We’re doing this blog series because we absolutely love Hawaii and because we want you to know that’s its not just a beach destination. It’s really a great location where you can turn your vacation into something much more.
In our second installment, I’m moving northwest to the busiest of the Islands, Oahu. If you are trying to avoid the crowds, then you may want to avoid Oahu. Keep in mind that there’s a lot that you can do where you can avoid the crowds. Also, the summer months are definitely busier than other seasons.
If you are traveling to to the islands, Oahu is a must see and do. Just keep thinking, there’s much more to do than go to the beach. Yeah, there’s great beaches but face it, you can go to a beach anywhere, you’re in Hawaii. So, get out and explore some regional attractions like listed below..
Regions
Let’s start our loop of the islands and look at the individual regions.
- Honolulu
- Central
- Leeward
- Windward
- North Shore
Make sure that your rental car came with unlimited milage because it’s time to explore Oahu.
Honolulu
The island of Oahu is know as the “gathering place” due to the island’s being the government seat. This name fits as Oahu and Honolulu are the most populous and the most visited island in the chain.
- Waikiki is, without a doubt, the heart of Honolulu’s tourist district. There is an almost endless list of things to do like the world famous beaches, great food and high end shopping, just to name a few. While the area tends to be a bit too “active” for my tastes, it is a must see.
- Iolani Palace, once the seat of governments, is the only royal palace in the U.S. However, the palace is a museum dedicated to the story of the Kingdom of Hawaiian. Iolani Palace is beautiful after dark, think lights.
- Diamond Head State Monument, an extinct volcano, is a just short drive or bus ride from Waikiki. Keep in mind that it is a moderate hike to the top but the views are well worth the trek. Pick up water before you go and stay hydrated.
- Two great hikes are Koko Head and Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail. Koko is a strenuous hike while the lighthouse trail is more of a moderate hike to the top. Whales are commonly seen off the coast, be sure to have your camera gear. A short drive worth your time is to head out to Manoa Valley and hike to the Falls.
Central
- Our number one trek in the central area is a visit to Pearl Harbor. Once you walk through the gate, you can’t help but get that “feeling.” Definitely an awe inspiring location that every visitor to Hawaii must experience.
- Okay, so this is kind of corny, no, it’s a lot corny but you have to stop at the Dole Plantation. The pineapple alone is worth your time.
Leeward
The Leeward coast has tremendous hiking and located here is the Waianae Kai Forest Reserve. Be sure to save some time for the trails near the coast.
There are a number of tour operators offering some back country hikes in this area.
North Shore
- Stretching along the north from Waialua to Kawela Bay is the home of beautiful beaches and stellar surf. An absolute must see and do on Oahu. Don’t skip a lunch stop somewhere great like the Haleʻiwa Beach House in Haleiwa.
- Since you are in the area be sure to spend some time at Waimea Valley botanical park and falls.
- A final stop is Kawela Bay Beach Park in Kahuku. Traffic along the north shore is always congested so plan appropriately.
Windward
- You can’t go to Hawaii and not immerse yourself in the wonderful Hawaiian culture. Plan to spend several hours at the Polynesian Cultural Center on Kamehameha Hwy in Laie. Luau anyone?
- If you like movies, you are in the place to see where many blockbusters were filmed. Kualoa Ranch & Zipline on Kamehameha Hwy near Kaneohe is a great stop to not only see movie locations but some history as well. There are some great views of the coast and the small island of Mokoli’i, better known as the Chinaman”s Hat.
- This part of the coast boasts a number of state parks and forests where you can find a trail to fit your physical needs. Be sure to get out and trek.
Beaches
Come on? You can go to a beach anywhere but just for you beach lovers, here’s my list.
- On the windward side is Lanikai Beach is one of Hawaii’s most famous beaches. The offshore reef keeps the water fairly calm for swimming.
- Near Lanikai Beach is Kailua Beach Park (mentioned earlier) definitely the island’s best. Since you are nearby, you’ll like Buzz’s Steak House, let me say, awesome steak!
- Ok arguably the most famous beach in the world, (sorry Daytona) Waikiki Beach. Just gotta go!
- Situated on the North Shore is Sunset Beach is a beautiful water and beautiful beaches.
- Finally, if you are looking for a little more elbow room, try Makapu’u and Kalama.
Traveling Around
Traffic can be a bear on the island. So, check your attitude, put on some good music and plan to chill on your drive to wherever. (remember, you’re on vacation) Finally, I’ve put together some rough travel time estimates between locations to help out in your drive.
- Waikiki to Pearl Harbor – 25 miles, 60 minutes
- Honolulu to Diamond Head – 6 miles, 20 minutes
- Waikiki to Kailua – 15 miles, 40 minutes
- Honolulu to Ko Olina – 25 miles, 40 minutes
- Waikiki to Laie – 35 miles, 25 minutes
Well, that’s all for me on Oahu. Obviously, there is much much more and you cannot do everything on one trip. I guess you’ll have to plan another trip to explore Oahu!
Aloha and be sure to “Unleash your inner Trekker!”