Oahu is the third largest island in the state of Hawaii. Filled with diversity, not only in its population but its landscape, cities and activities. Honolulu is a bustling city, while other parts of the island host quaint, laidback surf towns. There are so many things to do on this island that I have decided to break my posts down into three separate posts. One today will cover things to do. Tomorrow I will make a follow-up post about places to stay, and places to eat will be post #3.
Things to Do
I've been to Oahu twice, and I still have not managed to see everything this beautiful Island has to offer. The biggest mistake I see people making is not renting a car and spending all their time in Waikiki. Even driving the coast of Oahu is a treat, and I highly recommend it. Here I have listed my top 15 things to do in Oahu.
1. Pearl Harbour and USS Arizona: This tour is gut-wrenching and emotional but not to be missed. It is the most popular tour on the island for a reason.
2. Lanikai Pillbox Hike: Located not far from Lanikai Beach, the trail is an easier trail that overlooks amazing ocean views.
3. Diamond Head Crater Hike: This hike is busy, there will be many people and it is about half an hour from the bottom to the top. The sun beats down on you, so go early in the am. It's all worth it for the view of Honolulu. There is a $5.00 entrance fee into the park. You can also opt for a guided tour.
4. Kayak to the Mokes: Rent a kayak at either Lanikai beach or Kailua beach and kayak out to the Mokes. You can opt for a guided tour on this adventure as well.
5. Hawaiian Luau: You cannot go to Hawaii and not experience a Luau. It is one of the best ways to get out for a night and immerse yourself in the history and traditions of Hawaii.
6. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay: This is a busy tourist spot, and I try to avoid these. However, the snorkelling here is amazing. There is a small parking fee and a fee for entering the park, which helps with education and conservation. Please respect the ocean, wear reef-safe sunscreen and don't touch or stand on the coral.
7. Manoa Falls: This jungle trail is the second most popular hike on Oahu, and it's amazing. If you are into hiking, this one is not to be missed.
8. Cliff Dive: Waimea Bay is a stunning beach. The biggest attraction to it is the giant rock that visitors love to jump off of. Make sure that you do this during a time when the ocean is calm enough. Waimea Bay is located on the North Shore, and the waves here get massive in the wintertime.
9. Halona Blowhole: The blowhole is located on Kalaniana'ole Highway on the windward side of the island. From the viewing point, you can look over the amazing views and watch as water blows out of the hole.
10. Watch Surfers: There are many surfing competitions during the winter season. Red bull, Billabong and many others often host competitions at the Banzai Pipeline on the North Shore. You'll know when you get there vehicles will be parked on both sides of the road.
11. Bishop Museum: The Bishop Museum is a great way to immerse yourself in Hawaii's culture. Learn more about the history of this beautiful island.
12. Polynesian Cultural Center: The PCC is rather pricey, I've only done it once, but it was fantastic. It is 42 acres of fun. The employees are mostly students at Brigham Young University. Tour through 8 villages of Polynesia.
13. Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail: This trail is paved and very accessible. Fantastic views of the windward side await you at the end of the road.
14. Hawaiian Monk Seal: The Hawaiian Monk is the only seal native to the island. I was lucky enough on my last trip there to stumble upon one resting on the beach. Remember, don't harass them and certainly avoid touching them.
15. Waimea Valley: This valley is a one-mile trail where you can stroll through a botanical garden ending in a waterfall. If you wish, you can swim in the pool at the waterfall's base.
This list barely scratches the surface of the island. I had to make a list of 5 honourable mentions to finish it off.
Sharks Cove: This snorkelling spot can get crowded. This is because it is probably the best tide pool on the island. Beyond the tide pools, the bay can be anywhere from 8 to 15 feet deep. There is a plethora of sea life to see while snorkelling.
Ho'omaluhia Botanical Gardens: The gardens are located on the windward side of Oahu and are free to enter. Trails weave in and out of the park, often meandering down to the fish-filled lake. There are also camping spots available for rent.
Kualoa Ranch: The ranch is the site of multiple movie filming locations and has 15 tours you can go on. From zip-lining to horseback riding and everything in between. You'll never be bored at the Ranch.
Honolulu Zoo: While a Zoo is not everyone's cup of tea. If you are into them, the Honolulu Zoo is pretty darn good. It contains a plethora of reptiles, birds and mammals. It's worth an afternoon of exploring.
Hale'iwa: The hip spot on the North Shore. Filled with decadent food and boutique shopping.
Things to Avoid
I'm not telling you that you shouldn't go and see these attractions. If it is something you want to see, I always believe in exploring.
Waikiki: There are many things to see in Waikiki. It would be best if you spent some of your time here. However, Waikiki is not the true Hawaii. It's also far more expensive than other parts of the island. Waikiki Beach is far from my favourite beach on the island. I will be discussing the beaches of Oahu in a future blog.
Eat at Chain Restaurants: Hawaii is full of fantastic, traditional food. Don't get stuck eating at the closest fast food joint. We will look at the best food on the island in a later post.
Dole Plantation: I can't lie; I love some touristy places on the island. But some are a one-and-done for me. I did like this tour, I learned about pineapples, and I bought a few things from the farmer's market. I don't need to go back now, but if you have time, It is an educational opportunity.
The Waikiki Aquarium: To me, time is better spent in the ocean seeing these animals in their natural habitat.
Well, there you have it, my first submission about Oahu. Of course, as always, this is just simply my opinion. There are so many other things to see on the island, and how you see it may depend on your budget. No matter what, it is beautiful and worth your time visiting. Thank you to those of you continuing to read my blog.
Wanderlust Canuk
Comments