This stunning bay is surrounded by lush green hills. 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. 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. 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. This gorgeous park is located on the northwest coast of the island, and is home to many secluded beaches and hiking trails. BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle/Booze) 8. Book your tour: Manoa Falls Guided Tour (with hotel pick/up). 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 . There is no better way to start your day than with a short sunrise hike overlooking the ocean and amazing scenery. Go for a walk to see where your next dining experience will take you. Since 1967, Hanauma Bay has been a protected marine life conservation area and a favorite spot for visitors to enjoy snorkeling off the shore. Tread lightly. Fringed by a beautiful beach of white-tinged sand, it all sits in a volcanic crater protected from the elements. Hidden Gems of Oahu with Waimea Botanical Garden. It is located on the island's leeward (west) side in Makaha Valley and . Nu'uanu Pali Lookout is one of the most beautiful places in Oahu for landscape photography. While You're at it, Avoid Shopping on Kalakaua 7. Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular Oahu attractions. Stunning, Welcoming. Of course, some of the best-kept secrets of Oahu are the beaches! It is relatively safe but I wouldnt recommend this hike for people in good shape as there are moments where you need to use ropes to pull yourself up steep segments. Painted pink as a testimony to breast cancer victims and survivors, the abandoned military pillbox isnt hard to spot. Entrance to the lookout is free, although you do have to pay for parking. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. 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. Descending to 100 feet underwater is an adventure in itself. I will never endorse anything fake or not worth considering. 5 Secret Oahu locations - Luxury on Points Veer off the main streets and head for Monsarrat or Kapahulu Avenues. Oahu is home to some of the most gorgeous attractions, like the Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden, Tantalus, the Kaaawa Valley, and the Byodo-In Temple. MERCH!! Not too much to do here, but it is a lot of fun to look at and watch the waves roll by. Here's our favorite hidden spots on Oahu. 8 secret gems on Oahu - Sunset Magazine 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. If you want a small, intimate luau that feels like you are hanging out in a family members yard, this is the luau to do. Discover amazing hidden Oahu waterfalls, the rugged & rustic Oahu North Shore, and famous Hawaiian surfing spots. 13 Not So SECRET HIDDEN GEMS in OAHU HAWAII ! (MUST VISIT) A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you won't be able to keep to yourself. Where: Anywhere off the main strip. Located in Kahaluu, you can go and walk on these sacred grounds. It is an official seabird sanctuary, so some parts of the island are marked, and you cannot enter. 100 feet below the surface lies The Sea Tiger, which is a former Chinese trading vessel originally named Yun Fong Seong No. Keep scrolling to see my top 13 Oahu hidden gems worth adding to your Oahu itinerary! Sandys is right around the corner if you get bored and want to go get smashed by some waves. If you want an extra adventure, you can also camp there! Hidden Gem Hotels on Oahu. Oahu. This is one of the best Oahu photography spots for sure. Goat Island is a tiny little island off the coast of Laie Bay. Book your tour: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. 1. Hawaii Travel Guide. Definitely a must-do excursion on Oahu! Only a few yards high they make the area a perfect spot to hang out for the day. Off the beaten path Kauai: 18 secret(ish) activities and tips - 2TravelDads 22 Best Oahu Instagram Spots (2023) - Hawaii Travel with Kids The Halona Blowhole is on the east side of Oahu and is one of the most popular things to do on Oahu. They also offer beauty and body products. Scenic Drives and Secret Beaches on Oahu, Hawaii - TripSavvy This site has a lot more to do than just a waterfall; you can explore the botanical gardens and eat delicious food! Live like a local and discover Honolulu with our pick of the hidden gems and secret spots in and around the city. Samurais in Aiea for awesome ice treats. 9 Somewhat Secret Spots in Oahu Hawaii - Simply Wander Hi! You will have to go through tunnels and walk quite a distance, so be prepared. Pictured below is a shot I took at Waimea Bay a week before the Eddie. Wondering if there's a place for camping as well? Kawela Bay, Oahu A lovely secluded and protected beach, Kawela Bay is close to Oahu island's northern tip. The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. Picnic on the Beach 2. You can simply just relax and not worry about huge waves. Towns like Laie, Waimea, and Haleiwa are good places to explore. At the summit, there is an old satellite atop a small bunker. I'm off to Oahu on Wednesday, what are some hidden treasures - reddit But you cant visit the North shore without trying some famous Garlic Shrimp. 