And in 2000, she won a James Beard Award. Loved the places we visited the ease of being able to stay as long or as little as we wanted at. This 5-hour historic tour is a combination tour in which you will be guided through Pearl Harbors comprehensive history see the sunken USS Arizona, get a chance to visit the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, and stop by the landmarks of Honolulu metropolitan area. See Tropical Foliage at Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden. Nu'uanu Pali Lookout is one of the most beautiful places in Oahu for landscape photography. One of the lesser known thingsto do on Oahu but definitely one to enjoy from a safe distance. 5. Bellow's Beach Park. Have you ever thought about swimming with sharks? Wondering if there's a place for camping as well? This is the only remaining real dairy farm business in Hawaii, and long shall it remain so. Essentially a poke bowl is raw fish, most commonly Ahi and rice. 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. This incredible island has great beaches, hikes, waterfalls, snorkeling spots, and restaurants to try. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our top 13 hidden gems in Oahu! Any idea where to start? All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. Since 1967, Hanauma Bay has been a protected marine life conservation area and a favorite spot for visitors to enjoy snorkeling off the shore. Some things are happy to remain in the shadows. The best snorkeling tour on Oahu is the Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. If you're ready for a true locals only challenge, try a visit to the secret Mermaid Cave. See Tripadvisor's 116,798 traveler reviews and photos of Oahu's North Shore hidden gem attractions. One of the coolest luaus in Hawaii is Toa Luau up at Waimea Valley in North Shore Oahu. However, a beautiful hike winds around the cliffs above the bay leading towards the oceans edge. Punchy rights and lefts on offer. Another amazing Oahu luau worth checking out is the Experience Nutridge luau. In fact, most of them have official names, and are relatively easy to find. Some of the links in my content may be affiliate links. It can be extremely dangerous, especially with strong surf. No worries take a look at these 13 places as potential options (or pick one from each category) and make a plan now before you go! Jumping off the rock is one of the most iconic things to do on Oahu. Visitors just have to know where to find it. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay. Simply Wander | Family Friendly Travel Guides. The Mermaid Caves are literally a secret place in Oahu and should be kept that way! The North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour is the most easily the most epic and most unique activity on Oahu. Im Jackson, an Australian adventure traveler who has been on the road for eight years now. Hi! 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. Book your kayaking tour: Kaneohe Guided Kayak and Snorkel Tour. The Hawaiian monk seal is the only seal native to Hawaii and is one of only two mammals nativeto the islands. These 12 places are some of Hawaii's best kept secrets, though don't worry, I haven't given away all of their locations. Cruise along 7 miles of world-famous surfing beaches on Oahus north shore and sample the local flavors along the way. Waikiki Beach. Get Naked and buy local! When he surfed the quarter-mile-long wave into the bay he thought it resembled the Great Wall of China. There are tons of things to do in Waikiki but surfing has to be at the top of your list. For lunch, try some fresh Hawaiian shrimp from one of the local food trucks (own . There are A LOT of surf spots in WaikikiCanoes, Ala Moana, Queens and Kaisers just to name a few. 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. Discover short videos related to secret spots on oahu on TikTok. 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. 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. Magic Island 4.5 (134 reviews) Parks Open all day On the far west side of Oahu, Makua Beach lies at the foot of majestic mountains, hiding behind a wall of trees. Dont worry about the gear as the tour guide will provide you snorkel gear like goggles and masks. The Plantation offers tours and has a huge hedge maze. 3. My personal best was 12:15 but I have seen people fly up much quicker. 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. Enjoy a slice of paradise, complete with cocktails. Highly rated hidden gems in Oahu's North Shore: Top hidden gem activities. Go there to avoid the crowds and the touristy, overpriced restaurants on Waikiki. This is my Journey Era. Halona Cove This is an iconic photo spot on Oahu. Around the corner is the historic Dole Plantation surrounded by rows of pineapples and fields of sugarcane. This is truly one of the most epic viewpoints anywhere in the world and a must-do activity on Oahu. What the passengers will love is the round trip transportation they arrange for each and every one. One of the best spots to get a Haupia Pie after a day of beaching it on the north shore is Teds Bakery. 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. Click here to learn more. If you happen to venture out of the inner city, dont forget to try locally grown and made traditional foods. If you want an extra adventure, you can also camp there! of the trail you can see the turquoise water of the east coast and the panoramic views. Here are the most Instagrammable places in Oahu- including several hidden gems I found myself! The perfect place for a much-needed vacation. The Chinamans Hat is a small island near Kualoa Ranch. What to do on Oahu? A helicopter tour over this amazing island will be the number one memory you take home with you from your vacation. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Something that people love about this tour is the staff! Oahu. Strong swimmers only, please. 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. If you see yourself as someone who prefers the roads less traveled some of these may be for you. Dream Vacations. 