Only a 20-minute drive from the Ko Olina Resorts is our beautiful secluded surf spot! Great conditions for beginners and intermediate surfers! Learn the basics or master more surf skills. Surf breaks closer to the shore allows our media team out west to capture your surf adventure! Bring the whole family for a beach day!
Kalaeloa Beach Park is a secret gem on the west side of Oahu, where the waves are warm and inviting and there’s never a crowd! Lessons include round-trip transportation from Ko Olina hotels.
While each surf lesson may differ based on individual needs, you will find that all of the instructors are patient and knowledgeable, walking you through each step to ensure you feel safe and confident. Your lesson will actually begin on the land, where you will learn proper positioning on the board, how to paddle and maneuver over waves, how to turn and get to your feet, proper surf stance, balancing tips, and safety. After your instructor has walked through some of these basics, you’ll hit the water together. Your instructor will be in the water with you, helping you catch waves, ensuring your safety, and cheering you on throughout the lesson! All gear is provided, including a rash guard. Choose among private or group lessons, depending on your experience and comfortability. To find out more about how to book a surf lesson through us, please contact us for more information.
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How to Pack for a Light Oahu Trip | Oahu Surf Report
If you’re not sold on surfing but a day at the beach sounds just your speed, Oahu boasts over 125 beaches along its coastlines that are ripe for exploring! From the famed winter waves at Pipeline and Waimea Bay on Oahu’s North Shore to the bustling beaches of Waikiki along it’s South Shore, you’ll find distinct personalities and activities happening along this island’s beaches.
If a relaxing day at the beach sounds just your speed, you’ll find plenty of white sand stretches on which to unwind. The Ko Olina beach lagoons are four crescent shaped beaches located along the fringes of the Ko Olina property. With rocky outcroppings that protect the shoreline from the ocean at large, you’ll find tranquil waters and calm swimming conditions at the Ko Olina lagoons. This is a great place to sunbathe, swim, snorkel, or watch your children play in these glassy waters.
Further up the western coast lies Makaha Beach, a wide stretch of golden sand that is particularly good to visit during summer months. During summer, waters here are generally calmer and offer good swimming and boogie boarding conditions. During winter months, you’ll generally find more experienced surfers here, as the waves and current tend to be stronger.
To make the most of your Oahu beach vacation, consider staying in accommodations that are situated with easy access to the beach, such as our Makaha vacation rentals or our Ko Olina rentals that boast ocean views!
Rentals All Over Hawaii!
Whether you take in a romantic sunset dinner cruise or take the whole family to swim with the dolphins, Ko Olina Resort has an incredible amount of water related activities to choose from. There are four man made lagoons that keep our families safe. Three of the four lagoons have a limited amount of parking spaces, giving beach goers a semi-private feel. Each lagoon offers a different personality and may offer scuba and paddleboard, or just peace and serenity.
Ko Olina Marina is located at Lagoon 4. Often nicknamed as “the Chanel of marinas” Ko Olina Marina is Oahu’s premier location for boats and marine activities. With over 40-acres of crystal clean waters this marina features 330 slips with state of the art floating docks.
If you love the ocean, or just want to splash around, let our Vacation Specialists in our “Ola Guest Services” help you make the most of your activities.
Rentals All Over Hawaii!
Ko Olina Golf Club & Other West Oahu Courses
Ko Olina Golf Club, home of the LPGA LOTTE Championship by Hershey, is Ko Olina Resort’s pride. Designed by the renowned course architect Ted Robinson, this course has been named Golf Digest’s “Top 75 Resort Courses in the US”, Star Advertiser’s “Best Golf Course in Hawaii”, Association of Golf Merchandiser’s “Best 100 Golf Shops in the US”, Hawaii Magazine’s “Best Golf Course in Hawaii”, Play Golf America’s “Top 100 Performers”, and Honolulu Advertiser’s “Best of the Best Award for the #1 Golf Course on Oahu”.
