Get Naked and buy local! By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. Simply Wander | Family Friendly Travel Guides. A spicy sauce or seasoning covers the fish. Phone +1 808-768-6861 Web Visit website This curved bay and state park is known for its year-round snorkeling and convenient accessibility. 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. I was lucky enough to see a few monk seals both in the ocean and on shore. Veer off the main streets and head for Monsarrat or Kapahulu Avenues. A traditional, magnificent example of Hawaiian self-sufficiency where rums are made from heirloom sugar cane. Not many tourists hit this spot. I think a scenic helicopter flight is my favorite activity to do on Oahu by far! 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. This beach and park area are on the eastern side of the island in a smaller town. Goat Island is a tiny little island off the coast of Laie Bay. It is a great place to visit if you can! Because it is on a small island off the bay, it is protected from high surfs. Ka'ena Point State Park wraps its far-reaching and rugged arms around the coast of one of the most photogenic places on Oahu. The fireworks usually begin at 7:45 and hundreds of people fill the beachto watch the fireworks launch from along the shore. If you are looking for some secret things to do in Oahu, check out Kahuku Farms. 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. This cruise will let you see the beauty of the colorful sunset in Oahu with a view of the island at night as the artificial lights glow and cover the place. Find this local favorite on the East Shore of Oahu! Kane'aki Heiau. 1Before Visiting these Oahu Hidden Gems 2Byodo-In Temple 3Ka'ena Point State Park 4Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden 5Mermaid Caves/Cove Oahu 6Electric Beach 7China Walls 8Kawela Bay 9Goat Island (Mokuauia Island) 10Kahuku Farms 11Lanikai Pillbox Hike 12Halona Blowhole + Beach Cove 13Moku o Lo'e/Coconut Island 14Waimea Falls 15Sharks Cove They also have tours if you are interested in going with a group or want more fun facts about the gardens. Its truly an experience theyll remember forever so dont wait any longer. This luau is run by a Samoan family that incorporates a lot of Samoan traditions in addition to Hawaiian culture. Oahu Instagram and Photography Spots Overview. 5. Riptides can also occur, so be prepared. Click here to learn more. Not only is it a fun place to visit, but it is also the best Oahu Instagram spots to capture stunning pictures. This stunning bay is surrounded by lush green hills. 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. 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. This is located in Waimnalo and is also a camping site. Copyright Journey Era, 2022 | Sitemap | Privacy Policy. Nu'uanu Pali Lookout is one of the most beautiful places in Oahu for landscape photography. Or if you are like me you will need a lesson. This tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. Lyon Arboretum 430 Gardens Educational sites By Cruiser26741642330 Make your reservation in advance and drive past the busy parking lot and crowd at Manoa Falls to this botanical gem! Kahala Hotel Last but not least on my list of 5 secret Oahu locations is the Kahala Hotel. However, its most popular feature is a giant rock resting half in the water half on the shore. You also need to complete a few basic rock climbs to complete the trail. Hawaii Travel Guide. 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. $; 54-296 Kamehameha Hwy., Hau'ula, www.north-shore-tacos.com. HALE'IWA, OAHU (ALI'I BEACH PARK): Reef break. China Walls. If you follow the path all the way to towards the ocean and venture down the cliffs you will find a small rock bridge. Hanauma bay is a longtime favorite of water lovers, but sadly, the big number of tourists caused serious damage on the reef. Here's our favorite hidden spots on Oahu. Halona Cove Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. . Circle the island of Oahu and its many points of interest on this guided adventure. This is one of the Honolulu secret spots right in town. Oahu, The Gathering Place, is Hawaiis most populated island, home to almost a million people. From hiking trails and waterfalls to beaches and luaus, we have everything covered in this guide. You can swim in the pool below this beuautiful Oahu waterfall. They also invite guests to cook Samoan food, which is a fun opportunity. You can walk toward Diamond Head side to get away from crowds, but there are many incredible areas for you on this island! See Tripadvisor's 116,798 traveler reviews and photos of Oahu's North Shore hidden gem attractions. tively short hike but dont be fooled. Built in the 16th century, Kane'aki Heiau is considered the best preserved heiau on Oahu. Lunch is included and the food is really good too, youll love the kalua pork! Hanauma Bay and Nature Preserve. Your guide will take you through the botanical gardens of this vast and tranquil setting. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. Turtle Bay Resort Oahu . 9k followers. 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. This neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii will give you a surfing experience like no other. 5. Book your tour: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. Oahu Instagram Spots and Photography Destinations. However, you can get a bowl with octopus, squid or other types of seafood. Due to the power plant emitting warm water into the ocean, the sea life there is stunning. 23. While you are up there check out one of the best beaches on the North Shore. But it is better to swim to protect the coral below. But what they don't realise is that there is a lot . Valley of the Temples 365 Historic Sites Cemeteries By jt552233 Most often, you dont see volcanic rocks on Oahu. The hike itself is free but it isnt near Waikiki. 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. Are you looking for some new adventures on Oahu? 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. Discover Panama with Taggea Tours by Viajes Yarilena and However, what most people dont do is venture down the cliffs to the tide-pools on the waters edge. 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! 14. Map of all the Best Oahu Instagram Spots. Halona Beach Cove 4.7 (84 reviews) Beaches Open all day "Don't go here. While there will be people, its not overcrowded, and somewhere that locals will take their younger children for an outing. During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! Leonard's Bakery. I did this tour with my family when they came for vacation and it was an incredible experience youll never forget. Locals know the best areas, after all, this is their island. The Beet Box Caf This organic, vegetarian spot has food so tasty it could turn a meat-eating velociraptor into a gentle brontosaurus. Most mornings, you can spot dolphins out in the ocean here! to the ocean on the east coast of Oahu. Your tour begins with a short ATV ride to the top of a mountain. Hanauma Bay is the most popular spot for tourists to spot a turtle or explore the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a series of ziplines, rappels, sky bridges, boardwalks, and more. Jurassic Park and Lost filmed scenes in this lush green area. All Rights Reserved. Do you love Hawaii? Where: K Hana Distillers. 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. This tour is perfect for visitors who stay in Oahu for a short time but still want to see what Oahu has to offer. Many people still do the hike every day. 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. Around the corner is the historic Dole Plantation surrounded by rows of pineapples and fields of sugarcane. If you do go, be sure to wear some sort of water shoes, because there can be rocks every now and then. These secret(ish) activities will ensure a wonderful trip to Kauai with kids or without. This area is really beautiful during sunrise and just after as the mountains will be lit perfectly and Chinamans Hat is a nice silhouette out in the water. Helena's Hawaiian Food: As you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, you shouldn't judge a restaurant by it either. 3212 Monsarrat Ave. and two other locations in Honolulu, (808) 392-8862, bananbowls.com. Whether you want to take stunning photos there or love exploring geology, be sure to visit China Walls! And Kauai has the colorful Waimea Canyon and tropical North Shore coastline. Makua Beach (sometimes known as Tunnels Beach) is the perfect sunset spot in Oahu when you just want to get away from it all. 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. The Makapuu Lighthouse hike is one of the most popular things to do on Oahu. Oahu is home to some of the most gorgeous attractions, like the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, Tantalus, the Ka'a'awa Valley, and the Byodo-In Temple. If you are lucky you will even spot a turtle but you can be guaranteed to find hundreds of amazing fish and marine species. Where: K Hana Distillers. Looking out over Kahana Bay, the Crouching Lion Hike offers amazing views, steep drop-offs, and beautiful lush surroundings. 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. Go there to avoid the crowds and the touristy, overpriced restaurants on Waikiki. Punchy rights and lefts on offer. Have you ever thought about swimming with sharks? 