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. There are some great underwater scuba diving adventures, best Oahu . There are 11 Marine Life conservation districts in Hawaii - Three of which are in Oahu: Pupukea. Book your tour:Pearl Harbor, Arizona Memorial, & Punchbowl National Cemetery. As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip. And you find this hidden oasis of Oahu! Despite this, Oahu has its share of magic just like the other Hawaiian Islands. Its only a few years old, so most tourists havent heard of it. Known as "The Gathering Place," Oahu is the second oldest island of the six main Hawaiian islands. What started out as a small roadside shop has turned into a fun place to visit! The Maunawili hike is another trail into the jungle! They guarantee to have you standing up and riding a wave! Surf at Sunset 3. A great afternoon adventure for the whole family and a very unique experience. Makua Beach (sometimes known as Tunnels Beach) is the perfect sunset spot in Oahu when you just want to get away from it all. Enjoy Sunrise Views on the Stairway to Heaven Hike. Because the trail is so clearly marked (unlike many of the hikes on Oahu) it is completely foolproof and great for beginners. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. Things to Do on Oahu for Adventure Seekers. Three Peaks or Olomana Trail is a treacherous looking hike with three steep peaks that can be seen all the way from Lanikai. But it is better to swim to protect the coral below. Secret Island is a hidden peninsula on the windward side of Oahu in Kaneohe. However, its most popular feature is a giant rock resting half in the water half on the shore. Mermaid Cove is one of the best hidden gems of Oahu, in my opinion. If you follow the path all the way to towards the ocean and venture down the cliffs you will find a small rock bridge. The best part about these Oahu hidden spots is that they are all free! 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. Despite what its name might suggest, the Dead Mans Catwalk provided more amazingviews than perils. This is also a great place to watch the sunset in the summer or spot whales in the winter. 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. Many people still do the hike every day. Watching a surf comp is one of the best things to do on Oahu no matter what island you are on. Hanauma Bay and Nature Preserve. New Orleans & Company, Complimentary Itinerary Building Assistance The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. Not only is it a fun place to visit, but it is also the best Oahu Instagram spots to capture stunning pictures. Most mornings, you can spot dolphins out in the ocean here! Oahu Travel. Samurais in Aiea for awesome ice treats. A forest setting you would expect in the Pacific Northwest of the Mainland is a great spot to have an afternoon hike. This list of 10 somewhat secret spots in Oahu Hawaii will get you off the beaten path and away from the tourist hot spots! A place popular with surfers and jumpers, these cliffs will partner with a beautiful sunset to greet everyone at the end of the day. The hike is 2.7 miles one way and shows off the volcanic coast, tide pools, arches, and so much more. A beautiful canoe or kayak paddle to theMokulua is a great escape for the day to an isolated island. Aside from the fabulous beach and suitable waves for surfing, people can enjoy themselves as there . To get you started, here are a few of my favorite hidden gems. Learn from your guide the rich plantation history and describe how this famously sweet plant became a symbol of Hawaii. Ive got you covered with them all so see how many items on this Oahu bucket list you can tick off! Thank for your continued support. Maui has tons of gorgeous waterfalls along the Road to Hana as well as the lush Upcountry Maui. The cement platform might be gone but the epic view is still as amazing as ever. Starting at $109-139/person. Valley of the Temples 365 Historic Sites Cemeteries By jt552233 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. 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! The road to heaven is said to be one of the scariest in Oahu, so if youre driving here, take care. Also known as King Kamehameha III summer home, this is a slice of Hawaiian history hidden on the Nuuanu Oahu hike. The Dole Plantation is a great spot to stop at on the way to the north shore for a tasty pineapple treat. The Beet Box Caf This organic, vegetarian spot has food so tasty it could turn a meat-eating velociraptor into a gentle brontosaurus. It does have strong currents, so wear fins and be extra cautious as you snorkel. I was lucky enough to see a few monk seals both in the ocean and on shore. 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. Secret Photo Spots Oahu 25. You will feel like you are in the middle of the island and you just about are! If you're visiting Oahu soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Oahu Visitor Guides. Legend has it that Pele, the goddess of creation, was driven from island to island until she found sanctuary in Kilauea. This trail is one of the top five most popular things to do on Oahu. Turtle Bay Resort Oahu . However, China Walls shows that side of this volcanic island! You can also see a sea cave. For a few dollars, you can rent yourself a surfboard and join the masses trying their hand at surfing at the famous Waikiki Beach. Best secret spots near me in Honolulu, HI Sort:Recommended All Price Open Now 1. Here's our favorite hidden spots on Oahu. 3. The China Walls are a secret place to cliff jump . Cockroach Cove is right next to Halona Blowhole. Painted pink as a testimony to breast cancer victims and survivors, the abandoned military pillbox isnt hard to spot. 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. If you want to skip the crowded beaches of Lanikai and Kailua, head to Bellow's Beach in Waimanalo Bay. The ship was confiscated in the1990s for carrying more than 90illegal immigrants toHawaii. 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. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. As the waves crash into the cliffs under the rocks the water surges out of a blowhole shooting into the air. Kawela Bay, Oahu A lovely secluded and protected beach, Kawela Bay is close to Oahu island's northern tip. Copyright 2023 Journey Era | Mediavine Trellis Child - Journey Era on Trellis Framework by Mediavine. 