When it comes to hotels in Oahu, it's hard to find a refuge that hasn't already been discovered by the teeming hordes. Book your tour: North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour. Sandys is right around the corner if you get bored and want to go get smashed by some waves. Leonard's Bakery. Guided tours are a great way to learn about those little places, activities and off-the-beaten-path gems. 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. If you are looking for a place to snorkel on Oahu, this is the best place . 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. There is nothing wrong with the traditional Oahu tourist spots, and you should check them out during your vacation as well. Try some of the other local favorites eating spots. Hanauma Bay is the most popular spot for tourists to spot a turtle or explore the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean. LOL . Oahu also draws more visitors than any other . The 25 Best Things to Do on Oahu - Wandering Wheatleys Five Hidden Gems Near Waikiki and 'Alohilani - Alohilani 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! So sit back, relax, and enjoy our top 13 hidden gems in Oahu! 1. Here Are The 12 Best Kept Secrets In Hawaii - OnlyInYourState Oahu Snorkel Guide - The Best Beaches For Snorkeling [2021] The Kona region is known for having sunny mornings, high rain and little wind. Theres actually this great tour that does kayaking, stand-up paddleboard, and a short waterfall hike all. Learn from your guide the rich plantation history and describe how this famously sweet plant became a symbol of Hawaii. Click Here to book your tour of the North Shore Zipline Tour in advance (Often sells out weeks in advance). Samurais in Aiea for awesome ice treats. 10 Great Places Only Locals Know in Oahu - Discover Hidden Gems in Oahu 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. 4. Some are for sunrise, sunset or landscape focused with locals who know the spots and can teach you how to shoot amazing photos. Nu'uanu Pali Lookout is one of the most beautiful places in Oahu for landscape photography. This is run by a nonprofit to keep the area safe, beautiful and to preserve the culture. You may use your Facebook account to add a comment, subject to Facebook's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. 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. The view makes it spectacular. 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. Learn about the best time to visit Oahu . '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 Book your tour: Diamond Head Crater Hike & Manoa Falls Combo. To get you started, here are a few of my favorite hidden gems. For a few dollars, you can rent yourself a surfboard and join the masses trying their hand at surfing at the famous Waikiki Beach. 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. This is by far the cheapest boat tour on Oahu but also one of the most interesting. Be prepared for masses of tourists. 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. Book your tour: Circle Island Tour of Oahu. Here is the complete series: Food: The 10 Most Delicious and Satisfying Must Eats in Honolulu, Hawaii Instagram: The 10 Most Instagrammable Places in Oahu Hidden Gems: 8 Secret Things to Do in Oahu Hawaii Go Cliff Jumping at the China Walls (secret things to do in Oahu). Locals flock to get barrels before getting dumped and the beach is always full of action. They also invite guests to cook Samoan food, which is a fun opportunity. Watch the sunrise from Lanikai Pillbox hike. Check Out The 5 Best Lanai Lookout Tours Here. Hawaii Hikes. This is definitely one of the best hidden gems in Honolulu. Book your tour: Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki. It is important wherever you are granted an invitation to local secrets that mindfulness and respect are extended. Gunstock Ranch. This is one of the Honolulu secret spots right in town. Dying to take your loved one to a romantic cruise whilst in Oahu? Oahu. Live like a local and discover Honolulu with our pick of the hidden gems and secret spots in and around the city. Thankfully, you can see some of the most instagrammable places in Oahu even if you're not a hiker! Book an Airbnb 4. 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 China Walls are a secret place to cliff jump . Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is the first place you should add to your Oahu bucket list. Pictured below is a shot I took at Waimea Bay a week before the Eddie. This site has a lot more to do than just a waterfall; you can explore the botanical gardens and eat delicious food! It can be extremely dangerous, especially with strong surf. But you cant visit the North shore without trying some famous Garlic Shrimp. 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! There is a great kayak rental at Kaneohe that sets up the kayaks on the beach for you so you can paddle out Chinamans Hat. With so many great attractions and activities that are perfect for all ages, it may be hard to decide what your favorite spots will be during your vacation. 