Here Are The 12 Best Kept Secrets In Hawaii - OnlyInYourState Your guide will take you through the botanical gardens of this vast and tranquil setting. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. It is the most convenient place on the island to learn how to surf with many surf schools and board rentals. Looking out over Kahana Bay, the Crouching Lion Hike offers amazing views, steep drop-offs, and beautiful lush surroundings. 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. They contain more antioxidants than most berries including cranberries and even blueberries. There you will find the places where the locals eat. I have linked the top-rated tour below. If you happen to venture out of the inner city, dont forget to try locally grown and made traditional foods. by: Victoria Derrick. The hike is 2.7 miles one way and shows off the volcanic coast, tide pools, arches, and so much more. The Makapuu Lighthouse hike is one of the most popular things to do on Oahu. 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. Waimea Valley and its waterfalls await you, discover this beautiful place steeped with history, spirituality and island traditions. Secret Things to Do in Oahu: The BEST Local Hidden Gems Find Inner Peace at the Byodo-In Temple. 15 Places You Can't Miss in Oahu (Hawaii) - Avenly Lane Travel Bowls range from $6 to $15 depending on where you buy them from. The fireworks usually begin at 7:45 and hundreds of people fill the beachto watch the fireworks launch from along the shore. The Beet Box Caf This organic, vegetarian spot has food so tasty it could turn a meat-eating velociraptor into a gentle brontosaurus. For 20 minutes under the water, youll be surrounded by around a dozen sharks or even more. You can read my full review HERE. Best snorkeling in Oahu - Top snorkel spots - Snorkel Around The World Bellow's Beach Park. Not only is it a fun place to visit, but it is also the best Oahu Instagram spots to capture stunning pictures. 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. They really make sure you are entertained and you will have the best trip to Oahu. 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. As Melville says, "It is not down on any map; true places never are." So, if you want to find Mermaid Cave, keep in mind that most of us are guests on Oahu, and part of the joy of being in . 'Secret Spots' of Oahu Photography Tour 2023 - viator.com 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. 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. Enjoy Sunrise Views on the Stairway to Heaven Hike. There are many botanical gardens over the island of Oahu. The current is pretty strong on the way to Goat Island, especially when the tide rises, so be extra careful. These secret(ish) activities will ensure a wonderful trip to Kauai with kids or without. 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. 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. Book your tour: Hidden Gems of Oahu with North Shore Turtle Snorkeling. Lunch is included and the food is really good too, youll love the kalua pork! Marvel at the Views from the Nuuanu Pali Lookout. A Local's Guide to the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Oahu Activities Hidden Gems of Oahu with Waimea Botanical Garden. Waikiki is one of the most popular Oahu places to visit and its also really pretty. 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. There is also a lot of accommodation, restaurants and nightlife opportunities. Be incredibly careful in this area as it has claimed the lives of strong swimmers in the past after they were swept off the rocks. 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). A beautiful canoe or kayak paddle to theMokulua is a great escape for the day to an isolated island. Magic Island 4.5 (134 reviews) Parks Open all day 24 Restaurants That Serve the Best Breakfast in Oahu, According to Locals. March 25, 2019. 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. You may use your Facebook account to add a comment, subject to Facebook's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Theres actually this great tour that does kayaking, stand-up paddleboard, and a short waterfall hike all. Theyll be able to explore nature like never before while learning about Hawaiian culture along the way too! Learn about the best time to visit Oahu . 1. Poke Bowls became my favorite food on Oahu. This is one of the Honolulu secret spots right in town. Not only do you get the chance to swim with these friendly giants and tons of tropical fish, but youll also get a catamaran cruise from Waikiki. Visiting in winter? Global Village Hawaii is one of our favorites! $; 54-296 Kamehameha Hwy., Hau'ula, www.north-shore-tacos.com. Prices shown for: 1 Rm, 2 Guests. Book your kayaking tour: Kaneohe Guided Kayak and Snorkel Tour. Many people still do the hike every day. This luau is run by a Samoan family that incorporates a lot of Samoan traditions in addition to Hawaiian culture. Only a short drive or a 30-minute walk up the hill from Waikiki is the much more relaxed Cromwells beach. The Plantation offers tours and has a huge hedge maze. But can you get off the beaten path and find the bridge? While it is illegal, the stairway is still frequented by a small number of people on most mornings. The sheer stature of the coastline is intriguing, almost daring visitors to follow it. Insider Secrets to Travel Like a Local on Oahu inone day. Ka'ena Point State Park After a drab drive, inspiration awaits at little-visited, yet . There is an epic tour that takes you all around the island to all of the iconic spots including to the dole plantation. 