TaylorMade Golf Clubs can be rented at $55. These clubs feel brand new, as they are actually replaced bi-annually.
Golf Academy offers a variety of classes from private to (small) group, from the curious to the professional, and even have an established clinic for kids.
Driving range has both natural grass and artificial turf
Dedicated short game area with bunkers and chipping areas
Challenging practice green
Other Courses in the area range from Municipal (public) courses like Ewa Villages Golf Course and West Loch Golf Course, Semi-Private courses like Kapolei Golf Course and Waikile Country Club, Military courses like Barbers Point Golf Course and Navy Marine Golf Course, and Private courses like Hoakalei Country Club and Oahu Country Club.
Oahu is perhaps the most versatile of the Hawaiian Islands. Home to a wide variety of both indoor and outdoor activities, there is something for every traveler type on this majestic isle. While you’ll certainly want to spend some time at the beach, participating in water activities, and exploring the vast coastlines and lush tropical forests, when you’re ready to take a break from the sand and sun, indoor activities in Oahu await.
Take a break from the sun and enjoy some of the many fun Oahu indoor activities that are available on Oahu. Oahu offers unique historical sites that aren’t present on the other islands, such as those found at the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites. These sites include the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. From exploring vintage aircraft to standing over the site of the sunken battleship USS Arizona, where World War II began for the United States on December 7, 1941, the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites are fascinating for both US history buffs and for the average traveler.
For shoppers, Oahu is definitely the choice destination. From high fashion to casual beachwear, whatever you’re searching for can be found among the many racks and shelves of Oahu’s shops and boutiques. Ala Moana Shopping Center is consistently ranked among the top malls in the nation, and for good reason. This thoughtfully designed shopping center combines indoor activities in Oahu and outdoor elements to maximize the favorable climate and beauty of the island. Touted as the largest outdoor mall in the world, the shops, restaurants, and entertainment spaces that make up Ala Moana make for a pleasant shopping experience. Additional shopping options are scattered throughout the island, from quaint local surf shops and boutiques to discounted well-known brands such as those found at Waikele Premium Outlets. Shop ‘til you drop on Oahu, which offers a range of Oahu indoor activities and outdoor shopping options!
Still in search for accommodations for your Hawaii getaway? At Ola Properties, we offer a variety of upscale vacation rentals along Oahu’s sunny western coast. From beachside villas to spacious homes overlooking the golf fairway, our Hawaii vacation rentals cater to a variety of travelers, including people looking for family vacation rentals in Oahu Hawaii. With a flexible cancellation policy to accommodate the changing climate of travel, booking with us at Ola Properties is worry-free. Browse our listings here!
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Hawaii is known for its outdoor activity opportunities, from lounging on serene white sand beaches to hiking trails that wind their way through lush tropical jungles and end at refreshing waterfalls. With so many outdoor fun things to do in Oahu on offer, it’s easy to find adventures that will take you off the beaten path to where solitude can be found.
There’s no better place to enjoy some distance and isolation than claiming your own spot in the sand for a day at the beach. When you situate yourself in West Oahu, you’ll find fewer crowds than along the shorelines of Waikiki. With diversity in beaches, West Oahu is home to tranquil lagoons such as those at Ko Olina, long stretches of picturesque sand such as those found in Makaha, and everything in between. With many restaurants offering takeout, pick up lunch on the way and spend the day enjoying the peacefulness of a day along the oceanfront. Take it easy during your days by enjoying peaceful walks along the beach or by flipping through pages of the latest good book. For travelers better suited for more action, especially those participating in solo travel to Oahu, gear such as stand up paddle boards, snorkel equipment, boogie boards, and surfboards are all easily accessible across the island and will keep your days full of entertainment if desired.
