Few landscapes in the world are as beautiful and iconic as the ones you’ll find in Arizona. Especially if what you’re after are emblematic natural landmarks.
With the Grand Canyon and some of the most beautiful national monuments set within its boundaries, Arizona is king when it comes to postcard-worthy scenery. Some so unique that you’re unlikely to find anything remotely similar anywhere else in the world.
With that in mind, the Grand Canyon State has a ton more to offer beyond its iconic destinations. Arizona is so big that it brims with tons of hidden gems. Some of which even locals have never heard of!
If you’re the type of traveler who prefers checking out secret places rather than highlights or you just want to have a pretty good mix of both in your itinerary, here’s a list of 7 hidden gems in Arizona you may have never heard of!
Hidden Gems in Arizona You May Not Know Exist
1. White Pocket
Set in the heart of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, White Pocket is not just a hidden gem in Arizona. It’s also a pretty amazing alternative to The Wave because it looks rather similar. But it’s still far away from the usual traveler’s radar.
Picture a landscape of kaleidoscopic-looking rock formations, hoodoos coated in swirls of colors, and ponderosa pines all over to get a pretty good image of what White Pocket is all about. Plus, thanks to the fact that it’s still quite a secret, you don’t need a permit to enter. But you’re still very likely to get it all to yourself!
2. Barringer Meteor Crater
Here’s a fun fact for you: the best-preserved meteor impact on the planet lies in Arizona!
Barringer Meteor Crater stretches over 4,000 feet in diameter. And boasts a whopping depth of 560 feet. The crater itself is absolutely striking to look at. But when you add the fact that it’s backdropped by gorgeous plains and rugged scenery, you’re pretty much guaranteed an experience like no other here.
Aside from dropping your jaw right to the ground at the sight of this massive crater, the scenic drive to reach it is also a pretty incredible experience. As you make your way closer to the site, you’ll be treated to beautiful desert scenery. Make sure you plan a pit stop at the discovery center on the highway, where you’ll get to learn all about the meteorite that created the crater some 50,000 years ago!
3. Tumacacori National Historical Park
Located on the Santa Cruz River Valley, Tumacacori National Park still remains quite a secret in the usual Arizona route. And just happens to be a wonderful place to visit if you’re keen to learn more about the area’s history.
Back in the day, Tamacacori was the spot where O’odham Yaqui and Apache cultures would meet up with European missionaries. Sometimes, gatherings would become violent. But others were meant for them to work together to improve the area.
During your visit to Tumacacori, you can hike the Juan Batista de Anzano National Historic Trail. Go on a horseback riding adventure. Or explore the park’s Franciscan mission that was built together by American Indians and Spanish colonizers!
4. Jerome
Jerome is often nicknamed the “wickedest town in the West” due to the fact that it’s said to be incredibly haunted.
Once a prosperous gold mining hub, Jerome suffered plenty of manmade disasters. And its population slowly began to dwindle. Not too long after, this quirky town managed to come back to life by taking advantage of its valley and promoting itself as a destination for all things wine, arts, and ghastly sites.
Today, Jerome is a great spot to head to for historical buildings, wine-tasting, and a thriving art scene. Moreover, if you’re into haunted experiences, there are plenty of tours on offer that will show you just why this town is considered one of the most haunted places in the state!
If you are traveling to Jerome, make sure to make a stop in Cottonwood, a town you drive through to get to Jerome. It’s filled with wineries, good food, and cute shopping spots. Cottonwood is only an hour or hour and a half drive from Phoenix. So it’s totally worth it for a day trip.
5. Tombstone
Located right on the border with Mexico, Tombstone is a glorious historical city that was established as one of the last border towns from the area’s mining period.
A visit to Tombstone is all about traveling back in time to the town’s days of glory by checking out museums to learn its history, exploring remaining mines, and touring the streets on a stagecoach. It’s also a wonderful place to visit for cowboy experiences. Especially if you head to the O.K. Corral outdoor theater located on Allen Street, where an authentic cowboy gunfight is re-enacted!
6. Watson Lake
Surrounded by massive granite boulders, Watson Lake is a landscape of striking contrasts that are perfect for an outdoorsy day spent surrounded by postcard-perfect vistas.
Swimming isn’t allowed at Watson Lake, but there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the lake and its surroundings, be it by hitting a few hiking trails, boating, canoeing, rock climbing, and more!
7. Grand Canyon’s North Rim
The Grand Canyon is anything but a hidden gem in Arizona, but what many visitors to the state don’t know is that there’s a lesser-frequented side of the canyon you can visit if you want a more solitary experience.
The Grand Canyon’s North Rim only sees 10% of visitors to the park, which pretty much guarantees you’ll get it almost all to yourself. The North Rim is considered a section meant for more intrepid travelers because it lacks amenities, but it still has manageable hiking trails, a ton of boundary-free lookout points, and even a few campsites you can easily reach with incredible views all over (Cape Finale comes to mind!)
Are you currently planning a trip to Arizona? If so, which of these hidden gems in Arizona did you place in your itinerary? Let me know in the comment section below!
Some call it glamorous camping, others call it luxury camping, but what better way to experience the Wild West? Get off the beaten path and truly get out into nature by sleeping under the stars like a true Western cowboy or cowgirl. What really makes these glamping options truly unique is that they are all all-inclusive. This means meals, lodging, horseback riding, and other activities are all included in your rate! What’s more glamorous than not having to try to keep up with your spending while on vacation? Get comfortably out of your comfort zone by staying at one of these beautiful, DRA-approved, dude ranch glamping destinations!
Bar W Guest Ranch offers an unforgettable glamping experience right outside of Glacier National Park. Each of the four luxury canvas tents has a queen size bed, handcrafted log futon, private porch, refrigerator, and coffee maker. Don’t worry–your private, heated bathroom is located just a few feet from your tent. Grab your coffee, sit back, and relax while you watch the horses graze in the meadow from your own front porch.
Glamping at C Lazy U Ranch will no doubt top the list as your most memorable accommodation set-ups! A ranch hand will guide you to your Conestoga Wagon where the great outdoors (and a s’mores kit!) await you. After an evening around the fire with your loved ones, cozy up in your king-size bed made with luxurious linens and let the sounds of peace and serenity drift you to sleep.
For the more adventurous glampers, visit Flat Creek Ranch! Ride into the backcountry by horseback and take in views of the Tetons and Wind River mountain ranges, Cache Peak, and the headwaters of Flat Creek. After a good night’s sleep in your cozy, canvas tent under the stars, you will wake up to coffee brought to your tent. A hardy breakfast will leave you well rested and ready for your ride back to the ranch!
Experience the best of the Southwest from a pioneer wagon at Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch! This wagon can comfortably sleep five with a king-size bed and three bunk beds and has electricity, air conditioning, and heat to ensure a relaxing stay under the stars. Private bathrooms and showers are provided nearby. These wagons are a once-in-a-lifetime experience–Come see why!
Tucked away in a discrete part of Greenhorn Ranch, awaits a charming 1972 Airstream. This fully restored camper, located along a seasonal creek, takes glamping to a whole new level! The soothing white classic is complete with a queen bed, small fridge, and a streamlined bathroom. Sit under the stars on your private deck and enjoy California glamping at its finest!
Glamping at Bull Hill Guest Ranch brings back a tradition that began when the ranch first opened in 1995. Beautifully furnished with two comfy queen beds, these tents are ideal for young couples, families, or those seeking privacy with a romantic twist. Each glamping tent has its own private bathroom 100 feet away as well as power, heat, and fans to keep you cool in the summer.
Get away from the world and internet-and cell service for that matter-and truly unwind while glamping at Goosewing Ranch! Three of their custom, handcrafted wagons can sleep up to five guests, while the fourth wagon with a king-size bed will make for the perfect romantic getaway for a couple. This is glamping, not camping, so you will have a dedicated chef, wrangler, and event coordinator at your service!
Glamping at a dude ranch is the new favorite way to relax and unwind while on vacation. Which ranch do you want to visit? Need help narrowing down the options further? Contact one of our dude ranch experts!
