Oahu, the heart of Hawaii, is where adventure meets paradise. From rugged hikes to crystal-clear waters and a taste of Hawaiian culture and fresh seafood, this trip was nothing short of unforgettable. Unlike any other island I’ve visited, Oahu’s skyline is broader than Boston’s—high-rises towering over an island paradise! But beyond the cityscape, this place is an adventure lover’s dream. Let’s dive into the best things to do and what requires reservations in advance.
Here are my top recommendations for things to do in a week :
#1 – Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is truly a snorkeler’s paradise! This protected marine sanctuary is teeming with colorful fish and coral reefs. Reservations are required, so book in advance! We spent few hours swimming alongside tropical fish, feeling like we were inside a real-life aquarium.
Link for reservations : https://pros8.hnl.info/hanauma-bay
Hanauma bay is closed on Monday & Tuesday. Wednesday morning is the best time to snorkel , but we went on Friday and saw lots of fish while snorkeling. Check the below instagram video for the underwater experience !
#2 – Kayaking to the Mokolua Islands
One of the highlights of the trip! We paddled through the turquoise waters from Kailua Beach to the stunning Mokulua Islands. Along the way, we spotted sea turtles swimming right beside our kayak. The adventure didn’t stop there—we explored hidden tide pools, cliff-jumped into Queen’s Bath, and relaxed on the pristine shores. It was an adventure getting to the shore fighting the waves, but nothing a good poke bowl and shave ice couldn’t fix afterward.
#3 – Kuliʻouʻou Ridge Trail
This is a challenging but rewarding hike offering sweeping views of the coastline.
Difficulty: INTERMEDIATE
Time: 3-4 HOURS
Distance: 4 MILES
Elevation Gain: 1700 FEET
Foot Traffic: HIGH
Challenges: Some Steep Ascents, Uneven Footing
Sights: Koko Head, Diamond Head, Honolulu, The Mokes
What to Bring: Water, Snacks
if you are looking for a thrilling ridge hike that tests your endurance without pushing you into full-on rock-climbing mode? This intermediate-level trail is just the adventure you need!
Your journey begins with a winding series of switchbacks through a lush forest, where towering native trees create a magical, shaded escape. As you climb, the anticipation builds—because once you break through the treeline, the real adventure begins!
Reaching the ridge, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Leeward side and its neighboring ridges, a perfect excuse to pause and soak it all in. But don’t get too comfortable—the next challenge awaits. A relentless series of stairs leads the way to the summit, turning your legs into jelly but making every step worth it.
Push through that final ascent, and you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking panoramic view of the Windward Coast and the charming town of Waimanalo. Take a deep breath, snap some epic photos, and enjoy the well-earned moment of triumph before heading back down. This hike is a heart-pounding, view-chasing adventure you won’t forget!
#4 – Lulumahu Falls Hike
This is a jungle trek leading to a stunning waterfall where we took a refreshing dip—nature’s own shower!
Difficulty: BEGINNER
Time: 1.5-2 HOURS
Distance: 2 MILES
Elevation Gain: 300 FEET
Foot Traffic: HIGH
Challenges: Muddy, River Crossings, Fallen Trees
Sights: Lulumahu Falls, Nu’uanu Reservoir, Ko’olau Mountain Range
What to Bring: Shoes you can get muddy, Water
Tucked away in the heart of the island, just off the Pali Highway, this short but unforgettable waterfall hike is a true hidden gem! From the very first step, you’re in for a treat—your journey kicks off in a dreamy bamboo forest, where the towering stalks sway gently in the breeze, creating an almost mystical atmosphere.
Emerging from the bamboo, you’ll find yourself on a dirt road running alongside the Nu’uanu Reservoir. Take a moment here to soak in the sweeping views of lush green forests, the dramatic peaks of the Ko‘olau Mountain Range, and the serene waters of the reservoir—a perfect spot to catch your breath before the real adventure begins.
As you re-enter the forest, the path tightens, weaving along the river that flows directly from the falls. This is where the fun kicks up a notch! You’ll hop across the river multiple times, scramble over fallen logs, and duck under low-hanging branches—all adding to the thrill of the journey. The final stretch builds anticipation, but just when you think you can’t wait any longer, Lulumahu Falls comes into view—a stunning cascade tucked away in nature’s embrace.
This hike isn’t about pushing your limits—it’s about the adventure, the beauty, and the feeling of stumbling upon a secret paradise. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or just looking for a refreshing escape, this trail delivers in every way!
