12 Beautiful Places on Oahu That Will Leave You Speechless!
As a local on Oahu, I’ve had the privilege of exploring every corner of this beautiful island, uncovering its hidden gems and iconic locations that make this place one of the best in the world to visit.
From lush valleys to pristine beaches, Oahu has a diverse tapestry of landscapes that will leave you breathless.
Join me as I unveil the most beautiful places on Oahu that will transport you to paradise and make you realize why these are some of the top things to do in Hawaii.
Map of 12 Beautiful Places on Oahu
1. Kualoa Ranch
Kualoa Ranch is one of our favorite places on Oahu, and we always take our friends and family there when they visit us from the mainland.
What sets Kualoa Ranch apart is not just its natural beauty but also its rich cinematic history. Movie buffs will find themselves in paradise here, as Kualoa Ranch has served as the backdrop for numerous iconic films and television shows.
From the lush greenery of “Jurassic Park” to the rugged landscapes of “Lost,” every corner of Kualoa has a story. Walking through these familiar settings, you can’t help but feel a sense of wonder and nostalgia.
But beyond its Hollywood connections, Kualoa Ranch offers an experience transcending the silver screen. The majestic backdrop of the Koʻolau Mountains and the beautiful waters of Kaneohe Bay create a setting that feels almost surreal.
Having frequented Kualoa Ranch numerous times and explored many of their tours, our top pick remains the UTV Raptor Tour. We highly recommend it if you are thinking about which tour to take.
2. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden holds a special place in our hearts. It is a cherished escape amidst the bustling life of Waikiki. We find ourselves drawn to its beauty repeatedly, often coming here at least once every few weeks to slow down and enjoy the beauty of this island.
What sets the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens apart is their remarkable diversity of flora, meticulously curated across 400 acres of lush landscape.
One of the highlights of our visits is the breathtaking view of the Koʻolau Mountains, serving as a majestic backdrop to the garden’s natural beauty.
This really is one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii, and for good reason. I remember the first time I came here, and I honestly felt like I was in a movie. It was absolutely surreal, like, how can one place have this much beauty?!
3. Byodo-In Temple
If this is your first time on Oahu, the Byodo-In Temple should be on your bucket list. This nonpracticing Buddhist temple was built in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii.
I remember the first time I set foot here—it was like stepping into another world. The temple, modeled after the historic Byodo-In Temple in Uji, Japan, is simply beautiful. Its vibrant red hues, graceful curved rooftops, and intricate wooden carvings are a testament to the timeless beauty of Japanese craftsmanship. Trust me, this is one place you don’t want to miss.
Inside, you’ll find a peaceful oasis amidst the tropical surroundings. There is also a pond with some fish to explore.
4. Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
Prepare to have your breath taken away at the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout! Known for its panoramic views of the windward coast of Oahu, this spot is nothing short of spectacular.
If you have read some of our other articles, you know that the Windward side of Oahu is our favorite side of the island. The scenery here is spectacular, unlike any other place we’ve been to.
The lush greenery and the beautiful ocean in the distance are a sight to behold. However, don’t say that we didn’t warn you; the winds here are legendary. Don’t make the mistake of wearing a flowy dress like I did during my first visit here. Needless to say, I spent most of my time holding onto it for dear life!
Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is not just a place for stunning views; it’s also steeped in history. It was the site of the Battle of Nu’uanu, where King Kamehameha I fought to unite the Hawaiian Islands. The area is imbued with the spirit of the past, making it a place where you can see and feel Hawaii’s history.
Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just looking to enjoy breathtaking views, Nu’uanu Pali Lookout offers a compelling and unforgettable experience.
5. Kualoa Regional Park
Across the street from the famous Kualoa Ranch, you’ll find the stunning Kualoa Regional Park. Tourists often overlook this gem, making it a peaceful and somewhat secluded spot to enjoy the beauty of Oahu’s windward coast.
The park has a beautiful beach with calm waters that are perfect for swimming, but check the surf report before going in the water, especially in the winter.
One of our favorite things to do here is to enjoy a picnic while we admire the spectacular views of Mokoliʻi, also known as Chinaman’s Hat. The park has picnic tables, showers, and restrooms, making it a convenient spot to spend the day.
However, the real highlight of Kualoa Regional Park is the stunning views of the Ko’olau Mountain Range. These majestic mountains are a sight to behold, and you can truly appreciate their beauty from this vantage point with a $0 entrance fee compared to Kualoa Ranch.