1. Ka'ena Point State Park wraps its far-reaching and rugged arms around the coast of one of the most photogenic places on Oahu. Halona Cove Scenic Drives and Secret Beaches on Oahu, Hawaii - TripSavvy Also known as King Kamehameha III summer home, this is a slice of Hawaiian history hidden on the Nuuanu Oahu hike. Circle the island of Oahu and its many points of interest on this guided adventure. Amazing adventures! We saw sharks, turtles, plane wrecks, and shipwrecks. Phone +1 808-768-6861 Web Visit website This curved bay and state park is known for its year-round snorkeling and convenient accessibility. These secret places arent just great for adults but also perfect for kids as well! Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is the first place you should add to your Oahu bucket list. 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). 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 site has a lot more to do than just a waterfall; you can explore the botanical gardens and eat delicious food! Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. I will never endorse anything fake or not worth considering. Tropical Yet Metropolitan. Wondering if there's a place for camping as well? 21. In the mountains overlooking the famous Pipeline beach and the North Shore of Oahu, the Peace Hike provides a great vantage point. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? And you find this hidden oasis of Oahu! 14. 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! Dying to take your loved one to a romantic cruise whilst in Oahu? 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. Who knows, you may just find your own secret restaurant. Pictured below is a shot I took at Waimea Bay a week before the Eddie. The Koolaus will loom behind you in the darkness as you wait for the sun to creep over the horizon. to the ocean on the east coast of Oahu. See an Active Volcano by Sea. 100 feet below the surface lies The Sea Tiger, which is a former Chinese trading vessel originally named Yun Fong Seong No. Visit sites like Diamond Head, the Pali Lookout, Mokoli'i Island, and Laie Point. Hawaii Hikes. Hawaii Vacation. Book your tour: Atlantis Submarine Adventure. Many love to explore the incredibly clear water in the caves and watch as the sun rays hit the water. 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. Kahala Hotel Last but not least on my list of 5 secret Oahu locations is the Kahala Hotel. You can swim in the pool below this beuautiful Oahu waterfall. But you cant visit the North shore without trying some famous Garlic Shrimp. The hike is right next to the Pali Highway and only takes about 30 minutes. Book your cruise: Sunset Cocktail Cruise from Waikiki. 1. Hoomaluhia means to make a place of peace, and the botanical gardens are nothing but peaceful! Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. However, a beautiful hike winds around the cliffs above the bay leading towards the oceans edge. Just inside the Koko Head volcanic region. 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. Chinatown on Oahu isn't particularly beautiful, but that's exactly what qualifies it as a secret Oahu destination. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. It is truly a magical experience. What to do on Oahu? If not, we recommend giving them a try. 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. Oahu. 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. Where: K Hana Distillers. . 23. You can read a full review HERE. 20. Oahu Surf Spots / A Guide to the Top Surf Breaks in Oahu - Lush Palm Itinerary includes --> Waikiki Pickup (7:00 am - 7:30 am) See Tropical Foliage at Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden. Many love to jump off China Walls as well. There are some great underwater scuba diving adventures, best Oahu . The best part about these Oahu hidden spots is that they are all free! From here, you will have amazing views over Waikiki and the ocean. Due to the power plant emitting warm water into the ocean, the sea life there is stunning. Or do you just want to experience a fun and relaxing evening with absolutely no itinerary? Leonard's Bakery is a spot that takes you back to the old days, with their old-fashioned storefront. This rental company is a not-for-profit, with proceeds helping to fund Kamaaina Kids and Heeia State Park! The hike is short and on the same trails as the Luakaha Waterfall. 21 of the Coolest Places to Visit + Attractions on Oahu, Hawaii Turtle Bay Resort Oahu . 3. 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. The tour departs from the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki and takes you to a submarine dive spot. Off-the-Beaten Path Oahu Activities & Adventures | Marriott TRAVELER Sherwood Beach. Hanauma Bay. This is also a very kid-friendly beach because the waves are almost always calm. If you'd like to help even more, be sure to check out my Patreon as well. This waterfall is a beautiful gem on Oahu to visit and explore the culture of Hawaii a bit more! What the passengers will love is the round trip transportation they arrange for each and every one. The views of the Koolaus are worth it all. A friendly low-key environment on the beach while surfers ride some mental waves out in the water. 