Top Rated Parks to Visit in Oahu

"A wide arc of sand drapes around the jewel-colored waters of Kailua Bay, with formidable volcanic headlands bookending either side and interesting little islands rising offshore. It’s ideal for long, leisurely walks, family outings and all kinds of aquatic activities like kitesurfing and windsurfing. The beach has a gently sloping sandy bottom with usually calm waters; it’s excellent for swimming year-round, especially in the morning. The wind can blow any time but generally kicks up in the afternoon."

"Just up the road is another one of the most popular Instagram spots on all of Oahu; Kaiula Beach Park. Drive safely, as the road will take you up a scenic drive with views of the most inviting beach you’ve ever laid eyes on. Not becoming distracted by the siren call of Eden out your window will be one of the most difficult things you will have to do during your time on Oahu!"

"Take a 12 mile drive northeast to Kailua Beach to find exciting waterfront activities. A crescent-shaped, 2.5 mile stretch of glorious bright-blue ocean and sandy beach, Kailua Beach is the place for all sorts of sports from windsurfing to kayaking. Kayak or paddle board out to the protected seabird sanctuaries of Flat Island and the Mokulua Islands."

"This 1.7-acre park is located on a peninsula just south of town and offers spectacular views of an iconic landmark- an offshore islet complete with a beautiful arch in the middle, as well as the Mokualai Islet Seabird Sanctuary. Take some time to marvel at the waves crashing against the rugged cliffs as you ponder the legend of “Laniloa the Mo’o” (giant lizard) and his role in the formation of the small islands in the area. (We’ll leave you with that teaser so you can read about the legend once you get there- it’s located on a granite plaque mounted on a 6-ton lava rock.) Simply put, the views here are phenomenal and not to be missed."

"Crashing surf, a lava arch and a slice of Hawaiian folk history await at Laʻie Point. The tiny offshore islands are said to be the surviving pieces of a moʻo (lizard spirit) slain by a legendary warrior. To get here from the highway, head seaward on Anemoku St, opposite Laʻie Shopping Center, then turn right onto dead-end Naupaka St."

"In one day, you can drive this 100-mile path with some beach hopping, but you might have to cherry-pick between the longer activities like the hike, Waimea Valley and the Polynesian Cultural Center if you don’t want to feel rushed. Depart early from Honolulu for your drive north through the farmlands and mountain views of the center of the island, to stretches of empty beachfront and the northwest terminus of the highway at Kaena Point. If you want to do some hiking, the Kaena Point Trail is a 3.5-mile, out-and-back path from the end of the road to the remote western point of the island inaccessible to vehicles."

"Next head to Waimea Valley to see Waimea Falls and swim in the pool at the bottom. This is a beautiful and sacred place and could definitely warrant a few hours of your time – we spent about an hour and a half there."

"Tour Waimea Valley where you can learn about Hawaiian culture, admire a beautiful variety of trees, shrubs and plants and enjoy a swim at a waterfall. (See this link for TripAdvisor reviews of Waimea Valley.)"

"Located right below the Makapu’u Lighthouse, these tide pools are the perfect place to cool off after a tedious hike. It’s the ideal place to float around without having to worry about the strong current of waves surprising you. Locally known as “Maks”, you’ll find so many photo opportunities in this area, from the beach to the lighthouse, to of course, the transparent tide pools."

"If you don’t like sand and prefer to stay away from the ocean, Kaka’ako Waterfront Park is the place for you. At first it won’t seem like much, but as you walk east along the path to the very end is a great view of Honolulu and Diamond Head. This is also a great place for surfers so you might see a few wipe outs while you’re there as well."

"Sandy Beach Park is a great place to go watch experienced bodysurfers and bodyboarders take on some of the roughest breaks on the island of Oahu. Located on the southeastern coastline, Sandy Beach Park is known as the “the beach with broken necks” and is visited mostly by locals. The powerful currents and steep shorebreaks combined with outcrops of sharp coral as well as a quick drop-off of the ocean bottom, makes this one of the best beaches in Oahu among experienced bodyboarders and bodysurfers."

"Park Description and Highlights: This forested area in Aiea is home to the Keaiwa Heiau, hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites. Situated in a residential neighborhood, it’s most used by local residents. Suggested Visit: The ‘Aiea Loop Trail."

"A post shared by Hawaii Forest & Trail (@hawaiiforest) on Feb 22, 2019 at 9:04am PST. Another challenging yet promising adventure is the Aihualama Trail, where once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a picturesque and breathtaking view of the mountainous area against a blue sky. If you are lucky, the fog that appears from time to time makes it a picture-worthy spot and most importantly, makes the hike much more bearable and fruitful."

"One of the best waterfalls in the region, it is an absolute delight to hike through this area. One for all the nature lovers, you will not only be pleasantly surprised at the view, but also be able to enjoy each and every step of your hike. Surrounded by the cool woods, a number of different species of trees, wildflowers and plants can be spott...Read more"

"Founded by surfer Joey Cabell in 1969, this restaurant remains the only independently-owned Chart House in the chain. It's also a perennial favorite with islanders, thanks to beautiful harbor views and great steaks and fish. Service is attentive, and prices aren't as steep as at many upscale places."

"Grilled New York Plate with mashed potatoes and macaroni salad from Chart House Waikiki. Prices: $12.95-$29.50. Raise a toast to Chart House Waikiki, celebrating its 50th anniversary."

"Of course, there’s Turtle Beach as well, but we’ll leave sand and sun for tomorrow. A critical note about getting to Romy’s is that it is farther than you may think. As you drive your way around the northern ring, you’ll pass Turtle Beach and you’ll be going for awhile, wondering if you’ve missed it. Trust me, keep going."

"Of the choices you’ll have, our pick for the best Oahu Instagram spot in the park is Sherwood Beach. Here, you will find the softest, silkiest white sand you could hope for, as well as distant mountainscapes and stunning turquoise water. As pretty as Sherwood Beach is, and it is pretty, things only get better as you drive north…"