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 Beet Box Caf This organic, vegetarian spot has food so tasty it could turn a meat-eating velociraptor into a gentle brontosaurus. 50 Most Instagrammable Places in Oahu in 2021 (with Map & Photos) Here are the most Instagrammable places in Oahu- including several hidden gems I found myself! 10 hidden gems in Honolulu GO Blog | EF United States It might seem extreme but it is very controlled and quite safe. Oahu (Hawaiian: Oahu) is the most populous of the Hawaiian islands, the third largest in size (after the Big Island and Maui) and the cultural, financial, and top tourist destination of the Hawaiian islands. Hike up the Diamond Head Crater for epic views of Waikiki. Because the trail is so clearly marked (unlike many of the hikes on Oahu) it is completely foolproof and great for beginners. We hope you find something new or old favorites when exploring our content about Oahu. LOL . This trail is one of the top five most popular things to do on Oahu. Oahu's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Oahu's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. The Aloha State has six unofficial beaches that are all called "secret." Ironically, some of these hidden spots aren't really so undiscovered. See Tropical Foliage at Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden. But after sleeping at more than 50 Oahu hotels, Oyster reporters have come across a good handful of under-appreciated hideaways. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. The tour takes you just a few miles offshore where you will put on a snorkel and get inside a cage. Airlines & Airports, The Top 20 Most Powerful Travel Agencies in 2022 24 Restaurants That Serve the Best Breakfast in Oahu, According to Locals. Despite this, Oahu has its share of magic just like the other Hawaiian Islands. The 2-hour experience of seeing whales will for sure take your breath away. Kahala Hotel Last but not least on my list of 5 secret Oahu locations is the Kahala Hotel. Its truly an experience theyll remember forever so dont wait any longer. 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. They guarantee to have you standing up and riding a wave! Try some of the other local favorites eating spots. Oahu Instagram and Photography Spots Overview. The Big Island is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Kilauea. There is an option for a fully guided kayak tour, including a professional guide, safety gear, and lunch! Being less common to visit on a trip to Hawaii than Oahu or Maui, off the beaten path Kauai is still quiet and beautiful; nearly untouched. The water here entices you in where you will catch a glimpse of the varied sea life. Book your tour: Atlantis Submarine Adventure. 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! Book your tour: Koko Head Trail Guided Adventure. Map of all the Best Oahu Instagram Spots. A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you wont be able to keep to yourself. . A Local's Guide to the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Oahu Activities Book your tour: Oahu Whale Watching Excursion. They also invite guests to cook Samoan food, which is a fun opportunity. 3. Click Here to book your tour of the North Shore Zipline Tour in advance (Often sells out weeks in advance). It is accessible by kayak or a short swim. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Not only is it right next to the Turtle Bay Resort, almost no one goes there! Hotel & Resort, Copyright 2023 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. The pillboxes at the top of the hikes are full of colorful graffiti and offer a nice view of the ocean. The Big Island has the stunning Waipio Valley and the rugged volcanic landscape. The Stairway to Heaven was one of my favorite things to do on Oahu. And you find this hidden oasis of Oahu! 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. Oahu Instagram Spots and Photography Destinations. 