6. Halona Beach Cove (Eternity Beach)
Halona Beach Cove, also known as Eternity Beach, is nestled between rugged cliffs and the wide, sparkling expanse of the Pacific Ocean.
This hidden cove, famous for its appearance in the film “From Here to Eternity,” captures the imagination with its dramatic beauty and spectacular cliffs.
We love coming here to enjoy the beautiful views, but be warned—the waves can be rough, especially in the winter, so always use caution when in the water.
Many people skip this place after visiting the Halona Blowhole, but we highly recommend spending a few minutes there to enjoy the views.
7. Halona Blowhole
Right next to Halona Beach Cove is the impressive Halona Blowhole, a natural wonder formed by lava tubes.
The blowhole can be seen from the parking lot at the viewing area, so this is a great quick stop to admire nature’s power.
Depending on what time you get there, it can be crowded, but the good news is that people don’t stay for too long.
8. Lanikai Beach
Imagine a stretch of soft, powdery sand bordered by the clearest, most inviting turquoise waters you’ve ever seen — that’s Lanikai Beach for you. Frequently rated among the world’s best beaches, Lanikai, meaning “heavenly sea” in Hawaiian, truly lives up to its name.
It’s a paradise for swimmers, kayakers, and photographers alike, offering postcard-perfect views at every turn. The beach is also famous for its incredible sunrise views. It provides an unforgettable experience that will have you up and out of bed before dawn, eager to see the sun rise over the horizon.
Lanikai Beach promises a beautiful day out, whether you’re looking to relax under the sun, paddle out to the nearby Mokulua Islands, or soak in the breathtaking scenery.
While debatable, this is the best beach on Oahu, in our opinion, and we highly recommend adding it to your itinerary. I come here once a week, and I can’t wait to return each time I leave.
9. Hanauma Bay
Often named one of the best places to snorkel on Oahu, Hanauma Bay offers a unique experience for all beach-goers. This picturesque bay boasts a protected marine ecosystem with over 400 fish and other sea creatures.
Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or just starting, Hanauma Bay is the perfect spot to explore the underwater world. The shallow waters and calm waves make it one of the top beaches on Oahu for families, and with its designated conservation area, you can rest assured that the marine life is well-protected here.
There are also plenty of options for those who prefer to stay on land. The bay is surrounded by a beautiful beach with soft sand and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing or picnicking.
Plus, the panoramic views of the bay and surrounding cliffs make for great photo opportunities. You will often find me lounging somewhere on the beach, enjoying the spectacular scenery.
While the beach can get crowded, especially on weekends, it’s well worth the visit. Just be sure to make your reservations in advance and follow the rules and regulations to help preserve this beautiful natural wonder.
10. Waikiki Beach
We can’t talk about Oahu beaches without mentioning Waikiki Beach. This world-famous beach is a must-visit for first-timers to the island.
With its perfect golden sand, turquoise waters, and iconic Diamond Head backdrop, it’s no wonder why this beach attracts millions of visitors every year.
But don’t let the crowds deter you from visiting. Waikiki Beach offers everything, from swimming and surfing to shopping and dining. The beach is lined with high-end resorts, restaurants, and shops, making it the perfect spot for a day of indulgence.
If you are anything like us, you will also enjoy strolling down the Waikiki Beach walk as you experience local culture, people-watch, and maybe even see a beautiful sunset.
11. Ka’a’awa Beach Park
I will admit that I recently just discovered Ka’a’awa Beach Park, which has quickly become one of my favorite beaches on the island.
I don’t know why no one has told me about this beach, but it’s better late than never.
This hidden gem is located on the east side of Oahu and offers a less crowded and more peaceful beach experience. While not ideal for swimming, especially in the winter, we mainly come here for the spectacular views and photo opportunities.
We often come to picnic and enjoy the stunning views of the Ko’olau Mountains in the distance.
The beach is also a popular spot for fishing among locals, so you might even see some fishermen casting their lines. Just remember to be respectful to the land and the people during your visit.
12. Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
The Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail is a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers!
This trail offers breathtaking views of Oahu’s southeastern coastline, including the distinctive Makapuʻu Lighthouse, which has stood proudly since the early 1900s.
The trail is beginner-friendly, making it accessible to hikers of all levels. The reward? Stunning panoramic views encompass the deep blues of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and, if you’re lucky, sightings of migrating humpback whales during the winter months. This is one of the best places on Oahu to whale watch, so be sure to stop by.
This is the one trail we are guaranteed to take our family and friends to when they visit the island because it’s one of the easiest hikes on Oahu, but the reward is always worth it!
