rachelhopkins99I am going to be honest. My first feelings towards Oahu… were not exactly lovely ones. Waikiki is not my cup of tea. That is where I stayed initially. Honestly if I could do it all over again, I would have stayed on the North Shore for the whole trip and just done day trips to Waikiki. But everyone likes different things. I am just more into the chill surfer town vibes than the busy city vibes.
Oahu is broken up into four areas: North Shore, Waikiki/ Honolulu, East Side, and West Side.
My favorite areas are the North Shore and the East Side of the Island. I love the beaches and the vibe these parts of the island! Away from the hustle and bustle.
Waikiki is the most “convenient” place to stay. I felt a bit overwhelmed by the tourist trap vibes it gives off. I would say go to Waikiki for a day or maybe go for a night out. If you can avoid staying there, I would. Other parts of the island are more welcoming to stay in.
Where to stay
Waikiki
The Beach Waikiki Boutique hostel
This was my favorite of the two hostels we stayed at. Everything was super clean and I loved the set up. We got the private room with a shared bathroom. Honestly, I felt super safe and I made so many great friends! There was a shared refrigerator for the group of 3 rooms and then a lovely patio.
I only stayed here for 2 nights. There was one big shared space I just preferred the set up of the other hostel better.
North Shore
Sadly the Yurt we stayed in is no longer listed on Airbnb. But, here are some photos because we adored it! We loved all our airbnbs! We Also stayed in Brian’s guest suite. The area was super safe and he was very accommodating. It was nothing fancy, but served our purpose.
Coffee
Waikiki/ Honolulu
Island brew Coffee shop- Great for breakie too
North Shore
*Sunrise Shack and Haleiwa Bowls both have awesome coffee *
Food
Waikiki/ Honolulu
We did not eat out a lot in Waikiki… everything was pretty expensive and we make most of our food at the hostel.
Dukes– They have a great happy hour!
Banan– banana soft serve served in a banana peel? This is what dreams are made of.
North Shore
Surf N Salsa– Great taco Tuesday special
Sunrise Shack– This place has my actual heart. Smoothie bowls, stray chickens, and right across the street from the beach.
Haleiwa Joes– Great food and lovely views!
Haleiwa bowls also has my heart. So fresh and right next to the beach.
Farm To Barn– literally eating on a beautiful farm. So fresh. So perfect.
Beaches
Lanikai beach– the most beautiful beach I have ever been to. We rented kayaks from and had the best paddling out to the Mokuluas. 12/10 recommend renting kayaks. My biggest regret is that we did not spend more time here. Such a lovely spot! I was told snorkeling there is perfect! The water was pretty rough while we were there.
Waikiki– was my least favorite beach. It’s iconic…. But crowded. I suggest giving Waikiki one day.
Hanauma Bay Nature preserve– you have to pay a small fee to get in here. It is the perfect swimming hole. And a great place to snorkel!
Sunset beach– Was an actual dream. I spent most of my time here. The waves were too big to really get in but, the beach was so perfect.
Hiking
Koko crater trail– pretty difficult but a beautiful view! Go early it is less busy! This trail was a GREAT workout and has the most beautiful views.
Makapu’u Point lighthouse trail– Beautiful hike super easy and breathtaking views. The trail was paved. A great one to take kids on!
Diamond Head– a gorgeous scenic trail go earlier than later because the trail was very crowded. It was originally part of the coasts arterially defense.
BE A TOURIST
Luau
Ka Moana Luau at Sea life Park- We had the best experience here! Was filled with culture and the food was great! I would recommend getting there a little earlier. They had activities for everyone to participate in. Also: we found a groupon for this one!!!
Surf lessons
Surf N Sea is where I booked my surf lesson. Honestly this was my absolute favorite part of the trip. It was such a dream!
Dole Plantation
Dole Plantation– this place is a pineapple lover’s dream! Recommend getting tickets on the pineapple express! It takes you all over the plantation and tells you about the history! It was all super affordable. Don’t forget to try the Dole Whip!
Oahu is a magical place and this island forever has my heart. This island is filled with so much history and character. Oahu is a MUST. I promise you’ll fall head over heels for this Island too.
infinite X’s and O’s
Rach <3
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