When flying to the island of Oahu in Hawaii, everyone knows the basics to hit up: North Shore, Waikiki, Diamond Head, and Pearl Harbor.
But Oahu has so much more to offer if you’re willing to go a bit beyond the typical touristy areas! Here are 6 Oahu hidden gems that you can’t miss!
1. See the best sunrise on Oahu by doing the Lanikai Pillbox Hike.
Head out on the steep, but quick, trail about 45 minutes before the sun is supposed to rise. There are two pillboxes (old military bunkers from WWII). You can definitely stop and get great views at the first pillbox, but there won’t be as many people if you keep going to the second one.
2. Have some unbelievably delicious and filling crepes at Crepes No Ka ‘Oi.
Located just a stone’s throw away from the Lanikai Pillbox hike trailhead, Crepes No Ka ‘Oi is one of the best breakfasts you can get on the island. You can’t go wrong with either their sweet or savory crepes, but I’m a sucker for the Ultimate Breakfast Crepe. It has cheese, potatoes, bacon, onions, rosemary, poached eggs, and housemade hollandaise sauce!
3. Get transported to Japan at the Shirokiya Japan Village Walk.
Located in the depths of the Ala Moana Mall lies the Shirokiya Village Walk. Here you’ll find dozens of vendors selling all sorts of Japanese cuisine at truly unbeatable prices. Bring your appetite and your sense of adventure while visiting. For the context of unbeatable prices, I bought freshly made ramen for $7 and the most expensive beer they had…which was a whole $2.
4. Save money on souvenirs by skipping the shop near your resort and heading to the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet.
When people dream of a tropical vacation, no one ever thinks, “Ya know what? I’m going to make sure I go to a flea market while I’m there!” But when planning on Oahu hidden gems, this needs to be put at the top of your list. This swap meet is the largest open-air flea market in Hawaii and has everything you could possibly want, from cheesy fake leis to beautiful hand-crafted wooden decor. You’re also able to bargain at the flea market, unlike in a store.
5. Get a little taste of Disney by visiting, or staying at, Disney’s Aulani Resort.
Mark and I spent our honeymoon at Disney’s Aulani Resort, which is definitely a luxury resort, but 100% worth it if it’s in your budget. The perfect resort for relaxed luxury, you can get as much or as little Disney as you want. The resort is built primarily to honor the history of Polynesian Islands and you’ll only get the truly Disney experiences if you go looking for it.
6. Have the best beer on the island at Lanikai Brewing Company.
Oahu is home to a number of breweries, but Lanikai is easily the best one. They always have a great variety of beers available that reflect island life and the staff is always super nice, personable, and down for some good-natured conversation. Mark and I are especially fond of their Pillbox Porter.