Aloha, Oahu HI
Aloha, Oahu Hawaii! AS PROMISED, here are some of my top favorite spots for this gorgeous beach paradise- the easy, touristy, fun, college-friendly budget locations which allow you to appreciate Oahu’s diverse landscapes and might leave you a little sore the next day. Some things to keep in mind when looking for flights: late May through August are peak tourist season and flight prices will be higher. I would start tracking flights about six months before. I have never paid over $550 for a round-trip ticket.
Off-season does bring with it the winter surf- which in January waves are dangerously bigger BUT the surfing competitions happen around that time. Some beaches might be closed and monitored by lifeguards due to the waves. Also, snorkeling is a bit hard during winter surge. The last time snorkeling it was a bit harder, the waves were bigger and the current strong. Be honest with yourself about how skilled you are as a swimmer. It can be dangerous and overwhelming if you do not know what you are doing.
I took my first trip in early May 2020; although the tour buses were already en route, there were fewer people. During the week and normal work hours, there are less people at the public beaches, on the hiking trails, and at the local shops. If you choose to rent a car, expect some traffic around rush hours.
(Pictures 1-3) Electric Beach - a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving during the summer. If you have not been snorkeling, I would suggest going with a tour group. They provide the correct equipment and a guide will teach you the ropes. The $10 snorkeling gear you can buy at Walmart is not going to cut it- well, it didn’t for me this past time! Farrington Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96792
(Pictures 4-6) The Sunrise Shack - A super cute Instagram-able location on the route to North Shore. Parking is free along either side of the street. They make the cutest Açaí bowls and smoothies! Grab a sweet treat, take it across the street, and enjoy it on the beach. 2335 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
(Picture 7) Another cove to enjoy along Highway 83, which follows the coastline. There is designated free parking available along the side of the road. Stop, climb, and snap a few pictures. Along the drive to the Pipeline or North Shore, there are beach swings and picnic tables free and accessible to the public for those who would like to take in the sunshine, ocean air, and fresh breeze.
(Pictures 8) Surfing… I got lucky to have a friend with beach access and an extra surfboard. Although I have never used a company, it should be pretty easy to set up a first lesson with any of the surf shops. If you plan on visiting during the summer, making a reservation might be a safe bet! That way, you can skip the lines and get straight in the water. Prices do vary on this.
(Pictures 9-11) For my sunset lovers, one of my favorite stops is the Spitting Cave. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes because it’s kinda a hike down behind some houses in the neighborhood. You should be able to park with no problem, but I would advise arriving an hour before sunset to make sure that you have a prime spot. If you are feeling adventurous, you can cliff jump but I’ll leave that decision up to you. Here is the address for the spitting cave; 7 Lumahai St. Honolulu, HI 96825.
Remember Jurassic Park? Yep, they filmed the original 1993 film here on the island! Disclaimer: I have never been to the park, but the mountains were beautiful and the view was enough for me. Should this be your thing, here is the address to the site should you want to check it out. Kualoa Ranch; 9-560 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe.
Hawaii offers multiple hikes with varying levels of difficulty but the best part is that they are free! Please be aware of the weather. Rainfall makes trails slippery and sometimes very dangerous especially if they are near the edge of a cliff like Pali. Be wise when choosing a trail basing it on your comfort and activity level. Old athletic attire would be a safe bet with how muddy one can get from scaling and sometimes sliding down the mountain (might want to leave the Lulu at home this time).
(Pictures 12-16) The pictures above are from the Old Pali road- it is considered moderately difficult with a one-way narrow path, a steep incline, climbing up/down with the help of a rope, and for the majority of the hike along a cliff edge. I would advise going with someone who knows the trail. If no one is available, do it during daylight hours, be wise, and be honest with yourself. Needless to say, the view was breathtaking and I was left very sore the next day. It was so worth it! 30 Honoapiilani Hwy, Lahaina, HI 96761
(Pictures 17-19) Around downtown Honolulu, the beach is always accessible, as well as the parks in the area. One of my favorite beach activities is bringing food or a drink to the beach and enjoying the sunrise or sunset. All good trips must have some rest along the way!
outlook over the Nu’uanu Valley from the old Pali rd trail
