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. At the end of the trail is the chimney a vertical rock face you can climb with the assistance of a rope. This island is home to seabirds, not goats. It is a 3.5-mile hike and is not too difficult. Discover Panama with Taggea Tours by Viajes Yarilena and Warm white sand and clear blue water along 227 miles of coastline make Oahu snorkeling a top activity. Kaneohe Sandbar. It is also named Mokuauia Island. Take a tour instead. This is easily one of THE MOST POPULAR tours on Oahu. Stuart Schuffman. What the passengers will love is the round trip transportation they arrange for each and every one. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay. The morning sun slowly warms the sandy beaches of Waikiki as your guide takes you on a journey through the history of the island. take about thirty minutes. You can actually walk right to it! Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Watch popular content from the following creators: mellowyellowpay(@mellowyellowpay), Daniella Daniel(@daniella19889), DJ ill Will(@deejayillwill), layla(@lylamatar), kris(@kristheglobetrotter), Ashley Hernandez(@wildlyunconventional), Localkineting(@crazychazu), Ntxhi (See)(@whisperntxhi), Gabby(@gabriellewoolery_), tasia . Hi! Were here to help! Amazing adventures! 303. Punchy rights and lefts on offer. History comes alive before your eyes as you weave your way up the Koolau Mountains to the Nuuanu Pali Lookout where King Kamehameha I battled to unite the Hawaiian Islands. 92-1770 Kunia Rd #227, Kunia Camp, Oahu. Notable competitions are the Billabong Pipe Masters and the Eddie a big wave surf competition at Waimea Bay. The entire sweeping coastline is stuff vacation fantasies are made of. I had done some Oahu cliff jumping in the past but this spot was always a little bit sketchy for me at the time. It is a natural beauty and should be kept as an off-the-beaten-path on Oahu to ensure it is kept beautiful. 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. Dream Vacations. 13 Not So SECRET HIDDEN GEMS in OAHU HAWAII ! Copyright Journey Era, 2022 | Sitemap | Privacy Policy. This article will provide a list of the best hidden gems in Oahu that are perfect for your next trip. Oh also if you want to see how terrible I am at surfing watch the video below. 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. Samurais in Aiea for awesome ice treats. If you follow the path all the way to towards the ocean and venture down the cliffs you will find a small rock bridge. You could also try Night SUP yoga with Led lights in what is an epic experience near Waikiki. 4. While it is illegal, the stairway is still frequented by a small number of people on most mornings. 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. Best secret spots near me in Honolulu, HI Sort:Recommended All Price Open Now 1. do you need a permit to fly the drone in Hawaii? 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. From here, you will have amazing views over Waikiki and the ocean. The atmosphere at surf events is like no other sporting events. Located in Kahaluu, you can go and walk on these sacred grounds. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Wow what amazing place to go backpacking, fabulous post! Picnic on the Beach 2. 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. To get you started, here are a few of my favorite hidden gems. The Maunawili hike is another trail into the jungle! We saw sharks, turtles, plane wrecks, and shipwrecks. If you happen to venture out of the inner city, dont forget to try locally grown and made traditional foods. See Tropical Foliage at Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden. 5. Hanauma Bay and Nature Preserve. The hike is short and on the same trails as the Luakaha Waterfall. This can be a dangerous spot for those not familiar with the ocean and her mighty strength. 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. Due to the power plant emitting warm water into the ocean, the sea life there is stunning. You are picked up from your Waikiki hotel and taken to the harbor for a short boat ride to a few secret snorkeling spots. Mahalo! Located at 559 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu. There are 11 Marine Life conservation districts in Hawaii - Three of which are in Oahu: Pupukea. Three Peaks or Olomana Trail is a treacherous looking hike with three steep peaks that can be seen all the way from Lanikai. Aloha! Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. My personal best was 12:15 but I have seen people fly up much quicker. Itinerary includes --> Waikiki Pickup (7:00 am - 7:30 am) March 25, 2019. Something that people love about this tour is the staff! While you are up there check out one of the best beaches on the North Shore. Book your tour: Oahu Full-Circle Island 60 minute Helicopter Tour, Book your tour: 25-minute Waikiki Helicopter Tour. 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. Sharks Cove is a beach park in Oahu that you'll feel like is a well-kept secret due to its uncrowded and unusual features. The 2-hour experience of seeing whales will for sure take your breath away. The beauty of this luau tour package is that you get to experience traditional performances and story-telling before enjoying a buffet luau. The Mermaid Caves are literally a secret place in Oahu and should be kept that way! Copyright 2023 Journey Era | Mediavine Trellis Child - Journey Era on Trellis Framework by Mediavine. Or do you just want to experience a fun and relaxing evening with absolutely no itinerary? 301 Route 17 N, Suite 1150, Rutherford, NJ 07070 USA | Telephone: (201) 902-2000, Last updated: 02:03 PM ET, Mon March 25 2019, 10 Most Sacred Indigenous Sites in the US, How Travel Advisors Can Capitalize on the Latest Travel Trends, Vacation Rental Bookings Rise in January 2023, Kansas City to Open First New Airport Terminal in 50 Years, FAA Adopts New Safeguards After System Failure Delayed, Canceled Flights. Waimea Bay is my favorite beach on Oahu. 