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. Youll never run out of things to do on this fantastic island. 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. Respect the land and try to keep it a relaxing and peaceful spot for everyone else around you. However, China Walls shows that side of this volcanic island! When parking in the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail carpark, there is another attraction close by. Oahu - Hidden Gems, Secret Spots, Tips from Locals | YAHglobal 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. I lived on Oahu for two years and loved adventuring from the beaches to the mountains to the waterfalls! 40 Things You Have To Do In Oahu - The Globe Wanderers While not technically a beach, this location is in fact a stretch of lava rock cliffs and edges extending high above sea level. Dont worry about the gear as the tour guide will provide you snorkel gear like goggles and masks. 1/11 Built in the 16th century, Kane'aki Heiau is considered the best preserved heiau on Oahu. 92-1770 Kunia Rd #227, Kunia Camp, 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. 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. The tour takes you just a few miles offshore where you will put on a snorkel and get inside a cage. The 25 Best Things to Do on Oahu - Wandering Wheatleys It's kinda dangerous for the kids to walk down" more 2. hard (but worth it): Mt. 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. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Get up early and head to the east coast of Oahu before the sun rises. THE 10 BEST Hidden Gems in Oahu's North Shore (Updated 2023) - Tripadvisor 8 Most Beautiful Off the Beaten Path Hawaii Places to Visit 50 Most Instagrammable Places in Oahu in 2021 (with Map & Photos) Ultimate Surfing Guide to Oahu, Hawaii | Oahu Surf Spots - My Wave Finder But it is better to swim to protect the coral below. You have many to choose from as the winter season comes. I did this tour with my family when they came for vacation and it was an incredible experience youll never forget. Descending to 100 feet underwater is an adventure in itself. If you just want someone to show you, the best option is to take a professional with you. This tour is perfect for visitors who stay in Oahu for a short time but still want to see what Oahu has to offer. In the mountains overlooking the famous Pipeline beach and the North Shore of Oahu, the Peace Hike provides a great vantage point. You can camp in the Sherwood Forest part and be a few steps away from this amazing hidden gem on Oahu. Being less common to visit on a trip to Hawaii than Oahu or Maui, off the beaten path Kauai is still quiet and beautiful; nearly untouched. All Rights Reserved. Big Island Bees 80 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON OAHU, HAWAII - Journey Era After graduating with a journalism degree, I set off to explore the world while creating adventure travel guides featuring hikes, waterfalls, beaches & adrenaline activities. The best part about these Oahu hidden spots is that they are all free! 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 The Big Island has the stunning Waipio Valley and the rugged volcanic landscape. Because it is a non-practicing Buddhist temple, all visitors are welcome. Oahu has tons of amazing places to eat. To get you started, here are a few of my favorite hidden gems. 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. Off the beaten path, amongst a Honolulu neighborhood you'll find Helena's, she's been serving authentic Hawaiian plates since 1946. 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. Live like a local and discover Honolulu with our pick of the hidden gems and secret spots in and around the city. It can be extremely dangerous, especially with strong surf. If not, we recommend giving them a try. 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. After twenty minutes of hiking, you will find a small platform/pillbox that has a peace sign painted on it. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. The Koolaus will loom behind you in the darkness as you wait for the sun to creep over the horizon. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is the first place you should add to your Oahu bucket list. They also invite guests to cook Samoan food, which is a fun opportunity. Remember, the land and properties are peoples homes, and in many instances, their livelihood is generated from everyday communities, not from those of tourist dollars.. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. You can simply just relax and not worry about huge waves. If searching for the best coffee in Oahu, then Kona Coffee needs to be on your Oahu Bucket List. Electric Beach got its name from the power plant close by, well, right across the street! Oahu - Wikitravel Book your tour: Majestic Full Day Circle Island Tour(Best-selling tour). Hike up the Diamond Head Crater for epic views of Waikiki. In the mountains on the west side of Oahu is the Pink Pillbox Hike. Once you arrive at the island a mini hike to the top will give you amazing views of the shore and the Kualoa Mountains. New Orleans & Company, Complimentary Itinerary Building Assistance 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. Be prepared for masses of tourists. 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. Its only a few years old, so most tourists havent heard of it. