Waimanalo, Hawaii

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...

You will start your hike at the bottom of the volcano. The cost to get into the park is 5$ per vehicle or 1$ for a walk-in or taxi. The cost of the park is absolutely worth it. On the way up the mountain you will start on a wide paved path that starts out relatively flat but gets steeper on the w...

Diamond head has a couple of good breaks close to town if you're looking to get away from the crowds at Waikiki Beach. There are easy trails down to the beach and channels to paddle out in - the paddle is a little long, so mentally prepare yourself. The two main breaks are Cliffs and Lighthouse. ...

Whether you're a paddle boarding enthusiast or it's your first time, this spot is perfect! The waves are nice and calm allowing for a relaxing time. This area is away from the main part of Waikiki so you'll still get the beautiful view of Diamond Head without the large crowd of people. You'll als...

To get there, go to Ala Moana Harbor/Boat parking lot near Hilton Hawaiian Village. Walk along the rock jetty that parallels the boat harbor on the right. Jump off rocks and paddle right towards the deep water boat channel, there's a huge buoy out there. If it is on, you will see a thick sucky le...

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...

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

Resting at the foot of the Ko'olau Mountains, the Byodo-In Temple was built to commemorate the first Japanese immigrants that came to Hawaii. This beautiful Buddhist temple is a smaller-scale replica of an over 950 year old Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan. The temple grounds host wildlife such as ...

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 ...

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...

The ‘back way’ to the ever popular and still somewhat illegal Haiku Stairs, the Moanalua Middle Ridge hike brings plenty of beauty and even more challenges than the path down the Haiku Stairs. To get to the trailhead, park outside the Moanalua Valley Park and the trail begins just after the green...

Aiea Loop Trail is a 4.8-mile loop in Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area, that offers a mix of shaded forest, ridge-line views, and jungle scenery. The trail winds through a mix of eucalyptus, Norfolk pine, and native koa trees. Along the way, you’ll get occasional glimpses of Pearl Harbor and th...

Kaneohe Bay is the remnant of a massive volcanic caldera. The collapse of the eastern side of the Ko’olau volcano created this protected bay surrounded by Hawaii's only barrier reef and the epic cliff sides that form the Ko’olau Mountain Range. If you have the chance to kayak out to these coral r...