Cliff Jumping at Waimea Bay
Looking for a bit of adventure? Why not try cliff jumping at Waimea Bay on the North Shore? In the summer, Waimea Bay offers the perfect location for beginner jumpers and seasoned veterans to experience a rush of adrenaline. The ocean rock (also known as “Da Big Rock” amongst locals) many jump off of is approximately 30 ft. (10 m) high. That, along with the crystal blue, calm waters and fine sand make this location a favorite amongst many locals and visitors. Start climbing the rocks near the shore. The rocks can be slippery and jagged in some locations, so be careful and take your time when climbing. Also, unless…
Byodo-In Temple Oahu
Hidden away at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountain Range in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park lies the Byodo-In Temple. It was built on June 7, 1968 to honor the 100 year anniversary of first Japanese migrants to Hawaii. It is a smaller scale replica of the a United Nations World Heritage Site in Uji, Japan. The temple is a non-practicing Buddhist temple. People of all religions and backgrounds are welcome to relax, meditate, and enjoy the beauty of the landmark. On the temple grounds, you are likely to find many wild peacocks, ducks, and koi around. There are also ponds and lush vegetation. You can even see…
Lanikai Pillbox Hike
One of the most popular and picturesque hiking trails on Oahu is the Lanikai Pillbox hike. Located just a few blocks away from Lanikai Beach, this 1.8 mile, intermediate trail leads you above the Lanikai shoreline and offers panoramic views of the windward coast. You will also be able to see the Mokes just off shore. Note that this trail is an “intermediate” trail due to steep inclines and rocky terrain. However, pathways are not too narrow or too close to a steep drop off. Therefore, although this trail is “intermediate,” it is a family and pet friendly hike. Be sure to wear good shoes though. Be sure to check…
Lanikai Beach
Located on the Windward side of Oahu, Lanikai Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The crystal blue water and the extremely fine sand make it the perfect beach to catch some sun and relax. It is also the perfect location to catch the sunrise. Although the beach is only a half-mile long, many visitors and locals gather here to enjoy the scenery and atmosphere. The two islands offshore are called the Na Mokulua (or “Mokes” for short). Moku Iki is the smaller island to the south and Moku Nui is the larger island. However, both islands are apart of the state seabird sanctuary. On a…
Street Art in Hale’iwa, North Shore
Hale’iwa is a popular destination for visitors and locals to experience different beaches, food, and sights on Oahu. Many know the North Shore as the place to go to for big waves in the winter, good shrimp trucks, and cute, small-town vibes. However, few people know about the street art present in the town when, of fact, the street art in Hale’iwa is among the most unique and exciting works on Oahu! Colette Miller’s Global Angel Wings Project The Global Angel Wings Project was started in 2012 in Los Angeles, California to remind humanity that we are all “angels of this Earth”. Since then, numerous angel wings have popped up…
Off the Beaten Path: Makapu’u Tide Pools
A little known spot on the southeast coast of Oahu is the Makapu’u tide pools. It is one of the most beautiful spots only about 30 minutes down from the main Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail. The trail can be done in slippers, but I would highly recommend shoes, as there are some loose terrain. Check out the guide to the Lighthouse Trail here. About 2/3 of the way up the main Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, you will see a sign for whale watching. This is where you start climbing down. The trail looks more steep than it is. The trail down is a series of switchbacks and arrows that you can follow…
Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
Another one of the more popular hikes with visitors is the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail. Located just off Kalanianaole Highway, the Lighthouse Trail is offers stunning views of Oahu’s southeast shoreline. On very clear days you can even see Moloka’i and Lana’i. It does get very hot on this hike and little to no shade is available. Be sure to wear lots of sunscreen and bring plenty of water! There are also no bathrooms so be sure to go before! The journey begins when you turn off of Kalanianaole Highway into the hike’s parking area. Limited parking is available at the trailhead and on the street, but if you are patient, stalls…
Hiking Diamond Head
One of the most popular hikes on Oahu is the Diamond Head Crater Hike. Located in the Diamond Head State Monument in Kapahulu, this hike takes you from the inside of the extinct Diamond Head volcano to the top of the ridge where you will get exciting views of the Waikiki and the surrounding city. General Information The trail gets very crowded during peak hours between 10 AM and 2 PM, so it’s best to go as early as you can or later in the day. The trail offers multiple resting areas along the path, but it does get very hot and there is no shade. Come prepared with water…
