It never fails, almost every time we plan a trip, we ended up saying “We can go to ___Fill in the blank___, or we can go to Hawaii!” Next thing you know, we are heading to the islands. We can’t get enough! Being the busiest island of Hawaii, Oahu seemed to be overshadowed by all the tourist traps and crowded beaches. However, the more we explored, the more we found out about all the hidden things and places about these beautiful islands. So here are the top 10 off-the-beaten-path things to do on Oahu (not in any particular order). The only thing that we ask, is that if you plan on exploring these amazing places, please be respectful. Be sure to respect the locals and clean up your trash. These spots are gorgeous and we need to do our part to keep them this way!
1. Whale watching and/or snorkeling with turtles and dolphins
Hawaii is one of the best places for snorkeling and swimming with dolphins and green sea turtles. During the winter months, usually the beginning of December through April, you can also experience whale watching. We had a blast on our tour with Wild Side Specialty Tours. Being able to see so many amazing animals, while at the same time respecting the boundaries with nature will have you in awe! Mix this with incredibly fun and educational tour guides and you have one heck of an experience! 
2. Swim in the Makapu’u tide pools
Definitely, off the beaten path, Makapu’u tide pools are the little slice of heaven hidden in plain sight. A short but challenging hike will take you to these amazing aqua blue tide pools, big enough for you to swim in. If that isn’t enough, there is an awesome blowhole there that is much better than the famous Halona Blowhole.
3. Venture through the forest to Lulumahu Falls
Even though this is quite a popular hike, it is actually way less crowded and much better than its sister hike, Manoa Falls. As one of Oahu’s most popular unsanctioned hiking trails, it is a moderate hike that will have you winding your way through lush green forests, up and over boulders, and crossing streams. The trail ends in a grand fashion with you standing at the base of the impressive 50ft Lulumahu falls. 
4. Hike a gorgeous, coastal hike at Kaena Point
This hike is perfect for all skill levels. Kaena Point is a nice flat hike with the exception of one small hill that will take you all the way to the wildlife sanctuary. If you are there at the right time of year (November – June/July), you can experience the massive and amazing Laysan Albatross during their mating season. It is incredible to watch these gorgeous birds soaring through the dunes at amazing speeds! It was such a unique sight! 
5. Catch the sunrise at Lanikai Pillbox
As a must of the top 10 things to do in Oahu, this was one of the most breathtaking, peaceful moments that we had experienced. Lanikai Pillbox is a more well-known hike so you won’t be alone. I know that getting up super early and vacation are not usually in the same sentence, but this is so worth it! 
6. Test your fitness and bravery on the Moanalua Valley Middle Ridge
Moanalua Valley Middle Ridge hike is not for the faint of heart! But if you choose to take it on, you will be so glad that you did. This steep and sometimes narrow trail will have you climbing over 2000 feet up to the peak that overlooks the famous Haiku Stairs, also known as Stairway to Heaven.
7. Swing the day away on the beach
Hawaii is a haven for cool swings. One of them is the secret swing in North Shore. It is located right off the Kamehameha Highway. We won’t give you the exact spot with respect to the locals, however, it is on the North East side of the island. If you do find the swing, be respectful, and park out of the way of the road. Also, keep your noises down and take your trash with you.
8. Hang out with the local (geckos) while treating yourself to the best acai bowl on the island at Waialua Bakery & Juice Bar
Without a doubt, one of the best Acai bowls we have ever had! The homemade granola, top with the super fresh fruits keeps us coming back for more. If you are lucky, you can share your delicious treat with the adorable little Gold dust day geckos that call this place home!
9. Get up close and personal with the sharks:
For all you adventure seekers, this is a must-do! Hawaii Shark Encounters will definitely get your heart pumping as you approach the cage and see all these fins sticking out of the water. It is an adventure of a lifetime as you learn more about these magnificent, yet misunderstood creatures. It definitely earns its place on our top 10 things to do in Oahu.
10. Watch the sunset at North Shore
Hawaii’s sunsets are the best! Make sure you don’t miss it. One of the most popular places to watch the sunset is, of course, Sunset Beach in North Shore. At Sunset Beach, you can see the sun descending down into the ocean but you also have to put up with many photoshoots and selfies going on at once. There are plenty of other smaller beaches along the highway that offer the same if not a better spectacular view but way fewer people. Do yourself a favor and explore. 
Happy Adventuring. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, subscribe to our Youtube channel, and sign up for our newsletter!
Save your pins:
