As somebody who has lived on the island for my whole life, I’m at all times giving folks suggestions of locations to go to on Oahu. In spite of everything, there’s a lot extra to the island than simply the vacationer hub of Waikiki!
Whereas on Oahu, you may study Hawaiian historical past at ‘Iolani Palace, watch professional surfers deal with huge waves at Banzai Pipeline, and even see a recreation of a well-known Japanese temple!
So whether or not you’re searching for lovely cities, hidden gems, historic landmarks, or stunning seashores, listed here are 12 superb locations to go to on Oahu, Hawaii.
12 Wonderful Locations to Go to on Oahu, Hawaii
1. ‘Iolani Palace
Many guests to Oahu neglect to take a while to study Hawaiian historical past. A visit to ‘Iolani Palace, the one official palace in the US, can simply treatment that downside.
‘Iolani Palace was as soon as dwelling to King Kalakaua and Queen Lili‘uokalani, the final of Hawaii’s reigning monarchs. And when a gaggle of American businessmen determined to overthrow the Kingdom of Hawaii, Queen Lili‘uokalani was then held prisoner on this palace for eight months.
Whereas at ‘Iolani Palace, you may study extra about Hawaiian historical past, uncover how Hawaiian royalty lived, and even see the room by which Queen Lili‘uokalani was imprisoned. In case you resolve to go to on the finish of July, you may even get to look at the superb Prince Lot Hula Competition.
2. Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is among the most well-known seashores on Oahu. In the summertime, the situations are excellent for swimming and snorkeling. Within the winter, they’re nice for browsing. However Waimea Bay is most well-known for cliff diving. On the western finish of the seashore, there’s a fifteen-foot-tall rock the place locals and guests alike courageous their fears of heights for little thrills.
3. Ka‘a‘awa Valley
Whereas many guests to Oahu spend the whole thing of their holidays on the seashore, only a few keep in mind that Oahu additionally has gorgeous mountain ranges. And that’s a disgrace, as a result of these mountains are one in every of my favourite elements of the island! Top-of-the-line locations to go to on Oahu to see these greenery-laden mountain ranges is Ka‘a‘awa Valley.
The simplest method to entry Ka‘a‘awa Valley is by visiting Kualoa Ranch. There are a lot of totally different excursions you may take at Kualoa Ranch, however my favourite is the ATV tour. Whereas on any
of the offered excursions, you’ll be capable of admire the views of the thriving Ka‘a‘awa Valley and Ko‘olau Mountain Vary, study Hawaiian mythology, and even eat contemporary tropical fruits proper off the tree!
Kualoa Ranch additionally occurs to be a preferred filming location. Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates, Jumanji, and lots of extra films and TV reveals have been filmed there. Even Netflix’s newest hit, Discovering ‘Ohana, was filmed at Kualoa Ranch.
4. Kailua
Kailua is a small city on the east facet of Oahu that’s most well-known for its stunning seashores. It’s, in any case, dwelling to each Kailua Seashore and Lanikai Seashore, each of which have been acknowledged as a few the most effective seashores on the planet.
However Kailua additionally has a distinct really feel from the remainder of the island. It combines the island’s relaxed, but adventurous environment with a free-spirited vibe. You may kayak to the Mokulua Islands, strive vegan lau lau (a standard Hawaiian dish wrapped in ti leaves) from Ai Love Nalo, and even hike to the Lanikai Pillbox for dawn.
5. Lanikai Pillbox Hike
Whereas the Lanikai Pillbox Hike is technically positioned in Kailua, it deserves a characteristic of its personal.
The primary query many individuals have is, “what’s a pillbox?” A pillbox is basically a cement navy bunker that was constructed throughout World Battle II and used as a lookout level. There are fairly a number of pillboxes dotted across the island, however the Lanikai Pillbox is essentially the most well-known one.
This 25-minute hike to the primary pillbox provides you superb views of the 2 vibrant inexperienced Mokulua Islands within the distance. When mixed with the glowing blue Pacific Ocean and the golden rays of a dawn, the scene is totally magical!
6. Byodo-In Temple
The Byodo-In Temple is certainly probably the greatest locations to go to on Oahu – however not many individuals find out about it! This vibrant crimson Japanese temple is definitely a miniature model of the Byodo-In Temple in Uji, Japan, which additionally occurs to be a UNESCO World Heritage Website.
7. Pearl Harbor Nationwide Memorial
On December 7, 1941, the U.S. navy base at Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese Navy Air Service, killing over 1,000 folks. This occasion incited the US’ involvement in World Battle II.
In the present day, you may go to the Pearl Harbor Nationwide Memorial to study in regards to the occasions main as much as and following the assault, pay your respects, and even meet a veteran of the Pearl Harbor bombing.
8. Koko Crater Botanical Backyard
Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Backyard is the Oahu backyard that has been getting tons of Instagram fame over these previous few years. And whereas Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Backyard is actually stunning, Koko Crater Botanical Backyard is my private favourite for one major cause: the plumeria grove.