Hiking in Oahu | Paddle Board Rentals
Enjoy the relaxation that comes from spending a day on the golf green when you book a tee time at the Ko Olina Golf Course. With acres of manicured fairways stretched out around you, peaceful water features, and no parallel fairways, an afternoon on the golf green is just what the doctor ordered. End your round with a meal at Roy’s, the course’s 19th hole, which offers a covered patio for outdoor seating.
Whether you’re hiking a trail, hitting the beach, or engaging in exciting island fun things to do on Oahu, there is always solitude to be found on Oahu!
Enjoy space and privacy when you book one of the luxurious Hawaii vacation rentals listed with us at Ola Properties. With options such as private family homes in gated communities and spacious duplexes, it’s easy to find the space and privacy you desire for your family or group. In our isolated rentals, you won’t need to worry about passing other travelers in close proximity in areas such as hallways and elevators. With many of our Oahu rentals offering private outdoor lanais and some with expanded outdoor space, which is perfect for a relaxing environment if you plan to work from home in Hawaii, your family can be free to enjoy Hawaii’s tropical outdoors with plenty of space and privacy. Browse our listings here, and contact us today!
Fortunately for those spending time in Hawaii, many of the activities that make the islands such a great destination can still be enjoyed while taking into account social distancing measures. From outdoor activities to dine-in restaurants and shops that are increasingly opening, there are a multitude of ways to enjoy while Hawaii’s social distancing is in place. We even offer Makaha rentals if you really want to enjoy some privacy in a more remote location.
Get out and enjoy the tropical outdoors with a day at the beach! On an island where you’re never far from another white sand beach, it’s easy to find a spot to call your own for a day in the sand and sun. Whether you spend the day soaking up the sights and sounds from your towel in the sand, or you take part in Oahu things to do in the water, it’s easy to keep your distance from others on Hawaii’s vast beaches. While all rental shops have yet to reopen, inexpensive beach gear that includes snorkel equipment, boogie boards, and even surf boards can be conveniently purchased at stores such as Walmart and Costco, making it easy to join in the fun.
Most Hawaii vacation rentals with swimming pools have adjusted their setups to take social distancing into account, resituating lounge chairs and tables to provide for more space between guests. Spend sunny Hawaii days lounging poolside and soaking up the sun on your island getaway!
While you’ll need to don a mask to enter stores in Hawaii, many stores and shopping malls have reopened, including the Ala Moana Shopping Center, ranked among the top malls in the country. With a thoughtful layout that incorporates both indoor and outdoor spaces, this shopping center is both visually appealing and ideal for taking social distancing into account! New measures that include hand-sanitizing stations, touch-free interactions, frequent and intense cleanings, and social distancing directions make for a worry-free shopping experience. You’ll find a wide range of shops at Ala Moana, offering up everything from high fashion to casual beachwear. The shopping center also houses a large number of restaurants, many of which offer the option of takeout, delivery, or dine-in services.
While visitors to the Islands are currently subject to a 14-day quarantine period, those who are able to extend their stay will find a variety of Hawaii social distancing activities to keep entertained!
At Ola Properties, we offer upscale vacation rental options along Oahu’s western coast. Browse here for availability!
With miles of coastline and abundant marine life, Oahu offers a variety of fishing opportunities for everyone from beginners to experienced anglers. Whether you want to plan a trip to Hawaii that is focused exclusively on fishing, or you simply want to add it to a day’s itinerary, you are bound to land a great catch when Oahu fishing.
When planning your fishing excursion on Oahu, there are a variety of potential options to consider. From simply finding a spot along the shoreline to cast your line to trying out the ancient Hawaiian practice of spear fishing, there is something for every angler. Recreational fishermen do not need a permit to fish in Hawaii as long as you don’t sell your catch, making it easy to plan the day.
Shore fishing is a great way to get started with fishing on Oahu, especially if you don’t have a lot of experience or want to save money on equipment rentals or charter boats. There are many public fishing spots around the island that are easily accessible, especially along Waikiki Beach. Be aware that in some marine conservation areas, shoreline fishing is prohibited.
