Wanderlust Chronicles

Aloha, fellow adventurers! Welcome back to the captivating journey through Hawaii’s stunning islands. In Part I, we marvelled at the wonders of Maui and Big Island, and in Part II, we embarked on an unforgettable exploration of Kauai‘s hidden gems. Now, as we transition to the third leg of our adventure, join me in discovering the vibrant and diverse landscapes of Oahu.

Oahu, the bustling heart of Hawaii, offers a vibrant mix of urban excitement and natural beauty. From the iconic Waikiki Beach to the historic sites of Pearl Harbour, Oahu presents a tapestry of culture, history, and adventure waiting to be explored. Whether you’re surfing the famous waves of the North Shore or hiking through lush valleys, Oahu promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Day 1: Pearl Harbour, Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden & Honolulu

On the first day of your Oahu adventure, immerse yourself in the island’s diverse offerings by exploring three very distinct sights.

• Pearl Harbour. Start your day with a visit to Pearl Harbour, where you can explore the USS Arizona Memorial, which commemorates the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbour in 1941. Witness the remnants of the sunken battleship beneath the waters and gain insight into the events that shaped the course of World War II.
• Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden. Less than 30 mins driving from Pearl Harbour, you can escape into the serene beauty of Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden, a lush oasis nestled at the foot of the majestic Ko’olau Mountains. Entry is free and you can drive through the garden: there are a few parking locations from where you can stroll along pathways lined with tropical flora from around the world, including exotic palms, and stop for a snack at picnic point.

• Honolulu. Conclude your day with a visit to Honolulu, the vibrant capital city of Oahu at less than 30 mins driving from the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden. You can explore the streets filled with eclectic shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks and wander through historic districts such as Chinatown and Downtown Honolulu, where colonial-era architecture blends seamlessly with modern skyscrapers. A few interesting sights include: the Iolani Palace (the only royal palace located in the United States!), the Hawaii State Art Museum (showcasing Hawaiian artists and work that carries cultural Hawaiian themes) and the Aloha Tower (located on the waterfront and hosting an observation deck with great views).

Travel Tips:
– Make sure to stop for lunch or dinner in Chinatown, you have great dining options. A couple of favourite spots: Maguro Brothers Hawaii Chinatown, perfect place for seafood lovers, and The Pig and The Lady, serving yummy Vietnamese specialties.
– General tip for Oahu: rent a car! Public transport exists and works well between Honolulu and Waikiki beach, but it is not efficient time-wise to explore Oahu outside of the metropolitan areas. You can find good rental options and price comparisons here.
– If you are interesting in hearing interesting Honolulu’s historical and cultural facts told by a local guide, sign up for a Free Honolulu Walking Tour or for this low priced Honolulu Downtown Walking Tour.

Day 2: South-East Oahu Exploration

On your second day, set out to explore Oahu’s southeastern side, blending a mix of hiking and beach experiences while visiting some of the area’s most captivating spots.

• Hanauma Bay. Begin your day at Hanauma Bay, a renowned nature preserve and marine sanctuary. You can dive into the turquoise waters to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish and green seaturtles, or simply relax on the sandy shores.
• Koko Crater Railway Trailhead. Next, head to the Koko Crater Railway Trailhead for a unique hiking adventure. Ascend the steep 1000-steps incline of the old railway track from World War II and soak in the panoramic views of the Oahu’s southern coastline, city and volcanic landscapes. Account for approximately 1.5 hours total time for your visit.

• Halona Blowhole Lookout. In this quick stop, you can witness the spectacular natural phenomenon of seawater shooting into the air through a lava tube.
• Lanikai Beach. A 30-minute drive towards the north of the island will take you to this beach, renowned for its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters and often ranked as the most beautiful beach in Oahu and one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Lani Kai literally translates into Heavenly Ocean! You can bask in the sun while admiring the iconic Mokulua Islands on the horizon.
• Kualoa Regional Park. Continuing your drive North, you can reach Kualoa Regional Park, nestled between the majestic Ko’olau Mountains (making for a fantastic jurassic backdrop), and the azure waters of Kaneohe Bay. From here, you can also see the so-called “Chinaman’s Hat” (Mokoliʻi island) for his peculiar shape. If you are up for it, you can also kayak (~25-30mins) from the shore to Mokoliʻi island and hike to the top.

If time allows or you have extra days at hand and you would like to explore more of this side of the island consider adding these two spots to your itinerary:

• Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail. Only 30 minutes driving from Waikiki Beach, this trail offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It takes approximately 30/40-mins each way along a paved trail and offers outstanding views of O’ahu’s southeastern coastline, including Koko Head and Koko Crater. As the name of the trail suggests, you will end at a lookout above the Makapu’u lighthouse, a historic lighthouse dated 1909 and still functional today. 
• Waimānalo Beach Park. Also easily accessible from Waikiki Beach, it’s this beautiful long and wide beach from which you can enjoy a great view of Rabbit Island and Diamond Head.

Travel Tips:
– If you are planning any hike or to spend some time in one of the more secluded beaches, consider checking in advance for food or drinks spots nearby or pack some extra water and snacks. Not all these spots have these services closeby.
– If driving is not an option, there are interesting tours that would pick you up in Honolulu or Waikiki and take you to the most important spots along the southeastern coast and some of them reach the north-shore beaches as well as part of their sightseeing route. A couple of highly rated tours: this Grand Tour around the island (incl. Snorkelling) and this Oahu Full-Day Island Highlights Tour.

