Maui's Secret Cove, for example, is a popular spot for wedding ceremonies, and Kauai's Secret Beach can be found easily on Google. 22 Best Oahu Instagram Spots (2023) - Hawaii Travel with Kids Book your tour: Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Catamaran Cruise. Highly rated hidden gems in Oahu's North Shore: Top hidden gem activities. At the end of the trail is the chimney a vertical rock face you can climb with the assistance of a rope. Ka'ena Point State Park. The Byodo-In Temple is another secret of Oahu worth sharing. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. Airlines & Airports, The Top 20 Most Powerful Travel Agencies in 2022 4. Oahu Bucket List: 10 Places & Things to do in Oahu (Hawaii) Onboard a sailing Catamaran drinking tropical Hawaiian cocktails and relaxing while enjoying the legendary sunset and the magnificent Hawaiian coast. 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. The 71 Best Photography Spots In Oahu in 2023 (With Map) Away from the city at Kaena Point or at Makapuu seem to be the most popular. When you turn the other way at the top . See Tripadvisor's 116,798 traveler reviews and photos of Oahu's North Shore hidden gem attractions. China Walls got its name from Richard Okita, one of the first to surf this wave at Portlock Point in 1948. Some are for sunrise, sunset or landscape focused with locals who know the spots and can teach you how to shoot amazing photos. Not only is this a secret beach not many know about, but this is also an amazing hiking opportunity as well! All Rights Reserved. The morning sun slowly warms the sandy beaches of Waikiki as your guide takes you on a journey through the history of the island. Book your tour: North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour. The road to heaven is said to be one of the scariest in Oahu, so if youre driving here, take care. Best Oahu Hidden Gems: Secret Places in Oahu You'll Want to Check Out WHAT IS THE BEST CHEAP BACKPACKER TRAVEL INSURANCE? Makapuu Lookout. 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. Leonard's Bakery. This is truly one of the most epic viewpoints anywhere in the world and a must-do activity on Oahu. This is the most popular hike on Oahu and probably the most popular thing to do on Oahu aside from visit Waikiki Beach. Theresa Norton, Every State's Best Events This March That's a lot to explore. 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. Big Island Bees Book your tour: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. Dont worry about the gear as the tour guide will provide you snorkel gear like goggles and masks. China Walls. It is located on the island's leeward (west) side in Makaha Valley and . If world-class entertainment and food werent enough on the beautiful beaches of Oahu, then why not take to the waters with the Oahu Sunset Dinner Cruise. This is another one of the top-secret spots in Oahu to visit if you can. Five pillboxes in total line the ridge, which takes less than an hour to hike. See the map below for all locations: 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. You will feel like you are in the middle of the island and you just about are! Moreover, be prepared for lots of wind! Book your tour: SUP, Kayak & Waterfall Hike Oahu Tour. Thankfully, you can see some of the most instagrammable places in Oahu even if you're not a hiker! And in 2000, she won a James Beard Award. 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. 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. Best snorkeling in Oahu - Top snorkel spots - Snorkel Around The World It can be hard to spot, especially because it is in a forest-type area! March 25, 2019. If you walk back towards Waikiki along the coast away from the lighthouse there are a collection of wooden planks hanging out over the crystal clear water at Alan Davis Beach. The surf here gets a reputation for toying with even the most experienced riders. 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. But you cant visit the North shore without trying some famous Garlic Shrimp. The Kaena Point State Park connects the Westside and North Shore sides of the island. Its the only luau Ive ever been to that has a traditional Samoan kava ceremony as part of the festivities. Jumping off the rock is one of the most iconic things to do 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. This is the busiest tourist spot in Hawaii. This list of 10 somewhat secret spots in Oahu Hawaii will get you off the beaten path and away from the tourist hot spots! Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. Riptides can also occur, so be prepared. Visiting this beach is one of the most special things to do on Oahu. Its like swimming in a giant aquarium, but staying dry the whole time! 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. If you follow the path all the way to towards the ocean and venture down the cliffs you will find a small rock bridge. Book your tour: Diamond Head Crater Hike & Manoa Falls Combo. Insider Secrets: 13 Tips for Traveling to Oahu, Hawaii 1. If you want an extra adventure, you can also camp there! Hawaii Vacation. Location: 63 S Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786, USA. $; 54-296 Kamehameha Hwy., Hau'ula, www.north-shore-tacos.com. Hours: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM LEARN MORE. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Chinatown on Oahu isn't particularly beautiful, but that's exactly what qualifies it as a secret Oahu destination. However, China Walls shows that side of this volcanic island! The Pillbox hikes on Oahu are another favorite photo spot for tourists. 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 2-hour experience of seeing whales will for sure take your breath away. If you'd like to help even more, be sure to check out my Patreon as well. 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. This safe, sandy, protected bay is one of the most famous snorkel spots in Hawaii and is often listed as one of the best places to visit on the island of Oahu. This stunning bay is surrounded by lush green hills. These secret places arent just great for adults but also perfect for kids as well! This tour is perfect for visitors who stay in Oahu for a short time but still want to see what Oahu has to offer. Book your tour: Majestic Full Day Circle Island Tour(Best-selling tour). After twenty minutes of hiking, you will find a small platform/pillbox that has a peace sign painted on it. 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. This lookout point is on the East Side of Oahu, and worth a quick few minutes! The Koolaus will loom behind you in the darkness as you wait for the sun to creep over the horizon. It was purchased by Voyager Submarines, cleaned up, and sunk in 1999. Oahu - Wikitravel Due to the power plant emitting warm water into the ocean, the sea life there is stunning. Oahu also draws more visitors than any other . 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. Magic Island 4.5 (134 reviews) Parks Open all day Theres actually this great tour that does kayaking, stand-up paddleboard, and a short waterfall hike all. There are shuttle options for those who cannot hike, which is great for families wanting to swim by the waterfall! 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. For exmaple, they havent had any injuries or incidents in 20 years of operation. Another hike on Oahu worth waking doing for sunrise is the Lanikai Pillbox Hike. The 10 Most Instagrammable Places in Oahu | Travel and Blossom 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. THE 10 BEST Hidden Gems in Oahu's North Shore (Updated 2023) - Tripadvisor Find Dead mans catwalk (or where it used to be), Reach the summit of Wiliwilinui ridge trail, The highlight of the trip is the snorkeling in Hanauma Bay where its quite famous for swimming with lots of tropical fish and, Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran, Oahu Full-Circle Island 60 minute Helicopter Tour, Pearl Harbor, Arizona Memorial, & Punchbowl National Cemetery, Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise, Diamond Head Crater Hike & Manoa Falls Combo, Waikiki Discovery Scuba Diving for Beginners, Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Hawaiian Entertainment, One hour Waikiki surf lesson for two people, Hidden Gems of Oahu with North Shore Turtle Snorkeling. 9 Of The Greatest Snorkeling Spots In Oahu, Hawaii - Journeying The Globe Log in, Hi I'm Jamie! 92-1770 Kunia Rd #227, Kunia Camp, 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 is another great place to watch the sunrise. 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. All Rights Reserved. Tread lightly. Since 1967, Hanauma Bay has been a protected marine life conservation area and a favorite spot for visitors to enjoy snorkeling off the shore. A beautiful canoe or kayak paddle to theMokulua is a great escape for the day to an isolated island. Most mornings, you can spot dolphins out in the ocean here! Of course, some of the best-kept secrets of Oahu are the beaches! 