Hikes & Beaches
North Shore of Oʻahu
Ehukai Pillbox Hike
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.5 MI/2.4 KM (30-1HR)
The Ehukai Pillbox, or sunset pillbox, offers a serene spot for sunset views on Oʻahu’s North Shore. Unlike other crowded hikes, this trail near Pupukea Elementary remains peaceful. Follow the dirt trail, marked by pink ribbons, for about 15-30 minutes to reach the pillbox. From there, enjoy stunning vistas of the North Shore coastline and Banzai Pipeline. Feeling adventurous? Continue on to discover two more pillboxes along the trail.
Waimea Valley Hike
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.9 MI/3KM (1-2HRS)
The Waimea Falls trail is a 3/4-mile paved path, taking around 30 minutes to walk. It features gentle hills and several gravel paths branching off for adventurous explorers. Keep an eye out for the alaeʻula, native Hawaiian birds inhabiting our ponds. Along the way, visit Hawaiian cultural sites like Kauhale, an ancient living site, to delve into early Hawaiian life.
Haleiwa Beach Park
Haleiwa Beach Park on Oʻahu’s North Shore is a paradise for beach lovers. With its golden sands and clear waters, it’s ideal for swimming, surfing, and picnicking under swaying palms. Close to the charming town of Haleiwa, it offers easy access to local shops and eateries, making it the perfect spot for a day of sun and relaxation.
Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay on Oʻahu’s North Shore is renowned for its stunning beauty, legendary surf, and iconic rock. Adventurous visitors can also experience the thrill of jumping off the rock into the crystal-clear waters below.
Ke Iki Beach
Ke Iki Beach on Oʻahu’s North Shore is a tranquil haven with golden sands and turquoise waters. Unlike busier beaches, it offers a peaceful retreat for sunbathing, picnicking, and surfing.
Sunset Beach
Beyond surfing, Sunset Beach offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, strolling along the shore, or simply marveling at the stunning sunset views, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this iconic beach destination.
Kawela Bay
Surrounded by lush vegetation and protected by a coral reef, Kawela Bay boasts excellent conditions for marine life, making it a haven for snorkelers and marine enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating creatures as you explore the underwater world.
Sharks Cove
Shark’s Cove on Oʻahu’s North Shore is a captivating marine sanctuary ideal for snorkeling adventures. Its calm waters and vibrant coral reefs host a diverse array of marine life, including tropical fish and sea turtles.
East Side of Oʻahu
Lanikai Pillbox Hike
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1 MI/1.6 KM (30-1HR)
The Lanikai Pillbox hike, also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, is a beloved destination for adventurers of all levels on Oʻahu. This hike is short, easy, and offers great views of the island’s windward side. Whether you’re catching the sunrise or snacking with a view, this spot delivers. Just head to Ka’elepupu Drive, find the dirt trail, and follow it up to the pillboxes. It’s that simple.
Makapuʻu Lighthouse Hike
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2 MI/3.2KM (1-2HRS)
The Makapu’u Lighthouse trail offers a leisurely stroll up to the iconic Makapu’u Lighthouse. Starting from the end of the Kaiwi parking lot, simply follow the paved path that winds around the hill until you reach the summit. This spot is perfect for whale watching, and it also provides stunning views of neighboring Lana’i, Moloka’i, and Maui. It’s a fantastic trail for families, offering a gentle hike with rewarding scenery along the way.
Koko Head Hike
Difficulty: Intermediate
Length: 1.5 MI/2.4 KM (30-1HR)
Climbing Koko Head Crater means tackling 1,048 steps for breathtaking views. It’s a popular spot for a reason: Aina Haina, Sandys Beach, and much of the south shore come into view from the top. You start behind the baseball field at Koko Head Park and work your way up. Expect crowds; it’s a favorite workout spot and even President Obama hikes here when he’s in town. So, if you’re up for the challenge and the reward of stunning vistas, Koko Head is your go-to spot on the island.