Offering a fusion of ancient, modern, and natural wonders, it’s not hard to imagine why the island is commonly referred to as “The Gathering Place”. With so many iconic sights to visit all over the island, the most surefire way to get to see as much as possible is to buckle up and hit the road in search of mesmerizing vistas.
If you’re currently in the research stages of your trip to Oahu, chances are you’re feeling a bit confused with the number of amazing scenic roads on offer. The good news, however, is that most of the top drives in Oahu are relatively short, which pretty much means you can fit in a lot of them in your schedule!
If you’re still unsure which ones to tackle, I’ve curated a list of the most incredibly scenic drives in Oahu, Hawaii you absolutely cannot miss out on driving during your trip!
The Most Scenic Drives in Hawaii For Jaw-Dropping Views
Lagoon Drive
If you’re the type of traveler who doesn’t like to waste time, the Lagoon Drive is a must for you. Located right next to Honolulu Airport, this is a drive you can do as soon as you land and rent a car, making it the perfect way to kickstart your Oahu adventure.
Lagoon Drive is super short at just 5 minutes, but despite the short distance, it still manages to provide the best views of the ocean sprinkled with dozens of small islets, which is a pretty warm welcome to receive when you’ve just landed in Hawaii!
Moreover, there’s a parking lot at the end of the drive, where you can sit in and watch views of the landscape and planes landing and taking off from the airport.
Highway 3
When it comes to awe-inspiring views, Highway 3 is sure to please. Beginning in the city of Honolulu, this gorgeous drive will take you all the way to the eastern tip of the island through the fascinating Koolau Mountain Range and the Haʻikū Valley, guaranteeing fascinating vistas every mile of the way.
Lush mountain views are the norm all over the drive, with surprises like views of Kāneʻohe Bay and Oʻahu’s windward side awaiting to mesmerize drivers. Seriously, you’ll find yourself wondering if you’re dreaming on a pretty constant basis while driving!
Pali Highway
Pali Highway is another drive that, although short, doesn’t lack gorgeous views all over. Starting in downtown Honolulu, the road ends in Pali Lookout after just 15 minutes, where you’ll get amazing panoramic vistas of the southern part of Oahu.
Even though Pali Lookout point is the main reason to drive this road, the entire drive is also an experience worth appreciating, with ocean views to one side and a mountainous backdrop to the other. As you exit the tunnels on Honolulu, you’ll reach the east side of the Koolau Mountain Range, where you’ll feel as though you’re eons away from the bustle and hustle of the city.
Windward Oahu
While the drive to the east coast from Honolulu to Kaneohe is one of the most popular scenic drives in Oahu, here’s a little insider tip for those looking for lesser-driven roads: If you drive further on towards the North Shore, you’ll discover one of Hawaii’s best kept secrets.
Called the Windward Coast, this part of Oahu will have you curving your way through a much lesser-known coast, where gorgeous views of the ocean changing from a light turquoise tone to dark blue will leave you awe-struck. Moreover, the entire coast is dotted by tiny beaches hidden inside a verdant landscape, so keep your eyes out for them, and don’t forget to plan more time than you’ll think you’ll need in order to stop at a few of them!
Other incredibly interesting stops to make along the way include the Valley of the Temples and Mokolii, a small island more commonly known as “Chinaman’s Hat” due to its shape. While at Mokolii, you can hit a few hiking trails or simply stretch your legs while enjoying a picnic with gorgeous views galore.
Tantalus Round Top Drive
Tantalus Round Top Drive may be extremely short, but what it lacks in length, it makes up for with some of the most iconic views in entire Oahu. When you get to the final viewpoint of the drive, Tantalus Lookout Point, you’ll be treated to some of the most fabulous views of Diamond Head, Honolulu, Waikiki, and the Pacific Ocean!
Tantalus Lookout Point is a popular spot to watch the sun go down, so, if possible, try getting there right before sunset.
Have you ever driven any of these scenic roads on the island of Oahu? Which of them was your favorite and why? Let me know all about your experience in the comment section below!