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. The Stairway to Heaven was one of my favorite things to do on Oahu. You can walk toward Diamond Head side to get away from crowds, but there are many incredible areas for you on this island! The beach is roughly 40 minutes from . Painted pink as a testimony to breast cancer victims and survivors, the abandoned military pillbox isnt hard to spot. Visitors just have to know where to find it. . This was one of my favorite little hidden beach spots in Oahu. Its only a few years old, so most tourists havent heard of it. It sounds like there would be few venturing into the water however, this is the most crowded beach on a weekend. Travel Agent, 19 Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts with the Finest Dining 50 Most Instagrammable Places in Oahu in 2021 (with Map & Photos) North Shore Tacos Head to open-air North Shore Tacos (formerly known as Surfin' Tacos) for tacos island-style: laden with fresh fish, cilantro, and the joint's Secret Surf Sauce. You can camp in the Sherwood Forest part and be a few steps away from this amazing hidden gem on Oahu. This incredible island has great beaches, hikes, waterfalls, snorkeling spots, and restaurants to try. 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: SUP, Kayak & Waterfall Hike Oahu Tour. Secret Oahu Full Circle Island Tour With A Local Guide - Viator 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. The views of the Koolaus are worth it all. Kawela Bay, Oahu A lovely secluded and protected beach, Kawela Bay is close to Oahu island's northern tip. Onboard a sailing Catamaran drinking tropical Hawaiian cocktails and relaxing while enjoying the legendary sunset and the magnificent Hawaiian coast. 5. The Chinamans Hat is a small island near Kualoa Ranch. 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. 10 Hidden Gems In Oahu For Your Hawaii Dream Vacation - Travelling Dany Set sail along the turquoise waters of Hawaiis coast heading towards Ko Olina coast. Oahu Travel Guide for the Ultimate Vacation Experience Set sail along the turquoise waters of Hawaiis coast heading towards Ko Olina coast. New Orleans & Company, How Smart Payments Can Help Alleviate Future Travel Chaos Not necessarily in that order. Always go with someone and help each other out. I had done some Oahu cliff jumping in the past but this spot was always a little bit sketchy for me at the time. Koko Head. 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. Just inside the Koko Head volcanic region. But what they don't realise is that there is a lot . This stunning bay is surrounded by lush green hills. Also, see famous places like Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay. Whether its exploring the island or spending time with your family, these places are sure to make your vacation unforgettable. The entire sweeping coastline is stuff vacation fantasies are made of. Book your lesson: One hour Waikiki surf lesson for two people. Mahalo! Located at 559 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu. China Walls. Due to the power plant emitting warm water into the ocean, the sea life there is stunning. This is a post in my Oahu Bucket List series. Copyright 2019-2023 Hawaii Travel With Kids/Marcie In Mommyland, Best Oahu Hidden Gems: Secret Places in Oahu Youll Want to Check Out, Privacy Policy for Hawaii Travel with Kids. 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. A traditional, magnificent example of Hawaiian self-sufficiency where rums are made from heirloom sugar cane. There are many more gorgeous places will provide endless family fun and zillions of postcard-perfect photo . If you follow the path all the way to towards the ocean and venture down the cliffs you will find a small rock bridge. A friendly low-key environment on the beach while surfers ride some mental waves out in the water. You wont regret it. If you see yourself as someone who prefers the roads less traveled some of these may be for you. READ NEXT 25 of the Best National Parks in the USA (Beautiful + Diverse!) It is best accessible when it is low tide. 80 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON OAHU, HAWAII - Journey Era Location: 63 S Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786, USA. 1/11 The North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour is the most easily the most epic and most unique activity on Oahu. Veer off the main streets and head for Monsarrat or Kapahulu Avenues. Hike up the Diamond Head Crater for epic views of Waikiki. Known as "The Gathering Place," Oahu is the second oldest island of the six main Hawaiian islands. Book your tour: Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise. Stuart Schuffman. This is an iconic photo spot on Oahu. The Kaneohe Sandbar is located in the middle of Kaneohe Bay in-between Chinaman's Hat and Coconut Island, and may or may not be covered with water depending on the tide. On the far west side of Oahu, Makua Beach lies at the foot of majestic mountains, hiding behind a wall of trees. It can be hard to spot, especially because it is in a forest-type area! Strong swimmers only, please. Despite what its name might suggest, the Dead Mans Catwalk provided more amazingviews than perils. Hidden Gem Spots the Oahu Locals Love - Hawaii Guide 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. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? With regular waves breaking perfectly for beginners' surf lessons, Waikiki beach is one of the first beaches that visitors to Honolulu flock to. . Where: An hour northwest of Honolulu on the leeward coast, In the municipality of Waianae, Oahu. The Big Island has the stunning Waipio Valley and the rugged volcanic landscape. Ka'ena Point State Park wraps its far-reaching and rugged arms around the coast of one of the most photogenic places on Oahu. Im Jackson, an Australian adventure traveler who has been on the road for eight years now. 