Whether you live on O‘ahu or are just visiting, these activities never get old. The main idea here is to get outside, smell the fresh air and see the beauty of the island. I consider most of them classics and well worth your time. If you haven’t had the chance, make sure to add these on your to-do list. Without further ado, here are a few of my favorite things that are unique to the island of O‘ahu from a local’s perspective.
Explore Kualoa Ranch on Horseback
Tour through parts of the 4,000-acre historical Kualoa Ahupua‘a (land division) including the majestic Ka‘a‘awa Valley. Famously known for hosting films such as Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates, and many more, it is a scenic location with a deep Hawaiian history. In fact, fronting the ranch along the main road are the remains of an old sugar mill. While there are a variety of tour options, traveling by horseback offers the most genuine experience. Take it slow, listen to the guides as they share their stories, and enjoy the views. Reserve your spot for a guided tour at kualoa.com.
Make it a Day at Sea Life Park
Check out the marine mammal habitats and bird sanctuary located right around the corner from Makapu‘u Beach. Some of the animals you will see include Humboldt penguins, Hawaiian monk seals, native sharks, and various seabirds. Injured and sick birds are brought to the park’s rehabilitation center in an effort to help them get back to health. Aside from the various exhibits and shows, they offer experiences, including swimming with dolphins in a spectacular outdoor lagoon overlooking the ocean. Visit sealifeparkhawaii.com for the most current schedule of shows and other important information.
Take a Hike
It doesn’t get any better than a workout with a reward. O‘ahu offers many beautiful hikes with amazing views. Whether it’s a panoramic view at the summit of a ridge hike, or just the natural green beauty of the journey alone, it makes your efforts well worthwhile. Check out this list featuring some of my favorite trails to go on when I’m feeling adventurous. Remember that hiking can be dangerous, so please do your research and evaluate your physical capabilities before heading out.
Walk the Waikīkī Strip (During the Day)
Take a leisurely stroll down Kalākaua Avenue, lined with the world-famous Waikīkī Beach, boutique shops, restaurants, and historic hotels. Watch surfers play in the sparkling blue waters and beachgoers get their daily dose of vitamin D. There’s always something to turn your head at amongst the hustle and bustle of Waikīkī. Don’t forget to stop by the iconic Duke Kahanamoku Statue fronting the beach. In the afternoon, end your walk at the Waikīkī wall to catch an amazing sunset that never disappoints.
Enjoy Sweeping Views at Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout
Historically the scene of the Battle of Nu‘uanu, where King Kamehameha I brought O‘ahu under his rule, in a push to unite the Hawaiian Islands. Many soldiers perished from either being forced or jumping off the steep cliffs, falling to their deaths below. Looking over the Pali, translating to “cliff” in Hawaiian, you will see panoramic views of windward O‘ahu. Hold onto your hats, because this spot is known for strong winds rushing upwards from the steep cliffs below.
Visit the Animals at Honolulu Zoo
From a collection that started in 1914 with just a monkey, a bear, and an elephant, that grew to more than 900 animal species. You will find this 42-acre animal oasis at the north end of Kapiolani Park. Expect to see tigers, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, gibbons, flamingos, owls, Komodo dragons, and so much more. The newest additions to the zoo include twin ring-tailed lemurs born in April 2020 and two giraffes acquired from the Albuquerque Biological Park in May 2020.
Observe Marine Life at the Waikīkī Aquarium
Located a short walk away from the Honolulu Zoo is the Waikīkī Aquarium, which happens to be the second oldest aquarium in the country. It is home to thousands of marine organisms including reptiles, fish, and invertebrates. With its fitting location at the edge of Waikīkī, there are indoor and outdoor habitats including the facility’s longest-running “Edge of the Reef” exhibit. For more information, visit waikikiaquarium.org for more information.
Stroll along the Ala Wai Canal
The canal runs alongside Ala Wai Boulevard, the backside of Waikīkī. Although lively during the day, it doesn’t see as much foot traffic as the Waikīkī strip (Kalakaua Avenue). Catch a spectacular sunset as it reflects and radiates throughout the surface of the water. Surprisingly at night, you can witness bioluminescent activity near the edges of the canal.
Find Inner Peace at the Byodo-In Temple
Make your way to the back of the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. At first glance, you wouldn’t expect such a structure to exist in Hawai‘i. With the massive Ko‘olau mountains stretching across the background, the temple itself is a small-scale replica of one located in Kyoto, Japan. It’s surrounded by large koi ponds, Japanese gardens, and a giant peace bell. At the center of the structure, sits an 18-foot golden Buddha sitting atop a lotus flower. Be sure to check byodo-in.com for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
Watch the Friday Night Fireworks
This has been an ongoing tradition put on by the Hilton Hawaiian Village since 1988, with the exception of the pandemic. The show starts at approximately 8 P.M. (earlier during the winter months) every Friday and lasts for about 5-10 minutes. Enjoy it up close from the Hilton Lagoon, or from afar at Ala Moana Beach Park. Many gather to enjoy this weekly spectacle in celebration of the weekend.
Explore Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Garden
The island’s largest botanical garden is tucked away on the windward side of O‘ahu. Boasting an amazing 400 acres of tranquil greenery, it represents various tropical regions from around the world. Take a walk down to Loko Waimaluhia, a 32-acre reservoir, and observe the wildlife. The view from atop the Kahua Kuou Campsite is particularly nice. You can choose to walk or drive along the park’s main access road to get from point to point.
Kayak to the Mokulua’s
More specifically, kayak to Moku Nui, the larger island to the left of the off-limits Moku Iki. Together, they are referred to as Nā Mokulua or the Mokes. The pair of islands is straight out from Lanikai beach and serves as bird sanctuaries. It is most convenient albeit a longer paddle to start from Kailua Beach because of its close proximity to the equipment rental shops in town. Another advantage of taking off from Kailua Beach is passing Popoi‘a Island, aka “Flat Island,” a bird sanctuary as well. On a calm day, you can kayak out to the islands in about 30-45 minutes, depending on your point of launch.
If you need some pointers to prepare for your trip to Hawai‘i, then head over to this post: Hawai‘i Travel Tips: Know Before You Go