Many Oahu fishermen enjoy fishing at night when the water is calmer, and the fish are more active. Some of the most popular species to catch from shore include papio (trevally), ulua (jacks), and moi (threadfin). Without gear rental options, fishing along the shoreline is best done if you are bringing your own fishing gear along.
If you want to go further out into the ocean and target bigger fish, then a fishing boat charter will be the best option. There are many charter companies on Oahu that offer half-day, full-day, or even overnight trips.
The type of fish you can catch on a charter boat depends on the season and the location. Some common fish species that are targeted on these trips include mahi mahi, tuna, and marlin. Most charter boats provide all the necessary equipment, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. Boom Boom Sportfishing is a popular fishing charter that is located on the island’s west coast. There are also a variety of Oahu fishing charters that depart from Waikiki, such as Whipsaw Sportfishing and Oahu Pelagic Sportfishing.
Fly fishing is another popular way to fish on Oahu, especially in the freshwater streams and rivers. One of the most sought-after fish species for fly fishermen on Oahu is the bonefish, which is found in the shallow flats around the island. Bonefish are known for their speed and strength, making them a challenging catch for even the most experienced anglers. Check out Oahu Fly Fishing for a guided fly fishing excursion. Though you will need to bring your own footwear, all of the fishing gear is provided.
Spearfishing is a unique and exciting way to fish on Oahu. This method involves diving into the water and using a speargun to catch fish. Spearfishing is only allowed in certain areas and is best done with an experienced guide if you are new to this method.
Some of the most common fish species that are targeted by spear fishermen on Oahu include ono (wahoo), uku (grey snapper), and ahi (yellowfin tuna). This method of fishing requires skill and patience but can be incredibly rewarding when you finally catch your prey. Kairos Spearfishing is a local outfitter that offers spearfishing gear rentals as well as multi-day classes and guided spearfishing excursions. Some of their excursions require previous spearfishing experience.
Oahu is home to a variety of fish species, both in saltwater and freshwater. The type of fish you will catch on your Oahu fishing excursion depends greatly on the season and your chosen fishing location. Some of the larger fish that are considered prize catches by Hawaii fishermen include mahi mahi, tuna, marlin, and ulua.
The best season for fishing on Oahu depends on the species of fish you are targeting. Generally, the summer months are great for catching mahi-mahi, ono, and tuna. The winter months are good for catching marlin, ahi, and yellowtail. In the spring, ulua and papio are in abundance. Fly fishing for bonefish is best from May-October. Regardless of the season, it is always a good idea to check weather and ocean conditions before planning a fishing trip on Oahu.
Most Oahu fishing charters will clean and filet your catch, making it easy to enjoy the fruits of your labor for a dinner feast. Many Oahu vacation rentals offer full kitchens and outdoor barbecue areas, offering the perfect setup for cooking and enjoying your seafood dinner. If you are still in search of an Oahu vacation rental, check out our available listings here!
Dolphin watching is a popular activity for tourists visiting Oahu, one of Hawaii’s most beautiful and vibrant islands. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, Oahu is an ideal location for those who want to witness these intelligent and playful creatures up close. Whether you are hoping to catch sight of dolphins from your spot on the sandy shoreline or get up close and personal with them, there are many options for Oahu dolphin watching.
Dolphin watching on Oahu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows visitors to get an up-close look at these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Not only is it an educational experience, but it’s also an unforgettable way to connect with nature and create lasting memories with your loved ones while vacationing on Oahu. Dolphins are known for their intelligence, agility, and playful nature, making them a popular attraction for visitors to Oahu.
While taking a boat excursion is the best way to have a close encounter with dolphins, it is also possible to catch sight of them from the shoreline. If you’re hoping to spot dolphins from the shore, there are a few places on Oahu that are known for their regular dolphin sightings. One of the most popular spots is Makua Beach, which is located on the west side of the island. Other popular beaches for Oahu dolphin watching also include those located in the west coast town of Waianae.
If you want to get an even closer look at these beautiful creatures, there are a number of dolphin watching cruises available on Oahu. One of the most popular cruises is through Dolphin Excursions Hawaii, which offers a 2-hour tour of the Waianae Coast. During the tour, participants have the opportunity to swim with dolphins, snorkel in the clear waters, and enjoy a delicious lunch on board.
Another popular option for dolphin tours Oahu is with Ko Olina Ocean Adventures. This outfitter offers a variety of tours that include wildlife watching and snorkeling. Participants will spot dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life, as well as enjoy some snorkeling and swimming in the pristine waters.
Dolphin watching on Oahu is an incredible experience that shouldn’t be missed. Whether you choose to spot them from shore or on a dolphin watching cruise, you are sure to be mesmerized by their playful nature and stunning beauty.
While many picture beautiful white sand beaches when envisioning a trip to Hawaii, the state is also home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails. From scenic coastal paths to challenging mountain trails, Oahu has something for everyone. The island’s lush vegetation, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking views make Oahu hiking an unforgettable experience.
Hiking on Oahu is the perfect way to take a break from the cosmopolitan streets of Honolulu and experience some of the island’s most beautiful natural scenery. While Oahu’s beaches are often what receive the most glory, the island’s lush interior has much to offer. And one of the best ways to explore beyond the beaches is to hike some of Oahu’s renowned trails.
Hiking is also a great way to stay active while on vacation, while at the same time experiencing the island’s unique terrain and landscapes. Hiking on Oahu can provide opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching, making it an ideal activity for nature enthusiasts.
Oahu has several hikes that are well-known for their accessibility and stunning views. Consider setting off down the trail of one of these top Oahu hiking routes!
Diamond Head Summit Trail – The Diamond Head trail is one of the most popular hikes on Oahu, offering breathtaking views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean from the top. The trail is approximately 1.6 miles round trip and takes around 1-2 hours to complete. While the trail is relatively short, the 560 feet of elevation gain to reach the top is sure to leave you breathless. Be sure to bring along plenty of water for this unshaded trail.
Koko Head Crater Trail – The Koko Head Crater Trail is a challenging but rewarding 1.5-mile round trip hike, with over 1,000 steps to climb to reach the peak. The route was formerly a tramway created to haul supplies to the military bunkers at the top. Once you have reached the hard-earned summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the island and the Pacific Ocean.
Manoa Falls Trail – The Manoa Falls Trail is a scenic hike that takes visitors through a lush rainforest to a stunning 150-foot waterfall. The trail is approximately 1.6 miles long and takes around 1-2 hours to complete.
Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen when hiking on Oahu, as many routes are exposed to the elements. It’s also a good idea to leave the flip flops behind and wear sturdy shoes with good traction on Oahu’s rough, rocky trails.
Oahu’s hiking trails range from easy to challenging and offer a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty! Contact us to learn more.
At approximately 30 miles wide and 44 miles long, Oahu’s size makes road trips an easily enjoyable experience. While the island is well-known for its popular Waikiki area, venturing beyond the city limits to explore other areas of the island is well-rewarded with a more complete island experience. Oahu is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and historic landmarks. Oahu Sightseeing is a must-do activity for visitors looking to explore the island’s unique beauty and immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture.
Discover hidden gems and explore the island beyond the typical tourist hotspots. Sightseeing allows visitors to gain a better understanding of the local community and way of life, making for a more immersive and authentic travel experience. Be sure to include some of these top Oahu sightseeing locations in your itinerary!
Pearl Harbor – Pearl Harbor is one of the must-visit Oahu sightseeing attractions, offering visitors the chance to learn about the tragic events that occurred on December 7, 1941. The USS Arizona Memorial and the USS Missouri battleship are popular attractions at Pearl Harbor and offer a unique view into history that can’t be matched on any other Hawaiian Island.
