Must-Dos for Oahu First Timers: Explore Like a Local

Beaches:

• Kailua Beach Park (Southeast Side): Known for its soft white sand and calm turquoise waters, Kailua Beach Park is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming. It's popular but spacious, so it doesn't feel too crowded.

• Makapu’u Beach (East Side): This beach is known for its dramatic cliffs and strong waves, making it a hotspot for bodyboarding and bodysurfing. It can get busy and the water is often rough, so it's best for experienced swimmers.

• Waimanalo Beach (East Side): One of the most beautiful beaches on Oahu. Waimanalo offers long stretches of white sand and gentle waves, perfect for families and relaxing swims. It's less crowded than nearby beaches, making it a peaceful spot.

• Sunset Beach (North Shore): Famous for its big waves in the winter, attracting surfers from around the world. In the summer, the water is calm, making it great for swimming. It can be busy, especially during surf competitions.

• Waimea Bay (North Shore): Renowned for massive waves in the winter and a popular spot for cliff diving and snorkeling in the summer when the water is calm. It's very busy during surf season.

• Makua Beach (West Side): A secluded beach with clear water, great for snorkeling and swimming, especially during the summer. It's less crowded and offers a peaceful experience with stunning views.

• Yokohama Beach (Keawalua) (West side): Remote and quiet, this beach is known for its natural beauty and strong currents. It's perfect for sunbathing and watching the sunset, but swimming can be risky due to the strong waves.

• Lanikea Beach (North Shore): Popular spot to see giant turtles on the beach and in the water. Touching and coming up close to the creatures are prohibited.

Activities:

• Snorkeling at Sharks Cove: Explore vibrant marine life at Shark's Cove on Oahu's North Shore, a top snorkeling spot with crystal-clear waters and fascinating underwater rock formations.

• Shark diving and/or skydiving on the North Shore: For adrenaline junkies, free diving with sharks or skydiving over the North Shore offers thrilling, unforgettable experiences with breathtaking views.

• Surfing: Hawai'i is the ultimate place to try surfing for the first time, with Oahu offering perfect waves and expert instruction for beginners.

• Explore Haleiwa Town: Discover the charm of Haleiwa, a historic surf town with eclectic shops, art galleries and delicious local food spots.

• Visit Secret Island at Kualoa Ranch: Secret Island at Kualoa Ranch offers a private beach experience with stunning views and plenty of water activities. Perfect for Instagram pictures.

• Jump from the Rock at Waimea Bay: Challenge yourself to leap from the famous rock at Waimea Bay, a thrilling activity for Hawai'i locals.

• Kayak to Mokulua Islands: Paddle across the turquoise waters of Kailua Bay to the picturesque Mokulua Islands for a day of exploration and relaxation. You can do a small hike there and enjoy the tide pools.

Landmarks and easy hikes:

• Byodo-In Temple: A peaceful replica of a Japanese temple, located in the lush Valley of the Temples, offering stunning architecture for amazing pictures.

• Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden: Explore this large garden with lush landscapes, serene lakes and an array of tropical plants perfect for a peaceful walk and picnic. Likewise, one of the best places on Oahu for pictures.

• Tantalus viewpoint: A scenic drive leads to this viewpoint, where you can soak in panoramic views of Honolulu, Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean. This is one of my go-to spots for picnics with my friends.

• China Walls: A rugged coastal spot popular for watching sunsets and cliff jumps, with impressive waves crashing against the rocks. Grab some food and enjoy the sunset, watch people surf and if you are a good swimmer, jump into the water.

• Koko Head: A challenging hike up 1,048 railroad steps rewards you with breathtaking views, but it's also a serious leg workout!

• Lanikai Pillbox: This moderate hike offers stunning views of Lanikai Beach and the Mokulua Islands from the historic World War II pillboxes.

• Kuli’ou’ou Ridge trailhead hike: A moderately difficult hike with lush greenery leading to spectacular views of Oahu's eastern coastline.

• Crouching Lion hike: A short but steep hike with rewarding views of the lush Ka'a'awa Valley and the coastline, perfect for adventurous hikers. Likewise, One of my favorite hikes on the island!

