Table of Contents

Route: Oahu Loop

Theme: Coastal Paradise
Highlights: Windward Coast, North Shore, Hanauma Bay, Waikiki

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Introduction

Oahu, the "Gathering Place" of the Hawaiian Islands, offers a rich blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and historical significance. This Oahu road trip takes you on a scenic journey around the island, from the lush and serene Windward Coast to the famous North Shore, down to the bustling streets of Waikiki. Along the way, you'll explore pristine beaches, hidden coves, and verdant mountains, all while immersing yourself in the local culture and enjoying the island's unique charm.

Personal Insights from William Stanek:
"Oahu is a place where natural beauty and cultural richness blend seamlessly, creating an experience that's as diverse as it is captivating. Hui Cha and I have spent many days exploring this beautiful island, from the peaceful shores of the Windward Coast to the vibrant energy of Waikiki. This road trip is designed to take you through the best of Oahu, offering a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. We hope this guide inspires you to discover the hidden gems of Oahu, to connect with the island's unique spirit, and to create memories that will last a lifetime."

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Day 1: Arrival in Oahu and Drive to Windward Coast

Morning: Arrival in Honolulu

• Overview: Upon landing at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, pick up your rental car and begin your journey. The first destination is the Windward Coast, known for its lush mountains, tranquil beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. The drive takes you through the stunning Pali Highway, offering breathtaking views of the island's interior and coastline.
• Recommended Stops:
  • Nu'uanu Pali Lookout: A must-see viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Windward Coast and the Ko'olau Range. The lookout is steeped in history, as the site of the Battle of Nu'uanu, one of King Kamehameha's decisive victories in his quest to unite the Hawaiian Islands.

Lunch Stop: Kailua or Lanikai Beach

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Over Easy (Kailua): A popular spot offering fresh, locally sourced breakfast and brunch dishes, perfect for a relaxed meal after your flight.
  2. Buzz's Original Steakhouse (Lanikai): Known for its classic Hawaiian cuisine, including fresh seafood and steaks, with a laid-back, beachy atmosphere.
  3. Kalapawai cafe & Deli (Kailua): Offering a range of sandwiches, salads, and coffee, with a charming, local vibe.

Afternoon: Explore the Windward Coast

• Overview: After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the Windward Coast, known for its lush landscapes and tranquil beaches. This area is less crowded than other parts of the island, offering a more relaxed and peaceful experience.
• Recommended Scenic Stops:
  • Lanikai Beach: Often rated as one of the best beaches in the world, Lanikai is known for its soft white sand and clear, turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing.
  • Kailua Beach Park: Another beautiful beach with calm waters, ideal for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. The park also offers picnic areas and walking paths.
  • Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden: A lush, 400-acre garden nestled in the Ko'olau Mountains, offering beautiful walking trails, picnic areas, and a peaceful escape into nature.
• Photography Tips: "The Windward Coast offers some of the most picturesque landscapes on Oahu - capture the vibrant greens of the mountains, the clear blue waters of the beaches, and the golden light of the late afternoon. Lanikai Beach is particularly photogenic at sunrise, with the Mokulua Islands in the background."

Evening: Spend the evening on the Windward Coast, where you can enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant and perhaps take a sunset stroll along the beach.

• Dining Recommendations:
  1. Uahi Island Grill (Kailua): A popular spot offering a menu of modern Hawaiian cuisine, including fresh seafood, poke bowls, and local specialties.
  2. Nico's Kailua: Known for its fresh, local seafood and casual, beachy atmosphere, with outdoor seating and ocean views.
  3. The Beet Box cafe: A health-conscious spot offering a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, perfect for a light, refreshing meal.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. Paradise Bay Resort: A tranquil, waterfront resort offering stunning views of Kaneohe Bay and the Ko'olau Mountains, with comfortable rooms and a peaceful atmosphere.
  2. Kailua Beach Vacation Rentals: Offering a range of vacation rentals, from cozy cottages to luxury homes, all within walking distance of Kailua Beach.
  3. Lanikai Beach Rentals: A collection of vacation homes and cottages near Lanikai Beach, offering privacy, comfort, and easy access to one of Oahu's best beaches.

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Day 2: Windward Coast to North Shore

Morning: Drive to North Shore

• Overview: After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive along the coastal highway toward Oahu's famous North Shore. This route takes you through picturesque towns, past beautiful beaches, and along some of the most scenic stretches of coastline on the island.
• Recommended Stops:
  • Byodo-In Temple (Kāneʻohe): A stunning replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist temple in Japan, set against the lush backdrop of the Ko'olau Mountains. The temple grounds offer a peaceful atmosphere, with koi ponds, meditation areas, and beautiful gardens.
  • Kualoa Ranch: Known for its dramatic landscapes and as a filming location for numerous movies and TV shows, including "Jurassic Park." The ranch offers a variety of tours, including ATV rides, horseback riding, and a visit to the iconic Ka'a'awa Valley.