Diamond Head State Monument – Diamond Head State Monument is a famous landmark and popular hiking spot that offers stunning views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean.
Waikiki Beach – Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. The beach is about two miles long and offers a plethora of both sand and water activity options.
North Shore – The North Shore is a scenic region of Oahu known for its world-famous surfing beaches, quaint oceanside towns, and stunning countryside.
Ko Olina Lagoons – These four picture-perfect lagoons offer a convenient escape from the city. The calm ocean waters and stunning oceanfront path that string together the lagoons offer a resort-like beach experience.
Lanikai Beach – This postcard perfect beach is located along the island’s east coast and is renowned for its turquoise blue waters and pristine white sand. Two small offshore islands that act as a bird sanctuary seem to create a mirage on the horizon just off Lanikai.
The great thing about Oahu Sightseeing is that it doesn’t have to be a passive experience viewing landmarks through the car window. You are never far away from a beach that offers water activities such as boogie boarding, surfing, snorkeling, or stand up paddle boarding. Oahu is also known for its delicious cuisine, and sightseeing offers the perfect excuse to explore the island’s culinary offerings.
With a variety of top sightseeing spots to choose from and several activities to enjoy while visiting these Oahu sightseeing attractions, visitors can create a memorable and immersive travel experience. Contact us to learn more!
Viewing the sunset is a memorable activity that should be included on any Oahu, Hawaii vacation. While you can certainly catch an epic sunset from any of Oahu’s spectacular west coast beaches, there is also something special about viewing it while out on the water. Consider adding an Oahu sunset cruise to your Oahu vacation experience for a memorable ending to your island day.
A sunset cruise on Oahu is an unforgettable experience that provides a panoramic view of the island’s beauty. Oahu is known for its magnificent sunsets, and a sunset boat cruise Oahu allows visitors to witness this natural spectacle from a different perspective. The beautiful colors of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean create a magical and romantic atmosphere that is perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends. In addition to the breathtaking views, a sunset cruise on Oahu also offers a chance to relax, unwind, and enjoy the company of loved ones in an unforgettable setting.
A variety of Oahu sunset cruise companies offer experiences that depart from Waikiki as well as the Ko Olina Marina, which is convenient for anyone staying along Oahu’s beautiful west coast. These reputable tour companies offer unforgettable sunset experiences!
Mana Cruises offers a Captain’s Sunset Sail & Tasting excursion that pairs an appetizer tasting menu with the dazzling colors of sunset. Offered as a shared or private charter, this beautiful sailing catamaran provides the perfect platform for a romantic evening. Ko Olina Ocean Adventures is another renowned company that offers Oahu sunset cruises. Their sunset sail includes three adult beverages as well as an array of appetizers. For a full meal onboard your sunset cruise, consider booking a sunset dinner cruise with Ocean Joy Cruises. This excursion includes a full meal, as well as the option to enjoy an evening of snorkeling.
While a sunset cruise in itself is enough to provide fantastic views and an unforgettable evening, many Oahu sunset cruises offer additional activities included that will add to the experience.
Some sunset cruises on Oahu offer a chance to snorkel and explore the underwater world, which is home to an array of colorful marine life. You may also consider pairing a sunset cruise with a wildlife watching experience. On board many vessels, you will see marine life such as spinner dolphins, humpback whales (seasonally), pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and flying fish.
A sunset cruise on Oahu is an experience that should not be missed while on vacation in Hawaii!
Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) is a water sport that has gained in popularity in recent years. It involves standing on a large surfboard and using a long paddle to move through the water. SUP can be done in calm waters like lakes and rivers or in the ocean, making it an excellent way to explore new areas while getting a full body workout. While stand up paddle boarding Oahu does require strength and balance, it has a much easier learning curve than water sports such as surfing. This makes it a great option for those vacationing in Hawaii who want to try a new water sport. Whether you have paddle boarded before or are completely new to the sport, adding a day of Oahu SUP to your Hawaii itinerary is a great way to enjoy some of the island’s calmer waterways and scenic views.