Day 3: North Shore

This area of Oahu, nestled on the island’s North Shore, holds a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to share its enchanting spots with you.

• Haleiwa. Kick off your North Shore route, experiencing the laid-back charm of Haleiwa and wandering through its streets adorned with colourful shops, galleries, and eateries. You can sample local delicacies, browse handmade crafts, and immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of this coastal gem.
• Laniakea Beach. Only a couple of miles to the East from Haleiwa, you can find the natural beauty of Laniakea Beach, affectionately known as Turtle Beach. This pristine stretch of shoreline is famous for its resident Hawaiian green sea turtles, often seen basking on the sands or gracefully gliding through the crystal-clear waters. Witnessing these magnificent creatures up close is an unforgettable experience that highlights the importance of marine conservation.

• Waimea Bay Beach. Venture to Waimea Bay Beach, a legendary destination renowned for its towering waves and stunning scenery. Whether you’re an avid surfer eager to tackle the infamous winter swells or simply seeking a tranquil spot to swim and sunbathe, Waimea Bay offers something for everyone. Take in panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs and turquoise waters, and soak up the laid-back ambiance of this iconic North Shore beach.
• Banzai Pipeline. Experience the thrill of world-class surfing at Banzai Pipeline, one of the most famous breaks in the world! Watch in awe as skilled surfers navigate the massive barrels and challenging waves that roll in from the Pacific Ocean.
• Sunset Beach Park. Make sure to close your day here and get ready to be mesmerised by the breathtaking sunsets at Sunset Beach Park! This picturesque stretch of coastline is the perfect place to unwind and watch as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colours.

Travel Tips:
– If you are interested in marine life, in the North Shore you have plenty of opportunities to spot green turtles, dolphins, manta rays, even sharks and, in the winter months, whales. The North Shore Marine Life Tour from Haleiwa can get you close to the marine life action, while this Viator tour can even get you to swim with sharks (or at least, with those harmless to humans).
– Some of the beaches (i.e. Laniakea Beach) have rocky bottoms or rocks/reefs close to the shore. I would recommend packing water shoes.
– If you have a sweet spot for great coffee and superfood bowls and smoothies, don’t miss The Sunrise Shack on the other side of the road from Sunset Beach.

Day 4: Waikiki Beach

Savour your final day in Oahu with an exploration of the iconic Waikiki Beach. Did you know that Waikiki was once the playground of Hawaiian royalty? In the 1800s, it served as a retreat for the alii (chiefs) who would come to surf, swim, and relax in the warm waters. Today, it’s one of the most famous beaches in the world, drawing millions of visitors each year with its golden sands and legendary surf breaks. Queens Beach, just on the other side of the Waikiki Walkway, also serves as a great beach spot.

Begin by basking in the sun on Waikiki’s shores, where swimming, surfing, or simply lounging by the gentle waves offer a quintessential island experience. Wander along Kalakaua Avenue, soaking in the vibrant energy and diverse array of shops, restaurants, and attractions that line this bustling thoroughfare.

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Waikiki by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue, honoring the legendary Hawaiian surfer and Olympic swimmer. As the day progresses, take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront, admiring the stunning views of Diamond Head and the Honolulu skyline.

As night falls, dive into Waikiki’s vibrant nightlife scene, where trendy nightclubs, beachfront bars, and rooftop lounges beckon with live music, refreshing cocktails, and unforgettable ambiance. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Waikiki Beach offers the perfect blend of experiences to conclude your memorable journey through Oahu. And don’t forget to indulge in a delicious meal of Hawaiian cuisine at one of Waikiki’s waterfront restaurants, savouring the flavours of the islands as you bid farewell to this enchanting destination!

Travel Tips:
– Treat yourself to the perfect brunch: Orchids has an award-winning and mouth-watering Sunday brunch! Make sure to reserve your spot in advance. Other yummy options are: Eggs ‘n Things, for traditional breakfast favourites, and Barefoot Beach Cafe, an outdoor cafe’ on the shore.
– If you don’t want to leave Hawaii without a surfing experience, don’t miss the chance to take a few lessons in the most iconic location. You can find surf schools offering different types of class on-site, but you can also pre-arrange one online for easy price comparison. See here for Group Lessons, a Private Lesson or Family Lessons.
– Another great way to spend half a day in Waikiki is with a snorkelling adventure on the South shore of the island: around Turtle Canyon, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the best of Oahu’s marine life.

Where to stay in Oahu?
We found Waikiki to be the perfect central location as a starting point to explore the different corners of Oahu. Here you can find a vast array of accommodations, from budget-friendly options, such as Aloha Suites Waikiki, to more upscale location, such as Halepuna Waikiki or the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort.

If you have time to spend more than one day on the North Shore, then I would suggest at least one night in Haleiwa’s surroundings, to really soak in the North Shore slow bliss.

If you haven’t had the chance to explore them yet, be sure to check out my other posts on the Hawaii itinerary! Maui, the Big Island and Kauai II are just waiting to be discovered! ✨