Oahu, Hawaii

We've been able to visit Oahu on many trips and it's one of the most beautiful islands. Just 5hrs from the west coast, it's the perfect getaway with so many things to do. Here are some recs.

Things to do

  1. Diamond Head. Not too tough, and the views from the top are beautiful. Go early since it can get hot and crowded fast.
  2. Waikiki. Two things worth doing here beyond the obvious: (1) rent surf boards and spend time in the water, (2) take one of the catamarans out, sunset sailings are perfect.
  3. Shopping.
    • Luxury Row for the high end.
    • International Market Place for a broader mix, plus there are good food options in the building (including a small supermarket with great bento boxes).
  4. Ala Moana. SUP yoga. Relaxing and fun, book early in the morning.
  5. Ko Olina. Great walk along the beach. The four lagoons are linked by a paved path, and the whole stretch is calm, swimmable, and much quieter than the south shore. Mina's Fish House at the Four Seasons is great.
  6. Lanikai Beach. Beautiful water and a great stretch of beach. While you're out here, check out the town of Kailua and get food at Kalapawai Market.
  7. Papailoa Beach and Puaena Point. Turtles and seals, and a beautiful beach. This is the North Shore payoff. Keep your distance from anything hauled out on the sand, and don't crowd the turtles.
  8. Pokai Beach. Beautiful swimming and incredible wildlife, especially turtles. Pokai is on the west side and sits behind a breakwater, which means it stays calm when everywhere else is churned up. It's the least touristed spot on this list.
  9. Haleiwa. Surf area and food trucks. The town itself is small and easy to walk, and the food truck scene is the real reason to stop.
  10. The drive to Hanauma Bay and beyond. Make the drive east and stop at the lookouts along the way. Heading out from Waikiki, they come in this order:
    1. Hanauma Bay
    2. Lanai Lookout
    3. Halona Blowhole
    4. Sandy Beach
    5. Makapuu Lookout

Food