Oahu is a popular destination for stand up paddle boarding due to its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. The island is surrounded by turquoise waters, making it a perfect spot for paddlers of all skill levels. Oahu has several locations that offer calm water conditions, making it an ideal spot for beginners to learn.
Whether you’re paddling along the North Shore, Waikiki Beach, or the picturesque Kailua Bay, you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning scenery that Oahu has to offer. One thing to keep in mind when planning your Oahu SUP excursion is that the side of the island which offers the calmest waters varies by season. The north and east shores tend to be the calmest during summer months, while the south and west shores tend to be calmest during winter months. Beaches that are protected from the wind and heading out in the early morning hours before the wind picks up also make for a more enjoyable SUP experience.
If you’re looking to try stand up paddle boarding Oahu for the first time, taking lessons to learn proper technique and safety guidelines is a good way to begin. There are a variety of outfitters located on Oahu that offer lessons with knowledgeable guides with all equipment provided for a safe and fun day out on the water.
Adventure Tours Hawaii gets you away from the crowds of Waikiki to enjoy a serene paddle on the beautiful waters of Pokai Bay. Sea turtles and dolphins are often spotted during lessons, and stunning views of Oahu’s west coast can be enjoyed throughout. Surf HNL is another reputable outfitter to check out for their Oahu SUP lessons in Ala Moana and Pokai Bay.
With the right gear and instruction, stand up paddle boarding on Oahu will be an unforgettable adventure!
With its location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, it is no wonder that the Hawaiian Island of Oahu is a snorkeler’s paradise. While vacationing on Oahu, snorkeling is a great way to appreciate the area’s natural beauty and abundant wildlife. With its crystal-clear waters and wide variety of marine life, the ideal conditions make Oahu snorkeling a top activity option.
Snorkeling is a great way to explore the underwater world and get up close and personal with marine life. Oahu has some of the best snorkeling spots in the world, making it an ideal destination for anyone who loves the ocean. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a beginner, there are plenty of options to suit your skill level. Snorkeling is much easier than other underwater ventures such as scuba or snuba. A mask with a snorkel attached allows you to remain comfortably near the sea’s surface to breathe while viewing the underwater world. Wearing fins helps you maneuver through the water and float with ease. While it does take some adjustment to breathe comfortably through a snorkel, snorkeling is an activity that can be learned and enjoyed quickly, even by beginners.
Hanauma Bay is one of Oahu’s top snorkeling destinations. This nature preserve features a vast coral reef and abundant sea life. As part of Hanauma State Park, an entry fee and reservations are required, so be sure to plan ahead if you would like to make Hanauma Bay a part of your Oahu snorkeling experience.
If you miss out on getting reservations, there are still many top-notch snorkeling options that remain. Shark’s Cove is another marine conservation area open to snorkelers. Entitled Shark’s Cove because of the shape of the reef, visitors shouldn’t let this name deter a visit. Snorkeling in Shark’s Cove is best done in summer months when waves are calmer.
For those staying in West Oahu, the Ko Olina Lagoons offer a convenient, family-friendly snorkel location. Be sure to explore along the rocky sides of the lagoons to spot a variety of tropical fish.
If you’re new to snorkeling or want to explore the best spots with a knowledgeable guide, there are several excellent guided snorkel trips available on Oahu. The Ko Olina Ocean Adventures tour takes you to some of the most secluded and pristine snorkeling spots in the area, while the Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventure includes transportation, equipment rental, and a guided Oahu snorkeling tour of the bay.
Snorkeling on your Oahu vacation is a must-do activity for anyone who loves the ocean and wants to experience the incredible beauty of Hawaii’s underwater world!
