O‘ahu, Hawaii

NOTE: as of April 2021, this trail is closed indefinitely. Please do not attempt to hike on closed trails.  This trail is not for the faint of heart or those easily scared of heights. The crouching lion trail is a 4 mile loop with an elevation gain of 2,000 feet. The elevation gains and losses a...

Foster Botanical Garden is a loop trail that is used for walking and nature trips located near Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii.

There's no better way to spend a relaxing day in Hawaii than sitting out on the Kaneohe Bay Sandbar, surrounded by great views of the Koolau Range and Oahu coastline. Located in northeast Oahu, the Kaneohe Sandbar is a fun place to spend your day snorkeling, playing water games, and enjoying foo...

Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is on my list of the top ten most beautiful nature places you can drive to. Hoʻomaluhia means "to make a place of peace and tranquility."  This breathtaking gem was built in 1982 by the US Army Corps of Engineering to prevent flooding.  There’s a lot to do here, you...

Judd Trail, located near Honolulu, offers a peaceful loop hike through lush forests with bamboo groves and large banyan trees. It’s known for its relatively short loop, making it suitable for families and beginner hikers. The trail also leads to the scenic Jackass Ginger Pool, where many visito...

The Makuku Ridge Trail located near Honolulu, Hawaii begins along the Judd Trail, quickly branching off to Makuku Ridge. This is an out-and-back trail with great views along the route, but keep in mind it is a little more challenging as there are some steeper inclines. Be sure to wear proper foot...

Park off the Old Pali Highway before the lookout in the dirt parking lot. There is an entry along the fence that will go through. The first part of the hike takes you through a bamboo forest. Most of the time it will be muddy, so be prepared to get dirty. This will lead you to an open grassy val...

Have you seen Come Hell or Highwater? No? You should and then you should head to Point Panic on the South Shore to see some of bodysurfing's best showing off. If you're a good swimmer with a fair amount of bodysurfing experience, grab your fins and head out for a few. Make sure you're respectful ...

Laniakea beach or Lani’s, is a world-class surf break located on the North Shore. It is also referred to as “Turtle beach”, because this natural sanctuary attracts so many of the endangered Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle or “Honu”...making this the perfect place to see a few up close. If you're drivi...

Stand Up Paddleboards can be rented in the nearby town of Kailua at various watersports shops. Kayaks can also be rented as another option. The bay can be reached by public access points in neighborhoods at Kaneohe Bay (there are 3 on Mikiola Drive) or at Kaneohe Beach Park.Rental Options: Kail...

Mount Tantalus, also known as Pu'u Ohia, is a prominent peak in Honolulu, Hawaii. The trail that winds up this mountain is a moderate 1.03-mile loop, suitable for hikers of average fitness levels. The path is well-marked and offers a steady incline, with a few steeper sections that require carefu...

The hike to the Waimea Falls offers both the natural beauty of a tropical rainforest, as well as the unique, in situ opportunity to learn about local history. Although this hike can be crowded, it is definitely worthwhile to see and swim in this amazing Hawaiian waterfall. The approximately mile...

Parking is pretty straightforward once you are on Farington Highway coming out of Haleiwa. There's a small dirt lot on the east side of the gate and grass parking to the west. Once you go through the first gate and see the Mokuleia Forest Reserve Access Road sign on your right, you'll know you're...

Likeke Falls Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Kaneohe, Oahu, Hawaii.

This is a beautiful park with palm trees, banyans, and many picnic tables.  It's a perfect place to find some shade post-beach or to enjoy a delicious poke bowl. It is located next to Ala Moana beach and has a jogging path that runs past the park and to the beach. There is ample parking, but som...

Ala Moana Beach Park is a popular spot for many locals to spend the day and relax.  There are several different reefs to surf at Ala Moana Beach Park and the paddle out is quite a distance. However, you will be rewarded with fun waves, regardless of which peak you choose.  The best time to surf i...