Waikīkī has its heavenly beach, and the hike to the summit of Diamond Head Crater is famous the world over — and they both deserve to be on your Oʻahu checklist. But there are plenty of other spots with equally lush Hawaiian scenery and postcard-worthy views where you can enjoy a hike or beach trip without encountering quite so many crowds.
As always, pack water and sunscreen, and stay on the hiking trails to avoid creating erosion.
Windward Oʻahu (East Side)
Kalama Beach Park features the same powdery sand as the famous Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai but it’s more of a locals' spot. Check out the sweeping view of turquoise Kailua Bay, feel the afternoon's tropical breezes, and test out your boogie-boarding skills.
Tip: The beach park offers showers and restrooms, and there’s a broad selection of casual restaurants nearby. So, when you're ready to dip back into civilization, you'll be all set.
Heading up the Windward Coast toward the North Shore, you'll come across the quaint town of Hauʻula. The 2.7-mile Hauʻula Loop Trail, lined with Cook pines and ironwood trees, offers plenty of shade and presents both panoramic valley and gulch views. In the rainy season, you may even spot a waterfall or two.
TIP: Most trail experts recommend following the loop clockwise.
North Shore
To tackle the Keālia Trail, get an early start while it’s still cool. The trail is on a steady incline that rewards hikers with sweeping views of the North Shore, the surfers' town of Haleʻiwa, and Waimea Bay. Look for noni (sour fruit) and kukui (candlenut) trees, used in Native Hawaiian culture, and enjoy watching skydivers gently waft down to land at nearby Dillingham Airfield.
TIP: The trail is 7.6 miles, in and out, but many hikers do the first 1.5 miles only, taking in the beach views.
Near Downtown Honolulu
Mount Tantalus, an extinct cinder cone some 2,000 feet above sea level, boasts a network of hiking trails. The winding, tree canopy-lined drive through the rainforest alone is worth your time — even if you don't set foot on a trail.
TIP: For an easy, fragrant trek through the forest, try the Nāhuina Trail. The 1.6-mile walk is shady and woodsy.
Leeward Oʻahu (West Side)
Take advantage of the tranquility and consistently sunny weather found on this side of the island. For an unforgettable sunset, cozy up on a towel at one of the public Ko Olina beach lagoons that are adjacent to the private resorts.
Mākaha Beach, north of the Ko Olina resort area, can have 20-foot surf in winter months, so swing by to watch pro surfers tackle epic waves. The surf is much lower in the summer, ideal for swimming and boogie-boarding. When snorkeling, keep your eyes out for green sea turtles — they just may join you on an expedition.
TIP: Weekdays are the least crowded times to experience the beach here.
Where To Stay:
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa
Located mere moments from the picturesque shores of Waikīkī Beach stands your Honolulu oasis. Here, you can immerse yourself in the essence of Aloha as you relax and recharge.
Swim in the pool and enjoy jaw-dropping views of the ocean. Work out in the 24-hour fitness center. Pamper yourself at Na Ho’ola Spa. Visit the Pualeilani Atrium Shops for charming boutiques, specialty stores, and dining. Or try one of these on-site restaurants for locally sourced dining experiences:
- The Buffet at Hyatt – dinner
- SHOR – breakfast
- SWIM – Poolside restaurant with live music and happy hour
Ready to make your dream a reality and start creating unforgettable Hawaiian memories?
Visit The Lounge to convert your Platinum Points or Portfolio Points to World of Hyatt® Bonus Points and start planning today.
* No inquiry has been made into the off-site locations, activities, services, or events, or the qualifications, safety, or quality of the off-site locations, activities, services, or events, and WHV Resort Group, Inc. and HV Global Group, Inc. (collectively, “HVC”) make no warranty, express or implied, as to the condition, capacity, performance, or any other aspect of such off-site locations, activities, events, or service providers listed herein. Do not consider this an endorsement of or recommendation for any of the off-site locations, activities, services, events, or providers. Neither WHV Resort Group, Inc. nor HV Global Group, Inc. assumes liability for attendance at, or visits to, any off-site locations, or the products, activities, or services furnished by independent service providers. Additional fees and costs may apply. Activities and events are subject to change. Some activities or events may require the participant to be in good health and have a certain level of skill.
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