Before we visit Diamond Head, one of Oahu’s most popular hikes, we’ll stop at Diamond Head Lookout to check out views of a popular local surf stop. Take a second to watch the surfers at the beach below. 

The only way to see the best views from Diamond Head are to actually hike up to the old bunker on the top of the crater.

If you plan to hike Diamond Head, proceed and pay a nominal fee at the entrance of $5 per car or $1 per person if you walk in. Parking in the crater can be difficult in the mornings so if this is your case, then your options are to exit the crater and find street parking and then hike back or to try back later in the day when it is less crowded

The hike from inside the crater is just short of 2 miles (3 km) round-trip with a 560 feet elevation gain and takes about 1 ½ hours to complete. It’s classified as easy with good paths and two sets of stairs. At the top, you will find stunning views of Waikiki, Honolulu, and the Pacific Ocean open up in every direction before you. It truly is breathtaking but can also get crowded at times. While here at the crater remember to pick up your trash and stay on the trail. This hike is bussiest in the morning so if you are looking to get away from the crowds a bit, then go in the afternoon before 4:30 pm when it is not too hot. The last entrance to hike the trail is at 4:30 pm. Another option is to hike it early in the morning! The park is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm, every day of the year including holidays. But remember the gates are locked at 6:00 pm daily and all visitors must be out of the park by this time.

If don't want to hike then I recommend just taking a quick drive through the crater by doing a U-turn at the front entrance and exit on the same road you came.

Note: No pets are allowed and CASH ONLY.

http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/

Formed from a series of volcanic eruptions, Hanauma Bay is now a marine life sanctuary. This historic bay was used by Hawaiian royalty for fishing and recreation. It was aptly named Hanauma, which means curved bay, in Hawaiian.

Now, it’s a popular snorkel spot for its variety of marine life and large coral reef. If you want to snorkel at Hanauma Bay you can rent gear for a fee (currently unavailable due to Covid-19) or pack your own to save. 

Please note, Hanauma Bay has a parking fee and an entry fee per person. Arrive early or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and find parking. Hanauma Bay is closed on Monday and Tuesday. 

Pull over and park to witness waves crash into a volcanic rock formation resulting in a geyser-like eruption of water into the air at Halona Blowhole. 

If you want to skip the hike, head over to Makapu’u Scenic Lookout for a view of the historic lighthouse. The giant lens of the Makapu’u Lighthouse is the largest of its kind and is still in operation today – the lens was even exhibited at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. 

Rabbit Island was used as a site for raising rabbits as a food source in the early 1800’s. Coincidentally it also looks like a rabbit with its ears tucked behind it. Can you see the shape of the rabbit in the island?

The smaller island is Shark Fin Island. Ancient Hawaiians believed the island to be the incarnation of shark god. Ocean voyagers and fishermen would place offering on the island for hopes of a bountiful catch or a safe voyage. With some imagination, does it look like a shark fin sticking out of the water to you? Today both of these islands are home to thousands of nesting seabirds.

From this vantage point you will be able to see the Makapu'u Lighthouse nestled on the mountain in the distance.

On your way home, stop at the Pali Lookout. You’ll see the spot where King Kamehameha fought to seize the island of Oahu to make form one united Hawaii. While here, you’ll see placards detailing the history of this spot that has sprawling views of Oahu’s Windward side. 

Please note, Pali Lookout has a small parking fee. 

Waimanalo Bay or as we locals call it, Sherwood Forest, is one of the best beaches on our tour today, and was recently rated the number one best beach in America. This beach is perfect if you are looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy some quality beach time.

No one knows for sure how Waimanalo Bay got the nickname of Sherwood Forest. It’s said that in the old days locals would steal from tourists like Robin Hood – stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. Hence, the name Sherwood Forest.

The best view of the beach is by following the signs to the camping area to your left. Here there is ample parking and a short walk to the beach. The public restrooms here are surprisingly clean.