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. The hike is short and on the same trails as the Luakaha Waterfall. The ship was confiscated in the1990s for carrying more than 90illegal immigrants toHawaii. Tropical Yet Metropolitan. Three Peaks or Olomana Trail is a treacherous looking hike with three steep peaks that can be seen all the way from Lanikai. Location: 63 S Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786, USA. Where: K Hana Distillers. It's a little slick in spots so just be cautious! Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular Oahu attractions. Best secret spots near me in Honolulu, HI Sort:Recommended All Price Open Now 1. History comes alive before your eyes as you weave your way up the Koolau Mountains to the Nuuanu Pali Lookout where King Kamehameha I battled to unite the Hawaiian Islands. On Oahus, most eastern point sits the Makapuu Lighthouse. 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. This is located in Waimnalo and is also a camping site. Surf at Sunset 3. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. Oahu's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Oahu's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. Keep your eyes peeled for the playful Spinner Dolphins who live in these waters. One of the best spots to get a Haupia Pie after a day of beaching it on the north shore is Teds Bakery. A sunset cruise on a 53-foot catamaran takes you south toward Hawaiis iconic Diamond Head. Oahu also draws more visitors than any other . Feel the adrenaline rush while soaring from the top of Oahus longest ziplines on this guided tour. This means that state law prohibits certain activities (like fishing for one), within these areas. If you happen to venture out of the inner city, dont forget to try locally grown and made traditional foods. Download your copy of our Theres actually this great tour that does kayaking, stand-up paddleboard, and a short waterfall hike all. 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! Notable competitions are the Billabong Pipe Masters and the Eddie a big wave surf competition at Waimea Bay. If you dont mind camping, it is totally worth it to see this beach! Oahu Instagram Spots and Photography Destinations. Log in, Hi I'm Jamie! 10 Hidden Gems In Oahu For Your Hawaii Dream Vacation - Travelling Dany 'Secret Spots' of Oahu Photography Tour 2023 en $ USD Account Overview What's Included Meeting And Pickup What To Expect Additional Info Cancellation Policy Book online or call: (888) 651-9785 Chat now Home Things to do in USA Things to do in Hawaii Things to do in Oahu Oahu Tours Outdoor Activities Nature and Wildlife Tours If you'd like to help even more, be sure to check out my Patreon as well. 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. This is a hike none of the other tourists in the hotel will even know exists. Do you love Hawaii? This island is home to seabirds, not goats. A place popular with surfers and jumpers, these cliffs will partner with a beautiful sunset to greet everyone at the end of the day. Keep your eyes peeled for the playful Spinner Dolphins who live in these waters. Secret Oahu Full Circle Island Tour With A Local Guide - Viator A friendly low-key environment on the beach while surfers ride some mental waves out in the water. Everyone hates waiting in a long queue but on this tour, youll be able to skip lines for a hassle-free excursion. If you do go, be sure to wear some sort of water shoes, because there can be rocks every now and then. Oahu Sacred Places - To-Hawaii Insider Secrets to Travel Like a Local on Oahu Oahu. 22. 'Secret Spots' of Oahu Photography Tour 2023 - viator.com The food here is really good. Bowls range from $6 to $15 depending on where you buy them from. The island of Lanai in Hawai'i is a paradise for cats and cat lovers. You can climb around on the rocks, take in the beauty, or go along the beach shore. The best snorkeling tour on Oahu is the Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. Places located off the beaten track can be the very thing that keeps a multitude of tourists milling about. When you turn the other way at the top . 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. It is important to know that this hike is illegal and off-limits. There are several photography tours on Oahu and I will link them below. Soar through the North Shores jungles on a thrilling zipline tour. But these are some of the best hidden gems in Hawaii that will take your vacation to the next level! 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. Punchy rights and lefts on offer. Most often, you dont see volcanic rocks on Oahu. Learn from your guide the rich plantation history and describe how this famously sweet plant became a symbol of Hawaii. 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. If you want a more authentic experience, these are hands-down the best luaus on Oahu. 22 Best Oahu Instagram Spots (2023) - Hawaii Travel with Kids Destination & Tourism Wave direction : Right and left. Also known as King Kamehameha III summer home, this is a slice of Hawaiian history hidden on the Nuuanu Oahu hike. There isnt a much better way to enjoy than sunset than aboard a yacht with a cocktail! In fact, most of them have official names, and are relatively easy to find. Makua Beach (sometimes known as Tunnels Beach) is the perfect sunset spot in Oahu when you just want to get away from it all. Photography Tour: Full-Circle Island Photo Tour, Photography Tour: Sunset Photography Tour. A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you won't be able to keep to yourself. 