Enjoy Palladium Hotel Group's Cancun Resorts, TBO Empowers Travel Advisors to Control Commission, Explore the Greek Islands on a Fam Trip With Exodus Travels, For more information on Secret Photo Spots Oahu 25. There isnt a much better way to enjoy than sunset than aboard a yacht with a cocktail! The Hawaiian monk seal is the only seal native to Hawaii and is one of only two mammals nativeto the islands. When he surfed the quarter-mile-long wave into the bay he thought it resembled the Great Wall of China. Not only is this a secret beach not many know about, but this is also an amazing hiking opportunity as well! Book your lesson: One hour Waikiki surf lesson for two people. Destination & Tourism, Best Destinations for Travelers Who Hate People Book your tour: Manoa Falls Guided Tour (with hotel pick/up). Maui has tons of gorgeous waterfalls along the Road to Hana as well as the lush Upcountry Maui. 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. Its only a few years old, so most tourists havent heard of it. Its truly an experience theyll remember forever so dont wait any longer. Learn from your guide the rich plantation history and describe how this famously sweet plant became a symbol of Hawaii. The Big Island has the stunning Waipio Valley and the rugged volcanic landscape. Only minutes from the busy streets of Waikiki, this jungle trail leads you to a large waterfall. Learn about the best time to visit Oahu . The island of Lanai in Hawai'i is a paradise for cats and cat lovers. 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. There is an epic tour that takes you all around the island to all of the iconic spots including to the dole plantation. The food here is really good. Theyll be able to explore nature like never before while learning about Hawaiian culture along the way too! Secret O'ahu: sights only the locals know about. 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. Entrance to the lookout is free, although you do have to pay for parking. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. One of the coolest luaus in Hawaii is Toa Luau up at Waimea Valley in North Shore Oahu. Secret Beach Oahu. Oahu Snorkel Guide - The Best Beaches For Snorkeling [2021] Places located off the beaten track can be the very thing that keeps a multitude of tourists milling about. Book your tour: Two-hour shark dive on Oahu. 8 Secret Places To Explore in Hawaii - Travel Off Path One of my favorite things to do on Oahu was to head to spitting cave on the east coast cliffs and watch the divers jumping off. One of the best spots to get a Haupia Pie after a day of beaching it on the north shore is Teds Bakery. Have you visited any of these hidden gems on your trip to Oahu? A traditional Hawaiian luau is a must-do cultural activity on Oahu. Travel Agent, 19 Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts with the Finest Dining This small beachside campground on Oahu's northeastern shore might just be the prettiest campground in the Aloha State. Big Island Bees Also, see famous places like Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay. As the waves crash into the cliffs under the rocks the water surges out of a blowhole shooting into the air. There is no better way to start your day than with a short sunrise hike overlooking the ocean and amazing scenery. Live like a local and discover Honolulu with our pick of the hidden gems and secret spots in and around the city. The Pillbox hikes on Oahu are another favorite photo spot for tourists. 20. . Here Are The 12 Best Kept Secrets In Hawaii - OnlyInYourState 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. Hawaii's 'Secret Beaches' Are Surprisingly Easy To Find - HuffPost Moreover, be prepared for lots of wind! This is a hike none of the other tourists in the hotel will even know exists. We saw sharks, turtles, plane wrecks, and shipwrecks. Notable competitions are the Billabong Pipe Masters and the Eddie a big wave surf competition at Waimea Bay. Take a Hike 5. This trail is one of the top five most popular things to do on Oahu. 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. This is located in Waimnalo and is also a camping site. - https://teespring.com/stores/zay-solis-merchUSE CODE "zay20"(no caps) FOR 20% OFF PURCHASEGET TRANSITIONS HERE - https://sellfy.com/p/Xg51/SEND FAN. . The 25 Best Things to Do on Oahu - Wandering Wheatleys Off the beaten path Kauai: 18 secret(ish) activities and tips - 2TravelDads The views of the Koolaus are worth it all. Where: Ka'ena Point State Park, Waialua, Oahu. 24 Restaurants That Serve the Best Breakfast in Oahu, According to Locals. However, a beautiful hike winds around the cliffs above the bay leading towards the oceans edge. The tour takes you just a few miles offshore where you will put on a snorkel and get inside a cage. Hidden Gem Spots the Oahu Locals Love - Hawaii Guide 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. 15 Places You Can't Miss in Oahu (Hawaii) - Avenly Lane Travel Book your tour: Oahu Whale Watching Excursion. The entire sweeping coastline is stuff vacation fantasies are made of. The Plantation offers tours and has a huge hedge maze. Jungle Expedition: One of the Best Kualoa Ranch Tours, 12 Best Places to Eat in Oahu Hawaii | Simply Wander, The Perfect 3 Day Oahu North Shore Itinerary | Simply Wander, Crouching Lion Trail: The Most Underrated Hike in Oahu | Simply Wander, 10 Best Beaches on Oahu North Shore | Simply Wander, Maunawili Falls Trail: The Best Waterfall Hike in Oahu | Simply Wander, Makapuu Lighthouse Trail: The Best Family Hike in Oahu - Simply Wander, The Ultimate Oahu Bucket List - Simply Wander, South Point Hawaii: A Big Island Hidden Gem | Simply Wander, 9 Unforgettable Things to do at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, A Utah Glamping Adventure at Whispering Pines, 5 Kid-Friendly Things to do in Durango Colorado in the Winter. Turtle Bay Resort Oahu . Located in the Kekaulike Market, 1039 Kekaulike St #113, Honolulu for the most delicious poke bowls. There are many more gorgeous places will provide endless family fun and zillions of postcard-perfect photo . Keep your eyes peeled for the playful Spinner Dolphins who live in these waters. While You're at it, Avoid Shopping on Kalakaua 7. Hanauma Bay is the most popular spot for tourists to spot a turtle or explore the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean. Nicknamed Neck Break Beach the waves at Sandy Beach are unforgiving. For a few dollars, you can rent yourself a surfboard and join the masses trying their hand at surfing at the famous Waikiki Beach. When parking in the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail carpark, there is another attraction close by. If you happen to venture out of the inner city, dont forget to try locally grown and made traditional foods. 