In order to restore the marine life, the bay is a nature preserve . New Orleans & Company, Complimentary Itinerary Building Assistance Airlines & Airports, The Top 20 Most Powerful Travel Agencies in 2022 There is a back-way up that is technically legal and all of the information is in the blog post I wrote in the link below. Kona coffee comes from the Big Island of Hawaii, but it's also incredibly fresh in Oahu. Secret Photo Spots Oahu 25. Tread lightly. . Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. Hawaii Beaches. Noreen Kompanik The Big Island is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Kilauea. 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. Entrance to the lookout is free, although you do have to pay for parking. There is a long water pipe out in the ocean, which is the best spot to go snorkeling. I had done some Oahu cliff jumping in the past but this spot was always a little bit sketchy for me at the time. Three Peaks or Olomana Trail is a treacherous looking hike with three steep peaks that can be seen all the way from Lanikai. 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. They also invite guests to cook Samoan food, which is a fun opportunity. That means that if you purchase a product or service that I reccomend, I get a small cut of the sale. If you want to visit a waterfall during your vacation in Hawaii, check out Waimea Falls. MERCH!! The food here is really good. Thankfully, you can see some of the most instagrammable places in Oahu even if you're not a hiker! Secret Island is a hidden peninsula on the windward side of Oahu in Kaneohe. Phoa,. Hawaii Blog. For exmaple, they havent had any injuries or incidents in 20 years of operation. 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. Legend has it that Pele, the goddess of creation, was driven from island to island until she found sanctuary in Kilauea. Here are the most Instagrammable places in Oahu- including several hidden gems I found myself! The entire sweeping coastline is stuff vacation fantasies are made of. Hanauma Bay and Nature Preserve. 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! A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you won't be able to keep to yourself. Aside from the tiny village of Pu'uwai - home to the island's 200 isolated inhabitants - this privately owned island is otherwise untouched by society. Towns like Laie, Waimea, and Haleiwa are good places to explore. There are tons of things to do in Waikiki but surfing has to be at the top of your list. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Lots of visitors to Hawaii hear about luaus in the tourist magazines from the airport. It was purchased by Voyager Submarines, cleaned up, and sunk in 1999. 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. There are many more gorgeous places will provide endless family fun and zillions of postcard-perfect photo . This small beachside campground on Oahu's northeastern shore might just be the prettiest campground in the Aloha State. Dream Vacations. No tours are going to the Mermaid Coves, and for a good reason. After twenty minutes of hiking, you will find a small platform/pillbox that has a peace sign painted on it. 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. Best secret spots near me in Honolulu, HI Sort:Recommended All Price Open Now 1. 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. Go for a walk to see where your next dining experience will take you. China Walls. This means that state law prohibits certain activities (like fishing for one), within these areas. 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. 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. The best snorkeling tour on Oahu is the Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. . They also offer beauty and body products. 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 fireworks usually begin at 7:45 and hundreds of people fill the beachto watch the fireworks launch from along the shore. Panama, Complimentary Advisor Toolkit Waikiki is one of the most popular Oahu places to visit and its also really pretty. During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! Book your lesson: One hour Waikiki surf lesson for two people. Punchy rights and lefts on offer. This is an iconic photo spot on Oahu. Leonard's Bakery is a spot that takes you back to the old days, with their old-fashioned storefront. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay. At the Hoomaluhia Gardens, you can paint, fish, and explore the beautiful surroundings. by: Victoria Derrick. Descending to 100 feet underwater is an adventure in itself. The 3-mile long, 1-mile wide sandbar is located a mile or so from the shoreline, and you'll have to kayak or boat out to it. 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. 6. 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. This neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii will give you a surfing experience like no other. You dont need to be a good swimmer as you just hold on inside the cage. 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. You might also be interested in reading about the best turtle beach in Hawaii! While not technically a beach, this location is in fact a stretch of lava rock cliffs and edges extending high above sea level. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. The Pillbox hikes on Oahu are another favorite photo spot for tourists. 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 . Go there to avoid the crowds and the touristy, overpriced restaurants on Waikiki. When you turn the other way at the top . Oahu. 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. - https://teespring.com/stores/zay-solis-merchUSE CODE "zay20"(no caps) FOR 20% OFF PURCHASEGET TRANSITIONS HERE - https://sellfy.com/p/Xg51/SEND FAN. 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 24 Restaurants That Serve the Best Breakfast in Oahu, According to Locals. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. 