#5 – North shore drive
- Dole Plantation – honestly, not worth spending lots of time, but the pineapple candies and ice cream was good!). But when you drive past the plantation do not miss the acres and acres of pineapple plantation on both side of the road. it’s a gorgeous view.
- Polo Beach – sandy shores with massive waves—perfect for swimming and catching some turtles !
- Giovanni’s shrimp Truck. Good seafood and other food trucks offering tasty food options.
- Matsumoto Shave ice. We haven’t stopped there but heard it’s one of the best places to get the shave ice in North shore.
- Waimea Valley & Waterfall – $25 entry per person, it’s an easy hike leading to a gorgeous waterfall). We haven’t gone inside as we already did another waterfall hike.
- Banzai Pipeline (we were lucky to catch a bodyboarding competition—massive waves and crazy talent!)
- Kulia Farms – a great stop for fresh fruit and local treats!
#6 – Diamond Head Crater Sunrise Hike
Waking up early, we tackled the famous Diamond Head Crater hike. The steep climb was worth every step, rewarding us with jaw-dropping panoramic views of Waikiki and the vast Pacific. This hike requires a reservation in advance, so plan ahead!
Difficulty: BEGINNER
Time: 1.5-2 HOURS
Distance: 2 MILES
Elevation Gain: 300 FEET
Foot Traffic: HIGH
Challenges: Steep ascent and steps
Sights: stunning 360-degree views of Oahu, including Waikiki Beach, Honolulu Harbor, and the Pacific Ocean, as well as the surrounding coastline and, on clear days, even the smaller islands of Molokai, Lanai, and the peaks of Maui.
The hike starts off easy, with a mostly flat, paved path leading toward the base of the crater wall. It’s a gentle warm-up, but don’t let the calm beginning fool you—the real challenge is coming! About halfway up, you’ll reach a lookout point that offers your first “wow” moment: a stunning view over the crater below, a perfect spot to pause and see just how far you’ve climbed.
Then, the real ascent begins. Just beyond the lookout, the first set of stairs appears—74 steps that will get your heart pumping. Take your time and enjoy the climb; after all, the reward is well worth it. Along the way, you’ll pass hikers who have already conquered the summit and are making their descent, their smiles giving you a preview of what’s to come.
At the top of the stairs, you’ll find a 225-foot-long tunnel. When you emerge out of the dark tunnel, you’ll see a sign marking two routes to the summit. Take the easier and more scenic left-hand path, which winds up past several breathtaking lookout points along the coastline, offering sweeping views toward Koko Head. After this, you’ll face another 82 steps, but don’t worry—they’re not as steep as the alternate route.
Choosing this direction means you’ll descend via the steeper staircase, making for a much easier and smoother return journey. But before you conquer the final push, pause and take it all in—from Hanauma Bay shimmering in the distance to the historic Diamond Head Lighthouse standing proudly below.
Then comes the last challenge: 54 final steps to the top. And when you take that last step and finally reach the summit, the reward is jaw-dropping—a 360-degree view of Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, and the vast blue Pacific stretching endlessly beyond the horizon.
Diamond Head isn’t just a hike—it’s an experience, a journey, and a memory that will stay with you long after you leave Oahu. If you’re looking for an adventure with a view that will take your breath away—this is it!
# 7 – Pearl Harbor Memorial
Taking a solemn moment to visit the Pearl Harbor Memorial was both moving and humbling. The history here is palpable. Step back in time and immerse yourself in a pivotal moment of American history as you tour Pearl Harbor. Experience the solemn beauty and learn the inspiring stories of bravery and sacrifice at one of the most significant sites of World War II.
Tickets are limited and need advance reservation , so plan ahead !
# 8 – Sunset at China Wall or Tantalus Lookout
After a day of island adventures, there’s no better way to wind down than watching the sunset from one of Oahu’s most stunning viewpoints. Whether you’re perched on the rugged lava rocks of China Walls or gazing out over Honolulu from the heights of Tantalus Lookout, the evening sky transforms into a breathtaking masterpiece, reminding you why Oahu is pure magic.
China Walls (not related to China):
For a front-row seat to the ocean’s golden farewell, China Walls is the place to be. Tucked away in Hawai‘i Kai, this stretch of lava-rock coastline offers an intimate and exhilarating sunset experience.The atmosphere is both lively and peaceful—locals and visitors alike gather to sit on the warm stone ledges, watching as the sky erupts into fiery hues of orange, pink, and deep purple.
