Overview
Away from the bustling center of Honolulu, Waikiki serves as a quintessential Hawaiian destination and consistently meets the expectations of visitors who have journeyed across the Pacific to enjoy the sunny shores of Oahu.
This neighborhood boasts a rich historical background, having transformed into a well-developed haven for vacationers, characterized by high-rise hotels providing unparalleled luxuries along the turquoise water’s edge.
Although Waikiki is undeniably beautiful, it can sometimes feel overly commercialized. Consequently, while it remains a staple destination when visiting Oahu, venturing beyond the main area reveals numerous hidden treasures.
From picturesque waterfalls to unforgettable sunset venues, Hawaii’s largest island is filled with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, all conveniently accessible by car from Waikiki.
Here are some top recommendations to begin your exploration.
1. Diamond Head Crater
One of the most recognizable landmarks from Waikiki, Diamond Head is a dormant volcano and a preferred hiking spot for both locals and tourists.
This area is recognized as a US State Monument, owing to its historical importance as a lookout point over the Pacific.
The hike is relatively short, moderately steep, and yields incredibly rewarding views.
At the summit, you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic vistas of the eastern mountain ranges, along with stunning ocean scenes.
It is advisable to embark on this trek, which lasts approximately 45 minutes, in the early evening to witness the sunset.
If interested in further exploration, there is also a notable lighthouse and Fire Control Station available for visits.
2. Turtle Eco Adventure
With numerous remarkable marine experiences available in Oahu and across Hawaii, selecting the perfect one can be challenging.
The Turtle Eco Adventure takes place in the stunning reefs near Waikiki and stands out as one of the finest methods to engage with the Pacific’s gentle giants.
Participants will explore beautiful coastal locations such as Sandy Beach and Chinaman’s Hat, guided by professionals who will share insights about the renowned Hawaiian Sea Turtles.
3. Pearl Harbor
Discover the historical events that occurred at Pearl Harbor, which significantly altered the course of history, through either guided or self-guided tours of the area.
With numerous memorials, you may easily spend an entire day exploring various museums and paying respects at sites such as the stunning USS Arizona Memorial Monument or the USS Oklahoma Memorial.
Additionally, you can visit real naval vessels, including the USS Missouri battleship.
The most distinguished museums are undoubtedly the Road to War Museum and the Attack Museum, each offering valuable insights into wartime events.
4. Helicopter Tour
Few experiences offer the thrill and beauty of an aerial tour over Oahu’s notable landmarks.
With numerous options available, you can explore almost any part of the island from the air, with each flight providing a uniquely different perspective.
If you wish to identify areas you have visited, a flight over Waikiki or the nearby North Shore will be easily recognizable.
Moreover, longer flights are available that may take you to locations such as the Ko’olau Mountains, rewarding your journey with breathtaking views far from urban settings.
5. North Shore
If you seek beaches and coves that provide a retreat from the often crowded atmosphere of Waikiki, driving along the North Shore is highly recommended.
This less-traveled road offers a variety of small towns, beautiful beaches, and vibrant communities that feel worlds apart from developed areas such as Honolulu.
Turtle Bay is a local favorite, showcasing ample surfing, dining options, and picturesque white sand shores.
For a more relaxed experience, Haleiwa offers a beloved bohemian surf town atmosphere, while Sunset Beach Park ranks high among captivating sunset locales.
6. Ko Olina Coast
Hawaii is renowned for its exceptional snorkeling opportunities, and several locations near Waikiki allow exploration of fascinating underwater ecosystems.
However, the Ko Olina Coast stands out as a premier destination where you can partake in dolphin snorkeling excursions.
Hawaiian spinner dolphins frequent these waters, and within an hour’s journey from Waikiki, you can arrive on the island’s western side.
Here, you will have the opportunity to swim alongside these friendly dolphins during a memorable day trip.
7. Waimea Valley
To truly appreciate the untamed beauty and natural wonders of Oahu, a visit to Waimea Valley is essential.