Lunch Stop: Haleiwa, North Shore

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Haleiwa Joe's: A North Shore favorite offering a menu of fresh seafood, steaks, and local specialties, with beautiful views of the ocean and the lush gardens.
  2. Kono's Northshore: Known for its delicious breakfast and lunch dishes, including kalua pork sandwiches, wraps, and smoothies, with a casual, surf-inspired atmosphere.
  3. The Beet Box cafe: A health-conscious spot offering a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, perfect for a light, refreshing meal.

Afternoon: Explore the North Shore

• Overview: Spend the afternoon exploring the North Shore, known for its legendary surf spots, laid-back vibe, and beautiful beaches. The North Shore is also home to some of Oahu's most charming small towns and scenic drives.
• Recommended Scenic Stops:
  • Waimea Bay: One of the North Shore's most famous beaches, known for its big waves in the winter and calm, clear waters in the summer. The bay is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the sand.
  • Shark's Cove: A popular snorkeling spot with clear waters and abundant marine life. The rocky shoreline and tide pools also make for interesting exploration.
  • Sunset Beach: Another iconic surf spot, famous for its massive winter waves and stunning sunsets. The beach is also a great place to watch the surfers in action or take a sunset stroll.
• Photography Tips: "The North Shore is known for its dramatic surf and beautiful sunsets - capture the power of the waves at Waimea Bay, the vibrant underwater world at Shark's Cove, and the golden hues of the sunset at Sunset Beach. The winter months offer the best opportunities for photographing the big waves and surf culture of the North Shore."

Evening: Spend the evening on the North Shore, where you can enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and perhaps take a walk along the beach or explore the shops and galleries in Haleiwa.

• Dining Recommendations:
  1. Matsumoto Shave Ice: A must-visit spot for a refreshing shave ice, a local favorite, with a wide range of flavors and toppings to choose from.
  2. Turtle Bay Resort's Lei Lei's Bar & Grill: Offering a menu of fresh, local dishes with a focus on seafood and Hawaiian flavors, served in a casual, open-air setting with views of the golf course and ocean.
  3. Giovanni's Shrimp Truck: A North Shore institution, known for its garlic shrimp plates and casual, no-frills atmosphere. Perfect for a quick, delicious meal.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. Turtle Bay Resort: A luxury resort offering beautiful oceanfront accommodations, a range of dining options, and easy access to the beaches and attractions of the North Shore.
  2. Ke Iki Beach Bungalows: Offering charming beachfront bungalows with stunning views and easy access to the North Shore's famous beaches and surf spots.
  3. Waimea Valley Guesthouse: A unique and tranquil guesthouse located near Waimea Bay, offering comfortable accommodations and a peaceful setting.

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Day 3: North Shore to Hanauma Bay Area

Morning: Drive to Kaneohe or Hanauma Bay

• Overview: After breakfast, head south toward the eastern side of the island, where you'll find some of Oahu's most beautiful coastal areas, including the famous Hanauma Bay. The drive takes you through the lush landscapes of the Windward Coast and along the scenic Kalanianaole Highway.
• Recommended Stops:
  • Dole Plantation: A popular stop along the way, offering a chance to learn about Hawaii's pineapple history, explore the plantation's gardens, and enjoy a famous Dole Whip treat.
  • Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail: A scenic hike that offers stunning views of the southeastern coast of Oahu, including the Makapu'u Lighthouse, the offshore islands, and the deep blue Pacific Ocean.

Lunch Stop: Waimanalo or Hanauma Bay Area

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Ono Steaks and Shrimp Shack (Waimanalo): A casual spot offering a menu of Hawaiian comfort food, including plate lunches, fresh seafood, and local favorites.
  2. Kona Brewing Co. (Hawaii Kai): Known for its craft beers and creative pub fare, including pizzas, sandwiches, and salads, with a relaxed, beachy atmosphere.
  3. Island Brew Coffeehouse (Hawaii Kai): Offering a range of coffee, sandwiches, and pastries, with beautiful views of the marina and the mountains.

Afternoon: Explore Hanauma Bay Area

• Overview: Spend the afternoon exploring the Hanauma Bay area, known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Hanauma Bay is a protected marine life conservation area, offering some of the best snorkeling on the island.
• Recommended Scenic Stops:
  • Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: A must-visit for snorkeling enthusiasts, Hanauma Bay offers calm, clear waters teeming with colorful fish and coral. The bay is also a great spot for relaxing on the beach and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
  • Halona Blowhole: A natural wonder where ocean waves are forced through a narrow lava tube, creating a dramatic geyser-like effect. The nearby Halona Beach Cove, also known as "Eternity Beach," is a picturesque spot featured in several movies.
  • Sandy Beach: Known for its strong waves and powerful shore break, Sandy Beach is a favorite among local bodyboarders and surfers. The beach also offers beautiful views of the coastline and offshore islands.
• Photography Tips: "Hanauma Bay is one of the most photogenic spots on Oahu - capture the vibrant underwater world, the stunning views from the cliffs above the bay, and the dramatic coastal landscapes of the southeastern shore. The Halona Blowhole is especially striking at high tide, when the waves create powerful jets of water."

Evening: Spend the evening in the Kaneohe or Hawaii Kai area, where you can enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and perhaps take a sunset walk along the beach or visit a local park.

