Makapuʻu Tide Pools
Hidden just below the cliffs of the Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail, these tide pools are one of Oahu’s most breathtaking secret spots. Reached by a steep and rocky descent off the main paved trail, the hike down is challenging and not recommended for beginners or anyone unsteady on their feet. Once there, you’ll find a series of lava-rock pools filled with crystal-clear seawater, where small fish dart between rocks and waves crash dramatically against the shoreline just beyond.
The pools are at their most beautiful and safest during low tide and on calm ocean days, when the water is gentler and the pools shimmer in the sun. Swimming here can be refreshing, but caution is essential: rogue waves can sweep in suddenly, and the sharp rocks make slips easy. Most visitors prefer to simply sit on the edges, dip their feet, and take in the stunning coastal scenery.
From the pools, you’ll also get a unique vantage point looking back at the cliffs, lighthouse, and the vast Pacific beyond a reward for those who make the effort to venture off the beaten path.
Waimanalo Beach
Just a short drive north, Waimanalo Beach is often described as one of the most beautiful beaches on Oʻahu. Stretching for nearly three miles, it offers endless soft white sand backed by ironwood trees, creating plenty of shaded spots perfect for picnics and relaxing.
Unlike the busier beaches of Waikiki, Waimanalo maintains a quiet, local feel. It’s a favorite for families, thanks to its wide shoreline and shallow entry, which make it easy for kids to play safely near the water on calm days. The turquoise waves are gentle most of the year, ideal for swimming and bodyboarding, though conditions can change — so it’s always wise to check the surf before going in.
Facilities include parking, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, making it easy to spend a full day here. With the Koʻolau Mountains rising just inland, the beach offers postcard-worthy scenery in every direction – the perfect contrast to the bustling vibe of Honolulu.
Sea Life Park
Perched right across from Makapuʻu Beach, this marine park is a fun, family-friendly stop that combines entertainment with education about Hawaii’s ocean life. Visitors can watch daily dolphin and sea lion shows, feed tropical birds, and explore exhibits highlighting native marine species such as green sea turtles, reef fish, and Hawaiian monk seals.
For those seeking a more interactive experience, the park offers up-close animal encounters, including the chance to swim with dolphins or meet gentle rays in a touch pool. Educational presentations run throughout the day, making it easy to learn about marine conservation while still enjoying an entertaining outing.
Sea Life Park is compact enough to explore in a few hours, which makes it a great add-on to a day of hiking the Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail or relaxing at nearby beaches. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly layout, shaded areas, and onsite dining options with ocean views.
Hanauma Bay
A short drive from Makapuʻu, Hanauma Bay is one of Oahu’s most iconic snorkeling destinations and a must-visit for ocean lovers. This crescent-shaped bay was formed within a volcanic cone and is now a protected marine life conservation area, home to hundreds of tropical fish species, vibrant coral reefs, and even the occasional sea turtle.
To preserve the fragile ecosystem, the bay has strict visitor limits. Reservations are required in advance, and all guests must watch a short educational video on reef protection before entering. The bay is closed every Monday and Tuesday to allow the marine environment to rest, so plan your trip accordingly.
Snorkeling conditions here are excellent, especially for beginners, thanks to the calm, shallow waters near shore. Families and first-time snorkelers can easily spot colorful parrotfish, butterflyfish, and schools of tangs just a few steps from the beach. For stronger swimmers, venturing farther out reveals deeper reefs and a greater diversity of marine life.
Facilities include parking, restrooms, showers, equipment rentals, and a tram service that saves you the steep walk between the parking lot and the beach. The best time to visit is early in the morning, when the water is clearest, parking is easier, and crowds are lighter.
Koko Crater Trail (Koko Head Stairs)
Just west of Makapuʻu, this trail is not for the faint of heart. Known locally as the “Koko Head Stairs,” it follows a former World War II railway track straight up the side of Koko Crater. The hike consists of more than 1,000 railroad ties acting as steps, climbing nearly 1,000 feet in elevation over less than a mile.
The ascent is a serious workout, often compared to climbing a giant stairmaster under the sun. About halfway up, hikers encounter a bridge-like section where the tracks cross a shallow ravine — adding a bit of thrill (though most simply step on the side for safety).
At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of east Oʻahu, including Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head in the distance, and the coastline stretching all the way to Makapuʻu. Sunrise and sunset hikes are especially popular, though they can be crowded.
Tips: Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and start early to avoid the midday heat. The trail has no shade and can be brutally hot. While challenging, the sense of accomplishment — and the views — make it one of Oʻahu’s most memorable hikes.
Diamond Head
About a 30-minute drive west you can experience Diamond Head – Hawaii’s most iconic volcanic crater and one of Oahu’s most visited landmarks. The trail to the summit is relatively short – just under 1.6 miles round trip. But don’t be fooled: the climb is steep in places, with switchbacks, stairways, and even a tunnel to pass through before reaching the top.
Once at the summit, hikers are rewarded with some of the best panoramic views in Hawaii, stretching over Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. On especially clear days, you can even see as far as the Waianae Mountains in the west.
The hike typically takes 60–90 minutes round trip, making it a great half-day activity. Because of its popularity, it’s wise to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat. Reservations are required for both parking and entry, so plan ahead.
Diamond Head’s combination of dramatic history (it was once a military lookout), accessible length, and postcard-perfect views make it a must-do for first-time visitors to Oʻahu.
