As an ode to my hometown, I had to write a post with my top travel recommendations (since I get asked this a lot) for anyone visiting! Hawaii is truly a special and unique place and I’m not just saying that because I grew up there. I moved away about 10 years ago which is absolutely crazy to me! I can’t believe I’ve been away for so long but I also try to travel back as much as possible and when I do I cherish it more and more each time. You know what they say, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Each time I go back, I am more and more adamant about what I want to do to make the most of my time. So without further ado, here are my top 10 Oahu must do’s.

1. HIKE KOKO HEAD CRATER TRAIL

One of the most popular hikes with the locals. I have a love-hate relationship with this hike but ultimately it is a killer workout with a killer view. It’s basically an old railroad track that goes all the way up a steep crater. I call this the “Hawaiian StairMaster.” Be prepared and bring lots of water and a cold towel because you’re going to need this especially on a hot day. You won’t be able to feel your legs but the view at the top makes everything worth it. 

2. VISIT LANIKAI BEACH

If you’re lucky and able to find parking, this is truly one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Situated on the windward side of Oahu, Lanikai beach has crystal blue waters and white sandy beaches. Everything you imagine Hawaii to look like. Just don’t forget your sunscreenor else you’ll burn. 

3. HIT-UP THE BEST BEACH BAR AT DUKE’S WAIKIKI

This is such a “tourist-like” thing to do but I absolutely love going to Duke’s Waikiki because in my opinion it is one of the best beach bar experiences. Just make sure to go on Sundays because Henry Kapono, Hawaii-renowned singer, plays an awesome set as the sunsets. Not to mention they have some of the best maitai’s around and the calamari is pretty darn good too!

 

4. STAY AT PRINCE WAIKIKI RESORT

Normally I stay at home when I go back to visit but now my new favorite thing to do is to stay at Prince Waikiki for a few nights. They recently renovated it and it is STUNNING. One of the things I like most about this hotel is that it is situated at the very beginning of Waikiki across from Ala Moana Shopping Center. It also has a different view compared to other hotels, one of the boat pier instead of the beach. Pair that along with the floor to ceiling windows, and you got yourself a 5 star view. The infinity pool here is also just as good as the view from the hotel room.

5. ROAD TRIP TO NORTH SHORE

Home to some of the world’s best surfers, there is something special about the North Shore and it’s not just the waves. North Shore has an old town feel with only one road going through most of Haleiwa. They also have some of the best “ono-kine grinds” and pretty amazing sunsets. My favorite beach ever is Sunset Beach. Be sure to check it out and you’ll see why they name it Sunset Beach. If you’re feeling up for it, I took Shark diving tour here and it was an amazing experience!

6. HIKE TO A BEAUTIFUL WATERFALL

Because who doesn’t want those insta-worthy photos? There are a handful of great waterfall hikes on Oahu and any one of them will be beautiful. One that I would recommend for first timers is Maunawili Falls in Kailua. Just make sure to bring some mosquito repellent because they will attack you like no other and wear appropriate shoes for muddy conditions. It’s a short 4 mile hike to this beautiful waterfall.

  Photo Credit: Nico’s Pier 38

7. EAT AT NICO’S PIER 38

I had to throw in a must eat spot. For some reason, I still feel like a lot of people don’t know about this place but they seriously have the best tasting and freshest fish on the islands. Some of my personal favorites include the Kama and ahi belly bites. I crave this all the time.

8. WATCH THE SUNSET AT “PRAY FOR SETS” BEACH

This is by far one of the most serene beaches in the whole world. Yes, that sounds extra but I’m not lying. It’s far away from Waikiki but the drive is worth it. Have a picnic and make a day of it because the sunset’s are unreal and the water is amazing.

9. RELAX AT KO’OLINA BEACH

Head to the west side of the island and get out of Waikiki. Ko’olina has some great relaxing beach coves where the Four Seasons and Disney Aulani hotel reside. What I like most about these beaches is that you can easily hop into some of the restaurants and grab a drink and bite to eat. It’s also sunny on this side of the island majority of the time.

10. CHECK OUT THE INFINITY POOL AT SHERATON WAIKIKI

Ok, who doesn’t love a good infinity pool? Along with Prince Waikiki and Sheraton Waikiki, your hawaii infinity pool needs will definitely be met. This one sits right along the ocean so you feel like you’re in the ocean but you’re in the pool chillin’ on a floaty and just livin’ the dream. Like c’mon – this picture should do it justice.

Whew… what a lengthy post but I felt I had to do you the service of recommending my favorite spots. It was hard to fit everything in one post, so I’ll be sure to follow up with another one later. What are your favorite spots to visit in Hawaii? Let me know in the comments below. Aloha!