Oahu Hawaii - All you need to know
Oahu Hawaii - All you need to know
Sharon Neidhardt
I stayed 3 months in Oahu, I absolutely love the place. You will find some secret spots on my list. I will tell you my spot where I always found 🐢 with no people around. Don’t just stay in Waikiki beach, there are so many other places to see.
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Hawaiin has a big place in my heart. All the islands are amazing, stunning and magical, you will fall in love with it. To get to all the islands you have to fly, there is no boat trip. Each island is different, make sure you have at least 3-4 weeks to explore and relax
I'll let you know how much time I think you'll need to explore:
- Oahu: 7-10 days
- Kauai: 4 days
- Maui: 4 days
- Big Island: 5-8 days
This blog is just about Oahu, but there will be separate ones for all the other islands.
The best time to visit Hawaii is generally from April to November, as there are fewer rainy days during these months. Summer, especially July to September, is the sunniest and driest. Please note, however, that December to March is the rainy season, although there are usually only short showers.
However, November to December is the best time to surf, during the rainy season. The surf competition takes place on the north shore.
The best time to see the giants of the sea is from January to April. There are various whale tours and of course no one can guarantee that you will see any, but I would definitely book a tour.
It's best to check when school vacations are in the united states, spring and summer vacations, there might be a lot of people on the islands
There are lots of bikes around in Waikiki. The App was called Biki. You can get a month membership or just book one for a ride. It’s very easy to get round with them.
Next to buses, Uber and Lift there is an App called Turo. You can rent local cars for the weekend or longer. It is much cheaper than a normal car rental. It is super easy to set up a profil.
If you have time go to a local Volleyball or American Football match. It is always very food they have a great vibe!
No matter how much time you have it’s not enough. Just enjoy it and make the most out of it!🌺🤍🌞🌊
Hiking
I checked all the hikes on the App Alltrail, I workes offline if you download the hole trip before. It will show you the way, also you can put in your location so you will find the trail for sure.
I did all of those hikes, there are many more hikes but you can't make them all unless you have lots of time.
Always check the weather, since it can change very fast. Some hikes are dangerous if it rains or if it was raining 2-3 days ago. Bring enough water and snacks on the way!
Lanikai Pillbox
@sharonneidhardt
Amazing for sunrise! Easy 30-40min hike, bring a flash light if you go for sunrise.
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Diamond Head Crater Trailhead
@sharonneidhardt
Very easy hike, amazing view of Waikiki! Most do if your in Oahu.🌺But you need to book a ticket in advance.
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Koko Head
@sharonneidhardt
There are just stairs, a lot of stairs! It’s a good workout with a nice view. Also i wouldn’t recommend it during lunch time. The sun is burning and there is no shade. I did it twice for sunrise, even with clouds it looks phantastic!
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Kamehame Ridge
@sharonneidhardt
Secret spot on privat property, it’s up to everyone if they want to go. If you do want to go tip this in to google maps: 21.3069653, -157.6789872. It’s a 30 min walk, first pretty steep but the view is worth every drop of sweat!
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Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail
@sharonneidhardt
It takes a while to complete it, but the view are amazing if it’s not all foggy. The trail is often very muddy and slippery. We had lots of fun but where very dirty after.
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Maili Pillbox
@sharonneidhardt
Pink pillbox is one of my favourites for sunset! I did it 3-4 times, because it’s always worth the 30-40 min hike. Bring some snacks and whatch the sunset! Some guy is running there every evening as his daily exercise, maybe you will see him too.😅
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Crouching Lion Trailhead (Puʻu Manamana)
@sharonneidhardt
One of my favourite hikes. Stunning views and not to hard to get up there.
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Moanalua Valley Trail Start (Kulana'ahane)
@sharonneidhardt
Stairways to heaven! It’s a 8 hours hike both ways but absolute stunning! They talk about removing the stairs but it is still very pretty.
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Olomana First Peak
@sharonneidhardt
The three peaks hike, the first two peaks are okey to hike. The third one I more climbing than hiking. The voew is stunning but bring enough food and water your out there a while. Also only go if it was dry for the past 3-4 days otherwise it’s to dangerous.
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Hanauma Bay Ridge Hike
@sharonneidhardt
Looking down to the beach while walking is amazing. The reefs in the water looks like a worlds map. Also great to visit the beach after.