Hawaii’s beaches are as close as you can get to paradise on Earth. Being the third-largest island in the state, Oahu is home to some of the best ones in the entire archipelago, making it a great destination to head to if your plans in Hawaii revolve mostly around beach-hopping.
If you’re currently planning a getaway to Oahu, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed deciding which beaches to visit first. The good news is that, with 227 miles of coastline, you’re pretty much guaranteed a great experience no matter where you go.
The best way to decide which beaches will make it to your itinerary is to consider your interests. So I decided to create a list of the best beaches in Hawaii’s Oahu island for every type of traveler. Whether you’re taking the kids or looking for pristine shores surrounded by nature, this list is sure to have the ideal spot for you!
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Hawaii
Waikiki Beach
Set on the coast of Honolulu, Waikiki might very well be the most popular beach on the island of Oahu for locals and tourists alike, if the 5 million annual visitors that go there are any indication. If you like bustling, lively locations and don’t mind the crowds too much, you’ll love it here, especially if you’re into swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.
Waikiki’s gentle waves are ideal for beginner’s surfing lessons. So if learning how to brave waves is one of the items on your bucket list, look for one of the many instructors available and take a class, or just relax at the beach and watch while others do it.
Lanikai Beach
Set on the island’s Windward Coast, Lanikai boasts some of the softest sand and the bluest waters in Oahu. Add the two beautiful offshore islets in front of it, and you’ll be set for a day in beach heaven.
Of course, you can spend the whole day relaxing. But if you’re in the mood for some adventure, you can kayak your way to the Mokes (a nearby islet). Or hike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail to catch some of the best vistas Oahu!
Haleiwa
Haleiwa Beach is located about an hour’s drive away from Honolulu in the North Shore area of the island, discreetly hidden behind a grove of Pride Indian trees.
This laid-back surfer town distills country flavor and a local ambiance that enchants visitors. While here, you can spend the day at the beach. But you can also dedicate a few hours to exploring the town itself.
Various small art galleries and local boutiques are favorites for all. And for history buffs, the old Emerson Mission homestead and the ruins of Waialua’s Female Seminary remain from the days of missionary work in the area.
Keep in mind that Haleiwa Beach has a rocky and shallow ocean bottom, so it’s not ideal for swimming. But it is great for surfing, canoeing, kayaking, and boat racing!
Waimea Bay
Located in the North Shore area of Oahu, Waimea is mostly famous for its giant winter waves. Which can reach up to 30 feet and make it a favorite of serious, hardcore surfers. Watching these ocean masters is an exciting experience in itself. Which makes it a location worthy of getting a place in your Oahu itinerary if you happen to be there during the surfing season.
With summer come calmer waters and Waimea becomes a great destination for swimming, snorkeling, bodyboarding, snorkeling, fishing, or just relaxing and enjoying the views of the blue ocean and overall beach ambiance.
Sunset Beach
Set right outside Haleiwa Town, Sunset Beach is another bucket list-must haven in Oahu, especially if you’re in search of a kid-friendly beach that’s good for swimming and light snorkeling during the summer. The sunsets here are really special, which explains the name given to this place, so make sure you stay around to witness at least one of them during your stay on the island!
During the winter months, Sunset Beach becomes a prime destination for surfers, because it’s the longest stretch of rideable surf in the world! Accordingly, various surfing events are hosted here, including the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, so plan your dates right if you’re interested in checking out one of them.
Kailua Beach Park
Kailua Beach Park is one more picture-perfect beach park with soft white sands, low waves, and great amenities, making it ideal if what you want is a super relaxing day at the beach.
Families traveling with kids love it here, as well as windsurfers, and sailboarders, but there are plenty of things to do here for everyone. While here, you can spend your time simply enjoying the light-colored sand, blue waters, picnic areas, and beach volleyball court.
You can also rent some water sports equipment at the boat ramp if you’re in the mood for some water adventures, and then head to nearby Kailua and check out its many restaurants and shops.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
If you’re after enjoying a quiet location amid nature, Hanauma Bay should be next on your list!