5. Oahu Nicknamed Christmas Tree Park for the giant metal tree that glows green during the holiday season, this little park was once called Telegraph Hill, a lookout where King Kamehameha's troops. Warm white sand and clear blue water along 227 miles of coastline make Oahu snorkeling a top activity. The hike itself is free but it isnt near Waikiki. The current is pretty strong on the way to Goat Island, especially when the tide rises, so be extra careful. There are no paved roads or commercial buildings here, just beautiful Hawaii nature as far as the eye can see. The Chinamans Hat is a small island near Kualoa Ranch. A beautiful canoe or kayak paddle to theMokulua is a great escape for the day to an isolated island. Lanikai is by far one of the prettiest areas on Oahu, laden with spectacular bechside homes, crystal clear water and the famous Mokoluas also known as mokes (two small islands) out in the ocean. 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. Hanauma Bay. The Hawaiian monk seal is the only seal native to Hawaii and is one of only two mammals nativeto the islands. This can be a dangerous spot for those not familiar with the ocean and her mighty strength. Photography Tour: Full-Circle Island Photo Tour, Photography Tour: Sunset Photography Tour. 3. These secret places arent just great for adults but also perfect for kids as well! this is my secret spot !!! It does have strong currents, so wear fins and be extra cautious as you snorkel. And in 2000, she won a James Beard Award. Check Out The 5 Best Lanai Lookout Tours Here. Hike up the Diamond Head Crater for epic views of Waikiki. 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). This trail is one of the top five most popular things to do on Oahu. But you cant visit the North shore without trying some famous Garlic Shrimp. On Oahus, most eastern point sits the Makapuu Lighthouse. This is located in Waimnalo and is also a camping site. Since 1967, Hanauma Bay has been a protected marine life conservation area and a favorite spot for visitors to enjoy snorkeling off the shore. A traditional, magnificent example of Hawaiian self-sufficiency where rums are made from heirloom sugar cane. Destination & Tourism, Best Destinations for Travelers Who Hate People There are some great underwater scuba diving adventures, best Oahu . 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. Kaneohe Sandbar. The morning sun slowly warms the sandy beaches of Waikiki as your guide takes you on a journey through the history of the island. New Orleans & Company, How Smart Payments Can Help Alleviate Future Travel Chaos From Lanikai or Kailua Beach a kayak to the mokes will take about thirty minutes. Maui's Secret Cove, for example, is a popular spot for wedding ceremonies, and Kauai's Secret Beach can be found easily on Google. Heads up this trail is illegal also although still heavily frequented daily. If you struggle with being on a beach with hundreds of tourists, check out Kawela Bay. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We saw sharks, turtles, plane wrecks, and shipwrecks. When parking in the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail carpark, there is another attraction close by. This luau is run by a Samoan family that incorporates a lot of Samoan traditions in addition to Hawaiian culture. Ive added the link to some of the top-rated tours in each section so you can book your activities in advance for your vacation to Oahu, Hawaii. The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. There isnt a much better way to enjoy than sunset than aboard a yacht with a cocktail! Prices shown for: 1 Rm, 2 Guests. Subsequently, you have likely heard that the only way to get to the 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. 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. This is one of the Honolulu secret spots right in town. That's a lot to explore. Cockroach Cove is right next to Halona Blowhole. There are A LOT of surf spots in WaikikiCanoes, Ala Moana, Queens and Kaisers just to name a few. At the end of the trail is the chimney a vertical rock face you can climb with the assistance of a rope. You can book yourself onto a guided tour that includes pick/up and drop-off from your Waikiki hotel. Find Dead mans catwalk (or where it used to be), Reach the summit of Wiliwilinui ridge trail, The highlight of the trip is the snorkeling in Hanauma Bay where its quite famous for swimming with lots of tropical fish and, Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran, Oahu Full-Circle Island 60 minute Helicopter Tour, Pearl Harbor, Arizona Memorial, & Punchbowl National Cemetery, Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise, Diamond Head Crater Hike & Manoa Falls Combo, Waikiki Discovery Scuba Diving for Beginners, Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Hawaiian Entertainment, One hour Waikiki surf lesson for two people, Hidden Gems of Oahu with North Shore Turtle Snorkeling. Copyright 2023 Journey Era | Mediavine Trellis Child - Journey Era on Trellis Framework by Mediavine. But there's far more to Hawaii's capital city than surfing. It is a natural beauty and should be kept as an off-the-beaten-path on Oahu to ensure it is kept beautiful. If you want an extra adventure, you can also camp there! Gunstock Ranch. of the trail you can see the turquoise water of the east coast and the panoramic views. Try out this hidden gem of Honolulu if you can swim extremely well, climb up wet rocks, and need an adrenaline rush! Jurassic Park and Lost filmed scenes in this lush green area. Hanauma bay is a longtime favorite of water lovers, but sadly, the big number of tourists caused serious damage on the reef. Itinerary includes --> Waikiki Pickup (7:00 am - 7:30 am) Find some in the following locations: Each one is unique and brings its own peace when you visit. This island is home to seabirds, not goats. Im Jackson, an Australian adventure traveler who has been on the road for eight years now. Dying to take your loved one to a romantic cruise whilst in Oahu? . 