Hey there, have you ever dreamed of visiting a truly stunning destination? Well, look no further because Oahu, Hawaii is the place to be! Over the past eight months, I had the incredible opportunity to live on this picturesque island, and I can’t wait to share my top 10 favorite places with you. From the breathtaking beaches to exhilarating hikes and even insane cliff jumps, Oahu truly has it all. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day at the beach or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, this island has something for everyone. So, let’s get started with our first stop, the beautiful Lanikai Beach, known for its calm waters and stunning views of two scenic islands. It’s the perfect spot to have a fun day with your family or even enjoy a leisurely hike to the Lanikai pillbox for an absolutely awe-inspiring panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. And that’s just the beginning – we still have so much more to explore in Oahu, so stay tuned for my top 10 picks!
Lanikai Beach
Location near the airport
Lanikai Beach is located just 30 minutes from the airport, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike. Its proximity to the airport makes it a convenient option for those looking for a quick beach getaway without having to travel too far.
Famous for its two islands
One of the highlights of Lanikai Beach is its two picturesque islands, known as the Mokulua Islands. These islands are not only breathtaking to look at but also add a unique charm to the beach. The islands can be seen from the shore and are a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Calm waters and gorgeous views
Lanikai Beach is known for its calm and clear waters, making it an ideal swimming spot for families and individuals who are not as confident in their swimming abilities. The crystal-clear waters also offer excellent visibility for those interested in snorkeling and exploring the vibrant marine life. Additionally, the beach offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscape, adding to its overall beauty.
Lanikai Pillbox Hike
Short hike with beautiful view
The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is a short yet rewarding hike that provides stunning views of the surrounding area. The hike is approximately one to two miles long and takes you up to the pillboxes, which are remnants of military bunkers from World War II. From the top, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the mountains and the ocean.
Climbing on top of pillboxes
One of the unique aspects of this hike is the opportunity to climb on top of the pillboxes themselves. These structures offer a great vantage point to take in the scenic beauty of Lanikai. Climbing on top of the pillboxes can be a fun activity for both kids and adults, and it provides an unforgettable experience.
Fun activity for the whole family
The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is a family-friendly activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. The hike is not too strenuous, making it accessible to everyone. It’s a great way to spend quality time with your loved ones and create lasting memories while enjoying the natural beauty of Lanikai.
Maunawili Falls
Short hike to beautiful waterfalls
Maunawili Falls is another must-visit destination in Oahu, offering a short and scenic hike that leads to gorgeous waterfalls. The hike is approximately two and a half miles long and takes you through lush and picturesque surroundings.
Gorgeous and picturesque surroundings
The hike to Maunawili Falls provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including dense vegetation, mountains, and a tranquil stream. The picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Cliff jumping (but not recommended)
While Maunawili Falls is known for its beautiful waterfalls, it’s also known for cliff jumping. However, it’s important to note that cliff jumping can be dangerous and should only be attempted by experienced individuals who are confident in their swimming abilities. For those who are not experienced cliff jumpers, it is recommended to admire the beauty of the waterfalls from a safe distance.
Olomana (Three Peaks) Hike
Moderate difficulty hike
The Olomana Hike, also known as the Three Peaks Hike, offers a moderate level of difficulty suitable for experienced hikers. The hike is approximately four to five miles long and involves steep elevation gain.
Steep elevation gain and use of ropes
As you make your way up the trail, you will encounter steep inclines and challenging terrain. Ropes are available at certain sections to assist hikers in navigating the steeper parts of the hike. The use of ropes adds a sense of adventure and excitement to the experience.
Stunning views from the top
One of the highlights of the Olomana Hike is the stunning views that await you at the top. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the island, including the surrounding mountains, lush greenery, and the sparkling ocean. The breathtaking views make the challenging hike well worth it.
Makapuu Lighthouse Hike
Easy hike up a paved road
The Makapuu Lighthouse Hike is a popular and relatively easy hike that follows a paved road. The hike is approximately two to three miles long and offers a gradual incline, making it suitable for individuals of varying fitness levels.
Gorgeous viewpoints and photo opportunities
Along the trail, you will encounter several viewpoints that provide stunning vistas of the coastline and the turquoise waters below. These viewpoints offer fantastic photo opportunities, allowing you to capture the natural beauty of Oahu.