Only 30 minutes from Honolulu, this unique bay is known for its wine glass shape and for the fact that it seems it’s eons away from the bustling capital city, which make for a perfect outing if a day of nature goodness sounds appealing to you.
Snorkeling is the top activity here, as hundreds of marine species inhabit the area, including lots of honus, which are the green sea turtles that have made Hanauma their home! Hiking the Koko Bay Trail to a crater is another favorite for exploring the lush hills that surround the bay and catching some breathtaking ocean views.
Laniakea Beach – Turtle Beach
Laniakea translates into “wide sky”, and you’ll see why this extensive beach was given that name when you venture past the first 30 yards where most people hang out.
Aside from its beauty, the top attraction at Laniakea is giant green turtles that live there. It’s hard to believe that they were once on the endangered species list, but thanks to the protection efforts of government and volunteers, they can now be easily spotted swimming and frolicking around the island.
Have you visited the island of Oahu in Hawaii? Which were your favorite beaches? Let me know in the comment section below!
Yearning for the thrill of the open road? California is one of the best places in the USA to go on a road trip. And if you’re on the lookout for the best routes to take in the Golden State, chances are you’re feeling pretty overwhelmed with options.
To make the decision a bit easier, I decided to take the time to list some of my favorite scenic drives in California that everyone must do at least once in their lives. From roads that lead up to sky-high peaks to drives through the desert in search of colorful mountains, these are some of the best scenic drives in California that absolutely need to be on your bucket list this year!
The Most Scenic Drives in California That Will Get Your Jaw on the Ground
1. Highway 395 (Sierra Nevada Mountains)
Sitting at the bottom of the dreamy Sierra Nevada mountains, Highway 395 is an amazing route to take if what you’re looking for is a long road trip with amazing stops lining every mile of the way.
Starting in bustling Los Angeles and ending at peaceful Lake Tahoe, this classic California drive will make you feel as though you’ve been transported back in time into old Western California. As the small towns scattered all over the highway have stayed pretty intact since back then.
Moreover, the highway runs all along the Sierra Nevada mountains, which pretty much guarantees epic mountains vistas the entire way long. As if that weren’t enough to convince you to brave this road trip, this incredibly scenic drive also passes through two of California’s most beautiful national parks: Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Park.
If you’re into off-the-beaten path destinations, you’ll also be treated to some of California’s best hidden jewels. Including the whacky-looking Mono Lake, Bristlecone Pine Forest, a ghost town called Bodie, and Devil’s Postpile.
Length: 450 miles
Required TIme: Several days. Highway 395 can take several days to entire weeks to complete depending on how many stops you make. And how much time you linger at each place. Moreover, there are many small detours along the road worth overnighting at. So make sure you take that into account when planning!
2. Highway 190 through Death Valley
Despite its somewhat melancholic name, Death Valley National Park is one of the most colorful and liveliest places in the United States. If you’re short on time or simply don’t feel up for hiking under harsh conditions, a great way to get the most out of your time at this incredible national park is by taking the scenic road (Highway 190) that runs right through it!
The highway will have you passing some of Death Valley’s highlights. Including Mesquite Sand Dunes at Stovepipe Wells, where you can park and head out on a one-mile walk up to the tallest sand dune in the park! Further along the road, you’ll stumble across Scotty’s Castle, a ranch full of history and a glimpse into what life during the 1920s was like in the area.
Next, make sure you stop at Harmony Borax Works. An abandoned mine and borax plant you can explore to get a pretty good picture of what life back in the 1800s was like here.
Another must-do during your visit is taking a little detour and following another incredibly scenic drive: The Artist’s Drive Loop, which is a short road lined by dreamy mountainsides splashed in every color of the rainbow.
At the very end of Highway 190, you’ll find Death Valley’s most iconic sight: Zabriskie Point. This viewpoint gives the most beautiful vistas of the park’s emblematic golden badlands below. Making it a perfect spot to end the drive as well as catch an insanely stunning sunset!