Whale watching is an incredible way to experience the natural wonders of the ocean, and Oahu, Hawaii is one of the best places in the world to see these majestic creatures up close. With its abundance of humpback whales, Oahu is a premier destination for anyone who loves marine life. If your Oahu vacation coincides with whale watching season, adding an Oahu whale watching excursion is a sure way to elevate your itinerary.
Whale watching is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows you to witness some of the largest and most magnificent creatures on the planet. Oahu is one of the few places in the world where you can see humpback whales in their natural habitat, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life. From sighting glimpses of whales from the shoreline to booking a whale watching boat excursion, there are several options for catching sight of these majestic creatures.
The best time of year to whale watch on Oahu is from December to May, when humpback whales migrate to Hawaii from Alaska to mate and give birth. During this time, you will have the best chance of seeing these incredible creatures in action, as they breach and slap their tails. Though there are still chances to catch sight of whales as summer approaches, the peak time for sightings is December through March.
While the best way to see humpback whales up close is on a whale watching tour, there are also several excellent spots to see them from shore. Makapuu Lighthouse Trail on the eastern side of the island offers stunning views of the ocean during the whale watching Oahu season, and the chance to spot whales breaching in the distance. The Kaena Point Trail on the northwest shore is another excellent spot to see whales, as it offers panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding coastline.
If you ant to get up close and personal with humpback whales, a whale watching tour is the best way to do it. There are several excellent Oahu whale watching tours available, including Ocean Joy Cruises and Ko Olina Ocean Adventures. Both of these companies offer a tour that combines snorkeling with whale watching, offering a chance to see whales up close and learn about their behavior and habitat from knowledgeable guides.
Whether your Oahu whale watching experience entails watching from shore or taking a guided tour, you are sure to be amazed by these magnificent creatures and the beauty of the ocean they call home.
While Oahu is home to popular cosmopolitan locations such as Waikiki, there is also plenty of natural scenery to go around. The island offers visitors an array of opportunities to explore the rugged terrain while witnessing an incredible array of wildlife. Wildlife watching on Oahu is an enriching experience that can be enjoyed by all ages. From tropical rainforests to crystal-clear waters, Oahu is home to an abundance of flora and fauna that is a delight to the eyes. The island is also home to several unique species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, providing added interest for nature enthusiasts. Going Oahu wildlife watching is a great way to immerse yourself in a pristine natural environment.
It may be no surprise that some of Oahu’s most fascinating wildlife is located beneath the ocean’s surface. Oahu is surrounded by crystal-clear waters that are home to several marine species. One of the most popular marine-based wildlife watching activities on Oahu is whale watching. From December to May, visitors can observe humpback whales as they migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii to mate and give birth. While you may spot some whale spouts from the shoreline, the best way to get an up-close view of these gentle giants is by embarking on a whale watching boat excursion.
Even outside of whale watching season, a boat trip is still a great way to experience some of Oahu’s marine-based wildlife. Spinner dolphins, giant sea turtles, and a variety of other sea creatures can often be seen alongside the boat. And if that’s not quite close enough, consider joining them in their underwater world by donning a snorkel and mask. Whether at an offshore location or from the shoreline, snorkeling on Oahu will reveal a vibrant underwater world teeming with tropical fish.
Oahu offers a variety of conservation areas that are good for land-based Oahu wildlife watching, including birding. Oahu is home to a variety of endemic birds that can be found throughout the island’s wetlands, forests, and coastlines. James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge on the island’s north shore is a great place to spot species such as Hawaiian coot and Hawaiian stilt birds. Ka’ena Point Natural Area Reserve on the island’s western coast offers beautiful scenery as well as the best bird watching Oahu has to offer, including the opportunity to see Laysan albatrosses and wedge-tailed shearwaters.
Whether it is land-based or marine-based, wildlife watching on Oahu is an exciting activity that allows you to connect with nature in a place where natural beauty is abundant! Contact us to learn more!