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. tively short hike but dont be fooled. Off the beaten path Kauai: 18 secret(ish) activities and tips - 2TravelDads Ride an ATV to the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views of Oahu. 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. Watching a surf comp is one of the best things to do on Oahu no matter what island you are on. Hidden Gem Spots the Oahu Locals Love - Hawaii Guide So, lets go and see what we can find that may be less crowded and more akin to the peace and gentle Hawaiian nature that will have you coming back again and again. Pickup and drop-off service and equipment are included. Are you looking for some new adventures on Oahu? The 5 Best Hidden Gem Hotels on Oahu | Oyster.com Our team is constantly working on new content for this blog so make sure to subscribe below and check back often for updates! Secret Island is a hidden peninsula on the windward side of Oahu in Kaneohe. If you take a leisurely walk up you can expect to finish between 30 minutes and 1 hour. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. While onboard, you will enjoy the delicious buffet and some chitchats with other passengers. Try some of the other local favorites eating spots. At the end of the trail is the chimney a vertical rock face you can climb with the assistance of a rope. Image by Ignacio Palacios/Getty Images. 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. The Mermaid Caves are literally a secret place in Oahu and should be kept that way! 25 Best Snorkeling Spots in Oahu, Hawaii (with Map) Huge waves crash directly onto sand or only a few feet of water. Maui has tons of gorgeous waterfalls along the Road to Hana as well as the lush Upcountry Maui. Fringed by a beautiful beach of white-tinged sand, it all sits in a volcanic crater protected from the elements. 2022 13. If you want to skip the crowded beaches of Lanikai and Kailua, head to Bellow's Beach in Waimanalo Bay. 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! Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. Lanai Lookout. Hours: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Visiting this beach is one of the most special things to do on Oahu. This is the busiest tourist spot in Hawaii. There is a tour that includes transport, assistance, food, and someone to carry your water and guide you along the way. Cockroach Cove is right next to Halona Blowhole. We all know what to expect for a tourist-dominated location such as the Hawaiian Islands, but there are some places that only the locals know. 14. READ NEXT 25 of the Best National Parks in the USA (Beautiful + Diverse!) Enjoy Sunrise Views on the Stairway to Heaven Hike. Oahu Instagram and Photography Spots Overview. Many love to jump off China Walls as well. . Aug 28, 2013 4 min read. You can read my full review HERE. Hilo, Hawaii Kaumana Lava Tubes Hide from the tourist hordes in these relatively unknown, and unguarded lava caves. There is also a lot of accommodation, restaurants and nightlife opportunities. 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. 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. Kona coffee comes from the Big Island of Hawaii, but it's also incredibly fresh in Oahu. It is the most convenient place on the island to learn how to surf with many surf schools and board rentals. It is truly a magical experience. Mahalo! There are no paved roads or commercial buildings here, just beautiful Hawaii nature as far as the eye can see. 92-1770 Kunia Rd #227, Kunia Camp, Oahu. inone day. Find this local favorite on the East Shore of Oahu! The North Shore of Oahu is famous for surf, beaches, and the chill vibes. Book your tour: North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour. Starting at $109-139/person. Cant decide? Visit sites like Diamond Head, the Pali Lookout, Mokoli'i Island, and Laie Point. take about thirty minutes. Were here to help! Alan Davis Beach. What to do on Oahu? There is an option for a fully guided kayak tour, including a professional guide, safety gear, and lunch! Chinatown on Oahu isn't particularly beautiful, but that's exactly what qualifies it as a secret Oahu destination. Scenic Drives and Secret Beaches on Oahu, Hawaii - TripSavvy 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. Away from the city at Kaena Point or at Makapuu seem to be the most popular. Click here to learn more. 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. The hike is 2.7 miles one way and shows off the volcanic coast, tide pools, arches, and so much more. Veer off the main streets and head for Monsarrat or Kapahulu Avenues. For a few dollars, you can rent yourself a surfboard and join the masses trying their hand at surfing at the famous Waikiki Beach. 15 Places You Can't Miss in Oahu (Hawaii) - Avenly Lane Travel The highlight of the trip is the snorkeling in Hanauma Bay where its quite famous for swimming with lots of tropical fish and sea turtles. Acai berries are a superfood native to Central and South America. Set sail along the turquoise waters of Hawaiis coast heading towards Ko Olina coast. It can be hard to spot, especially because it is in a forest-type area! The hike is right next to the Pali Highway and only takes about 30 minutes. I will never endorse anything fake or not worth considering. Plan out your next trip today by checking out this article right now! Secret Things to Do in Oahu: The BEST Local Hidden Gems Try out this hidden gem of Honolulu if you can swim extremely well, climb up wet rocks, and need an adrenaline rush!