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. Hotel & Resort, Copyright 2023 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. One of the best experiences I had on Oahu was swimming with the beautiful spinner dolphins on this exact tour. Join a full-day tour and discover all of Oahus best locations. 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. Located in the Kekaulike Market, 1039 Kekaulike St #113, Honolulu for the most delicious poke bowls. Makapuu Lookout. Book your lesson: One hour Waikiki surf lesson for two people. Where: Sharks Cove, Haleiwa, HI 96712, United States. It isnt incredibly deep but usually, it is just deep enough. Take a Hike 5. 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. Halona Cove. Waimnalo Bay State Recreation Park. Enjoy Sunrise Views on the Stairway to Heaven Hike. A traditional Hawaiian luau is a must-do cultural activity on Oahu. I have createdthe Ultimate Oahu bucket list for inspiration about the best things to do on Oahu, Hawaii. Its a whole evening of presentations, games, activities, and some of the best luau food Ive ever had. The morning sun slowly warms the sandy beaches of Waikiki as your guide takes you on a journey through the history of the island. Theres a great deal that offers you a one-hour and riding a wave lesson for two people at once. You can book yourself onto a guided tour that includes pick/up and drop-off from your Waikiki hotel. You can take a tour of the farm and even sample the fresh fruits right off the vine! While You're at it, Avoid Shopping on Kalakaua 7. Wondering if there's a place for camping as well? A forest setting you would expect in the Pacific Northwest of the Mainland is a great spot to have an afternoon hike. Here are some of the secret beaches in Oahu! Aala (highest peak on Oahu) or Stairway to heaven - super nice views (payoff at the top is really worth it) Treats/Deserts: Jung's shave ice on King st. for cheap and good shave ice. The Chinamans Hat is a small island near Kualoa Ranch. 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. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is the first place you should add to your Oahu bucket list. Huge waves crash directly onto sand or only a few feet of water. A beautiful canoe or kayak paddle to theMokulua is a great escape for the day to an isolated island. 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. Marvel at the Views from the Nuuanu Pali Lookout. You could also try Night SUP yoga with Led lights in what is an epic experience near Waikiki. 21. If you happen to venture out of the inner city, dont forget to try locally grown and made traditional foods. The Byodo-In Temple is another secret of Oahu worth sharing. Book your tour: Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise. It can be extremely dangerous, especially with strong surf. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. 1) Mermaid Cave. 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. 303. The Kona region is known for having sunny mornings, high rain and little wind. The hike is right next to the Pali Highway and only takes about 30 minutes. This is why it is one of my favorite spots to go to. Keep your eyes peeled for the playful Spinner Dolphins who live in these waters. The island of Lanai in Hawai'i is a paradise for cats and cat lovers. Theresa Norton, Every State's Best Events This March Hi! Its one of the most unique things to do on Oahu and definitely off the beaten path. Electric Beach got its name from the power plant close by, well, right across the street! The road to heaven is said to be one of the scariest in Oahu, so if youre driving here, take care. WHAT IS THE BEST CHEAP BACKPACKER TRAVEL INSURANCE? Discover short videos related to secret spots on oahu on TikTok. Thankfully, you can see some of the most instagrammable places in Oahu even if you're not a hiker! If you want to skip the crowded beaches of Lanikai and Kailua, head to Bellow's Beach in Waimanalo Bay. One of the most popular hikes on Oahu, Koko Head Stairs is a relatively short hike but dont be fooled. 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. As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip. Starting at $109-139/person. You dont need to be a good swimmer as you just hold on inside the cage. Stunning, Welcoming. I lived on Oahu for two years and loved adventuring from the beaches to the mountains to the waterfalls! Some of the links in my content may be affiliate links. It is best accessible when it is low tide. 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. Come along see these beautiful mammals at their best on our exciting eco-friendly whale watching excursion. Hilo, Hawaii Kaumana Lava Tubes Hide from the tourist hordes in these relatively unknown, and unguarded lava caves. Magic Island 4.5 (134 reviews) Parks Open all day 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. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. This waterfall is a beautiful gem on Oahu to visit and explore the culture of Hawaii a bit more! 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. Best secret spots near me in Honolulu, HI Sort:Recommended All Price Open Now 1. 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! 24 Restaurants That Serve the Best Breakfast in Oahu, According to Locals. This is another one of the top-secret spots in Oahu to visit if you can. Maui has tons of gorgeous waterfalls along the Road to Hana as well as the lush Upcountry Maui. There is nothing wrong with the traditional Oahu tourist spots, and you should check them out during your vacation as well. I did this tour with my family and they loved it. If searching for the best coffee in Oahu, then Kona Coffee needs to be on your Oahu Bucket List. 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. All Rights Reserved. Not only is this a secret beach not many know about, but this is also an amazing hiking opportunity as well! Not necessarily in that order. Guest Author, Discover the Animals of Panama on World Wildlife Day A beach park uncrowded and unusual is how this part of Oahu is described. You can also see a sea cave. Visit sites like Diamond Head, the Pali Lookout, Mokoli'i Island, and Laie Point. A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you won't be able to keep to yourself. Go for a walk to see where your next dining experience will take you. Don't let this discourage you however, as this hike offers some spectacular views of Oahu. Visiting a waterfall is a must-do activity on Oahu and Lulumahu is one of the most unique things to do outside of Waikiki. 1. The rougher the day the bigger the spray from the blowhole usually. The ship was confiscated in the1990s for carrying more than 90illegal immigrants toHawaii. Waikiki Beach. On the far west side of Oahu, Makua Beach lies at the foot of majestic mountains, hiding behind a wall of trees. One of the best parts about Kahuku Farms is the delicious fresh food youll find there. 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 . But it is worth all the trouble! Atlantis Submarines offers a one-of-a-kind underwater experience giving guests a close-up view of an array of sea creatures, exotic coral reefs, and numerous sunken vessels without getting wet. See All Oahu Hotels. Hike up the Diamond Head Crater for epic views of Waikiki. PUA'ENA POINT: Slabby reef out at the main peak. If not, we recommend giving them a try. 13 Not So SECRET HIDDEN GEMS in OAHU HAWAII ! Where: Hanapepe Pl, Honolulu, HI 96825, United States. Essentially a poke bowl is raw fish, most commonly Ahi and rice. cooland on keeamoku for assortments of cold treats. This is one of the lesser known Oahu attractions. Ala Moana Beach Park A traditional coconut pudding many locals crave. There are plenty of awesome spots on Oahu to get a good look at the stars each night. This site was designed to help inspire and simplify your travels so that you can wander simply and simply wander. The Big Island has the stunning Waipio Valley and the rugged volcanic landscape. It does have strong currents, so wear fins and be extra cautious as you snorkel. Hidden Gem Hotels on Oahu. The coral here is amazing and it is a protected bay so it is perfect for a half-day snorkel adventure. The North Shore of Oahu is famous for surf, beaches, and the chill vibes. You can simply just relax and not worry about huge waves. Location: 63 S Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786, USA. Pictured below is a shot I took at Waimea Bay a week before the Eddie. Destination & Tourism, Parents Leave Baby at Airport Check-In Counter To Catch Their Flight Warm white sand and clear blue water along 227 miles of coastline make Oahu snorkeling a top activity. MERCH!! Keep scrolling to see my top 13 Oahu hidden gems worth adding to your Oahu itinerary! Waikiki is one of the most popular Oahu places to visit and its also really pretty. Maui has tons of gorgeous waterfalls along the Road to Hana as well as the lush Upcountry Maui. 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. There is a long water pipe out in the ocean, which is the best spot to go snorkeling. The Big Island is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Kilauea. The Pillbox hikes on Oahu are another favorite photo spot for tourists. Oahu Travel. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. You wont regret it. You will find a large pool of water and even a rope swing. 