15 Hidden Places In Hawaii Only Locals Know About - OnlyInYourState A great afternoon adventure for the whole family and a very unique experience. Any idea where to start? Your email address will not be published. Lanikai is by far one of the prettiest areas on Oahu, laden with spectacular bechside homes, crystal clear water and the famous Mokoluas also known as mokes (two small islands) out in the ocean. The pillboxes at the top of the hikes are full of colorful graffiti and offer a nice view of the ocean. This is located in Waimnalo and is also a camping site. You might also be interested in reading about the best turtle beach in Hawaii! The Best Snorkeling Spots in Oahu - TripSavvy It is family and dog friendly and a great way to see some fantastic views of the east side. 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 food here is really good. 24 Restaurants That Serve the Best Breakfast in Oahu, According to Locals. 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! You have many to choose from as the winter season comes. Descending to 100 feet underwater is an adventure in itself. Aug 28, 2013 4 min read. 1. Hidden Gem Hotels on Oahu. Makua Beach (sometimes known as Tunnels Beach) is the perfect sunset spot in Oahu when you just want to get away from it all. 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.. Ala Moana Beach Park Top 10 Best Secret Spots in Honolulu, HI - February 2023 - Yelp It is truly a magical experience. 10 Hidden Gems In Oahu For Your Hawaii Dream Vacation - Travelling Dany For 20 minutes under the water, youll be surrounded by around a dozen sharks or even more. This is something your friends back home wont believe and it is one of the unique activities in Oahu. They also invite guests to cook Samoan food, which is a fun opportunity. Once you arrive at the island a mini hike to the top will give you amazing views of the shore and the Kualoa Mountains. Keep scrolling to see my top 13 Oahu hidden gems worth adding to your Oahu itinerary! THE WEEKLY #309: 6 YEARS AS A TRAVEL BLOGGER, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR: WHATS IN MY BACKPACK. I was lucky enough to see a few monk seals both in the ocean and on shore. do you need a permit to fly the drone in Hawaii? Primarily primitive lava rock, this is perfect for those who like a bit more peace and quiet. You can read my full review HERE. The views of the Koolaus are worth it all. The hike takes a few hours if you are quick and 5-6 hours if you are a slower hiker. I did this tour with my family and they loved it. Map of all the Best Oahu Instagram Spots. From here, you will have amazing views over Waikiki and the ocean. inone day. Here at Best of Oahu, you will be treated to an insider's view of fantastic Honolulu attractions, dreamy Oahu beaches, and unique Hawaiian culture around the island! Amazing adventures! Gunstock Ranch. 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. Utilize Oahu Public Transportation 9. But what they don't realise is that there is a lot . It is not easy to find, but you should find your way relatively easy if you head over to Nanakuli Beach Park. Known as "The Gathering Place," Oahu is the second oldest island of the six main Hawaiian islands. They also offer beauty and body products. Hawaii Travel Guide. This is easily one of THE MOST POPULAR tours on Oahu. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Photography Tour: Full-Circle Island Photo Tour, Photography Tour: Sunset Photography Tour. Oahu has tons of amazing places to eat. If you just want someone to show you, the best option is to take a professional with you. There is nothing wrong with the traditional Oahu tourist spots, and you should check them out during your vacation as well. 2022 13. Book your kayaking tour: Kaneohe Guided Kayak and Snorkel Tour. 9 Somewhat Secret Spots in Oahu Hawaii - Simply Wander 3. Itinerary includes --> Waikiki Pickup (7:00 am - 7:30 am) Join a full-day tour and discover all of Oahus best locations. House of Mana Up Hawaii Features products from local markers and artisans that highlight homegrown ingredients, thriving cultures and woven textiles in the Hawaiian Islands. 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. One of the best experiences I had on Oahu was swimming with the beautiful spinner dolphins on this exact tour. The Beet Box Caf This organic, vegetarian spot has food so tasty it could turn a meat-eating velociraptor into a gentle brontosaurus. Who knows, you may just find your own secret restaurant. Only a short drive or a 30-minute walk up the hill from Waikiki is the much more relaxed Cromwells beach. The Big Island has the stunning Waipio Valley and the rugged volcanic landscape. Learn from your guide the rich plantation history and describe how this famously sweet plant became a symbol of Hawaii. Local Gems: The Best Places To Eat In Oahu - Heartbeet