Positioned proper on the entrance of the backyard, the plumeria grove consists of dozens of plumeria varieties in all sizes, shapes, and colours! With blooming flowers starting from pristine white to placing pink, it’s a stunning sight to see.
9. Kaka‘ako
Kaka‘ako is the trendiest neighborhood on Oahu. Located in Honolulu, Kaka‘ako boasts enjoyable fusion eating places, superb road artwork, and thrilling occasions. You can simply spend your whole day admiring the murals from the Pow Wow! Hawaii competition, eating at one of many eating places at SALT at Our Kaka‘ako, perusing the lovely retailers of the South Shore Market, and having fun with the environment of the Honolulu Night time Market.
10. Banzai Pipeline
Banzai Pipeline – or simply Pipeline – is named one of many premiere browsing spots on the planet – and it’s positioned on Oahu’s North Shore! Merely put, it’s one of many coolest locations to go to on Oahu.
Within the winter, waves often attain 20 to 30 ft (or 40 to 60 ft for anybody who isn’t from Hawaii, as a result of we measure wave measurement in a different way). You may usually see professional surfers like Kelly Slater and Billy Kemper browsing these huge waves! And for those who’re fortunate, there may even be a surf competitors throughout your time on the island, similar to Billabong Pipe Masters or Da Hui Backdoor Shootout.
11. Laniakea Seashore
Laniakea Seashore, often known as Turtle Seashore, is certainly probably the greatest locations to go to on Oahu. Oahu has tons of wildlife having fun with the island, however none are as simple to see because the turtles on Laniakea Seashore. As a matter of reality, within the summers, it’s not unusual to see half a dozen Hawaiian inexperienced sea turtles lounging on the sandy shores.
In case you do go to Laniakea Seashore, please keep in mind to offer the turtles area and respect. Hawaiian inexperienced sea turtles are literally an endangered species, so it’s particularly essential that you don’t feed or contact these animals.
12. Dole Plantation
Ever for the reason that Dole Plantation was established on Oahu in 1899 by James Dole, this firm has been ingrained into Hawaii life. We purchase Dole pineapples at native grocery shops, get pleasure from fruity drinks made with Dole pineapple juice, and sometimes cease by the Dole Plantation for a tasty Dole whip.
Whereas on the Dole Plantation, you may study in regards to the firm’s historical past, journey on the kid-friendly prepare, get pleasure from a great deal of pineapple treats, and even wander via the world’s largest maze!
What are another spots that you simply assume belong on this record of the most effective locations to go to on Oahu, Hawaii? Let me know within the feedback beneath!
For extra on Hawaii Journey:
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As somebody who has lived on the island for my whole life, I’m at all times giving folks suggestions of locations to go to on Oahu. In spite of everything, there’s a lot extra to the island than simply the vacationer hub of Waikiki!
Whereas on Oahu, you may study Hawaiian historical past at ‘Iolani Palace, watch professional surfers deal with huge waves at Banzai Pipeline, and even see a recreation of a well-known Japanese temple!
So whether or not you’re searching for lovely cities, hidden gems, historic landmarks, or stunning seashores, listed here are 12 superb locations to go to on Oahu, Hawaii.
12 Wonderful Locations to Go to on Oahu, Hawaii
1. ‘Iolani Palace
Many guests to Oahu neglect to take a while to study Hawaiian historical past. A visit to ‘Iolani Palace, the one official palace in the US, can simply treatment that downside.
‘Iolani Palace was as soon as dwelling to King Kalakaua and Queen Lili‘uokalani, the final of Hawaii’s reigning monarchs. And when a gaggle of American businessmen determined to overthrow the Kingdom of Hawaii, Queen Lili‘uokalani was then held prisoner on this palace for eight months.
Whereas at ‘Iolani Palace, you may study extra about Hawaiian historical past, uncover how Hawaiian royalty lived, and even see the room by which Queen Lili‘uokalani was imprisoned. In case you resolve to go to on the finish of July, you may even get to look at the superb Prince Lot Hula Competition.
2. Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is among the most well-known seashores on Oahu. In the summertime, the situations are excellent for swimming and snorkeling. Within the winter, they’re nice for browsing. However Waimea Bay is most well-known for cliff diving. On the western finish of the seashore, there’s a fifteen-foot-tall rock the place locals and guests alike courageous their fears of heights for little thrills.
3. Ka‘a‘awa Valley
Whereas many guests to Oahu spend the whole thing of their holidays on the seashore, only a few keep in mind that Oahu additionally has gorgeous mountain ranges. And that’s a disgrace, as a result of these mountains are one in every of my favourite elements of the island! Top-of-the-line locations to go to on Oahu to see these greenery-laden mountain ranges is Ka‘a‘awa Valley.
The simplest method to entry Ka‘a‘awa Valley is by visiting Kualoa Ranch. There are a lot of totally different excursions you may take at Kualoa Ranch, however my favourite is the ATV tour. Whereas on any
of the offered excursions, you’ll be capable of admire the views of the thriving Ka‘a‘awa Valley and Ko‘olau Mountain Vary, study Hawaiian mythology, and even eat contemporary tropical fruits proper off the tree!
