Jumping off the rock is one of the most iconic things to do on Oahu. Book your tour: Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise. A friendly low-key environment on the beach while surfers ride some mental waves out in the water. 15 Places You Can't Miss in Oahu (Hawaii) - Avenly Lane Travel Makapuu Lookout. If you just want someone to show you, the best option is to take a professional with you. Panama Blog, Adventure and Culture in Tahitis Islands Thank for your continued support. Waikiki Beach. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. It is a natural beauty and should be kept as an off-the-beaten-path on Oahu to ensure it is kept beautiful. 100 feet below the surface lies The Sea Tiger, which is a former Chinese trading vessel originally named Yun Fong Seong No. That means that if you purchase a product or service that I reccomend, I get a small cut of the sale. This hike is a popular place for locals to work out, and tourists to take in some incredible sights! This cliff offers a panoramic view of the island's northeast coast and is a short five miles from Honolulu. 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. Located in Kahaluu, you can go and walk on these sacred grounds. The hike itself is free but it isnt near Waikiki. These 12 places are some of Hawaii's best kept secrets, though don't worry, I haven't given away all of their locations. 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. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Itinerary includes --> Waikiki Pickup (7:00 am - 7:30 am) Its truly an experience theyll remember forever so dont wait any longer. Kahala Hotel Last but not least on my list of 5 secret Oahu locations is the Kahala Hotel. While it is illegal, the stairway is still frequented by a small number of people on most mornings. Sandys is right around the corner if you get bored and want to go get smashed by some waves. Located in the Kekaulike Market, 1039 Kekaulike St #113, Honolulu for the most delicious poke bowls. Fringed by a beautiful beach of white-tinged sand, it all sits in a volcanic crater protected from the elements. Kona coffee comes from the Big Island of Hawaii, but it's also incredibly fresh in Oahu. The water here entices you in where you will catch a glimpse of the varied sea life. This is one of the lesser known Oahu attractions. Set sail along the turquoise waters of Hawaiis coast heading towards Ko Olina coast. This can be a dangerous spot for those not familiar with the ocean and her mighty strength. Hidden Gem Hotels on Oahu. 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. 25 Best Snorkeling Spots in Oahu, Hawaii (with Map) Its one of the top things to do in Oahu for adrenaline junkies. Book your tour: Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Catamaran Cruise. This is the only remaining real dairy farm business in Hawaii, and long shall it remain so. This lookout point is on the East Side of Oahu, and worth a quick few minutes! The tour picks you up at 7:15 in the morning at selected Waikiki hotels and the itinerary includes Diamond Head Lookout, Tropical Hawaiian Coffee, and Macadamia Nut Farms, ChinaMans Hat, North Shore Shrimp Trucks, North Shore Fruit Stand, the legendary Sunset Beach, Turtle Snorkeling, and Dole Pineapple Plantation. 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. Mermaid Cove is one of the best hidden gems of Oahu, in my opinion. 17 Must Eat Places in Oahu: Where to Find the Best Food - Wanderly I include a map and photos as well! The North Shore of Oahu is famous for surf, beaches, and the chill vibes. One of the lesser known thingsto do on Oahu but definitely one to enjoy from a safe distance. Ka'ena Point State Park After a drab drive, inspiration awaits at little-visited, yet . This small beachside campground on Oahu's northeastern shore might just be the prettiest campground in the Aloha State. Hanauma Bay. During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! Mahalo! It is best accessible when it is low tide. The hike is right next to the Pali Highway and only takes about 30 minutes. But it is worth all the trouble! This is the most popular hike on Oahu and probably the most popular thing to do on Oahu aside from visit Waikiki Beach. Maui has tons of gorgeous waterfalls along the Road to Hana as well as the lush Upcountry Maui. 1. At the Hoomaluhia Gardens, you can paint, fish, and explore the beautiful surroundings. All Rights Reserved. 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.. There is no better way to start your day than with a short sunrise hike overlooking the ocean and amazing scenery. 1. I was lucky enough to see a few monk seals both in the ocean and on shore. Have you visited any of these hidden gems on your trip to Oahu? It sounds like there would be few venturing into the water however, this is the most crowded beach on a weekend. Oahu Travel. This is my Journey Era. Its one of the most unique things to do on Oahu and definitely off the beaten path. Have you ever thought about swimming with sharks? This site has a lot more to do than just a waterfall; you can explore the botanical gardens and eat delicious food! Its only a few years old, so most tourists havent heard of it. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Wow what amazing place to go backpacking, fabulous post! Were here to help! Where: Anywhere off the main strip. . Waikiki beach, Oahu. The Kona region is known for having sunny mornings, high rain and little wind. 1) Papohaku Beach Kristina D.C. Hoeppner/Flickr You will be surprised to find very few people on this stunning beach, which is the longest white sand beach throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Built in the 16th century, Kane'aki Heiau is considered the best preserved heiau on Oahu. Book your tour: North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour. While all the beaches in Hawaii are gorgeous, some just take your breath away. The Kaena Point State Park connects the Westside and North Shore sides of the island. Samurais in Aiea for awesome ice treats. Here's our favorite hidden spots on Oahu. However, you can get a bowl with octopus, squid or other types of seafood. The Koolaus will loom behind you in the darkness as you wait for the sun to creep over the horizon. 