Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu, Hawaii

Jordan Ryba
Updated ago
Save
Share

Hikes

Diamond Head Crater Trailhead
@tiffanybaltierra
This iconic hike takes you to the top of Diamond Head, offering panoramic views of Honolulu and the coastline. It's a moderate hike with a rewarding vista at the summit.
Add to
Details
Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Ka'iwa Ridge)
@Theguidedtravels
Explore this 1.7-mile out-and-back trail near Kailua for some of the best views! This is a very popular area for hiking, running, and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. It can take about 30-45 minutes to hike from the trailhead to the top (second) pillbox (elev. 565-ft). Its another 10 minutes to reach the ridge's highest point (elev. 603-ft) marked by a geodetic marker (the small concrete platform with broken surveyor's pole). There are some steep sections that require scrambling, can sometimes be slippery, and there are no guardrails along the steep cliff sections. Parking: You can’t park at the start of the trail. Depending on what side you start on, parking can be tricky as you’ll likely have to park in the beach parking areas that can fill up pretty quick. I parked at Kailua Beach and walked for about 20 minutes. Another option is 0.6 miles away at Lanikai Beach Parking! Trailhead: The trailhead is on Kaelepulu and is opposite of the Mid Pacific Country Club & Golf Course just before you reach a private, gated community. You’ll see a sign that says "start here" with a dirt path.
Add to
Details
Manoa Falls
@tiffanybaltierra
Located in the lush Manoa Valley, this trail leads you through a tropical rainforest to a stunning 150-foot waterfall.
Add to
Details
Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail
@jordanryba
Good for sunrise, paved road + Makapuʻu Tide Pools
Add to
Details
Crouching Lion Trailhead (Puʻu Manamana)
@jordanryba
sunrise
Add to
Details

Places to Explore

The Byodo-In Temple
@tiffanybaltierra
Add to
Details
The Byodo-In Temple
@Theguidedtravels
This Buddhist temple is located in Valley of the Temples Memorial Park! Make sure to come early since tour busses tend to bring lots of people throughout the day. If you're looking for an easy activity on your last day before your flight, this could be a great option.
Add to
Details
Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden
@tiffanybaltierra
Add to
Details
Kualoa Ranch
@theresearchgirl
Located on the eastern coast of Oahu, featuring a variety of outdoor activities, such as horseback riding, zip lining, and ATV tours, as well as guided movie site tours showcasing famous locations used in Hollywood films.
Add to
Details
Lyon Arboretum
@jordanryba
Gate my Moana Falls trailhead
Add to
Details
International Market Place
@jordanryba
Hours: 10am-9pm
Add to
Details
Aloha Stadium Swap Meet
@andrewandbrenna
Every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, Aloha Stadium opens for a massive swap meet/flea market. This market holds over 100 vendors, and is the perfect place to grab some souvenirs for a reasonable price.
Add to
Details
Ala Moana Center
@jordanryba
Hours: 10am-8pm Aritzia, Brandy Melville
Add to
Details
Oahu Boat Cruises
@jordanryba
Booze cruise
Add to
Details
Dole Plantation
@jordanryba
Rainbow Eucalyptus
Add to
Details

Beaches/Snorkeling

Hawaiian Electric Beach Park
@jordanryba
Add to
Details
Sharks Cove
@theresearchgirl
World-renowned snorkeling and diving spot, offering crystal-clear waters, unique rock formations, and a variety of marine life, including octopuses, eels, and colorful reef fish.
Add to
Details
Halona Beach Cove
@andrewandbrenna
Halona Beach Cove is a hidden gem located on the side of Highway 72. The beach cove features a small beach, strong waves, tide pools, and blowholes. This spot is common among locals, so it is important to be respectful.
Add to
Details
Hanauma Bay
@andrewandbrenna
Hanauma Bay is a popular nature preserve and snorkeling destination. The bay is created by a volcanic crater that has been filled with clear waters. Due to its popularity there are regulations in place and it's important to check Hanauma Bay's website beforehand for details.
Add to
Details

Coffee/Treats

Leonard's Bakery
@tiffanybaltierra
Add to
Details
Kona Coffee Purveyors | b patisserie
@theresearchgirl
Known for their high-quality Kona coffee and delicious pastries. Tip: The seasonal kouign amann is particularly tasty.
Add to
Details
Island Vintage Coffee Waikiki
@theresearchgirl
Popular coffee shop that offers a variety of specialty coffee drinks made with locally sourced, 100% Kona coffee beans, as well as healthy breakfast and lunch options featuring fresh, local ingredients. Tip: They're known for their acai bowls, island inspired coffee flavors, and ube bagels.
Add to
Details
Morning Glass Coffee
@jordanryba
Add to
Details

Restaurants

Ono Seafood
@theresearchgirl
Some of the best poke on the island, with fresh and high-quality ingredients, friendly service, and affordable prices. Tip: Every plate comes with a free drink!
Add to
Details
Alicia's Market
@theresearchgirl
Known for their mouth-watering Hawaiian plate lunches, fresh poke, and an extensive selection of meats and seafood.
Add to
Details
Monkeypod Kitchen - Waikiki
@jordanryba
Mai-Tais
Add to
Details
Guieb Cafe
@jordanryba
Add to
Details
Koko Head Cafe
@jordanryba
Add to
Details

* * *