Things To Do
Yokohama Beach
Grab some 7/11 snacks and enjoy the sunset at this beach. The actual name is Keawaʻula, which translates to "the red harbor" or "red bay". The name refers to a school of squid or cuttlefish that gathered in the area, causing the water to turn a reddish color. It's be best beach for body boarding or body surfing. There's a baby beach area too (This is Taylor's favorite beach.)
Mākaha Beach Park
Go see the mountain that you see on the Kona Brewing Co. Big Wave bottle. Mākaha Beach Park is the backyard of our wedding venue and is a great beach to spend the day at and catch a mean sunset. Parking can be limited during peak times, but very worth it.
Pokai Bay Restaurant
Looks can be deceiving, but anything from here is AMAZING! They are most known for their garlic chicken and their pastries.
Waianae Korean BBQ
Amazing KBBQ. If you like spicy, the Kimchee soup is for you (Matt and Taylor's favorite). Other than that, anything you order form here will satisfy your plate lunch craving.
Aloha Poke
The prices are a little high, but definitely worth it. They also have amazing plate lunches, like their ahi katsu and garlic salmon belly.
Mākeke Wai'anae (Farmers Market)
The market is located at the Wai'anae mall, in the parking lot behind Starbucks/Jamba Juice and 808 Puffs. There's lots of food vendors, fresh produce, and local crafters. It's open on Saturdays from 8a-12p.
808 Puffs
Their Puffs are just as good as Liliha Bakery, if not better! They also have plate lunches that are pretty solid.
Lanterns Restaurant and Tavern
HOME OF THE BOOZY BAGS AND PATRON TOWER. Best restaurant to relax and enjoy a meal with the perfect view of sunset. Follow their instagram @lanternshawaii to see the themes nights and sports/show events they host!
Pu'u O Hulu Hike (Maili Pillbox)
The hike to the Maile Pink Pillbox is a short hike, taking around an hour to complete. Expect a sun exposed climb to a set of bunkers that provide some of the best views of the west side & Mt Kaala. We've only done sunrise and there's not much shade, so bring water & sun protection! The link attached has pictures of how to find the trail head.
Kainalu Surf Shop
Their açaí bowls have COOKIE BUTTER DRIZZLE! They also have shaved ice, poke bowls, clothes and other fun stuff. They're heavy supporters of the community so we always try to go as much as we can.
Nānākuli Beach Park (Kalaniana'ole)
Many people swear this is the best beach on the island. There aren't many shaded areas so plan to bring an umbrella or pop tent if you can't handle direct westside sun. If you're lucky the ice cream truck will be there, they have the best ice cream-icey cups. There's two ways to park for the beach, one is the entrance right at the Nanakuli Ave traffic light, the other will be on the zublan side on Laumania Ave.
White Plains Beach
Beginner-friendly surf spot and family beach. It has gentle rolling waves, free parking, and a lifeguard on duty. If you have an active military ID (CAC), you can rent surfboards for about $10/hour or $25/day at the beach. Non-military visitors are welcome to bring their own boards/board-rentals.
Aunty's Hotpot House
All you can eat hotpot, and you get a free shave ice at the end of your meal! Kids under 40 inches eat free. 90 minute time limit. They offer several broth choices, 2 industrial sized fridges with protein/seafood/vegetable options, and a toppings bar to mix your own sauce.
Sage Creamery
Coffee, Matcha and Ice Cream all made from locally sourced ingredients. The most amazing flavors you'll ever taste! Taylor's favorite is the Pikake Matcha, Matt's favorite is a double scoop of strawberry guava sorbet.
Camp Pālehua
Camp Pālehua has the most beautiful views. Right above Kapolei, and they offer self or guided hikes (some are only 1 mile), and trail rides. If you're just looking to take a drive up a mountain, the way there will satisfy.
Jolene's - Ewa Beach
Literally anything you order here is amazing, but keep an eye on their specials. They are most famous for their lobster roll, which we get every time. We also love the Birria and the Louisiana Fries.
Shiro's Saimin Haven
Authentic local style Saimin, as well as local style plate lunches and burgers. One of the most famous saimin shops on the island, opened in 1969.
Ono Thai
The BEST Thai food you will ever have. Don't skip the Pad Si Eew and the Thai Fried Chicken!
Wai Kai
If you go here definitely go for an activity bundle. This place has the inflatable obstacle course on the water, stand up paddle boarding, a wave pool and a lot more. Every Thursday they have a food market called the Ono Grindz Makeke and the vendors are amazing!