Summary
Separated from the bustling atmosphere of Waikiki and Honolulu, Kaneohe on windward Oahu is enclosed by a vast remnant of a volcanic caldera.
The Ko’olau Range rises 500 meters, forming a formidable barrier that provides Kaneohe with striking natural beauty that has been immortalized in numerous Hollywood films and television series.
This volcanic landmark serves as a picturesque backdrop for golf courses, hiking trails, tropical botanical gardens, and the enticing expanse of Kaneohe Bay.
The bay is lined with upscale residences featuring private piers and merits exploration, whether by kayak or cruise.
A sandbar a few hundred meters into the bay resembles a tropical isle, emerging from the water at low tide and attracting numerous day-trippers.
1. Kaneohe Bay
Kaneohe’s most treasured feature is its magnificent bay, stretching 8 miles long and 2.7 miles across. Kaneohe Bay, a remnant of the caldera of the Kōolau volcano, is shielded to the north by one of only two barrier reefs in Hawaii.
This creates serene and often warm waters, ideal for paddle sports and boat excursions.
The bay is adorned with five islands or islets: Coconut Island, located close to the southern shores, served as a filming location for Gilligan’s Island in the 1960s, while Kaneohe Bay also featured in Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2010).
While the shore lacks extensive beaches, the fabulous Kaneohe Sandbar, situated out in the bay, readily accessible by kayak, paddleboard, or boat, offers an excellent alternative.
2. Kaneohe Sandbar
Located in the center of Kaneohe Bay, this natural sandbar emerges during low tide, yet is worth visiting at any time.
When the tide is high, the sand becomes submerged beneath a few inches of crystal-clear turquoise water.
Visitors frequently rent boats or paddle out to the Kaneohe Sandbar to wade and snorkel in the warm, clear waters, as well as engage in games, barbecues, and picnics on the sand.
Sea turtles are often spotted in this area, presenting an opportunity to enjoy the stunning views of windward Oahu’s impressive volcanic scenery.
Kayaks or paddleboards can be rented locally, with several rental companies available in the area. Many opt for boat charters or contact operators like Captain Bob’s Adventure Cruises, which organizes barbecues and snorkeling activities once you arrive.
3. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens
As you stroll through this 400-acre garden, bordered by the formidable walls of the Ko’olau Range, you may find yourself in an environment reminiscent of scenes from Jurassic Park (1993).
This film was shot not far from the northern end of Kaneohe Bay. Established in the 1980s, the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens were created by the United States Army Corps of Engineers for flood protection in Kaneohe.
The gardens are organized geographically, showcasing flora from tropical regions worldwide, including species from Africa, India, Sri Lanka, Polynesia, Melanesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Hawaii.
A visit to the visitor center is advisable for a map and to appreciate the art displays in the adjacent galleries.
4. He’eia State Park
A substantial portion of the western side of Kaneohe Bay is occupied by this state park, a favored site for picnics that offers breathtaking coastal views.
Evidence of habitation for centuries can be observed at the He’eia Fish Pond, a segment of the bay with a man-made reef designed to trap fish.
This structure is believed to date back approximately 600 to 800 years and features informative boards.
He’eia Pier serves as the launching point for kayak and snorkeling excursions into Kaneohe Bay, and its stunning vistas make it a popular venue for wedding ceremonies.
5. Kamehameha Highway
If time permits, consider spending a few hours on a picturesque drive through rural Oahu.
Extending 66 miles, the Kamehameha Highway winds around Oahu’s sparsely populated North Shore, showcasing a series of stunning coves and sandy beaches.
During the summer months, these areas tend to be calm and suitable for swimming, though winter waves at locations like Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay can exceed ten meters, attracting some of the world’s most skilled surfers.
The more sheltered Shark’s Cove at Pupukea Beach Park features tidal pools teeming with marine life, making it a snorkeler’s paradise.
In addition to its unspoiled coastline, a significant draw of the Kamehameha Highway lies in the culinary delights offered by roadside vendors, selling treats such as Hawaii shave ice flavored with pineapple, passion fruit, or coconut.
6. Valley of the Temples
This location, situated a short drive along the Kahekili Highway from downtown Kaneohe, serves as a multi-faith memorial park nestled beautifully at the foot of the Ko’olau Range.
The Valley of the Temples was established in the 1960s and welcomes visitors for a nominal fee. Arriving early in the day allows one to enjoy the park with fewer visitors, which can be particularly rewarding as the site tends to be popular.
The centerpiece is the Byodo-In Temple, which will be discussed next, and has appeared in television shows such as Lost, Magnum P.I., and the original Hawaii Five-O.
The entrance features two acres of ponds populated by hundreds of koi carp, alongside black swans, while vibrant peacocks roam the grounds.
7. Byodo-In Temple
The highlight of the Valley of the Temples is the non-denominational Byodo-In Temple, a replica of the 11th-century original located at Uji, on the outskirts of Kyoto, Japan.
This temple was inaugurated in 1968 to commemorate the centenary of Japanese immigration to Oahu.
Although it does not function as a Buddhist temple due to the absence of an active congregation or monastic community, it continues to attract thousands of visitors from around the world each year, regardless of faith.
This monument offers splendid photographic opportunities, set amidst manicured surroundings near koi ponds, with the majestic Ko’olau Range as a backdrop.
Inside, a 5.5-meter tall statue of the Lotus Buddha, carved from wood and adorned with gold and lacquer, is situated, while outside, a three-ton brass peace bell invites visitors to ring it for wishes of happiness and longevity.