Length: 93 miles
Required Time: One to two days
3. Jacinto Reyes Scenic Byway
Cutting through Cuyama, the Valley of San Joaquin, and up to mountain peaks that stand tall over 5,000 feet, the Jacinto Reyes Scenic Byway is a dream if what you’re after are gorgeous mountain views and forest adventures.
At just over 36 miles, this drive is relatively short. But dedicating at least two days to it is recommended in order to make a stop to explore Los Padres National Forest, where you can spend a day hiking or horseback riding to get a closer experience to the nature of the area.
If you’re up for hiking, a wonderful trail for beginners is the Piedra Blanca Formations trail, which offers gorgeous views all along as well as wildlife sighting opportunities. Moreover, if you’re feeling up for a more challenging feat, the Dry Lake Ridge Botanical Area hike is a must, especially if you love all things plants!
Distance: 36.5 miles
Required Time: 4 hours just to drive through the road, but at least a day to two days is recommended to make the most out of your time at Los Padres National Forest.
I hope this list of the most scenic drives in California inspired you to hit the road! Even though there are plenty more roads offering incredibly scenic views, these are all great options, especially because they all cross through some of the Golden State’s top highlights and national parks!
Did any of these scenic California drives tempt you to buckle up and head out to the open road? Which one fits your personality the most? Let me know your favorite in the comment section down below.
Hawaii is world-renowned for its white sands and turquoise waters. Beach goodness is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think about a trip to Oahu. But I’ll let you in on a little secret: it’s also a fantastic place for all sorts of outdoor adventures!
Even though most people who visit Oahu tend to focus on the coast, the island is also a mecca for exploring nature. If you’re currently on the lookout for ways to enjoy Hawaii beyond its beaches or you just want to craft a rounded itinerary that includes a bit of everything, here’s the perfect Oahu bucket list for all things nature!
The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List for Nature Lovers
Diamond Head
Diamond Head is a volcanic cone that soars high above Waikiki and Honolulu’s skyline. As one of the most iconic natural landmarks, you’ll probably recognize it right away from seeing it on almost every Honolulu postcard!
If you’re looking for an epic hike but don’t necessarily want to travel too far away from the capital, the Diamond Head Summit Trail is just what you’re after. This 1.6-mile trail will take you to the summit of the volcano. And while the distance may be short, the hike can get pretty challenging due to the rapid altitude gain.
Luckily, the entire trail is paved and stairs are provided on the steepest portions of the hike. Moreover, there are plenty of viewpoints with benches along the way, giving you plenty of reasons to rest your legs!
Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens
If you love natural scenery but don’t necessarily feel like hiking a volcano or walking deep into the forest, Hommaluhia Botanical Gardens is just what you’re looking for.
Surrounded by the majestic Koolau Mountains, this 400-acre property boasts some of the most idyllic settings on the island (think dreamy lakes, streams, and beautiful hiking trails), a visit to Hoomaluhia is a wonderful way to get to know the flora of Hawaii (and beyond) up close.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Located on the southeastern side of Oahu inside the Koko Head Volcanic region, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a perfect combo of beach goodness and adventures out in nature. Especially if you want to explore Oahu’s beaches and mountains in one go!
Thanks to its relatively low-key status, snorkeling here is an absolute dream. Hundreds of species love swimming around Hanauma’s wine glass-shaped bay. Including several endemic animals. While here, keep your eyes out for Hawaiian green sea turtles, who love hanging out around the bay!
After exploring under Hanauma Bay’s waters, you can continue scouring its lush surroundings by hitting a trail or two. A must while here is braving the Koko Head Crater Trail, which will take you all the way up to the volcano’s crater. Another great hike is the Makupu’u Lighthouse Trail. Which is a wonderful option for beginners or those not looking for a very challenging trail.
Ka’ena Point State Park
Legend in ancient Hawaiian folklore has it that Ka’ena Point is the jumping off point for souls leaving this world and hopping into the spirit realm to join their ancestors.
Located at the northwesternmost tip of Oahu and lined by a volcanic coastline, Ka’ena Point State Park boasts some of the most fabulous views in Oahu. With lots of hiking trails available to enjoy the glorious vistas from different angles.