Pull over for a quick scenic spot at Koko Head Lookout. Here, you’ll see Koko Head Crater, a dormant volcano that’s now a popular hike for it’s intense incline! 

At Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden lush greenery fills this garden oasis while the Koʻolau Mountain Range provides a scenic backdrop. Ho’omaluhia is one of Oahu’s largest gardens at 400-acres. There are a variety of plants from all around the world including, Africa, Polynesia, Sri Lanka, India and of course Hawaii. Ho’omaluhia means “to make a place of peace and tranquility,” and we hope this is exactly what you find here. 

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens closes at 4:00 p.m. and there is no entrance fee. 

If you like good local style breakfast, then you should check out Cinnamon’s while in Kailua. Their menu has a wide range of options from loco moco to red velvet pancakes, and Guava Chiffon pancakes that are to die for. The only downside is you may die waiting for a table here. The wait can be up to an 1.5 hours so plan accordingly especially if you plan to go for breakfast. Their lunch menu is also yummy and great option if you are here around noon. Another breakfast option is Boot’s and Kimo’s not too far down the street.

Cinnamon's
315 Uluniu Street Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Phone: (808) 261-8724
Open Daily 7:00AM – 2:00PM
www.cinnamonsrestaurant.com/

This place has some awesome Breakfast with a Hawaiian twist! You have got to try the banana pancakes with creamy macadamia nut sauce, it is amazing! But this place also has a long wait especially during the morning hours. So go put your name down and then walk around Target for a while. By the time you get back your table should be ready. Another great breakfast option is Cinnamon’s not too far down the street.

Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen
151 Hekili St
Phone number (808) 263-7929

At around the halfway mark of the drive today there is a great local style ice cream place that you got to check out called dave’s ice cream. Here you will find tropical  flavors like macadamia nut,  taro, coconut, Kona coffee, mango, and lychee. You name it and they have it. 

The Koko Head Marina is large assortment of local eateries, waterfront fine dining, as well as boutiques and convenience stores. If parking at Hanauma bay is full, this shopping center is a great alternative to walk around, get a bite to eat, and do some shopping. One of the local favorites is Kona Brewing company with great locally made beer that goes great with their burgers and fries. 

This Marina is also where many popular ocean activities launch from. So if you want to try Stand Up Paddle, Jet ski, Kayak, or even try deep sea diving - then look no further than Koko Head Marina!

If you are looking for a local-style plate lunch that has big portions and great meat, than look no further. This place has some great food and is just a stone’s throw away from a beach. But don’t expect fancy dining here; people come here for the food! Prices are reasonable. The steak and shrimp plate is most popular.

Ono Steaks & Shrimp Shack
41-037 Wailea St
Phone number (808) 259-0808

This is a grocery store located on the back side of Kahala mall. If you are lucky enough to find a parking spot, Whole foods has a wide variety of hot and cold food options that is a help-yourself set up and sold by the pound. This is also a great store to buy some local snacks before the South Shore driving tour.

Whole Foods
4211 Wai'alae Avenue
Honolulu, HI 6816
808.738.0820
www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/honolulu

If you plan to hike Diamond Head, proceed and pay a nominal fee at the entrance of $5 per car or $1 per person if you walk in. Parking in the crater can be difficult in the mornings so if this is your case, then your options are to exit the crater and find street parking and then hike back or to try back later in the day when it is less crowded

The hike from inside the crater is just short of 2 miles (3 km) round-trip with a 560 feet elevation gain and takes about 1 ½ hours to complete. It’s classified as easy with good paths and two sets of stairs. At the top, you will find stunning views of Waikiki, Honolulu, and the Pacific Ocean open up in every direction before you. It truly is breathtaking but can also get crowded at times. While here at the crater remember to pick up your trash and stay on the trail. This hike is busiest in the morning so if you are looking to get away from the crowds a bit, then go in the afternoon before 4:30 pm when it is not too hot. The last entrance to hike the trail is at 4:30 pm. Another option is to hike it early in the morning! The park is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm, every day of the year including holidays. But remember the gates are locked at 6:00 pm daily and all visitors must be out of the park by this time

Koko Head is a large tuff cone that you can't miss. To get to the trailhead, use offline directions in this app where it will direct you through a residential area before dead-ending at Koko Head Park. The trail is a few hundred feet from the parking lot. If not sure, just start heading towards the big mountain and can't miss the 1000+ railroad ties that ascend the mountain.