Chance to see humpback whales
If you visit Makapuu Lighthouse during the months of February and March, you may be lucky enough to witness the awe-inspiring sight of humpback whales. These majestic creatures migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii during this time, and Makapuu Lighthouse offers a prime vantage point to observe them from a distance.
Spitting Caves
Dangerous cliff jumping spot
Spitting Caves, located in Portlock, is known for its dangerous cliff jumping activities. This spot is not recommended for inexperienced swimmers or individuals who are not confident in their diving abilities. The cliff jumping can be hazardous and should only be attempted by experienced divers who are aware of the risks involved.
Amazing sunsets
Despite the risks associated with cliff jumping, Spitting Caves is highly regarded for its breathtaking sunsets. The location offers unobstructed views of the horizon, allowing visitors to witness vibrant and spectacular sunsets that paint the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple.
Clear water for experienced divers
For experienced divers, the clear and pristine waters of Spitting Caves offer an excellent opportunity to explore underwater. With proper equipment and expertise, divers can delve into an underwater world filled with fascinating marine life and vibrant coral formations.
Puu Ohulehule (Pink Pillbox) Hike
Short hike to colorful pillboxes
Puu Ohulehule, also known as the Pink Pillbox Hike, is a short and enjoyable hike that leads to colorful pillboxes. The hike is approximately 1.6 miles long and provides a relatively easy trek through beautiful natural surroundings.
Beautiful view of the west side
At the top of the hike, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the west side of Oahu. From the vantage point of the pillboxes, you can admire the sprawling landscape, including the coastline, mountains, and vibrant greenery.
Less rainy than other areas
One of the advantages of visiting Puu Ohulehule is that the west side of Oahu is generally less rainy compared to other areas of the island. This means that you can enjoy your hike without being too concerned about inclement weather conditions, making it an attractive option for outdoor enthusiasts.
North Shore
Famous for surfing, particularly Pipeline Beach
The North Shore of Oahu is world-renowned for its exceptional surf, with Pipeline Beach being one of the most famous surf spots. The gigantic waves and powerful swells that grace the shores of Pipeline attract professional surfers from around the globe, making it an exciting destination for surfing enthusiasts.
Opportunity for swimming and relaxing
While the North Shore is primarily known for its surfing opportunities, it also offers plenty for those looking to swim and relax. The beaches along the North Shore provide a picturesque setting and a more tranquil atmosphere compared to the bustling south shore. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim or simply soak up the sun on the golden sands.
Black Rock Beach for cliff jumping and relaxing
Black Rock Beach, located on the North Shore, is a popular destination for cliff jumping and relaxation. The beach features a prominent rock formation that serves as a launching point for cliff jumpers. For those looking for a more laid-back experience, Black Rock Beach is also an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
Kualoa Ranch and Chinaman’s Hat
Famous filming location for movies and TV shows
Kualoa Ranch, situated on the eastern side of Oahu, is a renowned filming location for numerous movies and TV shows. Hollywood blockbusters such as Jurassic Park, Jumanji, and the popular TV show Lost have all been filmed at this iconic location. A visit to Kualoa Ranch allows visitors to immerse themselves in the world of their favorite films and TV shows.
Take a tour or visit the nearby park
Visitors to Kualoa Ranch have the option to take a guided tour that explores the vast expanse of the ranch. These tours offer a unique opportunity to learn about the history and cultural significance of the area while marveling at the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you. Alternatively, the nearby Kualoa Regional Park provides a serene setting with expansive grassy fields, picnic areas, and incredible views of Chinaman’s Hat.
Beautiful views and recreational activities
Whether you choose to explore Kualoa Ranch or spend time in the nearby park, you can expect to be treated to beautiful views of the mountains, valleys, and, of course, Chinaman’s Hat. The picturesque landscape offers the perfect backdrop for a range of recreational activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and ATV tours.
In conclusion, Oahu, Hawaii, offers an abundance of stunning locations to visit, ranging from beautiful beaches like Lanikai to adventurous hikes such as Maunawili Falls and Olomana. With its rich natural beauty, variety of activities, and breathtaking views, Oahu is undoubtedly a destination that has something for everyone. Explore the wonders of Oahu, immerse yourself in nature, and create unforgettable memories in this paradise in the Pacific.