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). The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. Alan Davis Beach. 22. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. What better way to see Oahu than from hundreds of feet up in the air. Dont worry about the gear as the tour guide will provide you snorkel gear like goggles and masks. 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. The Byodo-In Temple is another secret of Oahu worth sharing. The views from each location are simply breathtaking and will leave you speechless when you arrive at each spot. A traditional coconut pudding many locals crave. Stuart Schuffman. Notable competitions are the Billabong Pipe Masters and the Eddie a big wave surf competition at Waimea Bay. Utilize Oahu Public Transportation 9. Locals know the best areas, after all, this is their island. Water rushes in with waves, filling the cave before being spat out with great force. Built in the 16th century, Kane'aki Heiau is considered the best preserved heiau on Oahu. This is a post in my Oahu Bucket List series. Where: Hanapepe Pl, Honolulu, HI 96825, United States. Oahu also draws more visitors than any other . These secret(ish) activities will ensure a wonderful trip to Kauai with kids or without. Hanauma Bay is the most popular snorkeling beach on Oahu with hundreds of tourists visiting each day. Your tour begins with a short ATV ride to the top of a mountain. Were here to help! There are plenty of food trucks lining the coast all claiming to be the best and the original. :), These images are incredible and well informed knowlege of oahu. It is an official seabird sanctuary, so some parts of the island are marked, and you cannot enter. Your Facebook information, including your name, photo & any other personal data you make public on Facebook will appear with your comment, and may be used on TravelPulse.com. Book your tour: Oahu Full-Circle Island 60 minute Helicopter Tour, Book your tour: 25-minute Waikiki Helicopter Tour. 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. Goat Island is a tiny little island off the coast of Laie Bay. 1/11 9k followers. After graduating with a journalism degree, I set off to explore the world while creating adventure travel guides featuring hikes, waterfalls, beaches & adrenaline activities. Oahu Travel. Highly rated hidden gems in Oahu's North Shore: Top hidden gem activities. 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. Hollow barrels if big enough. Hanauma Bay. Marvel at the Views from the Nuuanu Pali Lookout. Hawaii Hikes. Soar through the North Shores jungles on a thrilling zipline tour. It is located on the island's leeward (west) side in Makaha Valley and . Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular Oahu attractions. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Where: K Hana Distillers. This is why it is one of my favorite spots to go to. Acai berries are a superfood native to Central and South America. Where: K Hana Distillers. Do you love Hawaii? The cement platform might be gone but the epic view is still as amazing as ever. This is run by a nonprofit to keep the area safe, beautiful and to preserve the culture. 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. Locals flock to get barrels before getting dumped and the beach is always full of action. Keep your eyes peeled for the playful Spinner Dolphins who live in these waters. This waterfall is a beautiful gem on Oahu to visit and explore the culture of Hawaii a bit more! Say hello to Pickles the cow and her friends while basking in the lush environment, certainly conducive to happy animals and resulting in a better product. This article will provide a list of the best hidden gems in Oahu that are perfect for your next trip. Learn about Hawaiian history and culture while exploring the coastline. Try some of the other local favorites eating spots. tively short hike but dont be fooled. Fringed by a beautiful beach of white-tinged sand, it all sits in a volcanic crater protected from the elements. Here's our favorite hidden spots on Oahu. Cant decide? The water here entices you in where you will catch a glimpse of the varied sea life. This is truly one of the most epic viewpoints anywhere in the world and a must-do activity on Oahu. 5. The Dole Plantation is a great spot to stop at on the way to the north shore for a tasty pineapple treat. The hike takes a few hours if you are quick and 5-6 hours if you are a slower hiker. 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. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is the first place you should add to your Oahu bucket list. You can swim in the pool below this beuautiful Oahu waterfall. Book your tour: Two-hour shark dive on Oahu. Aug 28, 2013 4 min read. Source: adamkresina on Instagram. Get Naked and buy local! Only a few yards high they make the area a perfect spot to hang out for the day. Ask a local. Its one of the most unique things to do on Oahu and definitely off the beaten path. I have createdthe Ultimate Oahu bucket list for inspiration about the best things to do on Oahu, Hawaii. This is a residential area as well, so people need to be aware that extreme noise will cause disruption for local people. 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. Book your tour: Atlantis Submarine Adventure. Your email address will not be published. 303. Discover Panama with Taggea Tours by Viajes Yarilena and 2022. If you're visiting Oahu soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Oahu Visitor Guides. Kawela Bay, Oahu A lovely secluded and protected beach, Kawela Bay is close to Oahu island's northern tip. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. It is a 3.5-mile hike and is not too difficult. They are protected so once they swim onto the shore you must keep a safe distance from them and definitely dont touch them. Where: Anywhere off the main strip. Accents Pick up take-home treasures, accessories, and jewelry at Accents, our on-site gift shops. The road is narrow and has several hairpin turns with beautiful homes along the way.