• Dining Recommendations:
  1. Roy's Hawaii Kai: A fine dining restaurant offering a menu of creative Hawaiian fusion cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and a stunning waterfront setting.
  2. Assaggio Ristorante Italiano (Hawaii Kai): Known for its delicious Italian dishes, including pastas, seafood, and steaks, served in a cozy, romantic setting with ocean views.
  3. Moena cafe (Hawaii Kai): A popular spot for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, offering a menu of local favorites, including loco moco, pancakes, and fresh seafood.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. The Kahala Hotel & Resort: A luxury beachfront resort located near Hanauma Bay, offering elegant accommodations, fine dining, and a range of amenities, including a private lagoon and dolphin encounters.
  2. Hawaii Kai Airbnbs: Offering a range of vacation rentals, from beachfront condos to luxury homes, with beautiful views and easy access to the Hanauma Bay area.
  3. Paradise Bay Resort (Kaneohe): A tranquil, waterfront resort offering stunning views of Kaneohe Bay and the Ko'olau Mountains, with comfortable rooms and a peaceful atmosphere.

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Days 4 & 5: Waikiki

Morning: Drive to Waikiki

• Overview: After breakfast, head to your final destination: Waikiki. The drive from the Windward Coast or Hanauma Bay area to Waikiki is relatively short, taking you through some of Oahu's most iconic neighborhoods and past stunning coastal views. Waikiki is the heart of tourism on Oahu, offering world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment, all set against the backdrop of the famous Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head.
• Recommended Stops:
  • Diamond Head Crater: One of Oahu's most famous landmarks, Diamond Head offers a moderately challenging hike to the summit, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Waikiki, Honolulu, and the Pacific Ocean.

Lunch Stop: Waikiki

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Duke's Waikiki: A beachfront restaurant offering a menu of classic Hawaiian dishes, including fresh seafood, poke bowls, and the famous Hula Pie, with stunning views of Waikiki Beach.
  2. Marukame Udon: Known for its delicious, freshly made udon noodles and tempura, served in a casual, cafeteria-style setting that's popular with locals and tourists alike.
  3. Island Vintage Shave Ice: A must-visit spot for a refreshing shave ice, with a wide range of flavors and toppings, perfect for a sweet treat after lunch.

Afternoon: Explore Waikiki

• Overview: Spend the afternoon exploring Waikiki, where you can enjoy the famous beach, shop at luxury boutiques and local stores, or visit cultural attractions like the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium.
• Recommended Scenic Stops:
  • Waikiki Beach: The most famous beach on Oahu, Waikiki Beach offers something for everyone, from sunbathing and swimming to surfing and paddleboarding. The beach is also lined with hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it a lively and vibrant place to spend the day.
  • Kapi'olani Park: A beautiful, expansive park located at the eastern end of Waikiki, offering walking paths, picnic areas, and views of Diamond Head. The park is also home to the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Shell, an outdoor concert venue.
  • Honolulu Museum of Art: For those interested in culture and history, the Honolulu Museum of Art offers a collection of Asian, Hawaiian, and international art, as well as special exhibitions and programs.
• Photography Tips: "Waikiki offers endless opportunities for photography - capture the iconic views of Diamond Head from the beach, the vibrant life along Kalakaua Avenue, and the golden hues of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. The summit of Diamond Head is one of the best spots on the island for panoramic photos, especially at sunrise or sunset."

Evening: Spend the evening enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Waikiki, where you can dine at world-class restaurants, enjoy live music, or take a moonlit walk along the beach.

• Dining Recommendations:
  1. House Without a Key: Offering a menu of Hawaiian-inspired dishes with a focus on fresh seafood, served in an open-air setting with live Hawaiian music and hula performances.
  2. Michel's at the Colony Surf: A fine dining restaurant offering French-inspired cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, served in an elegant beachfront setting with stunning sunset views.
  3. Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar: Known for its tropical-inspired dishes, craft cocktails, and rooftop bar with views of Waikiki and the ocean.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. Halekulani Hotel: A luxury beachfront hotel offering elegant accommodations, fine dining, and a range of amenities, including a spa and a beautiful pool area overlooking Waikiki Beach.
  2. The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort: Known as the "Pink Palace of the Pacific," this historic hotel offers luxurious rooms, a private beach area, and a prime location in the heart of Waikiki.
  3. Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach: A modern, upscale hotel offering stylish accommodations, a rooftop pool, and stunning views of Waikiki and Diamond Head.

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Conclusion

Reflections from William Stanek:
"This road trip around Oahu has taken us on a journey through some of the island's most beautiful and diverse landscapes, from the tranquil beaches of the Windward Coast to the vibrant energy of Waikiki. Each stop has offered something unique, whether it's the serene beauty of Lanikai Beach, the thrilling waves of the North Shore, or the stunning underwater world of Hanauma Bay. Hui Cha and I have always been captivated by the contrasts of Oahu - the way the lush mountains meet the clear blue ocean, the blend of ancient traditions and modern culture, and the way each corner of the island has its own distinct character. We hope this guide inspires you to explore Oahu's hidden gems, to connect with the island's unique spirit, and to create memories that will last a lifetime."