Oahu is an attractive island in United States and every year millions of people visit this place. Although it is a famous spot, however, there are various places that can be easily missed so, I will let you know about off the beaten paths and secret things to do in Oahu.
My Oahu Favorites
Swimming with Dolphins and Sharks: I always dreamt of swimming in the water with dolphins and sharks it’s a true adventure. If you are a good swimmer and do not afraid of sharks and dolphins then must try it, you will definitely enjoy the activity.
Byodo In Temple and Lanikai Beach: Byodo-In, a fabulous temple is located nearby that is built in Japanese style. Lanikai is one of the most wonderful beaches in Oahu. Both these places are located nearby and you can visit in a single day.
Day Trip to North Shore: If you have not seen north shore you missed the gem of Kailua, Oahu so, must visit this place and enjoy snorkeling and surfing.
Attractive Helicopter Ride: A 45-minute helicopter’s ride will pass you over Lanikai, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, and Sacred Falls. All these are spectacular sites and can only be enjoyed from above.
Where to Stay in Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii: you may stay at a private resort at Honolulu, a suite at The Kahala, a terrace suite at Halekulani, a cottage at Turtle Bay, or a beautiful affordable room at cool Wayfinder Waikiki.
The Secret Things to do in Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu, Hawaii is a very beautiful place and there are many famous beaches and picnic spots out there, however, I am more interested in hidden gems and less explored paths.
So, here I will share with you some hidden gardens, beaches, local markets, hiking places and other diverse spots and some secret things to do in Oahu.
A Note on Responsible Travel
- Please clean the space you used and do not throw trash or waste on your way.
- Greet the local people with modesty and respect.
- Beware of the dangerous paths and follow the signs on the way.
- There are few hiking places that are closed for tourists so, do not try to go there.
- Use reef safe sunscreen to avoid the contact with coral reefs.
Now, lets discover the secret things to do in Oahu
1. Halona Beach Cove (From Here to Eternity Beach)
This charming bay is present right off the coastal highway and contains lava tube. People usually walk on it and it is a fun thing to do.
It is very close to the Halona Blowhole that is a very famous tourist’s destination however, still it is less explored and people usually ignore it.
Halona beach cove is also known as Eternity Beach as it was picturized in a scene from a famous movie “From Here to Eternity”. This place was also featured in the iconic movie “Pirates of the Caribbean”.
It is a good place to visit therefore, if you are planning to see the China Walla and Hanauma Bay, then spare some time for Halona beach cove because it is very close to these two popular destinations.
2. The Mermaid’s Cave
Mermaid’s cave is adventurous yet very dangerous place in the Oahu. It is very attractive place and many people just visit the cave and watch it from the above where sunlight brighten the aqua colored water.
Swimming at this place is fun but only for the experienced swimmers otherwise it could be very risky and many people lost their life here. So, I would suggest you to be very careful about the swimming.
Water in the cave is full of wildlife including turtles and you can easily spot them in the clear water. According to the locals many people jump into the water without great swimming experience and it creates difficulties for us and the emergency teams and we rescue various people every year.
If you plan to visit this place and intend to swim then please read a complete guide about the Mermaid Caves.
3. The Mokulua Islands & Popoia Island
These two islands are best places we have visited in Oahu and the good thing is these are not much crowded. You can take a 0.4 km (10-15 minutes) journey via Kayak from Kailua beach to Popoia and you will love this place.
Moko Nui is also located near the Popoia (4 km) and you also go there via kayaking or some other route.
If you intend to visit this place look at the Kailua Beach Adventures’ guided kayak trips to the Mokes. This is a reasonable trip that provides a stop at Lanikai Beach and lave tube swimming at Queen’s Bath on Moko Nui. Moreover, you will see the interesting marine wildlife all your way and the trip save you from the difficulty of finding directions and helps you to avoid dangerous paths.
4. Freediving with Sharks on Oahu’s North Shore
Freediving with sharks seems very dangerous yet it is an amazing experience. This activity is usually done in groups with expert local guides that protect the tourists and guide them on their way.