Tantalus Lookout:
For a completely different yet equally stunning experience, Tantalus Lookout offers a panoramic view of Honolulu, Waikiki, and Diamond Head, all bathed in the golden light of dusk. Sitting high in the Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Park, this scenic viewpoint gives you the best of both worlds—a front-row seat to the fiery sunset over the Pacific, while the twinkling city lights begin to take over the landscape below.The drive up the winding, jungle-lined road feels like an adventure in itself, leading you to a peaceful spot where you can watch the day gently transition into night.
# 9 – Waikiki beach
In Waikiki, Oahu, you can enjoy beach activities like surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling, and the iconic “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” The Royal Hawaiian , offers a luxurious experience with its beachfront location, various activities, and cultural experiences.
You can also immerse yourself in cultural Luau experience and a spectacular firework on Friday night.
It’s very touristy but lots of things to explore as well.
#1 0 – Other East coast attractions
- Makapu light house – It’s a 2.5-mile out-and-back, paved hike on Oahu, leads to stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the historic Makapuʻu Lighthouse, we spotted few whales during this hike.
- Halona Blowhole – We are unable to timed the high tide quiet well , hence unable to see the blowhole in its full glory but the area is good to explore and hear the big waves crashing on the lava walls.
- Byoda in Temple – Deep in a lush valley along the 2,000-foot Koʻolau Range lies the Valley of the Temples.The main attraction in the Valley of the Temples is a Japanese temple called Byodo-in, which translates to the “Temple of Equality.”The deep drone of the sacred bell (bon-sho) fills the tranquil temple grounds, as it is customary for visitors to ring the bell before entering the temple for happiness and longevity. Inside the Byodo-in sits an 18-foot gold leaf-covered Buddha where visitors are welcomed to light incense and offer a prayer.The temple’s pond is also filled with koi, a Japanese decorative fish that is a symbol of love and friendship.
- Homonian botanical garden – The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens are nestled just south of the Ko’olau mountains.Entrance to the gardens is free and they are open from 9-4 each day. The gardens comprise 6 different areas (Tropical American plants, Indian & Sri Lankan plants, Melanesian plants, Hawaiian plants, Polynesian plants and section for Hau trees) and a lake that are connected by a dead end road. Walking through the Indian section of the garden was truly a nostalgic moment . Overall, it was a good experience walking through the jungle of different variety of trees and plants.
- Lyons arboretum – The Lyon Arboretum is a natural sanctuary tucked away in the lush, tropical slopes of Manoa Valley, Honolulu. Spanning an impressive 194 acres, this tropical paradise is the only rainforest arboretum affiliated with a US university. Home to over 5,000 tropical plant species, some of which are rare and endangered, the Lyon Arboretum serves as a beacon of botanical research and conservation. We just spent an hour here, but you can spend a full day walking and exploring the vast variety of flora and fauna.
Now some food recommendations :
You will not go wrong with Poke bowl 🙂 I will also mention some places which we were unable to try but was recommended by few local friends !
- Poke at Foodland Store
- Poke at Ono Seafood
- Shave Ice – Kokonut or Matsumoto
- Malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery
- Mochi Candy – Nishoodo. This is 100+ year old candy store
- Thai and Vietnamese food in Downtown. The Pig and the Lady is highly recommended by locals
- Local Hawaiian cuisine. – Helena’s Hawaiian food
- Koko head cafe. After the Koko head hike
- Liliha bakery – Delicious puffs
- While you are on a Northsore drive try – Greenworld coffee farm and Hawaiian Hui Hui chicken
Here is the google maps links having all the attractions and good food places in Oahu:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/saiefTAHwtF5Lwt18?g_st=iw
As our unforgettable journey through Oahu comes to an end, we leave with sun-kissed skin, salty sea breeze still lingering around our body , and hearts full of adventure. From diving into the crystal-clear waters and riding the waves to conquering the rugged trails of ancient craters, every moment was a thrill. The island’s breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests to dramatic coastlines, reminded us of nature’s raw beauty at every turn. And of course, no trip to this tropical paradise would be complete without indulging in the freshest seafood, savoring every bite as the ocean waves played their endless melody. Oahu is more than just a destination—it’s an experience, a vibrant embrace of island life that stays with you long after you’ve said aloha.
Here is my blog on another Hawaiian Island “Maui” from last year !
https://wordpress.com/post/exploringeyes.blog/293
Feel free to leave a comment for questions and feedback !
ExploringEyes 
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