The Ka’ena Point Trail is a must while visiting. This 5-mile hike will have you rocking your way (get the pun?) along the volcanic coast, where you’ll get to catch fabulous views of the Pacific Coast, stumble across tide pools, and have wildlife encounters all throughout.
Waimea Falls Park
If you’ve always dreamt of hiking in the rainforest, Waimea Falls Park provides a wonderful experience that will have you feeling as though you were somehow transported into the Amazonas.
Set on the North Shore of Oahu, the hike to Waimea Falls is considered one of the best trails on the island. The fact that it’s short and accessible makes it perfect for pretty much anyone keen to tackle it. And even though it’s not a very long trail, it still manages to awe visitors with views of lush botanical gardens, walls covered by enormous plants, and vistas of a striking 45-foot waterfall crashing down into a natural pool.
Moreover, Waimea Falls Park is a wonderful place for those looking to learn about Hawaiian culture and the importance nature has to its people. With lots of educational presentations and workshops on offer for curious visitors to enjoy during their visit.
I hope this list of amazing nature spots in Oahu inspired you to visit a few of these places! Even though the entire island is home to stunning views and places worth visiting, these destinations, in particular, provide an excellent opportunity to get more personal with the nature of Oahu.
Which of these places are you most excited to visit? Feel free to let me know all about your nature-filled Oahu itinerary in the comment section below!
It’s also a pretty amazing alternative to The Wave because it looks rather similar. But it’s still far away from the usual traveler’s radar. 
also a pretty incredible experience. As you make your way closer to the site, you’ll be treated to beautiful desert scenery. Make sure you plan a pit stop at the discovery center on the highway, where you’ll get to learn all about the meteorite that created the crater some 50,000 years ago!
haunted.
the last border towns from the area’s mining period. 
absolutely cannot miss out on driving during your trip!
and planes landing and taking off from the airport.
Honolulu, the road ends in Pali Lookout after just 15 minutes, where you’ll get amazing panoramic vistas of the southern part of Oahu.
here’s a little insider tip for those looking for lesser-driven roads: If you drive further on towards the North Shore, you’ll discover one of Hawaii’s best kept secrets.
most iconic views in entire Oahu. When you get to the final viewpoint of the drive, Tantalus Lookout Point, you’ll be treated to some of the most fabulous views of Diamond Head, Honolulu, Waikiki, and the Pacific Ocean!
and tourists alike, if the 5 million annual visitors that go there are any indication. If you like bustling, lively locations and don’t mind the crowds too much, you’ll love it here, especially if you’re into swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.
discreetly hidden behind a grove of Pride Indian trees.
up to 30 feet and make it a favorite of serious, hardcore surfers. Watching these ocean masters is an exciting experience in itself. Which makes it a location worthy of getting a place in your Oahu itinerary if you happen to be there during the surfing season. 
amenities, making it ideal if what you want is a super relaxing day at the beach. 
venture past the first 30 yards where most people hang out. 
you’re looking for is a long road trip with amazing stops lining every mile of the way.
places in the United States. If you’re short on time or simply don’t feel up for hiking under harsh conditions, a great way to get the most out of your time at this incredible national park is by taking the scenic road (Highway 190) that runs right through it!
the Jacinto Reyes Scenic Byway is a dream if what you’re after are gorgeous mountain views and forest adventures.
iconic natural landmarks, you’ll probably recognize it right away from seeing it on almost every Honolulu postcard!
Hommaluhia Botanical Gardens is just what you’re looking for.
swimming around Hanauma’s wine glass-shaped bay. Including several endemic animals. While here, keep your eyes out for Hawaiian green sea turtles, who love hanging out around the bay!
boasts some of the most fabulous views in Oahu. With lots of hiking trails available to enjoy the glorious vistas from different angles.
The fact that it’s short and accessible makes it perfect for pretty much anyone keen to tackle it. And even though it’s not a very long trail, it still manages to awe visitors with views of lush botanical gardens, walls covered by enormous plants, and vistas of a striking 45-foot waterfall crashing down into a natural pool.
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