As the most populated island in Hawaii and the most visited one of them all, Oahu is usually the first island most first-timers in the state visit. Boasting a vast shoreline, volcanoes, and idyllic forests, there’s plenty to do in Oahu to keep you entertained no matter how long you’re visiting.
With so many visitors flocking to the island, it’s easy to imagine that escaping the crowds in Oahu is not an easy feat. But don’t despair if you’re the type of traveler who prefers to avoid tourist hotspots. With a little effort, you can visit some really sweet hidden gems here!
Hidden Gems in Hawaii You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
Kaena Point State Park
Lying placidly at the northwestern most tip of the island, Kaena Point State Park is a beach park not many
Although Kaena’s is not a great place for swimming because of the strength of the waves here, hiking here is absolutely splendid. A 2.7 mile-long trail runs along the shore and up some steep rocks, which pretty much guarantees stunning views every step of the way. Some of the highlights you’ll get to appreciate are the volcanic coast, tide pools, caves, and even some natural rock arches. If you’re lucky, you might even see dolphins. But you have to get there early in the morning!
Kawela Bay
If you don’t exactly love crowds, Kawela Beach is just right for you because very few people visit this off-the-beaten-path gem in Oahu! This beautiful beach has trees lining the entire shoreline, which makes for a very
Moreover, Kawela’s waves are very calm most of the time. Making it a great Oahu beach to visit if you’re traveling with kids.
Goat Island
Located a mere 720 feet from Malaekahana State Recreation Area, Mokuʻauia Island, or Goat Island as it’s more commonly called by the locals, is a flat islet in Laie Bay.
What makes it very special is the fact that it’s made of lithified dunes, a truly unique sight. There are no
Pro tip: This is a protected seabird sanctuary. So it’s important to stay away from the center of the island, where the seabirds lay their eggs. But you can still see them at a distance.
Goat Island is close enough to the beach that you can swim over. Wading your way over is not recommended at all. Because you can cut yourself with the coral reef underneath, damaging it in the process too. If you’re not too fond of the idea of swimming over, you can paddle on a bodyboard or surfboard!
Mokuauia Island boasts three different beaches. But your best bet is the one located on the left side of the islet because this beach is protected from strong waves by cliffs, which make it perfect for floating in very calm waters with gorgeous views of Oahu’s mountains in the background.
Kahuku Farms
If you love organic dining and want to live a truly unique experience in Oahu, go to Kahuku Farms, where you can tour the estate and sample fresh fruits directly from the vine!
What began as a small roadside shop a long time ago has turned into a great place to visit. After strolling through the farm and eating farm-to-table-goodies, you can also shop for some natural beauty and self-care products!
Byodo-In Temple
Oahu has its very own small replica of the Byodo-In Temple in Japan. This version was built in Kahaluu as a
Mermaid Cove
Mermaid Cove is probably one of the biggest hidden gems in Oahu, to the point that there are no tours for visitors available to this off-the-beaten-track location. You’ll have no problem getting there. Though, if you’re willing to walk a bit and find your way through some tunnels. Just head to Nanakuli Beach Park and you’ll be sure to find it.
The magical thing about Mermaid Cove is that its caverns are partly underwater. Creating a stunning effect when sunlight is reflected on its walls. Seeing this unique light spectacle is a reward well worth the effort of getting there.
Electric Beach
Electric Beach is certainly an unusual name. But there is a logical explanation for it. A power plant was built across the street from this location so that just about explains it.
What makes this beach so delightful, though, is the fact that the warm water that is thrown from the plant into the ocean attracts marine life like a magnet! Needless to say, snorkeling here is an almost otherworldly experience. Make sure to go close to the water pipe because that’s where tons of animals like to hang out.
China Walls
China Walls is a very particular formation of rocks jutting into the ocean. Which produces an alluring view as
Have you ever visited any of these hidden gems on Oahu or know of others? If you’ve got any other exciting places to visit on the island that didn’t make it to this post, let me know all about them in the comment section below!
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