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Beaches
If your in Hawaii you absolutely have to visit the North Shore it is stunning! Go for a surf at waikiki beach, lay in the white sand at the east coast or relax at the west coast. It’s less crowded on the west coast.🌺
Waikīkī Beach
@sharonneidhardt
Stunning beach, amazing for surfing! But it will be crowded so go early in the morning. Seeing sunrise on your surfboard at 6.15 is stunning.🌞
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Lanikai Beach
@sharonneidhardt
Absolutly stunning! The photos don’t give justice, the water is extremely clear, the sand so withe and the vibe just great!
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Sunset Beach Park
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During winter it‘s where all the amazing surfers perform! The sunsets are perfect as the name should tell you. Very big beach, nice to relax!
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Papa‘iloa Beach
@sharonneidhardt
This is my biggest secret spot in Hawaii. Me and my friends had the hole beach to our selfs, there where just lots of 🐢! Everytime I went there I saw a lot of turtles. You can’t park the car next to the beach, you have to park it somewhere in Haleiwa and walk along the beach. Please respect the space of those beautiful animals!
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Kailua Beach
@sharonneidhardt
Right next to Lanikai Beach if you can’t find parking at Lanikai just go here. It’s very similar, very pretty!
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Mākua Beach
@sharonneidhardt
When there for sunrise and where able to swim with dolphins! Awesome beach to relax, also saw a seal after swimming with the dolphins!
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Hanauma Bay
@sharonneidhardt
Stunning view from the lookout but also amazing to snorkel along the reefs. Better get there early there will be a lot of people.
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Places to visit
China Walls
@sharonneidhardt
Whatch the surfers enjoying the waves for sunset. Also if you like to jump go for it, I did it too! Lots of fun but check first how you get out of the water. The locals will show you, go with the waves and climb.
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Kakaako street art
@sharonneidhardt
Beautyful street art. If you want to walk a round a big and take some pretty pictures it’s worth it to visit.
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Mermaids Cave
@sharonneidhardt
Very pretty to see! There is a hole where you can jump down, which I didn’t do. But also one hole in the back is okay to climb down. Be careful only go while low tide. Also the tide can change very fast do be careful otherwise the rocks will hurt you.
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Pacific Skydiving Hawaii
@sharonneidhardt
One of my best memories! Stunning view, amazing team, everything was perfect! A dream came true!😍
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North Shore
@sharonneidhardt
There are so many thing I love at the North short, it’s definitely worth a visit. The town Haleiwa is so beautiful, there are so many pretty beaches to whatch the sunset or see turtles! Sunset beach is one of my favourite! Laniakea Beach often has turtles, they are so cute! But keep your distance and don’t touch them.
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Blow Hole Plus Creeck
@sharonneidhardt
Blow Hole is amazing just wait a while and see how the power of the ocean shuts water through the hole. Also hike down to the beach to see the tunnel!
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Mauka Warriors Luau
@sharonneidhardt
The enriched history was unforgettable, loved that the children were included in the pre-event and they blow the fire dance out of the park!
The show was amazing! I can’t imagine any other luau being as good as this was. Entertaining from start to finish, the food was great, the people friendly, and enjoyed learning the history of Polynesia through dance. And we will forever tell people about Cousin Jerry! I highly recommend!
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Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail
@sharonneidhardt
Bring proper shoes, not really recommended going with sandals/birkenstock. Pretty views and nice light house.
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Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden
@sharonneidhardt
Must visit and better be early! You can’t stop on the street and they have restrictions with photographing. But you can still park at the parkinglots and walk around. The views are amazing, also I love it when it is a bit foggy.
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Kaneohe Sandbar
@sharonneidhardt
Go with good weather conditions and light wind. I couldn’t make it to the sanbars because the weather was to bad, the sea to rough. But I had lots of fun and saw turtles.
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Tantalus Lookout - Puu Ualakaa State Park
@sharonneidhardt
Amazing lookout point for sunset! Easy to get to by car or uber. If you stay late you will see the stars and the sky line of the city. I think it the park closes before dark so you have to leave but there are a lot of parking spots along the way down.
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Aloha Stadium Swap Meet
@sharonneidhardt
Look it up online where the market is, it is very big and amazing to by souvenirs.
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Mokoliʻi
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During low tide you can walk to the island in the water. It will be chest deep and fun to get there. You can climb up on the little mountain.