Kualoa Ranch additionally occurs to be a preferred filming location. Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates, Jumanji, and lots of extra films and TV reveals have been filmed there. Even Netflix’s newest hit, Discovering ‘Ohana, was filmed at Kualoa Ranch.
4. Kailua
Kailua is a small city on the east facet of Oahu that’s most well-known for its stunning seashores. It’s, in any case, dwelling to each Kailua Seashore and Lanikai Seashore, each of which have been acknowledged as a few the most effective seashores on the planet.
However Kailua additionally has a distinct really feel from the remainder of the island. It combines the island’s relaxed, but adventurous environment with a free-spirited vibe. You may kayak to the Mokulua Islands, strive vegan lau lau (a standard Hawaiian dish wrapped in ti leaves) from Ai Love Nalo, and even hike to the Lanikai Pillbox for dawn.
5. Lanikai Pillbox Hike
Whereas the Lanikai Pillbox Hike is technically positioned in Kailua, it deserves a characteristic of its personal.
The primary query many individuals have is, “what’s a pillbox?” A pillbox is basically a cement navy bunker that was constructed throughout World Battle II and used as a lookout level. There are fairly a number of pillboxes dotted across the island, however the Lanikai Pillbox is essentially the most well-known one.
This 25-minute hike to the primary pillbox provides you superb views of the 2 vibrant inexperienced Mokulua Islands within the distance. When mixed with the glowing blue Pacific Ocean and the golden rays of a dawn, the scene is totally magical!
6. Byodo-In Temple
The Byodo-In Temple is certainly probably the greatest locations to go to on Oahu – however not many individuals find out about it! This vibrant crimson Japanese temple is definitely a miniature model of the Byodo-In Temple in Uji, Japan, which additionally occurs to be a UNESCO World Heritage Website.
7. Pearl Harbor Nationwide Memorial
On December 7, 1941, the U.S. navy base at Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese Navy Air Service, killing over 1,000 folks. This occasion incited the US’ involvement in World Battle II.
In the present day, you may go to the Pearl Harbor Nationwide Memorial to study in regards to the occasions main as much as and following the assault, pay your respects, and even meet a veteran of the Pearl Harbor bombing.
8. Koko Crater Botanical Backyard
Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Backyard is the Oahu backyard that has been getting tons of Instagram fame over these previous few years. And whereas Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Backyard is actually stunning, Koko Crater Botanical Backyard is my private favourite for one major cause: the plumeria grove.
Positioned proper on the entrance of the backyard, the plumeria grove consists of dozens of plumeria varieties in all sizes, shapes, and colours! With blooming flowers starting from pristine white to placing pink, it’s a stunning sight to see.
9. Kaka‘ako
Kaka‘ako is the trendiest neighborhood on Oahu. Located in Honolulu, Kaka‘ako boasts enjoyable fusion eating places, superb road artwork, and thrilling occasions. You can simply spend your whole day admiring the murals from the Pow Wow! Hawaii competition, eating at one of many eating places at SALT at Our Kaka‘ako, perusing the lovely retailers of the South Shore Market, and having fun with the environment of the Honolulu Night time Market.
10. Banzai Pipeline
Banzai Pipeline – or simply Pipeline – is named one of many premiere browsing spots on the planet – and it’s positioned on Oahu’s North Shore! Merely put, it’s one of many coolest locations to go to on Oahu.
Within the winter, waves often attain 20 to 30 ft (or 40 to 60 ft for anybody who isn’t from Hawaii, as a result of we measure wave measurement in a different way). You may usually see professional surfers like Kelly Slater and Billy Kemper browsing these huge waves! And for those who’re fortunate, there may even be a surf competitors throughout your time on the island, similar to Billabong Pipe Masters or Da Hui Backdoor Shootout.
11. Laniakea Seashore
Laniakea Seashore, often known as Turtle Seashore, is certainly probably the greatest locations to go to on Oahu. Oahu has tons of wildlife having fun with the island, however none are as simple to see because the turtles on Laniakea Seashore. As a matter of reality, within the summers, it’s not unusual to see half a dozen Hawaiian inexperienced sea turtles lounging on the sandy shores.
In case you do go to Laniakea Seashore, please keep in mind to offer the turtles area and respect. Hawaiian inexperienced sea turtles are literally an endangered species, so it’s particularly essential that you don’t feed or contact these animals.
12. Dole Plantation
Ever for the reason that Dole Plantation was established on Oahu in 1899 by James Dole, this firm has been ingrained into Hawaii life. We purchase Dole pineapples at native grocery shops, get pleasure from fruity drinks made with Dole pineapple juice, and sometimes cease by the Dole Plantation for a tasty Dole whip.
Whereas on the Dole Plantation, you may study in regards to the firm’s historical past, journey on the kid-friendly prepare, get pleasure from a great deal of pineapple treats, and even wander via the world’s largest maze!
What are another spots that you simply assume belong on this record of the most effective locations to go to on Oahu, Hawaii? Let me know within the feedback beneath!
For extra on Hawaii Journey:
Pin for later!