Kitchen 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 Kona region is known for having sunny mornings, high rain and little wind. There is no better way to start your day than with a short sunrise hike overlooking the ocean and amazing scenery. Hotel & Resort, Copyright 2023 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. Take a Hike 5. As much as locals rely on the tourist trade, there are always going to be a few places theyd like to keep for themselves, or at least, not be as well known. Only minutes from the busy streets of Waikiki, this jungle trail leads you to a large waterfall. Known as "The Forbidden Isle", Niihau island is one of the best-kept secrets in Hawaii. These secret(ish) activities will ensure a wonderful trip to Kauai with kids or without. Lots of visitors to Hawaii hear about luaus in the tourist magazines from the airport. 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 . Probably the best views in Oahu, along with Diamond Head. One of the best spots to get a Haupia Pie after a day of beaching it on the north shore is Teds Bakery. It is the most convenient place on the island to learn how to surf with many surf schools and board rentals. A traditional, magnificent example of Hawaiian self-sufficiency where rums are made from heirloom sugar cane. to the ocean on the east coast of Oahu. The Big Island has the stunning Waipio Valley and the rugged volcanic landscape. Book your tour:Pearl Harbor, Arizona Memorial, & Punchbowl National Cemetery. From Wiliwilinui Ridge you can make out Waikiki, a city of white buildings seemingly a world away from the ridges we are roaming. This is why it is one of my favorite spots to go to. Discover short videos related to secret spots on oahu on TikTok. This is my Journey Era. I include a map and photos as well! 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. In fact, according to a photographer, the reason for this is because of its essence. Scenic Drives and Secret Beaches on Oahu, Hawaii - TripSavvy 10 Best Surf Spots In Oahu, Hawaii, USA | Trip101 Things to Do on Oahu for Adventure Seekers. Its one of the most unique things to do on Oahu and definitely off the beaten path. 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. Many people still do the hike every day. Veer off the main streets and head for Monsarrat or Kapahulu Avenues. 4. 21. Oahu Surf Spots / A Guide to the Top Surf Breaks in Oahu - Lush Palm This waterfall is a beautiful gem on Oahu to visit and explore the culture of Hawaii a bit more! Be prepared for masses of tourists. A traditional Hawaiian luau is a must-do cultural activity on Oahu. This neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii will give you a surfing experience like no other. This is one of the best Oahu photography spots for sure. Nu'uanu Pali Lookout is one of the most beautiful places in Oahu for landscape photography. The rougher the day the bigger the spray from the blowhole usually. You can climb around on the rocks, take in the beauty, or go along the beach shore. 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. 10 hidden gems in Honolulu GO Blog | EF United States Enjoy Sunrise Views on the Stairway to Heaven Hike. However, what most people dont do is venture down the cliffs to the tide-pools on the waters edge. Visitors just have to know where to find it. Enjoy a series of ziplines, rappels, sky bridges, boardwalks, and more. Source: adamkresina on Instagram. There are 11 Marine Life conservation districts in Hawaii - Three of which are in Oahu: Pupukea. You can read a full review HERE. Hidden Gem Spots the Oahu Locals Love. Where: Hanapepe Pl, Honolulu, HI 96825, United States. It is best accessible when it is low tide. Many love to jump off China Walls as well. Travel Agent, 19 Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts with the Finest Dining You can book yourself onto a guided tour that includes pick/up and drop-off from your Waikiki hotel. Panama, Complimentary Advisor Toolkit Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. 8 Secret Places To Explore in Hawaii - Travel Off Path The 5 Best Hidden Gem Hotels on Oahu | Oyster.com Click Here to book your tour of the North Shore Zipline Tour in advance (Often sells out weeks in advance). Dream Vacations. Dying to take your loved one to a romantic cruise whilst in Oahu? But there's far more to Hawaii's capital city than surfing. Noreen Kompanik Honolulu and Waikiki from Diamond Head on O'ahu. However, its most popular feature is a giant rock resting half in the water half on the shore. 