2022 13. From here, you will have amazing views over Waikiki and the ocean. 10 Great Places Only Locals Know in Oahu - Discover Hidden Gems in Oahu Top Little Known Spots in Oahu - Indefinite Travel You can also see a sea cave. 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. 50 Most Instagrammable Places in Oahu in 2021 (with Map & Photos) Leonard's Bakery. 21. The food here is really good. You can walk toward Diamond Head side to get away from crowds, but there are many incredible areas for you on this island! Discover short videos related to secret spots on oahu on TikTok. Waimea Bay is my favorite beach on Oahu. Noreen Kompanik Hanauma Bay. 10 Hidden Gems In Oahu For Your Hawaii Dream Vacation - Travelling Dany You also need to complete a few basic rock climbs to complete the trail. Hanauma Bay is the most popular snorkeling beach on Oahu with hundreds of tourists visiting each day. On the far west side of Oahu, Makua Beach lies at the foot of majestic mountains, hiding behind a wall of trees. 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 . 40 Things You Have To Do In Oahu - The Globe Wanderers Jurassic Park and Lost filmed scenes in this lush green area. 73 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Hawaii - Atlas Obscura While it is quite beautiful and such a fun adventure, this snorkeling location is not for beginners. 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. Waimea Valley and its waterfalls await you, discover this beautiful place steeped with history, spirituality and island traditions. Set sail along the turquoise waters of Hawaiis coast heading towards Ko Olina coast. Hawaii Beaches. 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. 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. Visiting this beach is one of the most special things to do on 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 was one of my all-time favorite things to do on Oahu. A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you wont be able to keep to yourself. 2022. Discover amazing hidden Oahu waterfalls, the rugged & rustic Oahu North Shore, and famous Hawaiian surfing spots. Best snorkeling in Oahu - Top snorkel spots - Snorkel Around The World Source: adamkresina on Instagram. Oahu Bucket List Series P.S. I lived on Oahu for two years and loved adventuring from the beaches to the mountains to the waterfalls! The Big Island has the stunning Waipio Valley and the rugged volcanic landscape. There is a long water pipe out in the ocean, which is the best spot to go snorkeling. They guarantee to have you standing up and riding a wave! 9 Somewhat Secret Spots in Oahu Hawaii - Simply Wander Travel Agent, 19 Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts with the Finest Dining Try some of the other local favorites eating spots. Although tourists will come and go en masse in the carpark above the cove it is actually a great spot to chill out. inone day. Your tour begins with a short ATV ride to the top of a mountain. by: Victoria Derrick. Aloha! The road is narrow and has several hairpin turns with beautiful homes along the way. Stunning, Welcoming. Destination & Tourism, Best Destinations for Travelers Who Hate People 5 Secret Oahu locations - Luxury on Points New Orleans & Company, Complimentary Itinerary Building Assistance Oahu is home to some of the most gorgeous attractions, like the Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden, Tantalus, the Kaaawa Valley, and the Byodo-In Temple. It might seem extreme but it is very controlled and quite safe. Big Island Bees Guided tours are a great way to learn about those little places, activities and off-the-beaten-path gems. 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. Waikiki. This is easily one of THE MOST POPULAR tours on Oahu. 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. China Walls got its name from Richard Okita, one of the first to surf this wave at Portlock Point in 1948. 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. Click Here to book your tour of the North Shore Zipline Tour in advance (Often sells out weeks in advance). The view makes it spectacular. 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 You dont need to be a good swimmer as you just hold on inside the cage. Turtles often feed in the area and the rock formations and little caves make a great backdrop for an afternoon chill session. Learn about the best time to visit Oahu . Enjoy a series of ziplines, rappels, sky bridges, boardwalks, and more. The 25 Best Things to Do on Oahu - Wandering Wheatleys Scenic Drives and Secret Beaches on Oahu, Hawaii - TripSavvy While you are up there check out one of the best beaches on the North Shore. You may use your Facebook account to add a comment, subject to Facebook's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Book your tour: Oahu Full-Circle Island 60 minute Helicopter Tour, Book your tour: 25-minute Waikiki Helicopter Tour. 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. 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. Oahu. 3. Hidden Eateries on Oahu You Need to Try - Hawaii Magazine 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 have many to choose from as the winter season comes. You can read my full review HERE. LOL . Wave direction : Right and left.