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. 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. It is the most convenient place on the island to learn how to surf with many surf schools and board rentals. Lots of visitors to Hawaii hear about luaus in the tourist magazines from the airport. 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! They guarantee to have you standing up and riding a wave! Everyone hates waiting in a long queue but on this tour, youll be able to skip lines for a hassle-free excursion. The hike itself is free but it isnt near Waikiki. 25 Best Snorkeling Spots in Oahu, Hawaii (with Map) December 6, 2022 Hawaiian green sea turtles, tropical fish, moray eels, and rainbow corals are just a hint of the impeccable underwater world thriving in the North Pacific Ocean surrounding Oahu island. 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. Oahu has tons of amazing places to eat. Thankfully, you can see some of the most instagrammable places in Oahu even if you're not a hiker! This is truly one of the most epic viewpoints anywhere in the world and a must-do activity on Oahu. They also invite guests to cook Samoan food, which is a fun opportunity. One of the most popular hikes on Oahu, Koko Head Stairs is a relatively short hike but dont be fooled. Waimea Valley and its waterfalls await you, discover this beautiful place steeped with history, spirituality and island traditions. They also have tours if you are interested in going with a group or want more fun facts about the gardens. Despite this, Oahu has its share of magic just like the other Hawaiian Islands. There are plenty of food trucks lining the coast all claiming to be the best and the original. Watching a surf comp is one of the best things to do on Oahu no matter what island you are on. 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. Book your tour: SUP, Kayak & Waterfall Hike Oahu Tour. Live like a local and discover Honolulu with our pick of the hidden gems and secret spots in and around the city. You may use your Facebook account to add a comment, subject to Facebook's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Each Friday the Hilton puts on a FREE blockbuster fireworks display. 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. 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). This stunning bay is surrounded by lush green hills. 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. You can walk toward Diamond Head side to get away from crowds, but there are many incredible areas for you on this island! The fireworks usually begin at 7:45 and hundreds of people fill the beachto watch the fireworks launch from along the shore. gallery icon See Tripadvisor's 116,798 traveler reviews and photos of Oahu's North Shore hidden gem attractions. Not too much to do here, but it is a lot of fun to look at and watch the waves roll by. A helicopter tour over this amazing island will be the number one memory you take home with you from your vacation. Another amazing Oahu luau worth checking out is the Experience Nutridge luau. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. But after sleeping at more than 50 Oahu hotels, Oyster reporters have come across a good handful of under-appreciated hideaways. Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight Over Oahu. The Chinamans Hat is a small island near Kualoa Ranch. 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. The Kona region is known for having sunny mornings, high rain and little wind. This is a hidden beach that is worth it! to the ocean on the east coast of Oahu. While onboard, you will enjoy the delicious buffet and some chitchats with other passengers. However, a beautiful hike winds around the cliffs above the bay leading towards the oceans edge. But you cant visit the North shore without trying some famous Garlic Shrimp. 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. It is an official seabird sanctuary, so some parts of the island are marked, and you cannot enter. Poke Bowls became my favorite food on Oahu. Sandbar sharks circle around you as you snorkel out in the open ocean. 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. Great instructors make this possible for even the least athletically inclined. 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. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. You also need to complete a few basic rock climbs to complete the trail. 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. Because it is a non-practicing Buddhist temple, all visitors are welcome. Theres a great deal that offers you a one-hour and riding a wave lesson for two people at once. But these are some of the best hidden gems in Hawaii that will take your vacation to the next level! Book your tour: Kayak Kailua Tour including Lunch. Built in the 16th century, Kane'aki Heiau is considered the best preserved heiau on Oahu. Legend has it that Pele, the goddess of creation, was driven from island to island until she found sanctuary in Kilauea. Ka'ena Point State Park. 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. Veer off the main streets and head for Monsarrat or Kapahulu Avenues. If you are lucky you will even spot a turtle but you can be guaranteed to find hundreds of amazing fish and marine species. Below are our favorite off-the-beaten-path places on Hawaii's Big Island. This neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii will give you a surfing experience like no other. When he surfed the quarter-mile-long wave into the bay he thought it resembled the Great Wall of China. On the island of O'ahu, AKA 'The Gathering Place', Honolulu has long drawn international visitors with promises of sunny beaches and reliable waves. Off the beaten path, amongst a Honolulu neighborhood you'll find Helena's, she's been serving authentic Hawaiian plates since 1946. Gunstock Ranch. If you're ready for a true locals only challenge, try a visit to the secret Mermaid Cave. A traditional Hawaiian luau is a must-do cultural activity 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. 