The lush green canyons and valleys are remarkably verdant and far removed from urban developments.
In this area, you can hike extensively, traversing jungles filled with diverse wildlife or along canyon ridges that present breathtaking vistas.
A highlight of this destination is Waimea Waterfall, where you can capture stunning photographs and take a refreshing dip in the pools.
8. Iolani Palace
Renowned as the only palace ever constructed in the United States, Iolani Palace offers an intriguing glimpse into the history of the Hawaiian monarchy while providing a stunning site for exploration.
This grand structure, surrounded by palm trees, served as the residence of Hawaii’s last reigning monarch, Queen Liliʻuokalani, and her predecessors.
Additionally, visitors can explore the wonders of the Bishop Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of Hawaiian and Pacific artifacts, boasting the largest number of such items globally.
9. Pali Notches
As their name implies, the Pali Notches originate from a network of narrow paths carved into a mountainside centuries ago, originally serving as strategic defense points.
These paths are now known for offering exhilarating hiking experiences, characterized by steep ascents and sections lacking ropes or supports.
While it requires caution, these trails are feasible for the adventurous, with the ultimate reward being the breathtaking views at the summit.
These vistas are arguably the finest in Hawaii, presenting 360-degree panoramas of Honolulu, the ocean, and expansive mountain ranges.
10. Kualoa Ranch
Kualoa Ranch, a family-owned nature reserve and cattle ranch, lies within a two-hour drive from Waikiki and spans over 4,000 acres of stunning jungles, plains, and majestic valleys.
While hiking opportunities are abundant and rewarding, the expansive nature of Kualoa means it is impractical to explore in a single day; however, strategies are available to optimize your visit.
A popular choice is to rent an all-terrain vehicle, enabling you to traverse the grounds, navigate rivers, and discover this beautiful reserve at your own pace.
11. Jurassic Valley Zipline
Situated in the Ka’a’awa Valley, part of the expansive Kualoa Ranch, this site is devoid of all-terrain vehicles, yet offers a thrilling aerial experience.
The Jurassic Valley Zipline is a favored choice among thrill-seekers looking to appreciate the stunning scenery of the valley where Jurassic Park was filmed while indulging in an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
12. Haleiwa Shark Snorkelling
The waters near Haleiwa, located on the North Shore of Oahu, have long been renowned for shark snorkeling opportunities.
Though it may not appeal to everyone, being accompanied by experts ensures the experience is safe and truly unforgettable.
The highly reputable One Ocean Diving is committed to the study, preservation, and understanding of sharks.
Join them as you head out to a natural shark gathering site, allowing you the chance to swim with these magnificent creatures while learning about their vital role in the ecosystem.
13. Polynesian Cultural Center
Located just inland from Waikiki, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers an intricate look at Polynesian heritage through a collection of six villages, each representing different cultural aspects.
Visitors can partake in guided tours of farms, witness skilled craftsmen and artisans, and enjoy enchanting luaus, accompanied by traditional Hawaiian cuisine.
This destination is ideal for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers, making a trip to Laie—a place where the center resides—a truly enlightening experience.
14. Hanauma Bay
On the southeastern coast of Oahu, Hanauma Bay is a highly protected and exquisitely beautiful marine area.
While there are numerous remarkable spots for snorkeling with sharks, dolphins, and turtles around the island, the reefs within Hanauma Bay stand out as the most ecologically diverse, thanks to regulations that prohibit fishing and protect marine life.
15. Honolulu
Despite being a polarizing destination due to its busy atmosphere and the juxtaposition with the surrounding natural beauty, Honolulu offers many engaging attractions.
Featuring delicious cuisine from various cultures and renowned luaus hosted weekly in luxurious hotels and scenic seafronts, Honolulu is an excellent place for culinary and cultural exploration.
For those seeking retail therapy, the vast Ala Moana shopping center allows shopping in an open-air setting with expansive roof sections, surrounded by palm trees and the melodious sounds of birds.