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. If you take a leisurely walk up you can expect to finish between 30 minutes and 1 hour. Best Oahu Snorkeling Beaches - Hawaii Snorkeling Secrets! The Complete Here's our favorite hidden spots on Oahu. Looking out over Kahana Bay, the Crouching Lion Hike offers amazing views, steep drop-offs, and beautiful lush surroundings. Accents Pick up take-home treasures, accessories, and jewelry at Accents, our on-site gift shops. You will feel like you are in the middle of the island and you just about are! Oahu Instagram Spots and Photography Destinations. 5 Secret Oahu locations - Luxury on Points Descending to 100 feet underwater is an adventure in itself. Sherwood Beach. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. 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.. One of the best parts about Kahuku Farms is the delicious fresh food youll find there. Visitors just have to know where to find it. Book your tour: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. 15 Hidden Places In Hawaii Only Locals Know About - OnlyInYourState A forest setting you would expect in the Pacific Northwest of the Mainland is a great spot to have an afternoon hike. 3. Its like swimming in a giant aquarium, but staying dry the whole time! of the trail you can see the turquoise water of the east coast and the panoramic views. If not, we recommend giving them a try. 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. . Cockroach Cove is right next to Halona Blowhole. These 12 places are some of Hawaii's best kept secrets, though don't worry, I haven't given away all of their locations. cooland on keeamoku for assortments of cold treats. Only a short drive or a 30-minute walk up the hill from Waikiki is the much more relaxed Cromwells beach. The road to heaven is said to be one of the scariest in Oahu, so if youre driving here, take care. Cant decide? 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. Tropical Yet Metropolitan. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Waikiki. But it is better to swim to protect the coral below. It can be dangerous if you do not know what you are doing. They really make sure you are entertained and you will have the best trip to Oahu. The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. 9 Of The Greatest Snorkeling Spots In Oahu, Hawaii - Journeying The Globe Copyright Journey Era, 2022 | Sitemap | Privacy Policy. Ultimate Surfing Guide to Oahu, Hawaii | Oahu Surf Spots - My Wave Finder If you want a more authentic experience, these are hands-down the best luaus on Oahu. You will have to go through tunnels and walk quite a distance, so be prepared. 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. 10 hidden gems in Honolulu GO Blog | EF United States See the map below for all locations: 1. BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle/Booze) 8. The Kaena Point State Park connects the Westside and North Shore sides of the island. Try out this hidden gem of Honolulu if you can swim extremely well, climb up wet rocks, and need an adrenaline rush! You also need to complete a few basic rock climbs to complete the trail. Places located off the beaten track can be the very thing that keeps a multitude of tourists milling about. This tour company takes people out and lets them swim with sharks without a cage! When you turn the other way at the top . 8 Most Beautiful Off the Beaten Path Hawaii Places to Visit 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. The Pillbox hikes on Oahu are another favorite photo spot for tourists. There is also a lot of accommodation, restaurants and nightlife opportunities. Things to Do on Oahu for Adventure Seekers. Wondering if there's a place for camping as well? But this spot is only for the very experienced. by: Victoria Derrick. Not only is it right next to the Turtle Bay Resort, almost no one goes there! 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. Hidden Gem Spots the Oahu Locals Love. This hike is a popular place for locals to work out, and tourists to take in some incredible sights! The Beet Box Caf This organic, vegetarian spot has food so tasty it could turn a meat-eating velociraptor into a gentle brontosaurus. Picnic on the Beach 2. 2022. 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. Essentially a poke bowl is raw fish, most commonly Ahi and rice. 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. Valley of the Temples 365 Historic Sites Cemeteries By jt552233 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. by: Victoria Derrick. Ride an ATV to the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views of Oahu. Aug 28, 2013 4 min read. 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. The road is narrow and has several hairpin turns with beautiful homes along the way. WHAT IS THE BEST CHEAP BACKPACKER TRAVEL INSURANCE? Three Peaks or Olomana Trail is a treacherous looking hike with three steep peaks that can be seen all the way from Lanikai. Learn about Hawaiian history and culture while exploring the coastline. 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. Insider Secrets to Travel Like a Local on Oahu 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. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Many love to jump off China Walls as well. Any idea where to start? However, its most popular feature is a giant rock resting half in the water half on the shore. Hotel & Resort, Copyright 2023 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. tively short hike but dont be fooled. The ship was confiscated in the1990s for carrying more than 90illegal immigrants toHawaii. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Jungle Expedition: One of the Best Kualoa Ranch Tours, 12 Best Places to Eat in Oahu Hawaii | Simply Wander, The Perfect 3 Day Oahu North Shore Itinerary | Simply Wander, Crouching Lion Trail: The Most Underrated Hike in Oahu | Simply Wander, 10 Best Beaches on Oahu North Shore | Simply Wander, Maunawili Falls Trail: The Best Waterfall Hike in Oahu | Simply Wander, Makapuu Lighthouse Trail: The Best Family Hike in Oahu - Simply Wander, The Ultimate Oahu Bucket List - Simply Wander, South Point Hawaii: A Big Island Hidden Gem | Simply Wander, 9 Unforgettable Things to do at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, A Utah Glamping Adventure at Whispering Pines, 5 Kid-Friendly Things to do in Durango Colorado in the Winter. How to Find the Hidden Gems on the North Shore of Oahu A traditional Hawaiian luau is a must-do cultural activity on Oahu. It might seem extreme but it is very controlled and quite safe. This is a hike none of the other tourists in the hotel will even know exists. 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. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Your guide will take you through the botanical gardens of this vast and tranquil setting. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. For exmaple, they havent had any injuries or incidents in 20 years of operation. But can you get off the beaten path and find the bridge? If you just want someone to show you, the best option is to take a professional with you. 92-1770 Kunia Rd #227, Kunia Camp, Oahu. Click here to learn more. MERCH!! The Makapuu Lighthouse hike is one of the most popular things to do on Oahu. Goat Island is a tiny little island off the coast of Laie Bay. Oahu - Hidden Gems, Secret Spots, Tips from Locals | YAHglobal Its been a wild ride. 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. These secret places arent just great for adults but also perfect for kids as well! From hiking trails and waterfalls to beaches and luaus, we have everything covered in this guide. This list of 10 somewhat secret spots in Oahu Hawaii will get you off the beaten path and away from the tourist hot spots! Explore around the corner and try and spot the semi-enclosed salt water rock pool created by someone with much, much more money than myself. Its one of the top things to do in Oahu for adrenaline junkies. If you are lucky enough to explore even a few of them, your stay and the memories created in Oahu can only ever be enhanced. The sheer stature of the coastline is intriguing, almost daring visitors to follow it. There are tons of things to do in Waikiki but surfing has to be at the top of your list. Something that people love about this tour is the staff! I will never endorse anything fake or not worth considering. One of the best spots to get a Haupia Pie after a day of beaching it on the north shore is Teds Bakery. When he surfed the quarter-mile-long wave into the bay he thought it resembled the Great Wall of China. Famous for being shaped like a wine glass, it is located on the southeastern side of Oahu. For 20 minutes under the water, youll be surrounded by around a dozen sharks or even more. Or do you just want to experience a fun and relaxing evening with absolutely no itinerary? This is a residential area as well, so people need to be aware that extreme noise will cause disruption for local people. Primarily primitive lava rock, this is perfect for those who like a bit more peace and quiet. 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. However, you can get a bowl with octopus, squid or other types of seafood. I have linked the top-rated tour below. Secret O'ahu: sights only the locals know about - Lonely Planet While all the beaches in Hawaii are gorgeous, some just take your breath away. The Koolaus will loom behind you in the darkness as you wait for the sun to creep over the horizon. This is one of the best Oahu photography spots for sure. This can be a dangerous spot for those not familiar with the ocean and her mighty strength. inone day. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Noreen Kompanik The best way to find the hidden gems along the north shore is to drive along Kamehameha Highway and to pull over at any fruit stand, beach, or place that looks interesting to you. All Rights Reserved. Waimnalo Bay State Recreation Park. 1. THE 80 BEST THINGS TO DO ON OAHU, HAWAII Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran The best snorkeling tour on Oahu is the Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. Alan Davis Beach. I did this tour with my family when they came for vacation and it was an incredible experience youll never forget. The Big Island has the stunning Waipio Valley and the rugged volcanic landscape. This is the busiest tourist spot in Hawaii. Taste of Leonard's Bakery starts with malasadas - a deep-fried ball of dough that tastes like heaven. This is a hidden beach that is worth it! You can read a full review HERE. Moreover, be prepared for lots of wind! Marvel at the Views from the Nuuanu Pali Lookout. 40 Things You Have To Do In Oahu - The Globe Wanderers 2022 13. 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. But there's far more to Hawaii's capital city than surfing. Discover amazing hidden Oahu waterfalls, the rugged & rustic Oahu North Shore, and famous Hawaiian surfing spots. Built in the 16th century, Kane'aki Heiau is considered the best preserved heiau on Oahu. Waikiki Beach. Circle the island of Oahu and its many points of interest on this guided adventure. This rental company is a not-for-profit, with proceeds helping to fund Kamaaina Kids and Heeia State Park! A beautiful canoe or kayak paddle to theMokulua is a great escape for the day to an isolated island. Log in, Hi I'm Jamie!
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