10 Things to Do in Oahu

To celebrate our marriage turning the big 1-0, my husband and I we’re lucky enough to spend a kid-free week on Oahu. While we typically both love exploring off the beaten path, after two and half crazy years of new parenting, we were craving some serious relaxation. On our trip, we were reminded again why Hawaii is such a fabulous vacation spot: it’s so easy to be there. You get the exotic beauty of the tropics with all the amenities of being in the States (drinkable tap water, thank you very much).

Here’s my list of ten must-do things the next time you visit.

1. Hit the Beach, But Skip Waikiki
I know, it’s iconic. But with so many gorgeous beaches, why share towel space with thousands of other people on sand flown in from Molokai (as the urban legend goes)?


Ka'ena

A few favorites:

Lanikai Beach via Matt Sims

Lanikai Beach (Kailua): beautiful and serene with great views of the Mokulua Islands, two small bird sanctuaries right offshore.
Kalama Beach (Kailua): great waves for bodysurfing
Malaekahana Beach (outside Laie): a huge beach nearly empty on weekdays. Prepare to feel like you’ve landed on your own deserted island.
Ka’ena State Park (almost at the end of the road on the North Shore): If you drive through Haleiwa, the road will eventually end. Near the end of the road, is a beautiful, nearly deserted beach that’s the perfect place to feel like you’ve truly stepped away from everything but sand and surf.

Note: These beaches were safe for swimming on the days we visited, but of course be aware of current conditions before jumping in.

2. Pay Your Respects

I was surprised at the way visiting Pearl Harbor impacted both Stefan and me. We were deeply touched at the sacrifices made to literally save the world. While the USS Arizona Memorial was the highlight for me, Stefan loved touring the WWII submarine and the USS Missouri battleship, where the peace treaty ending WWII was signed.

Punchbowl National Cemetery is also worth a trip. It honors those who fought in America’s Pacific Wars. As at all cemeteries, there’s a special feeling of reverence and gratitude.

3. Have Shave Ice as Often as Possible

Confession: I hate snow cones. Hate them. But shave ice is a whole other story. Our favorite was a little hole-in-the-wall place in Honolulu called Ice Garden where two little old ladies serve up old school treats (we ate so fast we forgot to take pictures). We also loved Island Snow in Kailua (President Obama always stops by when he's in town) and Aloha General Store in Haleiwa, where we ate these giant bowls for dinner.

4. Stop at Every Scenic Point

Because they’re actually scenic. We stopped at every one we saw and we’re rewarded with incredible views.

5. Take a Hike

As much as we thought we only wanted to lay on the beach, we found we needed a little something to get the blood pumping. Our favorite hike was the Old Pali Highway, where the view is absolutely spectacular. The Lanikai Pillbox trail is quick, steep, and very rewarding. And if you’re in Oahu, you can’t not hike Diamond Head. Get there early if you want to beat the crowds.

The view from the top of Diamond Head

6. Get Addicted to Crack Seed

No, nothing illegal here. Crack seed is the generic name for a bunch of dehydrated and preserved fruits brought to Hawaii by Chinese immigrants and eaten like candy. On a friend’s recommendation, we visited The Crack Seed Store in Honolulu, full of jars of some of the weirdest looking stuff you’ve ever seen. We were quickly and forever addicted to the li hing mui (super sour dried plums) and chili mango.

7. Eat, Eat, and Eat Some More
A few of our favorite finds:

Kaimuki Superette (Honolulu): Adding seared ahi to a club sandwich might be the best idea ever.

Image via Yelp

Kalbi On Fire (North Shore): Unbelievable Korean barbecue from a food truck (or bus, more accurately).

Uahi Island Grill (Kailua); The catch-of-the day with red curry and papaya salad is seriously delicious.

Via The Pig & The Lady

The Pig & The Lady (Honolulu; Kailua Farmers' Market): Vietnamese sandwiches taken to a whole new level (pho French dip, for example).

8. Treat Yourself to Malassadas

Image via Yelp

I’m not a big donut person, but these little Portuguese treats are unreal (it seems Hawaii turns all my dessert prejudices upside down). They’re basically a ball of fried dough rolled in sugar and served hot. Our favorite place to get them is Agnes’ Portuguese Bake Shop. So, so good.

9. See the LDS Temple in Laie

Image via lds.org

This beautiful temple with its peaceful grounds is worth a stop. Finished in 1919, it’s the oldest temple built outside the continental US and right on the way between Honolulu and the North Shore.

10. Watch the Sunset

You can’t be in Hawaii without taking some time to watch the sunset. Waimea Bay Beach Park (near Haleiwa) is the perfect spot on the North Shore (stop at Ted’s Bakery on the way out for killer chocolate-coconut pie), while Pu’u Ualaka'a State Park is one of the best spots in Honolulu.

Did I miss anything? We'd love to hear your tips for the best of Hawaii.