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Pearl Harbor
@sharonneidhardt
There is so much history at the place. If your in Waikiki it’s worth a visit.
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Iolani Palace
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If you have ever whatched Hawaii 5-0, you will recognize this building. The Statue in the front and the police headquarter in the back.
Furthermore book a tour of the only royal palace in the United States.
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Foodland Farms Ala Moana
@sharonneidhardt
They have everything your looking for in food. Perfect to get something take away to bring to the beach or take it to the hotel.
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Ala Moana Center
@sharonneidhardt
The Ala Moana Center is the world's largest open-air shopping center in the capital city of Honolulu. If your looking for something you will find it here!
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Places to stay
There are a lot of different options for staying in Waikiki. It depends on your budget so have a look for your own taste. I would stay close to Waikiki or go to the north shore.🌺🌊
Hotels (expensive)
Halekulani Hotel
@sharonneidhardt
Architecture, setting, landscaping, art work everywhere, room facilities, personal treatment (you are addressed by name), perfect housekeeping and valet service as well as pool service, fenced grounds along the beach as well as (discreet) security 24/24, pool for swimming and 20 m to the sea.
The room (as well as the entire complex) was very clean and well maintained, really outstandingly clean.
The technical equipment via control pads and various light-mood settings are already upscale equipment.
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The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
@sharonneidhardt
We stayed in the newer annex portion of the Royal Hawaiian and our room had a beautiful view of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. The hotel location is very convenient to shopping and other restaurants. The pool associated with the Royal Hawaiin is also shared with The Sheraton Waikiki Resort next door but with no disadvantage. The Royal Hawaiin has a beach area with amenities.
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ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki
@sharonneidhardt
Amazing view right on the beach! Great accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. Featuring a restaurant, the property also has a bar, as well as a sauna and a hot tub. The accommodation provides a concierge service, and free WiFi is available throughout the property.
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Hotels (middle)
Island Colony Hotel
@sharonneidhardt
I stayed 3 months in this building. It has an amazing view, very nice pool and chillout area. Also they have a little gym and a loundry place on the same floor as the pool. It is an a very good location, close to the beach, right next to the river and there is a parking garage.
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Ohia Waikiki Studio Suites
@sharonneidhardt
All my friends from the language school stayed in this hotel for 3 months. The rooms are nice, everything you need is available. Some of the rooms even have a small kitchen. There is a pool on the first floor where you can relax, and you can also do your own laundry in the hotel. The location is very good, right outside there is a big ABC store and lots of restaurants. To the beach you walk 8 minutes.
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White Sands Hotel
@sharonneidhardt
Large room with balcony, in a quiet location about 10 minutes walk to the beach. You get iced tea at the reception, as well as water without chlorine taste. Great atmosphere, the pool area is extremely relaxing and very inviting
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Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort
@sharonneidhardt
This hotel is very centrally located in the second row of Waikiki Beach. Perfect for strolling around the malls or Kalakaua Avenue in the evening. The staff was friendly and helpful without exception. The rooms were clean and comfortable. A rental car is a good idea to get out of the city and see more of O'ahu. The hotel offers (very expensive) valet parking. Of course, the hotel is in the middle of a big city, so you expect a certain amount of hustle and bustle. Nevertheless, we were surprised by the volume of the air conditioning units around the hotel. This could disturb sensitive sleepers.
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Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani
@sharonneidhardt
Very nice modern hotel in the second row in Waikiki. The rooms with a sea view are not quite cheap, but we definitely recommend them. The view is really breathtaking! Modern furnishings and simply a super friendly team!!! We were even allowed to leave our suitcases at the hotel when we flew to another island for 2 days.
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Hostels (cheaper)
Waikiki Beachside Hostel
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Seaside Hawaiian Hostel
@sharonneidhardt
I stayed for 3 nights with my sister. We got an upgrate and had a privat room conected with a bathroom the share with 4 other girls. The kitchen was clean and it had a lot of stuff for cooking. I would defintely go again.
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Polynesian Hostel Beach Club
@sharonneidhardt
The location was great, you can get to the beach very quickly. The equipment in the kitchen is very good. After check-out you could still store your suitcases and use the outdoor shower.
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Waterfalls
Waimea Falls
@sharonneidhardt
It’s a cute little waterfall, if it didn’t rain in a while I wouldn’t visit. If I remember right you have to pay to see it.