Breakfast

• Koko Head Café: A trendy brunch spot offering innovative, island-inspired breakfast dishes in a cozy, laid-back setting.

• Barefoot Beach Café: A beachfront café serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with local flavors and stunning ocean views.

• Duke’s Waikiki: Known for its amazing breakfast buffet with a variety of local and traditional options, all for $23.

• Castro’s: A casual eatery offering a mix of breakfast favorites with a touch of local flair.

Lunch and dinner

• Lei Lei’s: A North Shore gem, offering a relaxed atmosphere with a menu featuring fresh seafood and local dishes.

• Shorefyre International Market Place: A popular spot for lunch and dinner with diverse menu options in the heart of Waikiki.

• Hula Grill: Oceanfront dining at its best, with a menu showcasing fresh Hawai'ian cuisine.

• Fête: A farm-to-table restaurant in Chinatown serving innovative dishes with a global twist.

• Basalt: Modern dining in Waikiki known for its locally-sourced ingredients and upscale atmosphere.

• Maya’s Tapas & Wine: A cozy North Shore spot offering a unique mix of Spanish-inspired tapas and wines.

Best local spots and food trucks

• Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp: Offering fresh, locally farmed shrimp dishes with a flavorful, home-cooked taste, often served with garlic butter sauce and a side of rice.

• Waiahole Poi Factory: A must-visit for traditional Hawai'ian food, especially their fresh poi and laulau.

• Da Bald Guy (food truck from Netflix): Famous for its hearty local plates and was featured on Netflix.

• Pupukea Grill: A popular North Shore food truck known for its fresh poke and plate lunches.

• No7 Food Truck: Serving up delicious local comfort food with a focus on fresh ingredients.

• Haleiwa Seafood: A seafood truck offering some of the best poke and seafood dishes on the island.

Best spots for acai

• The Sunrise Shack, Haleiwa: Instagrammable and vibrant spot at Sunset Beach, known for its delicious fruit bowls.

• Haleiwa Bowls: A top choice for refreshing and healthy acai bowls in Haleiwa.

• Crispy Grindz Haleiwa: A Brazilian-inspired spot offering acai bowls with authentic flavors.

• Island Vintage Coffee: A well-loved café serving premium acai bowls alongside its famous coffee.

Best spots for poke

• Ono Seafood: Renowned for its fresh and flavorful poke, a favorite among locals and tourists.

• Nico’s Pier 38: A seafood market and restaurant offering fresh poke and other seafood delights.

• Fresh Catch Kapahulu: Known for its poke and plate lunches, a local favorite for fresh and tasty bites.

Great view, atmosphere and delicious food

• Farm to Barn: A farm-to-table café with panoramic views and dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients.

• House Without a Key: Iconic oceanfront dining spot offering live Hawai'ian music, hula and delicious island cuisine.

• Haleiwa Joe’s Haiku Gardens: A lush garden setting with incredible views and mouthwatering seafood.

• Deck: A stylish rooftop spot offering stunning views of Diamond Head with a modern menu.

Coffee shops

• Island Brew Coffeehouse: A serene spot for a morning coffee, with peaceful views of the marina.

• Island Vintage Coffee: Famous for its Kona coffee and acai bowls, with several locations across Oahu.

• Kona Coffee: A local favorite for its amazing coffee and pastries — get there early as they sell out fast.

Bars, rooftops and parties

• Wang Chung’s Karaoke Bar: A lively karaoke spot perfect for a fun night out with friends.

• Buho Cocina y Cantina: A rooftop Mexican restaurant and bar offering great drinks and city views.

• Sky Waikiki: A chic rooftop bar with panoramic views, craft cocktails and live music.

• Lay Low: A stylish bar with a laid-back vibe, great for enjoying craft cocktails and small bites.

• Alohilani Resort’s Swell Bar: A poolside bar with a chic vibe, offering cocktails and a view.

• Kelly O’Neil’s: A late-night Irish pub with live music, perfect for those who want to keep the party going.