This hike is one of those epic hikes that is heart-wrenchingly difficult but equally as rewarding once you reach the top. But be prepared to gain 600+ feet in elevation over a very short distance. This trail is straight up and not for the faint of heart. If you are in descent condition be prepared to hike for about 2 hours round trip. Make sure you bring adequate water, snacks and sun protection. There is no shade on the trail.

If there is no parking at Hanauma Bay park here at Koko Head Park for extra parking.

The views from the top of Koko Head are some of the best you will find in Hawaii!

To really experience Makapu’u point and see the lighthouse up close, you really need to hike it! There is a 2 mile round-trip hike on a wide and stroller friendly road to the top that will take about 1 1/2 hours round trip. But believe me, the pictures from the top are excellent!

Between December and April, this is one of the best places to spot humpback whales that come to Hawaii from Alaska to spawn. Also look for the Great Frigate bird, that can glide for hours from the powerful updraft here with wingspan as wide as 8 feet long.

This paved hike is considered family-friendly and the view from the top is truly breathtaking. But you should know that there is little shade and no water along the hike, so make sure you are prepared for the sun and possibly strong wind. If you can't fit it in your schedule today, perhaps consider returning another day where you can really take your time on the hike.

www.dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/hiking/oahu/makapuu-point-lighthouse-trail/

www.dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/kaiwi-state-scenic-shoreline/

If you’re looking to hike one more time before you drive home for the day, head to the Judd Trail. This one-mile path runs parallel to Old Pali Road, a small stretch of the original roadway that connected Honolulu to Oahu’s west side. You’ll walk through a jungle trail, passing streams and small waterfalls along the way. Once you reach the end of the trail you’ll come across a swimming hole -- feel free to jump in! This hike is family friendly, but you’ll have to cross a stream to get there and it can get muddy and slippery if it’s been raining. 

The first stop on this tour is a visit to Kapiolani Park where you can have a breakfast picnic before embarking on the long day ahead. If you do, you’ll dine with views of Diamond Head, a dormant volcano in the background. 

The Honolulu Zoo is a 42 acre zoo home to some 900+ different animals. This zoo has a wide collection of animals for a relatively small park. And since this zoo is oriented in a tropical region it has everything from elephants to monkeys, a variety of tropical birds, and even tigers. For children their favorite part of zoo is the petting zoo with an assortment of farm animals and pets to interact with. There is also a pretty large open area park nearby with a large climbing structure that kids love!

Admission is $14 for adults and $6 for children. Make sure you bring good walking shoes and be prepared to spend at least half day to see all the animals.

Honolulu Zoo
151 Kapahulu Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 971-7171
www.honoluluzoo.org/default.htm

The Waikiki Aquarium is small but still has an amazing assortment of tropical fish. This aquarium is famous for it's endangered Hawaii Monk Seal exhibit as well as it's seahorse, seadragon, and pipefish displays. They also have some larger fish on display such as sharks but sorry no Killer Whales or dolphins. What is nice about this aquariums is it is air conditioned so a good alternative from the beach, especially on those hot days! Plan on about 2 hours to see the entire aquarium. There are audio tour wands that you can input a number and listen to an explanation of each sea animal if you have the time and interest.

Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for kids. Toddlers under 3 are free. It is open 7 days a week from 9am - 4:30pm.

Waikiki Aquarium
2777 Kalakaua Ave
Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 923-9741

www.waikikiaquarium.org/

Diamond Head is one of Waikiki’s most iconic landmarks. If you’ve seen a picture of Waikiki, you’ve most likely seen Diamond Head in the backdrop. This dormant volcano was formed from a massive eruption thousands of years ago. The crater is now the site of a 1.6-mile, family-friendly hike. Once you reach the summit you’ll get views of Honolulu, and Oahu’s southeastern coast. 