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. A Local's Guide to the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Oahu Activities We saw sharks, turtles, plane wrecks, and shipwrecks. Hidden on this island is a host of sacred places worth visiting. Secret Beach Oahu. Were here to help! Water rushes in with waves, filling the cave before being spat out with great force. New Orleans & Company, How Smart Payments Can Help Alleviate Future Travel Chaos Samurais in Aiea for awesome ice treats. It sounds like there would be few venturing into the water however, this is the most crowded beach on a weekend. 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! 25 Best Snorkeling Spots in Oahu, Hawaii (with Map) You can actually walk right to it! I include a map and photos as well! 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. It is easy to climb onto the rock and from there you can join the crowd of nervous jumpers who wait their turn to leap off the rock. Most Acai bowls often come topped other fruits and berries and even granola, sothey are actually quite filling. Here are the most Instagrammable places in Oahu- including several hidden gems I found myself! The hike is 2.7 miles one way and shows off the volcanic coast, tide pools, arches, and so much more. Copyright Journey Era, 2022 | Sitemap | Privacy Policy. The North Shore of Oahu is famous for surf, beaches, and the chill vibes. There is also a lot of accommodation, restaurants and nightlife opportunities. A secluded and remote slice of paradise perfect for a weekend spent getting in touch with nature, Malaekahana is a 37-acre campground surrounded by ironwood trees and backing up to a pristine white sand beach. In order to restore the marine life, the bay is a nature preserve . The water is super clear and beautiful turquoise color, plus the sand is extremely soft. But these are some of the best hidden gems in Hawaii that will take your vacation to the next level! Nicknamed Neck Break Beach the waves at Sandy Beach are unforgiving. Best of Oahu 2023 If you are lucky you will even spot a turtle but you can be guaranteed to find hundreds of amazing fish and marine species. Because it is a non-practicing Buddhist temple, all visitors are welcome. 9 Somewhat Secret Spots in Oahu. Accents Pick up take-home treasures, accessories, and jewelry at Accents, our on-site gift shops. This site has a lot more to do than just a waterfall; you can explore the botanical gardens and eat delicious food! Plan out your next trip today by checking out this article right now! Hidden Gems: 8 Secret Things to Do in Oahu Hawaii Dillingham Ranch (most instagrammable places in oahu) Dillingham Ranch is one of the best photo spots you can visit in Oahu! Helena's Hawaiian Food: As you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, you shouldn't judge a restaurant by it either. The best snorkeling tour on Oahu is the Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. 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. Heads up this trail is illegal also although still heavily frequented daily. Keep your eyes peeled for the playful Spinner Dolphins who live in these waters. There are A LOT of surf spots in WaikikiCanoes, Ala Moana, Queens and Kaisers just to name a few. That means that if you purchase a product or service that I reccomend, I get a small cut of the sale. My personal best was 12:15 but I have seen people fly up much quicker. Not necessarily in that order. A sunset cruise on a 53-foot catamaran takes you south toward Hawaiis iconic Diamond Head. Hanauma bay is a longtime favorite of water lovers, but sadly, the big number of tourists caused serious damage on the reef. 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. 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. Off-the-Beaten Path Oahu Activities & Adventures | Marriott TRAVELER But this spot is only for the very experienced. There isnt a much better way to enjoy than sunset than aboard a yacht with a cocktail! 8 Most Beautiful Off the Beaten Path Hawaii Places to Visit Its called the Circle-Island tour and most tourists to Oahu love this one. Great instructors make this possible for even the least athletically inclined. 1. The entire sweeping coastline is stuff vacation fantasies are made of. Despite this, Oahu has its share of magic just like the other Hawaiian Islands. Cruise along 7 miles of world-famous surfing beaches on Oahus north shore and sample the local flavors along the way. The beauty of this luau tour package is that you get to experience traditional performances and story-telling before enjoying a buffet luau. A beach park uncrowded and unusual is how this part of Oahu is described. Located in Kahaluu, you can go and walk on these sacred grounds.