The Hawaiian Islands are full of miles of striking coastline, picturesque towns, and luxury resort areas, so it makes sense that a small inland town on the island of Oahu doesn't generally receive much praise. But there are quite a few things to do in Wahiawa, Hawaii for those who want to escape the hoards of tourists and the hustle and bustle of Hawaii's capital city. Retreat inland for the day to Wahiawa and treat yourself to mouthwatering food, stellar coffee, and some fascinating attractions in the literal heart of Oahu.

Home to more than 16,000 residents, Wahiawa is located between the island's two volcanic mountain ranges on Route 99, the road most commonly taken by those traveling to the North Shore from Honolulu. But if you were to stop in town and take a look around, you would see that there is more than meets the eye in Wahiawa, HI. Here are 13 places to check out the next time you're passing through. We think it might even be worthy of its own day trip.

1. Surfers Coffee Bar

This Wahiawa collective coffee shop is volunteer-run, giving back to the community. The laid-back vibe, delicious coffee, and scrumptious acai bowls make this one of the best hangouts. Read more about Surfers Coffee Bar.

2. The Vintage

Located next door to Surfers Coffee Bar and run by the same non-profit, Surfing The Nations, The Vintage is a positively charming vintage boutique full of antiques, Hawaiian classics, retro art, and clothing. A trip here is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Wahiawa, Hawaii. Get more details at The Vintage Facebook page.

3. Dole Plantation

This historic plantation now serves as a major tourist destination. The plantation offers activities for the whole family – take a ride on the Pineapple express for young children, make your way through the world’s largest (pineapple) maze, go on a tour of the garden, and indulge in an amazing, world-famous Dole Whip. Check out what else you can do in a visit to Dole Plantation.

4. Kilani Bakery

While this Wahiawa, HI bakery may not look like much, their brownies, chantilly cakes, lemon meringue pie, and donuts are simply to die for. Find out more by visiting the Kilani Bakery Facebook page.

5. Dong Yang Inn

This strip mall Korean joint may be the definition of a hole in the wall, but they serve up some mouthwatering barbecue meats and plate lunches.

6. Green World Coffee Farm

Tucked between two Hawaii state highways just outside Wahiawa is Green World Coffee Farm, a quirky coffee shop with killer coffee and tea drinks and walls full of hilarious coffee signs, prints, and memorabilia. Green World is more than just a coffee shop, though – customers can tour the coffee garden out back and actually see the coffee beans growing. Learn more about what Green World Coffee Farm is all about.

8. Kukaniloko Birthing Stones- THIS IS LISTED AS TEMPORARILY CLOSED AS OF 3/2023

The Kukaniloko Birthing Stones, found nearly 100 yards from the intersection of Whitmore Avenue and Highway 80, have marked the site of royal births and powerful struggles for centuries. Recent research has discovered that the stones may have served an astrological purpose as well – perhaps as a sort of a Pacific Islands henge?

8. Route 99 Hawaii

For Hawaiian-themed and inspired clothing, be sure to check out this quirky shop full of t-shirts, colorful, embroidered trucker hats, and other knick-knacks. Head to the Route 99 Hawaii website to browse the selections.

9. Maui Mikes Fire-Roasted Chicken

This casual counter-serve eatery uses only quality ingredients and is known for its delicious chicken, Cajun fries, and a plethora of dipping sauces. Read further on about Maui Mike's Fire-Roasted Chicken.

10. Tropic Lightning Museum

Located on the Schofield Barracks Army Base, the Tropic Lightning Museum preserves the accomplishments of the U.S. Army's 25th Infantry division and showcases memorabilia from more than 100 years of Schofield history. A visit here is one of the most interesting things to do in Wahiawa, Hawaii. Learn more about what a visit to Tropic Lightning Museum will entail.

11. Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade-- THIS IS PERMANENTLY CLOSED AS OF 3/2023

Made from locally sourced ingredients like Hawaii Island lemons and Maui lavender, there's nothing better after a long day of exploring than a glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade.

11. Wahiawa Botanical Garden

This 27-acre botanical garden tucked into Wahiawa is the perfect way to escape into nature without ever leaving Wahiawa. Get more details on Wahiawa Botanical Garden.

Have you ever visited Wahiawa, Hawaii? Do you agree that it is the most underrated town in Hawaii? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!

For more incredible adventures in Hawaii's many towns and cities, check out these 9 underrated Hawaiian cities, these 10 places to move to get away from it all, and these 10 peaceful towns where the tourists won't find you