92-1770 Kunia Rd #227, Kunia Camp, Oahu. You will feel like you are in the middle of the island and you just about are! Insider Secrets to Travel Like a Local on Oahu It is also named Mokuauia Island. Source: adamkresina on Instagram. The views from each location are simply breathtaking and will leave you speechless when you arrive at each spot. Kaena Point State Park is a great hiking spot in Oahu Kaena Point State Park Kaena Point State Park is one of the hidden gems in Oahu not many people know about. Every December through April, thousands of Humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii. The hike takes a few hours if you are quick and 5-6 hours if you are a slower hiker. Click here to learn more. Places located off the beaten track can be the very thing that keeps a multitude of tourists milling about. Oahu - Hidden Gems, Secret Spots, Tips from Locals | YAHglobal Our team is constantly working on new content for this blog so make sure to subscribe below and check back often for updates! This is by far the cheapest boat tour on Oahu but also one of the most interesting. Known as "The Gathering Place," Oahu is the second oldest island of the six main Hawaiian islands. 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. From here, you will have amazing views over Waikiki and the ocean. Because it is on a small island off the bay, it is protected from high surfs. Marvel at the Views from the Nuuanu Pali Lookout. 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. 5. Check Out The 5 Best Lanai Lookout Tours Here. If not, we recommend giving them a try. The best snorkeling tour on Oahu is the Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. Famous for being shaped like a wine glass, it is located on the southeastern side of Oahu. This is another great place to watch the sunrise. Accents Pick up take-home treasures, accessories, and jewelry at Accents, our on-site gift shops. Any idea where to start? It can be extremely dangerous, especially with strong surf. Jurassic Park and Lost filmed scenes in this lush green area. 10 Hidden Gems In Oahu For Your Hawaii Dream Vacation - Travelling Dany It was purchased by Voyager Submarines, cleaned up, and sunk in 1999. Secret Oahu Full Circle Island Tour With A Local Guide - Viator Book your tour: Majestic Full Day Circle Island Tour(Best-selling tour). Support of local industry allows Hawaii and its business owners to remain viable and self-sustaining. You can swim in the pool below this beuautiful Oahu waterfall. There are plenty of food trucks lining the coast all claiming to be the best and the original. Ask a local. It is about a 30-minute drive from Waikiki. Everyone hates waiting in a long queue but on this tour, youll be able to skip lines for a hassle-free excursion. There is nothing wrong with the traditional Oahu tourist spots, and you should check them out during your vacation as well. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. 3212 Monsarrat Ave. and two other locations in Honolulu, (808) 392-8862, bananbowls.com. Aug 28, 2013 4 min read. You can walk toward Diamond Head side to get away from crowds, but there are many incredible areas for you on this island! But what they don't realise is that there is a lot . Cockroach Cove is right next to Halona Blowhole. Five pillboxes in total line the ridge, which takes less than an hour to hike. Each Friday the Hilton puts on a FREE blockbuster fireworks display. 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. There isnt a much better way to enjoy than sunset than aboard a yacht with a cocktail! Thank for your continued support. Punchy rights and lefts on offer. This island is home to seabirds, not goats. It is important to know that this hike is illegal and off-limits. Cant decide? Or if you are like me you will need a lesson. Maui has tons of gorgeous waterfalls along the Road to Hana as well as the lush Upcountry Maui. It's kinda dangerous for the kids to walk down" more 2. 10 Places the Locals Love on Oahu - Peter Greenberg Travel Detective Hawaii's 'Secret Beaches' Are Surprisingly Easy To Find - HuffPost 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. The 25 Best Things to Do on Oahu - Wandering Wheatleys 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. 25 Best Snorkeling Spots in Oahu, Hawaii (with Map) I have linked the top-rated tour below. On Oahus, most eastern point sits the Makapuu Lighthouse. The hike is 2.7 miles one way and shows off the volcanic coast, tide pools, arches, and so much more. 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. 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. Book your tour: Two-hour shark dive on Oahu. March 25, 2019. There are some great underwater scuba diving adventures, best Oahu . Here Are The 12 Best Kept Secrets In Hawaii - OnlyInYourState A traditional Hawaiian luau is a must-do cultural activity on Oahu. Noreen Kompanik The hike is short and on the same trails as the Luakaha Waterfall. Hidden on this island is a host of sacred places worth visiting. photo by leonard's bakery. The Plantation offers tours and has a huge hedge maze. You also need to complete a few basic rock climbs to complete the trail. 21 of the Coolest Places to Visit + Attractions on Oahu, Hawaii The 71 Best Photography Spots In Oahu in 2023 (With Map) Where: K Hana Distillers. Strong swimmers only, please.