How I’d Redo My Trip to Oahu

Oahu is one of my favorite vacation destinations. Here, you can find a little bit of everything — the hustle of the city, quiet beaches, lots of history, and the breathtaking beauty that Hawaii is known for. I have visited Oahu several times, but my last vacation to the island was the first time my children accompanied me. It was a wonderful vacation and I truly enjoyed our time together. However, if I had the opportunity to redo my first family trip to Oahu, I’d do it much differently.

When I visited Oahu with my children in tow, we stayed at a resort in Honolulu. We would take day trips to various areas of the island but we mainly visited the popular tourist areas such as Waikiki Beach, Dole Plantation, and Matsumoto Shave Ice in Hale’iwa. While I’d still want to visit some of these touristy attractions, I’d spend a little more time at the hidden gems that dot the island. Here are just five gems I’d add to our family’s itinerary if I could redo our trip to Oahu.

1. Little Plumeria Farms

Little Plumeria Farms is a 20-acre plumeria farm on Oahu’s North Shore and is home to the largest collection of rare hybrid plumerias in the world. During your visit, you can take a farm tour, walk through the Rare Hybrid Plumeria Garden, and learn all about the flowers. Of course, you will also pick your own plumeria blooms before you head home. It's the perfect fragrant souvenir.

2. Ka’ena Point State Park

To experience a more quiet side of Oahu, I would not miss Ka’ena Point State Park. This unique state park can only be accessed by hiking and features two areas where you’ll find sandy beaches, shoreline fishing opportunities, and picture-perfect picnicking spots. The hike is approximately 2.5 miles one way so before you add this gem to your upcoming itinerary, make sure you are prepared for a little physical and mental exertion.

3. Lyon Arboretum

You will want to put on your hiking shoes to explore the beautiful Lyon Arboretum. This gorgeous destination is part of the University of Hawaii, and is home to more than 6,000 types of tropical and sub-tropical plants. This 200-acre garden also has more than seven miles of hiking trails, perfect for exploring Hawaii’s beauty. Admission is free but donations are appreciated. You will also need to make a reservation before you go.

4. Paradise Cove Beach

Many of the well-known beaches on Oahu can draw quite a crowd. That’s why I want to visit Paradise Cove Beach in Kapolei. This beach is secluded and has white sand, palm trees, and shallow water that’s perfect for wading and playing. It isn’t uncommon to even spot wildlife here like hermit crabs and green sea turtles. This is truly paradise.

5. Wahiawa Botanical Garden

Wahiawa Botanical Garden is located in central Oahu and is a beautiful place for an afternoon stroll. This is a 27-acre garden that was once used as an experimental arboretum by sugar planters in the 1930s. You can walk around this arboretum on the wide paths and view plants and flowers of all colors and sizes. I’m excited to enjoy the views as I relax on the benches and let my children learn as we use the visitor map to take a self-guided tour of the garden.

I loved showing my family Oahu and its many attractions, but I feel like there are so many more destinations waiting for me. What other hidden gems in Oahu should I include on my itinerary? Do you know of any lesser-known destinations that my family would enjoy? If so, let me know by filling out this nomination form. I’d love to hear your suggestions.

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