8. Bay View Mini-Putt and Zipline
For a family outing, this scenic mini-golf course on Kaneohe Bay Drive offers 36 holes of fun set among lush landscaping.
Surrounded by palm trees, Bay View Mini-Putt presents a compelling challenge for players of all ages, requiring skillful judgment of slopes rather than gimmicky obstacles like windmills.
Recently, the venue has introduced Oahu’s first commercial zipline, available for visitors over the age of six, showcasing the spectacular volcanic landscapes of windward Oahu. It is important to wear appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes for the zipline experience.
9. Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
Arguably the finest viewpoint in the entire Ko’olau Range can be found along the Pali Highway, just ten minutes from downtown Kaneohe.
The Nu’uanu Pali commands a height of 365 meters, providing panoramic views of windward Oahu, including Kaneohe and the rugged coastline beyond.
Informative boards line the terrace, identifying both natural and manmade landmarks, allowing visitors to spot the Kaneohe Marine Corps Base (featuring Ulupa’u Crater), the Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens, and the small islands in Kaneohe Bay.
Notably, in 1795, the pivotal battle in King Kamehameha I’s campaign to unite the Hawaiian islands occurred at Nu’uanu Pali, resulting in the tragic demise of hundreds of Oahu soldiers who were forced from these steep cliffs.
10. Lanikai Beach
Located five miles east of downtown Kaneohe, Lanikai Beach is widely regarded as one of the most stunning beaches in Hawaii and potentially the world.
The beach encompasses elements that epitomize a tropical paradise, including shimmering turquoise waters, soft white sand, breathtaking ocean vistas, and swaying coconut palms.
The consistent ocean breezes make it conducive for activities such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, while the twin Mokulua Islands, located approximately a mile offshore, can be accessed via kayak.
Lanikai Beach adjoins an upscale residential area, and although it is a public beach, it lacks any substantial facilities, which may be a disadvantage but contributes to the serene atmosphere despite its breathtaking beauty.
11. Paddlesports
With its calm, transparent, and warm waters, Kaneohe Bay is ideal for engaging in activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
Several local operators, including Kama’aina Kids Kayak & Snorkel Eco-ventures, Kailua Beach Adventures, and Adventure Tours Hawaii, provide rentals for boards and vessels for exploring the bay.
While the sandbar remains a primary destination, paddlers can reach the unique Mokoli’i island (Chinaman’s Hat) in 30 minutes and navigate around the exclusive and charming Coconut Island, although landing on the island is not permitted.
Various kayaking and paddleboarding experiences are also available nearby, such as guided excursions to the Mokulua Islands off Kailua or Lanikai, which are protected as a seabird sanctuary.
12. Golf
Kaneohe features three distinctive golf courses, each offering some of the most breathtaking views you may experience while playing.
These include the public Pali Golf Course, along with the Bayview Golf Course and Ko’olau Golf Club, both of which are private but welcome non-members.
The Bayview Golf Course is situated adjacent to the water, boasting 18 holes often surrounded by lush vegetation, designed to challenge your short game.
The 18-hole Pali Golf Course and Ko’olau Golf Club are located side by side beneath the ancient caldera, providing spectacular panoramas to inspire you between holes.
The slope rating for the black tees at Ko’olau Golf Club is 153, making it likely that you may never encounter a more challenging or visually stunning course than this.
13. Windward Mall Farmers’ Market
Occasionally, inclement weather characterizes the area beneath the Ko’olau Range, especially from November to March.
However, this should not deter you from sampling some of Oahu’s renowned tropical produce and delectable treats. On Wednesdays and Sundays, a farmers’ market operates at Kaneohe’s Windward Mall, located in front of Macy’s.
This market takes place on both levels and, during the appropriate season, offers stands filled with exotic fruits such as papaya, pineapple, guava, passion fruit, coconut, and pomelo.
Furthermore, high-quality specialty foods are available, including locally roasted coffee, honey, nuts, oils, sauces, marinades, and chocolate.
It also provides an opportunity to taste traditional Hawaiian delicacies like fresh poi, fried taro, kulolo, and mochi.
14. Friendship Garden
This tranquil oasis spans ten acres and was landscaped in the 1930s, elevated above Kaneohe Bay.
The Friendship Garden is part of the Kokokahi Tract, established in 1927 as a Christian, multi-ethnic community aimed at fostering harmony.
Visitors can navigate this area, characterized by a rich canopy of mature vegetation, along upper or lower loop trails for serene walks.
Notable species present include ironwood, monkey pod, Cook Island pine, mock orange, octopus tree, Christmas berry, African tulip, and Washingtonia palms.
The garden features numerous original Asian-style design elements, including stone steps, wooden structures, and walls, offering picturesque views across the bay and its islands.
15. Haiku Stairs (Stairway to Heaven)
The imposing presence of the Ko’olau Range ignites a sense of adventure in many individuals, often prompting them to undertake questionable actions.
To elaborate, the Haiku Stairs were constructed in the 1940s to provide access to the classified Haiku Radio Station, which transmitted signals to US Navy vessels across the Pacific.
Walking along the ridge to the station—comprising nearly 4,000 steps—has since become an attraction; however, access was officially restricted in 1987.
Despite this, many hikers disregard warnings, facing the risk of a $1,000 fine to explore the stairway and relish breathtaking views.
There exists a legal route, although it is longer, more strenuous, and should not be attempted during wet conditions due to slippery mud.
The stairway, which was transferred to city control in 2020, may soon undergo renovations and reopening, promising to deliver an exceptional Oahu experience if made safe.
