3 Must See Places on Oahu

If you're anything like me, you came to Hawaii to get away from the stresses of everyday life that we find ourselves caught up in. Take your daily dose of nature and get out to the corners of the map that you've dreamed about. Trade the stoplights and noise of Waikiki for the sound of the waves crashing on the shore and the fresh ocean breeze. I'll tell you some of the best and most beautiful places to visit on Oahu. As always, remember to respect the Aina (land) and the wildlife. Leave no trash, take no sand or rocks and give wildlife plenty of space.

1. Ka'ena Point State Park - at the very tip of the island where the extinct Waianae volcano meets the ocean you'll find an incredible wildlife and nature reserve. Depending on whether you access the trail from the Waianae (West side) or Mokuleia (North shore) you're in for a vastly different trail experience. From the west side, you'll experience dramatic, jagged, basaltic lava rock while looking back at the incredibly beautiful mountains of Makaha.

   

   If you decide to embark on the trail from the North shore, you'll be walking along a dune like setting with coastal tidal pools and views of dramatic mountain bluffs that will be hard to take your eyes off of. At the end of the trail you will find a large fenced off area that is home to the majestic Albatross. These sea fairing birds return to land to rest and nest before returning to their life in the ocean. If you're lucky you'll get to see one of these birds take flight. Their warm up routine and wingspan are an amazing sight to see. Once you've reached the true point, you'll find yourself at an incredible coral beach that feels like you're at the tip of the world. Watching the Pacific Ocean meet and churn the waters is unforgettable and draws me back time and time again. On warm afternoons, you can find Hawaiian Monk seals napping on the beach, playing in the water or relaxing in the tidal pools. It's a truly special place, and sacred to Hawaiian culture as a place where souls would leave earth and enter the spirit world to greet their ancient ancestors.

   

2. Makapu'u - At the very opposite side of the island of Oahu you'll find Makapu'u Point. The eastern tip of the island where Waimanalo and Hawaii Kai meet. This region is home to one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. For those looking for a relatively simple hike, there is a paved trail leading up to the lighthouse. Along the way you can enjoy views back towards both Koko and Diamond Head Craters and the city of Honolulu. And if you look out towards the Southwest on a clear day you'll be lucky to see Molokai, Lanai and sometimes Maui peaking from the Deep Blue Pacific. During the Winter months, this is a popular whale watching vista. For the more adventurous and experienced hiker, you may want to scale down to the tide pools below to cool off in the water. Be sure to bring the right footwear, snacks and plenty of water. The trail is completely exposed and offers no shade.

   

   

   

   3. China Walls - At the base of Hanauma Bay Ridge is China Walls, a favorite for locals to cruise. It offers stunning views of the Pacific blended with other worldly rock formations creating a picturesque setting. It's known for it's cliff jumping for the more thrill-seeking adventure lover. Currents are strong, waves can and will smash you into the rocks if you are not careful. There is no lifeguard present, so if you aren't a strong swimmer, best to watch the local kids do their thing and just enjoy the show. This is also an amazing place to wind down and enjoy the sunset. The pink and blue hour here highlights the sky with pastel colors that make incredible photo backdrops.