When you need to book the tour please find the one with highest rating such as this shark tour.
They provide two guides for diving with the swimmers and a captain that waits for the tourists in the boat. One of the guides keeps the sharks away from swimmers by carrying a long radiating fishing rod and other one takes pictures of this adventure. So, that you could have memories for the trip.
5. Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary
The walk along the beautiful track along the corners of Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best secret things to do in Oahu. It is a peaceful experience with minimal restrictions along the way surrounded by gorgeous mountains. You will find various locals along your way but very few tourists can be spotted.
It is recommended to visit this place at the time of sunset or sun rise to view the most enchanting scene. You can park your vehicle in the Kaha Park that is close to the Kaipii street and Kaha street and start your walk, that is definitely a treat!
6. Byodo-In Temple
Byodo In Temple is very similar to the Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. The temple is surrounded by lush mountains and provide a very remarkable scene.
When you are tired of getting around and meeting people, visit this place to sit in serenity and peace. Although, it is not a very secret place yet it is included in this list because most people still easily miss it.
7. Makai Pier
Another one of the best secret things to do in Oahu is snorkeling at the Makai Research Pier. You can find this place while driving from Hawaii Kai to Kailua. You will find the breathtaking scenes on your way to this drive so do not miss it!
There is a little beach (picturized in Jurassic world) close to the Makai pier that is the actual place for snorkeling but remember one thing that you need to bring your snorkel gear with you.
Water is clear and you can easily spot variety of tropical fish, turtles and other sea life. This place is off the beaten path so try to come with a group and not alone.
8. Kualoa Park
It is a public park and also a Jurassic park filming site. You can freely visit it to see the lush mountains, sandy beach and a beautiful island.
9. Wahiawā Botanical Garden
If you have visited the Hoʻomaluhia botanical garden you would probably think to miss this place but let me tell you it is very different. There are no mountains around this place but a condensed tropical foliage that provides a beautiful view. Roaming around the garden in also on of the best secret things to do in Oahu.
This garden is located between the North Shore and Honolulu and you need to wear comfortable shoes and dress here because the foliage path is full of ups and downs in some parts of the garden.
Moreover, itchy bugs are there because of various plants so keep a bug spray with you.
10. China Walls
It is a volcanic cliff side and one of the best cliffs jumping place in Oahu but risky as well. it is not recommended for everyone to jump through the cliff and only experienced jumpers should try to do it in the presence of Ocean rescue teams.
Even you need to careful when standing on rocks near water because the powerful waves can take you along.
Koko Head is also a good place for hiking near China walls and try to do a small hike at this place at the time of sunset.
11. Ko Hana Distillers
It is the Oahu’s rum tasting place where you can witness that how sugarcane is converted into delicious drink liked by Captain Jack Sparrow.
To taste the freshly prepared sugarcane juice and Ko Hana’s yummy drink, see various beautiful sugarcane plants and barrel rooms, book the Ko Hana’s rum tour. It is present between North Shore and Honolulu so can be easily spotted. Although it is easier to found still it is one of the secrets things to do in Oahu.
12. Island Brew Coffeehouse
If you are visiting the Southern part of Oahu then must visit Island Brew Coffeehouse. They offer delicious coffee right next to the gatorade-blue water. So, you can enjoy both coffee and beautiful view.
FAQs about the Secret Things to do in Oahu
Can you go to Secret Island Oahu?
Yes, you can go to the Secret island Oahu, it is a private beach and you can enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and canoeing here.
Why is Oahu the most popular?
It is very popular because it provides the enchanting tropical views still you feel like in an urban area.
What is the most visited place in Oahu?
Most visited places in Oahu include;
Diamond Head State Monument, USS Arizona Memorial, Iolani Palace, Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Lanikai Beach, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, and Manoa Falls.
Why is Waikiki so famous?
This beach is very famous mainly due to the surfing opportunities and beauty of the beach. Various celebrities like to visit this place often so people are more attracted to this place.
Why is Oahu the cheapest?
It is a cheapest island in Hawaii because average living cost is low, variety of accommodation options are available (from cheap to expensive), and the market is big.