Ultimate Oahu & Kauai Itinerary: 7 Days of Sun, Surf, Hiking, and Beaches

Welcome to Oahu! Your Hawaiian adventure starts with a relaxing day at some of the island’s most famous beaches. Oahu is home to some of the best surf spots in the world, so whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, today is all about sun, sand and surf.

• Sunset Beach: Surf’s up! Kickstart your beach day at Sunset Beach on the North Shore, one of the most famous surf spots in the world. Whether you're a surfer or a spectator, this is a great place to soak in the iconic Hawaiian beach vibe. If you're new to surfing, there are plenty of local surf schools offering lessons for all skill levels.

• Waimea Bay: Voted best beach. After catching some waves or simply enjoying the view, head to Waimea Bay, often considered one of the best beaches in the world. With crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs surrounding the beach, it's perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Waimea is also known for its legendary big-wave surf during the winter months, making it a must-see.

• Sharks Cove: End your beach tour at Sharks Cove, another North Shore gem famous for its incredible snorkeling opportunities. Explore the vibrant underwater world, teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles and coral reefs.

Time to lace up those hiking boots and explore the island’s natural beauty! Oahu is home to some of the most scenic and accessible hikes in Hawaii, offering sweeping views of the coastline, lush valleys and towering mountain ridges.

• Nu'uanu Pali Lookout: On our way to your first adventure, make sure to stop by the Nu'uanu Pali Lookout. This historic site offers breathtaking panoramic views of Oahu's Windward Coast. The lookout is perched 1,200 feet above sea level, where you can catch a glimpse of the dramatic cliffs and lush valleys below.

• Lanikai Pillbox Trail: Head over to your first hiking spot of the day, the Lanikai Pillbox Trail (also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail). This 1.5-mile hike takes you up to two historic WWII pillboxes, offering one of the most beautiful views of Lanikai Beach and the Kailua coastline. It’s a moderate hike with a rewarding view at the top.

• Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail: Another must-do, offering one of Oahu’s most scenic hikes. It’s an easy, paved 2-mile trail leading to the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse, with spectacular views of the coastline, Kailua Bay and the Moloka’i and Lanai Islands on clear days. If you're lucky, you may even spot some whales during migration season.

• Hanauma Bay: Finish off your hiking day with a visit to Hanauma Bay, one of the most famous snorkeling spots on the island. The bay is a marine embayment, teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles and coral reefs. Make sure to arrive early to beat the crowds!

• Koko Crater Railway Trail: For those still up for more adventure, end the day with the Koko Crater Railway Trail (also known as the Koko Head Crater Trail). It’s a steep, challenging 1.8-mile hike up old railway tracks, but the view from the top is worth every step. You’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the island, from Hanauma Bay to Diamond Head.

Today, we’re combining both beach and hiking experiences to make the most of your time on Oahu!

• Mermaid Cave: Start the day with a visit to Mermaid Cave, a hidden gem located near the North Shore. The cave is accessible through a short hike and is the perfect spot for swimming and photos. The crystal-clear waters of the cave make it a magical spot to cool off after your hike.

• Manoa Falls: Next, head to the Manoa Falls Trail, an easy, 1.6-mile hike through lush rainforest that leads to the stunning Manoa Falls, a 150-foot waterfall. The hike is shaded, making it a great option for a midday adventure.

• Magic Island: After your waterfall hike, head to Magic Island, a beautiful, man-made peninsula that juts into Ala Moana Beach Park. It’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon of swimming, picnicking or just enjoying the ocean views.

It’s time to say goodbye to Oahu and head over to Kaua'i, also known as the "Garden Isle" for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and waterfalls. The flight from Oahu to Kaua'i takes around 30 minutes, and once you arrive, the adventure continues!

Luau

Start your Kaua'i experience with a cultural touch. Kaua'i is home to several wonderful Luaus where you can experience Hawaiian traditions through dance, music, food, and storytelling.

Book a spot at a Kaua'i Luau to enjoy a traditional Hawaiian feast, complete with roasted pig, tropical fruits, and other island delicacies. The Smith Family Garden Luau or the Kilohana Plantation Luau are both highly recommended for their authentic performances and spectacular settings.

Kaua'i is known for its breathtaking beaches. Today is all about exploring some of the island’s finest stretches of sand and soaking up the tropical sun.

• Ke’e Beach: Start the day at Ke’e Beach, a beautiful beach located at the end of the Kaua'i North Shore. It’s a great place for snorkeling and swimming with vibrant marine life, and the views of the surrounding cliffs are unforgettable.

• Tunnels Beach: Next, head to Tunnels Beach, another top spot for snorkeling. It’s known for its crystal-clear waters and plentiful coral reefs. Spend a few hours here relaxing on the sand or exploring the underwater world.

• Secret Beach: End the beach day at Secret Beach. This hidden gem is a quiet, secluded spot perfect for unwinding. To get there, you'll need to walk down a short trail, but the effort is worth it for the peace and beauty you’ll find.

Kaua'i is a hiker’s paradise. Its lush valleys, cliffs and coastline offer some of the best hikes in Hawaii, including the iconic Na Pali Coast.

• Kalalau Trail: Today, tackle the Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast. This 11-mile trail is known for its rugged terrain, but it rewards you with some of the most dramatic coastal views on the island. If you’re up for a more manageable hike, consider doing the first 2 miles to Hanakapiai Beach.

• Hanalei Bay Beach: After your hike, take some time to relax at Hanalei Bay Beach. This crescent-shaped bay is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding or simply lounging on the sand.

For your final day on Kaua'i, enjoy a mix of hiking and beach time.

• Mount Waialeale Trail: Start with a challenging hike to Mount Waialeale, one of the wettest places on earth. The trail offers a rewarding glimpse into Kauai’s lush, tropical rainforests and scenic views of waterfalls. This trail is perfect for those looking for a bit of adventure.

• Poipu Beach: After your hike, head to Poipu Beach for a relaxing afternoon. It’s a family-friendly beach known for its calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It’s also a great spot to catch a beautiful sunset as your Kauai adventure comes to a close.