Please note, Diamond Head has a parking fee per car that is cash only. 

If you have children and want to take them snorkeling, Hanauma Bay is really your best bet on island. It is the safest beach with an easy beach entry and fairly calm water year round. Snorkeling can be pretty scary for younger children, not because of the fish but breathing through a tube while your head is underwater takes getting some used to. So just be patient. Playing on the beach is always a great alternative!

Since the Bay is a Marine Conservation District, there over 450 types of sea life waiting for you beneath the water’s surface.

According to scientists, Hanauma Bay was actually formed as the volcano that used to stand here, collapsed under its own weight.

At the Bay you will be asked to pay a $1 parking fee. Even if you don’t plan to snorkel at the bay, I’d still recommend that you pay the parking fee, and enjoy the gorgeous view of the bay from the parking area. For those who are interested in snorkeling, there is an additional entrance fee of $7.50 per person. Admission fee is waived for persons 12 years & younger. Before going down to the bay you will be asked to watch a short video about ocean conservation. The walk down to the bay is a little steep so be careful, for a few bucks you can take a shuttle down and up from the bay. Going down is not hard but after swimming all day at the bay, you will be very thankful for the shuttle! Oh, and don’t worry if you don’t have snorkel gear, there is a rental place down at the beach, where you can also rent a locker for your belonging. You can also find restroom here for those who need it.

My recommendation is to plan to get to the bay early. The parking lot often fills up early and you will be turned away if it is full. By getting an extra early start you will avoid long lines at the ticket booth and snorkel concession. If there is no parking at Hanauma Bay look for Koko Head Park - extra parking under highlights.

For the spring / summer months, Hanauma Bay is open daily from 6:00a.m. until 7:00p.m. except on Tuesdays. They are closed all day on Tuesdays. In the Fall winter months it closes an hour early at 6pm

I hope you have a great time at the bay!

Official Bay Website: www.honolulu.gov/cms-dpr-menu/site-dpr-sitearticles/1716-hanauma-bay-home.html

Prepare to see some of the bluest water you’ve ever set your eyes on while walking Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail. This hike was formed on the site of an inactive volcano that overlooks the southeast shores of Oahu. On a clear day you can even see Moloka’i and Maui! And, if you’re hiking in the winter, you might see Humpback whales. Makapu’u is considered easy and is paved the entire way. 

Sea Life Park is the best place on island to get up close and personal with sea animals. This park is a full day paid destination with a focus on educational and interactive shows that allows you to watch dolphins, sea lions, sharks, manta rays, and native fish. They also have a pretty decent Luau if you want to stay until the evening. Admission ranges from $20 - $30 per person for adults or juniors. Their are other activities like swimming with dolphins that cost more but just may be worth it if you have always wanted to!

Sea Life Park
41-202 Kalanianaole Highway #7
Waimanalo, HI 96795 USA
808-259-2500

www.sealifeparkhawaii.com/ 

If you are hot from driving and want to cool off in a nice little protected cove, you should consider checking out the Makapuu beach park tidepools. Natural lava rocks surround this part of the beach creating a protective cove with water 3-5 feet depending on the tide. For kids this place is better than a water park! The rocks here are safe for them to jump off and cannon ball into the shallow water. There are also shallow tidepools here that act as a natural nursery for sea life. Kids just love to explore looking for crabs, shells, and baby fish! Use caution as the rocks are sharp at places. The beach park is on the ocean side just past Sea Life Park.

Waimanalo Bay or as we locals call it, Sherwood Forest, is one of the best beaches on our tour today, and was recently rated the number one best beach in America. This beach is perfect if you are looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy some quality beach time with your children. What is nice about this beach is the waves are relatively small and predictable allowing children to have fun splashing and jumping in the ocean waves. After they are tired, built a sandcastle!

