the beachto watch the fireworks launch from along the shore. Its a really intimate luau that has lots of family activities, hands-on experiences, and super tasty food. Hawaii Hikes. There are beautiful trees along the beach, which is another great Oahu photo spots! 2022 13. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Lanai Lookout. There are plenty of awesome spots on Oahu to get a good look at the stars each night. This gorgeous park is located on the northwest coast of the island, and is home to many secluded beaches and hiking trails. Guided tours are a great way to learn about those little places, activities and off-the-beaten-path gems. Mahalo! This is run by a nonprofit to keep the area safe, beautiful and to preserve the culture. A forest setting you would expect in the Pacific Northwest of the Mainland is a great spot to have an afternoon hike. Its one of the top-rated tours on Oahu and makes for a great date night or family night out and will give you an understanding of the history and traditions of the Hawaiian people. Waimea Valley and its waterfalls await you, discover this beautiful place steeped with history, spirituality and island traditions. Book your tour: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. As the waves crash into the cliffs under the rocks the water surges out of a blowhole shooting into the air. The perfect place for a much-needed vacation. Panama Blog, Adventure and Culture in Tahitis Islands Because it is a non-practicing Buddhist temple, all visitors are welcome. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. 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 Find some in the following locations: Each one is unique and brings its own peace when you visit. You can read a full review HERE. 1) Mermaid Cave. Book your tour: Oahu Full-Circle Island 60 minute Helicopter Tour, Book your tour: 25-minute Waikiki Helicopter Tour. Hidden Gem Spots the Oahu Locals Love. 1. Ala Moana Beach Park During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! Most often, you dont see volcanic rocks on Oahu. Book your tour: Kayak Kailua Tour including Lunch. If you walk back towards Waikiki along the coast away from the lighthouse there are a collection of wooden planks hanging out over the crystal clear water at Alan Davis Beach. Eat off the Main Strip in Waikiki (Kalakaua Avenue) 6. 2022. A traditional coconut pudding many locals crave. After twenty minutes of hiking, you will find a small platform/pillbox that has a peace sign painted on it. THE WEEKLY #309: 6 YEARS AS A TRAVEL BLOGGER, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR: WHATS IN MY BACKPACK. Known as "The Gathering Place," Oahu is the second oldest island of the six main Hawaiian islands.

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