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. cooland on keeamoku for assortments of cold treats. Theres a great deal that offers you a one-hour and riding a wave lesson for two people at once. Soar through the North Shores jungles on a thrilling zipline tour. Arena for high-performance surfing. There is nothing wrong with the traditional Oahu tourist spots, and you should check them out during your vacation as well. Cruise along 7 miles of world-famous surfing beaches on Oahus north shore and sample the local flavors along the way. The Kona region is known for having sunny mornings, high rain and little wind. Best Oahu Snorkeling Beaches - Hawaii Snorkeling Secrets! The Complete Also, see famous places like Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay. Utilize Oahu Public Transportation 9. But there's far more to Hawaii's capital city than surfing. Towns like Laie, Waimea, and Haleiwa are good places to explore. But it is better to swim to protect the coral below. Get up early and head to the east coast of Oahu before the sun rises. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. 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. THE 10 BEST Hidden Gems in Oahu's North Shore (Updated 2023) - Tripadvisor This is easily one of THE MOST POPULAR tours on Oahu. This is a post in my Oahu Bucket List series. Don't let this discourage you however, as this hike offers some spectacular views of Oahu. Book your tour: Kayak Kailua Tour including Lunch. 10 Best Surf Spots In Oahu, Hawaii, USA | Trip101 Hanauma bay is a longtime favorite of water lovers, but sadly, the big number of tourists caused serious damage on the reef. Go there to avoid the crowds and the touristy, overpriced restaurants on Waikiki. This is one of the lesser known Oahu attractions. 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. It is a natural beauty and should be kept as an off-the-beaten-path on Oahu to ensure it is kept beautiful. Built in the 16th century, Kane'aki Heiau is considered the best preserved heiau on Oahu. Ask a local. Sandbar sharks circle around you as you snorkel out in the open ocean. The beach is roughly 40 minutes from . Its like swimming in a giant aquarium, but staying dry the whole time! Locals know the best areas, after all, this is their island. This is located in Waimnalo and is also a camping site. 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. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. 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. 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. Some of the links in my content may be affiliate links. It might seem extreme but it is very controlled and quite safe. Learn about Hawaiian history and culture while exploring the coastline. MERCH!! To get you started, here are a few of my favorite hidden gems. In fact, most of them have official names, and are relatively easy to find. There are many more gorgeous places will provide endless family fun and zillions of postcard-perfect photo . Five pillboxes in total line the ridge, which takes less than an hour to hike. 10 Hidden Gems In Oahu For Your Hawaii Dream Vacation - Travelling Dany What better way to see Oahu than from hundreds of feet up in the air. Choose from snorkeling, a picnic or simply just take in the surroundings that make you appreciate the history of this rock formation, and of all of Oahus natural beauty. The China Walls are a secret place to cliff jump . 1) Mermaid Cave. Oahu Instagram Spots and Photography Destinations. The road to heaven is said to be one of the scariest in Oahu, so if youre driving here, take care. With regular waves breaking perfectly for beginners' surf lessons, Waikiki beach is one of the first beaches that visitors to Honolulu flock to. Hotel & Resort, Copyright 2023 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. Oahu's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Oahu's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. 1,547. Wave direction : Right and left. The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. Book yourticket: Ka Moana Luau with Dinner & Show. The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. You can camp in the Sherwood Forest part and be a few steps away from this amazing hidden gem on Oahu. Aloha! At the Hoomaluhia Gardens, you can paint, fish, and explore the beautiful surroundings. While all the beaches in Hawaii are gorgeous, some just take your breath away. 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. How to Find the Hidden Gems on the North Shore of Oahu Jumping off the rock is one of the most iconic things to do on Oahu. 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. Destination & Tourism, Best Destinations for Travelers Who Hate People 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. Im Jackson, an Australian adventure traveler who has been on the road for eight years now. This beach and park area are on the eastern side of the island in a smaller town. Oahu Bucket List: 10 Places & Things to do in Oahu (Hawaii) Noreen Kompanik I had done some Oahu cliff jumping in the past but this spot was always a little bit sketchy for me at the time. As a small replica of the Byodo-In Temple in Japan, this one was built to commemorate the Japanese people who lived in Hawaii for over a hundred years. Acai berries are a superfood native to Central and South America. 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.. Where: An hour northwest of Honolulu on the leeward coast, In the municipality of Waianae, Oahu. These affiliates don't cost you anything extra and help me keep the site going. Honolulu and Waikiki from Diamond Head on O'ahu. Our team is constantly working on new content for this blog so make sure to subscribe below and check back often for updates! The 71 Best Photography Spots In Oahu in 2023 (With Map) 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. 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. If you do go, be sure to wear some sort of water shoes, because there can be rocks every now and then. A great afternoon adventure for the whole family and a very unique experience. Oahu's capital city of Honolulu has an average yearly coastal water temperature of between 76F (March) and 81F (September) - that's only a 5F change all year! This is the only remaining real dairy farm business in Hawaii, and long shall it remain so. Waikiki. 