8 Most Beautiful Off the Beaten Path Hawaii Places to Visit 1. Oahu Travel. In the mountains overlooking the famous Pipeline beach and the North Shore of Oahu, the Peace Hike provides a great vantage point. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Wow what amazing place to go backpacking, fabulous post! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Sandbar sharks circle around you as you snorkel out in the open ocean. 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. It is a natural beauty and should be kept as an off-the-beaten-path on Oahu to ensure it is kept beautiful. Book your tour: SUP, Kayak & Waterfall Hike Oahu Tour. This is another great place to watch the sunrise. Oahu Instagram Spots: 25 Beautiful Places to Visit on Oahu My personal best was 12:15 but I have seen people fly up much quicker. 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. At the Hoomaluhia Gardens, you can paint, fish, and explore the beautiful surroundings. 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. Support of local industry allows Hawaii and its business owners to remain viable and self-sustaining. Bellow's Beach Park. That's a lot to explore. It is truly a magical experience. 30. The 2-hour experience of seeing whales will for sure take your breath away. Hidden on this island is a host of sacred places worth visiting. Any idea where to start? Join a full-day tour and discover all of Oahus best locations. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Book your kayaking tour: Kaneohe Guided Kayak and Snorkel Tour. Where: Anywhere off the main strip. Youll never run out of things to do on this fantastic island. Its the only luau Ive ever been to that has a traditional Samoan kava ceremony as part of the festivities. Fringed by a beautiful beach of white-tinged sand, it all sits in a volcanic crater protected from the elements. The soft serve pineapple whip is like no other ice-cream youve had before. From Wiliwilinui Ridge you can make out Waikiki, a city of white buildings seemingly a world away from the ridges we are roaming. Book your tour: Majestic Full Day Circle Island Tour(Best-selling tour). 40 Things You Have To Do In Oahu - The Globe Wanderers Built in the 16th century, Kane'aki Heiau is considered the best preserved heiau on Oahu. Goat Island is a tiny little island off the coast of Laie Bay. If you are looking for a place to snorkel on Oahu, this is the best place . However, you can get a bowl with octopus, squid or other types of seafood. It might seem extreme but it is very controlled and quite safe. All Rights Reserved. After graduating with a journalism degree, I set off to explore the world while creating adventure travel guides featuring hikes, waterfalls, beaches & adrenaline activities. This is also a great place to watch the sunset in the summer or spot whales in the winter. The fireworks usually begin at 7:45 and hundreds of people fill the beachto watch the fireworks launch from along the shore. (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. Im Jackson, an Australian adventure traveler who has been on the road for eight years now. 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. Hawaii Hikes. Away from the city at Kaena Point or at Makapuu seem to be the most popular. 9 Somewhat Secret Spots in Oahu. I'm off to Oahu on Wednesday, what are some hidden treasures - reddit Riptides can also occur, so be prepared. This is the busiest tourist spot in Hawaii. Oahu - Wikitravel Book your tour: Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise. The coral here is amazing and it is a protected bay so it is perfect for a half-day snorkel adventure. Many love to explore the incredibly clear water in the caves and watch as the sun rays hit the water. During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! 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. Halona Beach Cove 4.7 (84 reviews) Beaches Open all day "Don't go here. I was lucky enough to see a few monk seals both in the ocean and on shore. A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you wont be able to keep to yourself. But can you get off the beaten path and find the bridge? If you are lucky you will even spot a turtle but you can be guaranteed to find hundreds of amazing fish and marine species. Stunning, Welcoming. 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). Are you looking for some new adventures on Oahu? Lunch is included and the food is really good too, youll love the kalua pork! Circle the island of Oahu and its many points of interest on this guided adventure. 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. Water rushes in with waves, filling the cave before being spat out with great force. 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. Off the beaten path, amongst a Honolulu neighborhood you'll find Helena's, she's been serving authentic Hawaiian plates since 1946. Hawaii Beaches. The Big Island is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Kilauea. gallery icon New Orleans & Company, How Smart Payments Can Help Alleviate Future Travel Chaos While onboard, you will enjoy the delicious buffet and some chitchats with other passengers. Oahu. story that you dont even have to be a huge fan of rum to appreciate what has been accomplished here. Some of the links in my content may be affiliate links. Not necessarily in that order. 