No one knows for sure how Waimanalo Bay got the nickname of Sherwood Forest. It’s said that in the old days locals would steal from tourists like Robin Hood – stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. Hence, the name Sherwood Forest.

The best view of this beach is by following the signs to the camping area to your left. Here there is ample parking and a short walk to the beach. The public restrooms here are suprisingly clean.

The Old Pali Road off the main highway winds through a beautiful tree tunnel with a hidden waterfall. It is a quick side trip off the main road and is the only chance on the South Shore Tour to experience a tropical rainforest.

Even Hawaiian royalties enjoyed this lush forest. It was said that King Kamehameha III once hosted a luau of 10,000 guests in this area.

After a small bridge on this road, look for a trailhead sign on your left for Judd trail. It is kind of small and easy to miss but again just keep an eye out for the bridge. Park next to the road and walk just a short distance past the trail sign. You will find a small waterfall, stream, and bamboo forest. If it rained recently, the waterfall can be gorgeous and gushing with water. Kids love exploring this rainforest area and waterfall so take your time here. Be sure to take a few pictures. Watch for cars when you cross the street.

There is an 0.75 mile loop hike called Judd trail further downstream that you may be feeling up to. Read more under South Shore Hikes.

This beach-side town is home to quaint eateries, mom-and-pop shops, and local art galleries. Go for a walk around the town to shop for unique souvenirs from one of the many unique stores before grabbing lunch at a cute cafe or coffee shop! 

The Koko Head Marina is large assortment of local eateries, waterfront fine dining, as well as boutiques and convenience stores. If parking at Hanauma bay is full, this shopping center is a great alternative to walk around, get a bite to eat, and do some shopping. This Marina is also where many popular ocean activities launch from. So if you want to try Stand Up Paddle, Jet ski, Kayak, or even try deep sea diving - then look no further than Koko Head Marina!

The Kahala Mall is your first shopping opportunity of the day and the 2nd biggest mall near Waikiki. This mall has many big name stores and restaurants similar to Waikiki and is also quite large so be prepared to walk. Along the back side of the mall is a Whole Foods and Starbucks with a large food court where many locals like to hang out. Whole Foods is your best bet to buy some locally made gift items to take home with you to share with friends and family. You want to want consider coming back here another day or after the South Shore Tour.

Formed from a series of volcanic eruptions, Hanauma Bay is now a marine life sanctuary. This historic bay was used by Hawaiian royalty for fishing and recreation. It was aptly named Hanauma, which means curved bay, in Hawaiian.

Now, it’s a popular snorkel spot for its variety of marine life and large coral reef. If you want to snorkel at Hanauma Bay you can rent gear for a fee (currently unavailable due to Covid-19) or pack your own to save. 

Please note, Hanauma Bay has a parking fee and an entry fee per person. Arrive early or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and find parking. Hanauma Bay is closed on Monday and Tuesday. 

Waimanalo Bay or as we locals call it, Sherwood Forest, is one of the best beaches on our tour today, and was recently rated the number one best beach in America. This beach is perfect if you are looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy some quality beach time.

No one knows for sure how Waimanalo Bay got the nickname of Sherwood Forest. It’s said that in the old days locals would steal from tourists like Robin Hood – stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. Hence, the name Sherwood Forest.

The best view of the beach is by following the signs to the camping area to your left. Here there is ample parking and a short walk to the beach. The public restrooms here are surprisingly clean.

Kailua Beach Park was voted the best beach in 2019 by Dr. Beach, Kailua has soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and gentle waves. This makes it perfect for kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding. If you’d like to give either sport a try, you can rent gear in town. Other Kailua pros: there’s free parking, picnic tables, and public restrooms. 

Lanikai Beach is just a few minutes down the road from Kailua. It’s on the same stretch of shore, but it’s a bit more remote. You’ll also get picture-perfect views of the mokes, two small islands off the coast. There’s no public parking at Lanikai, so be mindful of the parking restrictions when you visit. 

