Zoe & Allen
Things To Do
Polynesian Cultural Center
This is a great place to experience Polynesian history and culture. Their authentic luau and the Ha: Breath of Life Show are fantastic and should not be missed! If you are staying at the Courtyard Marriott in Laie it will be right next door. If you want to experience Polynesian history and Hawaiian Aloha and have a full day, this is worthwhile to experience.
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma is a great preserve for snorkeling and observing sea life. If you don't bring swim fins and snorkels there are some to rent at the bay beach. There was a snack bar prior to Covid-19, it is uncertain whether it will reopen by July, 2022. Hanauma is a great place for a picnic, so allocate a few hours to spend there. Plan to go early as the parking fills up quick after opening. However, there is now a new reservation system, but we are not sure how this affects waiting for parking. Going earlier is better as the waves start to get stronger closer to noon/midday.
Sharks Cove
Sharks Cove is a GREAT place for snorkelers of any level. The shallow reefs are great for kids to see fish and there are lots of areas with soft and safe sand. Be wary of the tide, as high tide brings deeper waters and rough waves that crash over the protective surrounding rocks. There is a deeper open section that bridges the larger tide pool area with a smaller one that you can do a short hike to, but be careful during rougher waters. This section is better for older intermediate and advanced swimmers, as waves can get really choppy and push you towards the rocks. (Allen lost some fins after getting smacked up by some waves, ask him about this later!) There is free parking at the cove and restroom facilities. The cove is across the street from a Foodland, which is a great place for snacks and miscellaneous things.
Diamond Head Crater
The most iconic hike in Oahu. Diamond Head State Monument is a must for the amazing ocean and island views you get once you make it to the top! It takes about 1.5-2 hours to hike Diamond Head (1.6 miles roundtrip). The paved surface and handrails make your hike safe and convenient. Still, some parts of the trail comprise of uneven rock, so make sure you walk carefully and don’t lose your footing. Note that you have to walk through a narrow tunnel on your way to the summit and ascend 99 steps at the end of your hike. Wear good hiking shoes. And to be extra cautious, bring along a flashlight so you can watch your steps. An entry fee of $1 per walk-in visitor and $5 per vehicle applies.
Waikiki City
Definitely check out the main city for the best night life on the island and walk the Waikiki strip at night to see the street artists and famous spots like Dukes. Friday nights the Hilton Hawaiian village has a free firework show and Hawaiian dance and fire show, so if around during that time definitely stop by! Also some of our favorite catamaran sails take off right from the sandy beaches of Honolulu. One of our favorite companies is the Mai Tai Catamaran, great crew, great drinks, great atmosphere. Definitely look into booking a catamaran sail in Honolulu!
Nu‘uanu Pali
A Bride's family tradition. The Pali lookout is an amazing viewpoint to view the east side of the island and get a glimpse at some of the famous Jurassic Park mountain ranges. The wind here is usually so strong when you lean over it will push you right back up. A very exciting place to stop by! Also when driving back through and towards Honolulu from the east coast make sure to drive down the H3 freeway as you will drive through some massive tunnels drilled through the mountains and you feel like you're driving in the the clouds, it is an unreal experience!
Kualoa Ranch
This is one of the most iconic mountain ranges in the world! Parts of the Jurassic park and world movies were filmed here along with Godzilla, Fifty First Dates, Lost, Jumanji, Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates and more. There are multiple tours to take ranging from ATVs, ziplines, horseback riding and multiple jeep movie tours. If you don't have time to do a tour, at least drive by to see the majestic Ko'olau mountains.
Ko Olina Beach
Another childhood favorite of the Bride, these man made lagoons have picturesque landscaped resorts line the beautiful water. Disney Aulani Resort, Four Seasons Resort, and Marriott vacation club resorts are all located here. HUGE POINTER: The sunsets on this side of the island are the most amazing sunsets Allen and I have ever seen! Try and make it out to catch a glimpse of these unforgettable moments.
Ka'ena Point
Ka'ena Point is a great place to hike towards Oahu's north-western most point. There is local street parking on the north shore and parking by Yokohama Bay, but any hiking on the Ka'ena Point Trail takes a good day to do.
Kailua Beach
A favorite of the Bride's and her Dad who grew up on this side of the island. The Kailua Beaches are large and have plenty of space for big group beach hangouts. The water is very warm and mostly calm. Kayak trips around the water and to the small little island a few feet out from shore are popular and wind surfing is a must!
O‘ahu
There are SO many places to explore and these are only a few of them! Feel free to ask us for any other recommendations of things you would like to do and we will gladly give you more information! Aloha!!