3. At the end of the trail is the chimney a vertical rock face you can climb with the assistance of a rope. They also invite guests to cook Samoan food, which is a fun opportunity. Painted pink as a testimony to breast cancer victims and survivors, the abandoned military pillbox isnt hard to spot. It's kinda dangerous for the kids to walk down" more 2. The best snorkeling tour on Oahu is the Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. 9k followers. While onboard, you will enjoy the delicious buffet and some chitchats with other passengers. Nu'uanu Pali Lookout is one of the most beautiful places in Oahu for landscape photography. Copyright Journey Era, 2022 | Sitemap | Privacy Policy. Stuart Schuffman. Not only is it right next to the Turtle Bay Resort, almost no one goes there! The Most Beautiful Places in Hawaii - Secret Spots in Oahu - Thrillist It has rock climbing, turtles, underwater tunnels and huge waves in the winter. As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip. If you want to skip the crowded beaches of Lanikai and Kailua, head to Bellow's Beach in Waimanalo Bay. After Diamond Head Hike, Manoa Falls is the second most popular hike on Oahu. Panama, Complimentary Advisor Toolkit Everyone hates waiting in a long queue but on this tour, youll be able to skip lines for a hassle-free excursion. Located on the northwest coast of Oahu and surrounded only by remote forest reserves, Makua Beach is hardly ever crowded and is usually rather empty. Most people think of O'ahu strictly as a beach vacation interspersed with hiking and awash with cocktails. The coral here is amazing and it is a protected bay so it is perfect for a half-day snorkel adventure. Oahu Travel. Live like a local and discover Honolulu with our pick of the hidden gems and secret spots in and around the city. The Aloha State has six unofficial beaches that are all called "secret." Ironically, some of these hidden spots aren't really so undiscovered. See All Oahu Hotels. Hawaii's 'Secret Beaches' Are Surprisingly Easy To Find - HuffPost For a few dollars, you can rent yourself a surfboard and join the masses trying their hand at surfing at the famous Waikiki Beach. The Pillbox hikes on Oahu are another favorite photo spot for tourists. The hike takes a few hours if you are quick and 5-6 hours if you are a slower hiker. The rougher the day the bigger the spray from the blowhole usually. Get Naked and buy local! Book your tour: Manoa Falls Guided Tour (with hotel pick/up). Picnic on the Beach 2. This is by far the cheapest boat tour on Oahu but also one of the most interesting. A traditional coconut pudding many locals crave. Every December through April, thousands of Humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii. It is best accessible when it is low tide. One of the most popular hikes on Oahu, Koko Head Stairs is a relatively short hike but dont be fooled. The entire sweeping coastline is stuff vacation fantasies are made of. Hidden Gem Spots the Oahu Locals Love. There is no better way to start your day than with a short sunrise hike overlooking the ocean and amazing scenery. Riptides can also occur, so be prepared. Cockroach Cove is right next to Halona Blowhole. Only a few yards high they make the area a perfect spot to hang out for the day. THE 10 BEST Hidden Gem Activities in Oahu - Tripadvisor You can actually walk right to it! 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. 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. I hope my travels give you the motivation to set off on an epic adventure of your own. From Wiliwilinui Ridge you can make out Waikiki, a city of white buildings seemingly a world away from the ridges we are roaming. 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. While you are up there check out one of the best beaches on the North Shore. It is family and dog friendly and a great way to see some fantastic views of the east side. 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. gallery icon photo by leonard's bakery. 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. 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. Waimea Bay is my favorite beach on Oahu. 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. Aside from the fabulous beach and suitable waves for surfing, people can enjoy themselves as there . These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. This is also a great place to watch the sunset in the summer or spot whales in the winter. 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. Maui has tons of gorgeous waterfalls along the Road to Hana as well as the lush Upcountry Maui. 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. 1/11 Tread lightly. I include a map and photos as well! Located at 559 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu. You will have to go through tunnels and walk quite a distance, so be prepared. Gunstock Ranch. During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! There is a long water pipe out in the ocean, which is the best spot to go snorkeling. There is a bike path that runs from Sunset Beach to Waimea Bay that is a great way to spend the day exploring the hidden spots that . But what they don't realise is that there is a lot . Accents Pick up take-home treasures, accessories, and jewelry at Accents, our on-site gift shops. Try some of the other local favorites eating spots. 10 Great Places Only Locals Know in Oahu - Discover Hidden Gems in Oahu Taste of Leonard's Bakery starts with malasadas - a deep-fried ball of dough that tastes like heaven.