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 Plantation offers tours and has a huge hedge maze. Theyll be able to explore nature like never before while learning about Hawaiian culture along the way too! This is also a great place to watch the sunset in the summer or spot whales in the winter. Book your tour: Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Catamaran Cruise. by: Victoria Derrick. Most often, you dont see volcanic rocks on Oahu. Most people think of O'ahu strictly as a beach vacation interspersed with hiking and awash with cocktails. 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. The views from each location are simply breathtaking and will leave you speechless when you arrive at each spot. Towns like Laie, Waimea, and Haleiwa are good places to explore. Honolulu and Waikiki from Diamond Head on O'ahu. Go for a walk to see where your next dining experience will take you. Waikiki. Once you arrive at the island a mini hike to the top will give you amazing views of the shore and the Kualoa Mountains. Destination & Tourism 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. Secret Photo Spots Oahu 25. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. Who knows, you may just find your own secret restaurant. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is the first place you should add to your Oahu bucket list. It does have strong currents, so wear fins and be extra cautious as you snorkel. Makapuu Lookout. There's no doubt that lively Waikiki, historic Pearl Harbor and 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. I lived on Oahu for two years and loved adventuring from the beaches to the mountains to the waterfalls! I have createdthe Ultimate Oahu bucket list for inspiration about the best things to do on Oahu, Hawaii. Guest Author, Discover the Animals of Panama on World Wildlife Day Enjoy a slice of paradise, complete with cocktails. 30. In the mountains overlooking the famous Pipeline beach and the North Shore of Oahu, the Peace Hike provides a great vantage point. A place popular with surfers and jumpers, these cliffs will partner with a beautiful sunset to greet everyone at the end of the day. 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. Your guide will take you through the botanical gardens of this vast and tranquil setting. Sherwood Beach. Your tour begins with a short ATV ride to the top of a mountain. Oahu, The Gathering Place, is Hawaiis most populated island, home to almost a million people. Sandys is right around the corner if you get bored and want to go get smashed by some waves. 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. 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. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Located on the windward side of Oahu, Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden is simultaneously one of the top attractions in Oahu and also a great place to get (somewhat) away from the crowds in iconic spots like Waikiki Beach. 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! Theres actually this great tour that does kayaking, stand-up paddleboard, and a short waterfall hike all. Known as "The Gathering Place," Oahu is the second oldest island of the six main Hawaiian islands. The glass-bottom floor of the boat allows you to see sea life as it swims by and also gets a great view of one of the many shipwrecks on the coast of Oahu. At the summit, there is an old satellite atop a small bunker. Source: adamkresina on Instagram. Travel Agent, 19 Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts with the Finest Dining Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. The Pillbox hikes on Oahu are another favorite photo spot for tourists. Only a few yards high they make the area a perfect spot to hang out for the day. I have linked the top-rated tour below. Oahu also draws more visitors than any other . There is also a lot of accommodation, restaurants and nightlife opportunities. This lookout point is on the East Side of Oahu, and worth a quick few minutes! The North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour is the most easily the most epic and most unique activity on Oahu. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Simply Wander | Family Friendly Travel Guides. Hidden Gem Spots the Oahu Locals Love. 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. 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 . 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). Discover amazing hidden Oahu waterfalls, the rugged & rustic Oahu North Shore, and famous Hawaiian surfing spots. Some of the links in my content may be affiliate links. There are plenty of awesome spots on Oahu to get a good look at the stars each night. Don't let this discourage you however, as this hike offers some spectacular views of Oahu. You can read a full review HERE. When parking in the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail carpark, there is another attraction close by. 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. 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. These secret(ish) activities will ensure a wonderful trip to Kauai with kids or without. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. Ask a local. Secret Island is a hidden peninsula on the windward side of Oahu in Kaneohe. It was purchased by Voyager Submarines, cleaned up, and sunk in 1999.