If you know anything about my family and I, you know it is just our luck that the one time we decide to go to Hawaii it is literally exploding. Thankfully, we were not vacationing at the Big Island, and this did not affect our trip.
The Griffith Hawaiian adventure started at the island of Oahu. Que the Moana playlist*
In my opinion this island does not get enough credit. I was told Oahu was over crowded, the homeless population was considerably substantial, and the traffic was terrible (which it was), but overall Oahu was by far my favorite, and numerous times throughout the day I found myself speechless, jaw dropped, gazing in amazement questioning how this place was real life.
Surprisingly, I had nothing planned for this trip, which is not me at all. I am usually the annoying person that researches everything beforehand, and creates an hour by hour laminated schedule with enough copies for everyone in the group to understand what we will be doing for the day.
I quickly learned Oahu was much different than any vacation I have ever been on, and I was immediately immersed in the easy-going lifestyle. There was no need for a to-do list because no matter what the day brought it was nothing short of breathtaking.
Now, granted, we squeezed exploring all of Oahu into just shy of a week! So, I still have a bunch of places I want to see, but this was a great start. I hope my insight will help plan your next trip!
Stay | North Shore
If you go to Oahu, you MUST explore the North Shore. Haleiwa is the most darling surf town that gives you a more authentic dose of the ‘Hawaii Life’ – we felt much more at home on this side of the island! Off the unbeaten path, free from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, we rented a house with a walkout private beach filled with hidden tidepools, and captivating sunsets. The homeowners had snorkeling gear and boogie boards that we were free to use. We found renting to be much more budget friendly, and gave us more opportunity to explore the island on our own without feeling restricted to staying within a resort.
Click Here to see additional pictures + specific details about the house we stayed at. I highly recommend renting it for your next stay!
Oahu Food
For the most part we ate breakfast at the house everyday, but here are some of my families favorite lunch and dinner places.
Food trucks: There are so many to pick from! Honestly you cannot go wrong with any of them, but some of our favorites were Giovannis, North Shore Tacos, and Pupukea Grill.
Dukes Waikiki: I recommend coming here after hiking Diamond Head. This place is known for its beach front location, surf n’ turf vibes, and tropical drinks! We even saw the Instagram famous "Terrance J and Golden Barbie" (Jasmine Sanders).
Kona Brewing Company: Perfect place to carb load after the KoKo Crater Head hike. The pub is set on the docks of the Koko Marina and provides outstanding views. With 48 different beer options-- even I found a beer I enjoyed, which is beyond rare.
Haleiwa Beach House: Located across from Ali’i beach, this popular restaurant offers unmatched Haleiwa views. Make sure to make a reservation beforehand!
Kahuka Farms: A perfect little farm to table cafe. Not only is the food incredible, but you are supporting local families and eating the freshest food around.
Oahu Local | Farmer’s Market
Kahuku Land Farms Stand was a hidden gem we came across while driving aimlessly. I eat extremely healthy probably 90% of the time, so coming to Hawaii and being surrounded by fresh (affordable) fruit stands was pretty much Heaven to me. It only seemed fitting to buy a coconut drink. (Oh, and make sure you try lychee)!
Oahu Beaches | Lanikai + Kailua Beach
These beaches are stunning! Absolutely beautiful white sands, talcum powder soft + clear, sparkling aqua waters. They tend to be tourist hot spots (but locals also love them) so make sure to get there early if you want a bit less busy of a scene.
Oahu Hikes | Lanikai Pillbox Hike + KoKo Head
Lanikai Pillbox: A moderate 1 hour hike round trip with striking views of the Mokulua islands, Kailua Beach + Lanikai Beach. It is truly a bird’s eye view you will not want to miss! You can easily reach the first military bunker (aka ‘pillbox’) in about 20-30 minutes. From that point you can walk along the top of the ridge to the second and third pillbox (less crowded, definitely go if you’re feeling adventurous!)
For directions + specifics, click here.
KoKo Crater Head: Prepare to sweat. Not to be dramatic, but this hike felt like I was climbing the stairway to my death. Although I saw a wide variety of people attempting the hike, be sure to wear tennis shoes and pack a lot of water for the 1000+ stairs. The hike took us about 45 minutes to get to the top. As challenging as this hike was the panoramic views from the top were so rewarding.
For directions + specifics, click here.
Oahu Shopping | Waikiki
The last thing I needed was to buy more clothes on this trip, but I couldn't resist in Waikiki's luxury Royal Hawaiian Center. I mean c'mon the Kate Spade had two levels... how could I not go in and treat my addiction?! The center is situated along Kalakaua Avenue, in front of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel and Sheraton Waikiki, just minutes from Waikiki Beach.
Oahu Snorkeling | Shark’s Cove
Shark's Cove has been rated by Scuba Diving Magazine as one of the "Top Twelve Shore Dives in the World". Here you are expected to find an abundance of sea life including turtles. Sadly the current was so strong that even the best divers were not testing the waters. We did however head to the south side of Sharks Cove into the Pupukea tide pools; which was a great place to explore.
Oahu sights | Halona Blowhole + Tidepools at Makapu’u + China Walls
Click the pictures below for more information + specific directions on how to get there.
Halona Blowhole
Tidepools at Makapu'u
China Walls
Oahu Bucketlist | Next Trip
Based on local insider knowledge, here are a few activities we did not have time for, but are definitely on my list for next time. I would also love to know your favorite spots in Oahu in case I missed anything.
Moana Falls: A 150-foot waterfall located in the Manoa Falls Trail in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Diamondhead Hike: The trail takes you to the edge of a 300,000 year old crater.
Haiku stairs: Also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is a steep hiking trail with a total 3,922 steps span along Oahu's Ko'olau mountain range.
Dole Plantation: Book a tour, or just stop by to enjoy my favorite treat: Dole Whip!
Aloha Stadium Marketplace: Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Keep an eye out for my upcoming post about how to plan your next vacation to Maui!
Until then, happy wanderlusting!
-XOXO Cami
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