If you are hot from driving and want to cool off in a nice little protected cove, you should consider checking out the Makapuu beach park tidepools. Natural lava rocks surround this part of the beach creating a protective cove with water 3-5 feet depending on the tide. For kids this place is better than a water park! The rocks here are safe for them to jump off and cannon ball into the shallow water. There are also shallow tidepools here that act as a natural nursery for sea life. Kids just love to explore looking for crabs, shells, and baby fish! Use caution as the rocks are sharp at places. The beach park is on the ocean side just past Sea Life Park.

Sandy’s is famous for its shorebreak, which is when waves break directly onshore. If you stop at Sandy’s, you should skip swimming (it’s one of the most injury-prone beaches on Oahu). Instead, just watch the bodyboarders; daring adventurers that don’t use a board at all -- just fins and their bodies to ride the waves. 

If there is no parking at hanauma bay than you will need to park at koko head park and hike a mile in. If you choose this option, I’d recommend that you unload everything first at the bay and then just have the driver do the hike.  To get to the park take your first left at the stoplight before Hanauma Bay next to the shopping center. From there you will pass through a residential area before arriving at Koko Head Park. Use the offline directions in this app to get directions.

This is your best bet if you want to rent a Kayak or anything else for some ocean fun. They are located just a short stroll down the street from Kailua beach. If you rent Kayak, they provide wheeled carts to help you walk your Kayak to the beach. Otherwise you will need to strap your Kayak on your roof and drive to either Kailua or Lanikai beach.

You can get a single Kayak for a 1/2 day for $60 and a double man Kayak 1/2 day for $70. There are also optional tours for an extra charge.

www.kailuasailboards.com/

A better way to explore Oahu  

Hui gives you access to cars that you can rent by the hour or day. Book a reservation and unlock one of over 100 vehicles around Oahu, all through the app. Hui Car Share is available on both iOS and Android devices.

Hui is a superior alternative to legacy car rentals:

• Sensible cost – Pay for what you use. There are no monthly or sign-up fees. 
  Instant access – Spend no time waiting in line or filling out paperwork. With the app, you can access a vehicle on demand, 24/7. 
  
• Flexibility – You can book a car for a couple hours at an hourly rate or at a reduced daily rate for all reservations longer than 10 hours. 
  
• Near you – Hui has over 38 stations and 105 cars around Oahu

Additional benefits:

• Free gas 
• Free parking at the station 
• No mileage fees 
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• Insurance is included ($1,000 deductible, no “loss of use” fees) using the app 

Signing up takes just a few minutes:
1. Download the Hui Car Share app on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store 
2. Create a Hui account 
3. Specify a time 
4. Choose your station

At the time of your reservation: 
1. Go to the station 
2. Unlock the car using the buttons in the app 
3. Go on your Shaka Guide Adventure!

Click here to download the Drive Hui App.

Honolulu International Airport (HNL)

Hours: Open daily 5AM-11PM

Address: 3255 Aolele St, Honolulu, HI, US, 96819

Phone: +1 808-836-2213

Book here 

Waikiki

Hours: Open daily 7AM-2PM

Address: 

445 Seaside Ave #3c, Honolulu, HI 96815

Phone: (808) 922-0090

Book here

Kakaako

Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30AM-5PM, Sat 9AM-12PM, Closed Sun

Address: 677 Ala Moana Blvd #100, Honolulu, HI 96813

Phone: (808) 536-1555

Book here

Honolulu International Airport (HNL)

Hours: Open daily 5AM-12AM

Address: 3055 N Nimitz Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96819

Phone: (808) 833-4585

Book here

Waikiki - Discovery Bay

Hours: Open daily 7AM-7PM

Address:  1778 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96815

Phone: (808) 947-6112

Book here

Waikiki - Kaiulani

Hours: Open daily 7AM-7PM

Address: 151 Kaʻiulani Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815

Phone: (808) 926-1891

Book here