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. 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. 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. A trip well worth it, and a secret, hidden gem you won't be able to keep to yourself. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. They really make sure you are entertained and you will have the best trip to Oahu. During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! Its like swimming in a giant aquarium, but staying dry the whole time! Overseen by looming mountains, the fields of cane stand almost proudly while being housed in red dirt and sheltered by banana trees, and dense guinea grass. Kona coffee comes from the Big Island of Hawaii, but it's also incredibly fresh in Oahu. A sunset cruise on a 53-foot catamaran takes you south toward Hawaiis iconic Diamond Head. However, its most popular feature is a giant rock resting half in the water half on the shore. Top 10 Best Secret Spots in Honolulu, HI - February 2023 - Yelp Hoomaluhia means to make a place of peace, and the botanical gardens are nothing but peaceful! Hanauma Bay is the most popular snorkeling beach on Oahu with hundreds of tourists visiting each day. For 20 minutes under the water, youll be surrounded by around a dozen sharks or even more. 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. Hanauma Bay. 1. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. Very popular place for surf lessons because the white water from the set waves out back funnels into the little bay-like setup making it a great place to teach surfing. 9 Somewhat Secret Spots in Oahu Hawaii - Simply Wander You could also try Night SUP yoga with Led lights in what is an epic experience near Waikiki. Ala Moana Beach Park Image by Ignacio Palacios/Getty Images. inone day. While all the beaches in Hawaii are gorgeous, some just take your breath away. Painted pink as a testimony to breast cancer victims and survivors, the abandoned military pillbox isnt hard to spot. Helena's Hawaiian Food: As you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, you shouldn't judge a restaurant by it either. It is located on the island's leeward (west) side in Makaha Valley and . Local Gems: The Best Places To Eat In Oahu - Heartbeet Kitchen But these are some of the best hidden gems in Hawaii that will take your vacation to the next level! From hiking trails and waterfalls to beaches and luaus, we have everything covered in this guide. This is definitely one of the best hidden gems in Honolulu. You can camp in the Sherwood Forest part and be a few steps away from this amazing hidden gem on Oahu. You dont need to be a good swimmer as you just hold on inside the cage. When it comes to hotels in Oahu, it's hard to find a refuge that hasn't already been discovered by the teeming hordes. Its a whole evening of presentations, games, activities, and some of the best luau food Ive ever had. Visiting in winter? While it is quite beautiful and such a fun adventure, this snorkeling location is not for beginners. You can read my full review HERE. You are picked up from your Waikiki hotel and taken to the harbor for a short boat ride to a few secret snorkeling spots. 1. What to do on Oahu? What better way to see Oahu than from hundreds of feet up in the air. Airlines & Airports, The Top 20 Most Powerful Travel Agencies in 2022 Photography Tour: Full-Circle Island Photo Tour, Photography Tour: Sunset Photography Tour. Enjoy a series of ziplines, rappels, sky bridges, boardwalks, and more. From Lanikai or Kailua Beach a kayak to the mokes will take about thirty minutes. Respect the land and try to keep it a relaxing and peaceful spot for everyone else around you. Starting at $109-139/person. I had done some Oahu cliff jumping in the past but this spot was always a little bit sketchy for me at the time. 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. Five Hidden Gems Near Waikiki and 'Alohilani - Alohilani This luau is run by a Samoan family that incorporates a lot of Samoan traditions in addition to Hawaiian culture. Many people still do the hike every day. Oahus famous farm-to-glass distillery never gets the applause it deserves. 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. 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. Oahu has tons of amazing places to eat. Try out this hidden gem of Honolulu if you can swim extremely well, climb up wet rocks, and need an adrenaline rush! This is one of the best Oahu photography spots for sure. 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. This is perfect for travelers who just want to chill with sunsets and cocktails! From here, you will have amazing views over Waikiki and the ocean. 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 Waimnalo Bay State Recreation Park. 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. It is accessible by kayak or a short swim. 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. If there is something you are curious about, theres a live tour guide so feel free to ask all you want! You will feel like you are in the middle of the island and you just about are! 21 of the Coolest Places to Visit + Attractions on Oahu, Hawaii The China Walls are a secret place to cliff jump . There is a tour that includes transport, assistance, food, and someone to carry your water and guide you along the way. There is also a lot of accommodation, restaurants and nightlife opportunities. In fact, most of them have official names, and are relatively easy to find. 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. Veer off the main streets and head for Monsarrat or Kapahulu Avenues. Wondering if there's a place for camping as well? You might also be interested in reading about the best turtle beach in Hawaii! Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular Oahu attractions. There you will find the places where the locals eat. Poke Bowls became my favorite food on Oahu. Aside from the fabulous beach and suitable waves for surfing, people can enjoy themselves as there . 25 Best Snorkeling Spots in Oahu, Hawaii (with Map)