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. inone day. Also known as King Kamehameha III summer home, this is a slice of Hawaiian history hidden on the Nuuanu Oahu hike. My favorite waterfall hike on Oahu, Kaau Crater Hike leads you up three waterfalls before you navigate a fine ridge on the edge of the crater to reach expansive views in all directions. Also, see famous places like Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay. Koko Head. However, the beach area is only for extremely talented swimmers due to the strong waves. Set sail along the turquoise waters of Hawaiis coast heading towards Ko Olina coast. There are no paved roads or commercial buildings here, just beautiful Hawaii nature as far as the eye can see. Book your tour: Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Catamaran Cruise. Learn about Hawaiian history and culture while exploring the coastline. This gorgeous park is located on the northwest coast of the island, and is home to many secluded beaches and hiking trails. Hawaii Blog. 1/11 Oahu is home to some of the most gorgeous attractions, like the Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden, Tantalus, the Kaaawa Valley, and the Byodo-In Temple. The road is narrow and has several hairpin turns with beautiful homes along the way. The trail takes you through a steady incline surrounded by trees until eventually, you emerge to a beautiful view that stretches out. gallery icon That's a lot to explore. However, the beaches of this island are incredible. But there's far more to Hawaii's capital city than surfing. This is something your friends back home wont believe and it is one of the unique activities in Oahu. It is the most convenient place on the island to learn how to surf with many surf schools and board rentals. Gunstock Ranch. Known as "The Forbidden Isle", Niihau island is one of the best-kept secrets in Hawaii. You can actually walk right to it! Book your tour: Koko Head Trail Guided Adventure. This trail is one of the top five most popular things to do on Oahu. 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. Insider Secrets: 13 Tips for Traveling to Oahu, Hawaii 1. Click the button below. Cruise along 7 miles of world-famous surfing beaches on Oahus north shore and sample the local flavors along the way. During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! Many love to jump off China Walls as well. Although tourists will come and go en masse in the carpark above the cove it is actually a great spot to chill out. 100 feet below the surface lies The Sea Tiger, which is a former Chinese trading vessel originally named Yun Fong Seong No. The perfect place for a much-needed vacation. Only a few yards high they make the area a perfect spot to hang out for the day. New Orleans & Company, How Smart Payments Can Help Alleviate Future Travel Chaos Accents Pick up take-home treasures, accessories, and jewelry at Accents, our on-site gift shops. . Photography Tour: Full-Circle Island Photo Tour, Photography Tour: Sunset Photography Tour. 1. Visiting this beach is one of the most special things to do on Oahu. Book your tour: Hidden Gems of Oahu with North Shore Turtle Snorkeling. (MUST VISIT) 23,013 views Aug 14, 2022 10 Not So Secret Hidden Gems in Oahu Hawaii in 2022 - Secret Places Hidden in Plain Sight. Download your copy of our Book your tour: Atlantis Submarine Adventure. Log in, Hi I'm Jamie! This cliff offers a panoramic view of the island's northeast coast and is a short five miles from Honolulu. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. It is not easy to find, but you should find your way relatively easy if you head over to Nanakuli Beach Park. This list of 10 somewhat secret spots in Oahu Hawaii will get you off the beaten path and away from the tourist hot spots! The Hawaiian monk seal is the only seal native to Hawaii and is one of only two mammals nativeto the islands. It's a little slick in spots so just be cautious! You can read a full review HERE. In order to restore the marine life, the bay is a nature preserve . 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. You must get a picture here! As the waves crash into the cliffs under the rocks the water surges out of a blowhole shooting into the air. Kaneohe Sandbar. The Aloha State has six unofficial beaches that are all called "secret." Ironically, some of these hidden spots aren't really so undiscovered. The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. Not only is it right next to the Turtle Bay Resort, almost no one goes there! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 1,547. Prices shown for: 1 Rm, 2 Guests. There is an option for a fully guided kayak tour, including a professional guide, safety gear, and lunch! by: Victoria Derrick. When he surfed the quarter-mile-long wave into the bay he thought it resembled the Great Wall of China. The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. This is truly one of the most epic viewpoints anywhere in the world and a must-do activity on Oahu.