Oahu’s Popular Attractions
Living on island has major perks.
Not only do we get to enjoy breathtaking sunrises, crystal clear beaches, delicious local foods and cotton candy colored sunsets but every day you get the opportunity to sightsee and visit some major attractions.
Oahu has so many beautiful beaches. Some are major tourists’ spots such as Waikiki beach and some others are more local spots which you can enjoy as well.
One of those many must see beaches is Lanikai Beach in the Kailua town area. This gem has been a must see for many tourists. To access the actual beach, you will have to find a pedestrian beach access which are usually marked with a sign. Unfortunately, Lanikai has no public parking lot or facilities such as restrooms but Lanikai is worth all the trouble! Once at Lanikai you can see the beautiful Mokalua islands from the shoreline for a perfect picture background. You can also kayak to the islands if the tide and surf allows.
If you are looking to snorkel, Hanauma Bay is the spot! This area is always looked after and protected so make sure you don’t litter, don’t mess with the sea life and enjoy! Hanauma Bay is a natural bay which formed within the crater of an ancient volcano, pretty cool, huh? To maintain and preserve the bay and its ecosystem only a daily number of visitors is allowed so plan ahead and arrive early.
There are some fees to visit Hanauma bay and fees for rentals.https://hanaumabaystatepark.com/
Byodo-in Temple is another magical spot to visit on Oahu. You will not need a beach towel this time but you will sure need to be mindful and take how peaceful your surroundings can be.
The Byodo-In Temple is located at the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park in Kaneohe. The Temple opened in June 7, 1968, to commemorate the 100-yearanniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to the islands. The Byodo-In Temple in Oahu is a smaller replica of the over 950-year-old Byodo-in Temple, at the United Nations World Heritage Site in Uji, Japan.
You can walk through the luscious grounds, see the Temple and go inside to pay a spiritual visit. The Temple is a non-practicing Buddhist temple, all faiths are welcome to worship. While walking through the grounds you will notice wild peacocks, their reflecting pond, many meditation areas, growing flora, Amida; a golden Buddha thought to be the largest carved outside Japan which sits inside the temple and the Bon-Sho or Sacred Bell which is at the entrance of the temple and it is rung as you enter to spread the teachings of Buddha.
Definitely a must-see!
47-200 Kahekili Highway
Kaneohe, HI 96744
https://byodo-in.com/index.htm
Waimea Valley
This luscious botanical garden is located at the North Shore and is visited my thousands every year to enjoy all of its beauty. Waimea Valley is mostly known for its 45 ft waterfall which you can swim in once you visit. The way to the waterfall is a 1.5-mile roundtrip paved stroll. Along the way to the waterfall you can learn about Hawaiian history and will notice the many archeological and cultural sites along with beautiful flora.
Is it even Hawaii without a Luau?
Nope, don’t think so! Luau’s are usually one of the top things that all tourists do when visiting Hawaii. There are different Luaus on island that offer amazing entertainment but one of the favorites is Paradise Cove Luau located on the lovely leeward side of the island on the Ko Olina resorts. Paradise Cove Luau offers different packages for purchase. These include the Luau performance, specific dinning seating, buffet style meal and attractions before the performance for your entertainment. Enjoy a complimentary Mai Tai, the breath-taking sunset and the talent on stage!
If you want to learn more about Hawaii’s rich culture you can visit the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laei. The main attractions include the island villages where you can learn about 6 different Pacific villages and interact with their natives to learn about their music, dance and traditions. You can also enjoy their Luau and dinner along with the fire show. The center also has the Hukilau marketplace where you can shop, dine and relax.
Looking for a more extreme experience? Then Kualoa Ranch is your next stop!
Ever wondered where Jurassic Park was filmed? Look no further…. it’s in your backyard!
Choose your next adventure: you can take on a movie tour around the grounds, Zipline across the ranch, go horseback riding, take a jeep expedition or an ATV raptor tour. These excursions are a lot of fun and loved by many.
These attractions are here waiting for you and just like these there are plenty more to be explored!
Don’t hesitate and enjoy all the Aloha the island has to offer!
Daniella Horne
Freelance blogger, Military Spouse, Social Media Coordinator for Blue Star Families Hawaii, and Motherhood Blogger for Momma & Sprouts.
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