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. The hike takes a few hours if you are quick and 5-6 hours if you are a slower hiker. But there's far more to Hawaii's capital city than surfing. They really make sure you are entertained and you will have the best trip to Oahu. Phone +1 808-768-6861 Web Visit website This curved bay and state park is known for its year-round snorkeling and convenient accessibility. If there is something you are curious about, theres a live tour guide so feel free to ask all you want! March 25, 2019. Book your tour: Koko Head Trail Guided Adventure. Some are for sunrise, sunset or landscape focused with locals who know the spots and can teach you how to shoot amazing photos. The tour takes you just a few miles offshore where you will put on a snorkel and get inside a cage. So inspirational is the history and the people responsible for this agri-success (new word!) Helena's Hawaiian Food: As you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, you shouldn't judge a restaurant by it either. 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. There are no paved roads or commercial buildings here, just beautiful Hawaii nature as far as the eye can see. The hike is right next to the Pali Highway and only takes about 30 minutes. But this spot is only for the very experienced. It is family and dog friendly and a great way to see some fantastic views of the east side. Kaneohe Sandbar. 9k followers. It is not easy to find, but you should find your way relatively easy if you head over to Nanakuli Beach Park. Itinerary includes --> Waikiki Pickup (7:00 am - 7:30 am) If you take a leisurely walk up you can expect to finish between 30 minutes and 1 hour. 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. 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. Interested in learning how to scuba dive while on Oahu: Waikiki Discovery Scuba Diving for Beginners, Already certified to scuba dive and want to book a scuba tour to a wreck or a reef: Scuba diving full-day tour on Oahu. by: Victoria Derrick. A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you won't be able to keep to yourself. Onboard a sailing Catamaran drinking tropical Hawaiian cocktails and relaxing while enjoying the legendary sunset and the magnificent Hawaiian coast. Big Island Bees Feel the adrenaline rush while soaring from the top of Oahus longest ziplines on this guided tour. Find some in the following locations: Each one is unique and brings its own peace when you visit. this is my secret spot !!! Not necessarily in that order. Waimea Valley and its waterfalls await you, discover this beautiful place steeped with history, spirituality and island traditions. Waikiki. PUA'ENA POINT: Slabby reef out at the main peak. Theres actually this great tour that does kayaking, stand-up paddleboard, and a short waterfall hike all. Once down on the rocky coastline, a number of tide pools are deep enough to jump into and a few blowholes might give you a surprise too. 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. Join a full-day tour and discover all of Oahus best locations. This neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii will give you a surfing experience like no other. Where: An hour northwest of Honolulu on the leeward coast, In the municipality of Waianae, Oahu. Another hike on Oahu worth waking doing for sunrise is the Lanikai Pillbox Hike. If you want to visit a waterfall during your vacation in Hawaii, check out Waimea Falls. 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. If you dont mind camping, it is totally worth it to see this beach! The water here entices you in where you will catch a glimpse of the varied sea life. They also invite guests to cook Samoan food, which is a fun opportunity. Oahu Instagram Spots and Photography Destinations. Global Village Hawaii is one of our favorites! In the mountains on the west side of Oahu is the Pink Pillbox Hike. to the ocean on the east coast of Oahu. Only a few yards high they make the area a perfect spot to hang out for the day. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is the first place you should add to your Oahu bucket list. What better way to see Oahu than from hundreds of feet up in the air. Its the only luau Ive ever been to that has a traditional Samoan kava ceremony as part of the festivities. 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. A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you wont be able to keep to yourself. Koko Head. While it is illegal, the stairway is still frequented by a small number of people on most mornings. Are you looking for some new adventures on Oahu? take about thirty minutes. Maui's Secret Cove, for example, is a popular spot for wedding ceremonies, and Kauai's Secret Beach can be found easily on Google. Map of all the Best Oahu Instagram Spots. 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READ NEXT 25 of the Best National Parks in the USA (Beautiful + Diverse!) gallery icon The fireworks usually begin at 7:45 and hundreds of people fill the beachto watch the fireworks launch from along the shore. The white sand, clear blue water, and never ending small waves make this a perfect spot for beginners to become a grommet (supposedly this means beginning surfer). This tour is perfect for visitors who stay in Oahu for a short time but still want to see what Oahu has to offer. Whether its exploring the island or spending time with your family, these places are sure to make your vacation unforgettable. This tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. Book your tour: Atlantis Submarine Adventure. Due to the power plant emitting warm water into the ocean, the sea life there is stunning. If searching for the best coffee in Oahu, then Kona Coffee needs to be on your Oahu Bucket List. I have linked the top-rated tour below. It might seem extreme but it is very controlled and quite safe. This beach and park area are on the eastern side of the island in a smaller town. Many love to jump off China Walls as well. 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.