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Manoa Falls
@sharonneidhardt
It’s a nice walk through the jungle which leads you to a waterfall. It’s very pretty but small.
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Maunawili Falls
@sharonneidhardt
Most of the time it’s very muddy to get there but it’s a nice hike. If there is enough water it’s very pretty.
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Lulumahu Falls
@sharonneidhardt
All Trails says it’s illegal, but there are so many people still doing it. We pulled into the parking area and found a spot. Crowded, but not full.
The trail is easy to follow from AllTrails. If you’re unsure which way to go, ask someone coming the other way.
Very beautiful hiking trail, lost in the Jungle, with a luminous Bamboo forest and amazing waterfall at the end of the trail.
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Food
The Cheesecake Factory
@sharonneidhardt
Very tasty food and of course amazing cheesecakes! Better make a reservation otherwise you will have to wait in line.
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The Sunrise Shack
@sharonneidhardt
There is more than just one store, I love the monkey bowl for breakfast or lunch! I can’t remember how many time I ordered it… way too many😁😍
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Giovanni's Shrimp Truck
@sharonneidhardt
Amazing street food very delicious. Best garlic shirps every!
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Rainbow Drive-In
@sharonneidhardt
It's a popular Instagram spot, they offer classic Hawaiian plate lunch. Like teriyaki beef, chicken and mahi-mahi, also they have tasty burgrs with fries.
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Food truck park
@sharonneidhardt
Best places to eat are at the food trucks. The food is delicious you have to try.
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Duke's Waikiki
@sharonneidhardt
Very friendly staff, good atmosphere and delicious food. You should make a reservation.
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Coffee
Barefoot Beach Cafe @ Queen's Surf Beach
@sharonneidhardt
Great little beach bar for eating and drinking right by the water, nice and quick staff, great atmosphere.
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Leonard's Bakery
@sharonneidhardt
The famous Malasadas!
They are the best after a sunrise surf. The line can get very long but you won't regred it.
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Honolulu Coffee at Moana Surfrider
@sharonneidhardt
Small but nice café with friendly staff and very tasty cappuccino.
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Hawaii Cat Cafe
@sharonneidhardt
The people were extremely friendly as were the cats. The cat room was clean and had plenty of toys and space and windows for the cats to enjoy. They have a small gift area and gift certificates available as well. The cats come from the humane society and are available for adoption.
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ALOHA CAFE PINEAPPLE
@sharonneidhardt
Perfect before or after the morning hike to Diamond Head. Not only was it cute, but it was super impressive. The staff was so nice and the coffee was some of the best I've ever had in Honolulu. Their malasadas were delicious too. 10/10
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ALOH Health Bar & Cafe
@sharonneidhardt
Very good quality food. The salads, the juices, the frozen yogurt and the sandwiches. Coffee was also delicious. Not quite cheap, but definitely worth it.
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Party
In Waikiki there is a guy the drives a bus around and does bus partys. It’s super fun but a bit dangerous. Sadly I don’t have the number any more but if you see them driving around maybe you can join.
Scarlet Honolulu
@sharonneidhardt
It’s a gay club but everyone is there and enjoying the party. It was soo much fun!
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SKY Waikiki Raw & Bar
@sharonneidhardt
Waikiki’s newest hip party spot to see and be seen on top of the Waikiki Business Plaza roof! It's a wonderful spot for happy hour, dinner, and after hours dancing on the roof all night! There's even a BackBar Speak Easy area, if you know how to get in...check Instagram for the password.
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The Republik
@sharonneidhardt
Nightly concert venue on Kapiolani Blvd (Across from Ala Moana Shopping Center). A nice way to change up the DJ club scene once in awhile!
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Thank you for reading all my recommendations. I hope it helps you to plan your trip! Have fun and enjoy! Is you want to thank me, leave a tip for my next trip.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sharon Neidhardt
Hello travelers my Name is Sharon. Passionate backpacker on a journey of discovery! On a budget-friendly escapade, I delve into the heart of diverse cultures, immersing myself in local traditions that breathe life into each destination. From cozy hostels to occasional splurges on charming Airbnbs, I share the art of balancing budget and luxury, ensuring every traveler discovers the essence of wanderlust. Join me in embracing the beauty of nature, uncovering hidden gems, and celebrating the richness of each destination. Let's turn dreams of exploration into a reality, making every trip an opportunity to discover, learn, and indulge.
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