Haumana Bay Hike
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.5 MI/2.4 KM (1-1.5HR)
Expect an easy yet lengthy uphill journey along a paved asphalt road on the Hanauma Bay Ridge trail, leading to the impressive Hanauma Bay rock. The adventure kicks off just west of the Hanauma Bay parking lot. Follow the walkway steadily upward until you reach the ridge’s summit. Feeling adventurous? Continue along the dirt trail for a chance to uncover hidden gems like a secret beach and a concealed rock bridge.
Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach on Oahu’s eastern shore boasts powdery white sands, clear turquoise waters, and stunning views of the Mokulua Islands. It’s renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
Makapuʻu Beach
Makapu’u Beach is renowned for its rugged beauty and shorebreak, attracting experienced surfers and bodyboarders. The expansive coastline offers stunning views of the Makapuʻu Lighthouse and the surrounding cliffs, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Bellows Beach Park
Bellows Beach Park boasts shallow waters and gentle waves, making it ideal for families with children. It’s also popular for picnicking and beach volleyball, with facilities for BBQs and water sports rentals available.
Mokoliʻi Island at Kaneohe Bay
Over the sparkling waters of Kaneohe Bay, the iconic Mokoli’i, sometimes called Chinaman’s Hat, stands like a prehistoric guardian of the Windward side of Oahu. According to Hawaiian legend, the island is supposed to be the tail of an ancient mo’o or lizard. Experience the adventure of kayaking on the ocean and get a great view of the Ko’olau Mountain Range and Kaneohe bay on the east side of Oahu. Not only will you see the natural beauty of O’ahu, but you’ll also recognize some epic scenes from Jurassic Park, clips from 50 First Dates, Godzilla, Battleship and more.
South Shore of Oʻahu
Manoa Falls HIke
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.5 MI/1.6 KM (30-1HR)
The Manoa Falls hike is a beloved trek in Manoa Valley, leading to a stunning 100ft waterfall. The well-marked trail, adorned with gravel and small rocks, winds through lush jungle-like terrain for about a mile to reach the falls. It’s a perfect outing to enjoy with family and friends, offering an easy-to-follow path and breathtaking natural beauty.
Diamond Head Hike
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.6 MI/2.6 KM (1-2HRS)
The Diamond Head hike is a must-do activity in Honolulu, offering breathtaking views from the iconic volcanic crater. The trail, though steep in parts, is relatively short and well-maintained, making it accessible to most visitors. As you ascend, you’ll pass through tunnels and ascend staircases before reaching the summit. From there, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, and the sparkling Pacific Ocean.
Ala Moana Beach Park
Ala Moana Beach Park in Honolulu is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. With its sandy beach, calm waters, and excellent facilities, it’s perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and picnics. Enjoy stunning views of the Honolulu skyline while relaxing by the ocean.
Queens Beach
Queen’s Beach in Waikiki is renowned for its calm waters and great surfing. Named after Queen Liliʻuokalani, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports, with stunning views of Diamond Head. A top choice for locals and tourists alike.
Kaimana Beach
Kaimana Beach, tucked beneath the iconic Diamond Head crater, is a local favorite known for its peaceful vibe and crystal-clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the sand.
Kahala Beach
Kahala Beach offers serene sands and clear waters, perfect for relaxation and scenic strolls. Enjoy peaceful moments and stunning ocean views away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
West Side of Oʻahu
Koʻolina Beach Lagoons
The Ko Olina Beach Lagoons offer a slice of paradise on Oahu’s western shore. Ideal for swimming and sunbathing, these man-made lagoons offer a relaxing beach experience with surrounding resort amenities.
Makaha Beach
Makaha Beach on Oahu’s western shore is renowned for its epic waves, drawing experienced surfers worldwide. With stunning sands, clear waters, and mesmerizing sunsets, it’s a picture-perfect paradise.
Pray for Sets Beach
This hidden gem, “Pray for Sets” Beach emerges as a secluded sanctuary on Oʻahu’s coastline. Here, the ocean stretches out, while the Waiʻanae mountain range paints a vibrant backdrop. Unlike its more popular counterparts, this beach remains a well-kept secret, offering solitude amidst nature’s beauty.
Yokohama Bay
Yokohama Bay, also known as Keawaʻula Beach, is the perfect place to watch the sunset. Nestled along Oʻahu’s western coast, it offers an unobstructed view of the sun as it dips below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink.