Windward Oahu (Top Oahu Attractions & Sights), Oahu tours & activities, fun things to do in Oahu | HawaiiActivities.com
The cool, lush east side of Oahu is known for it's slower-paced lifestyle and small-town atmosphere compared to the busy, hectic life of the city—most of the coastline is accessible only through a single road. The east coast boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, such as Makapuu, Lanikai, Kaneohe, Kualoa, and Laie beach parks. The nearby Koolau mountain range ascends sharply on this side, giving the area its signature winds and cool climate.
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The cool, lush east side of Oahu is known for it's slower-paced lifestyle and small-town atmosphere compared to the busy, hectic life of the city—most of the coastline is accessible only through a single road. The east coast boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, such as Makapuu, Lanikai, Kaneohe, Kualoa, and Laie beach parks. The nearby Koolau mountain range ascends sharply on this side, giving the area its signature winds and cool climate.
Rated as some of the best beaches in the world, Kailua Beach and Lanikai Beach can be found on Oahu's south east side. Lanikai, meaning "heavenly waters", lives up to its name with white sandy shores and azure blue waters. From the shore you can see the Mokulua Islands, a seabird sanctuary featuring volcanic cones and a common hang out for sea turtles, most accessible by kayak. Explore the nearby beach town and its unique boutiques and popular local dining spots.
This sandbar & its surrounding coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling, playing beach volleyball, having a lunch picnic & enjoying panoramic views of the Koolau Mountains & nearby islets. On the windward side of Oahu, this natural formation can be found at the center of reef-protected Kaneohe Bay. Depending on the tide, it can be covered with waist-high water or completely exposed, making a small beach. The sandbar is almost a mile away from shore, so you'll need a boat or kayak to get there.
Visit the Byodo-In Temple, located deep in the heart of Oahu's Valley of the Temples, and experience the peaceful serenity of this non-denominational Japanese shrine commemorating the first Japanese immigrants who arrived in Hawaii over a century ago. This replica of a 900 year old ancient Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan is tucked at the base of the Koolau Mountains and is set upon beautiful acres of koi ponds and Japanese botanical gardens.
Makapuu Beach, on Oahu's southeastern coast, is an island gem known for its prominent dark blue waters, dramatic sea cliffs, tidal pools, lighthouse. There are a few panoramic lookout points along the coast featuring views of Manana (Rabbit) Island and the sea bird sanctuary, Kaohikaipu Islet.
This icon of East Oahu can be found in countless postcards and snapshots featuring the windward coast. The trail leading to the lighthouse ends at a high hill with breathtaking views of Makapuu Beach and Koko Crater. On clear winter days, humpback whales are also known to splash around in the waters beyond the rocky cliff face.
Pro Tips
- Not much of a hiker? No problem. Helicopter is another popular way to see the lighthouse and the other arresting features of the windward coast!
Jump in a multi-passenger off-road UTV that accommodates up to 5 passengers, venture across the iconic Jurassic Valley and visit famous Hollywood film locations. Kualoa Ranch ATV tours are one of the top things to do in Oahu.
Enjoy a relaxing day at the famous Kaneohe Sandbar with Captain Bob's! A 4-hour boat cruise to the magical sandbar, where you'll swim, play volleyball, or just relax. Then, you'll have lunch and snorkel along the reefs with native fishes of Hawaii.
Experience the scenic natural beauty of Kualoa Ranch on a guided horseback ride tour. Expert horse wranglers will ensure you a safe and fun ride through the iconic Ka'a'awa Jurassic Valley. Morning and afternoon tours available daily.
Embark on an unforgettable snorkel and kayak adventure to one of windward Oahu's most beautiful snorkeling sites. Explore Kaneohe Bay on a self-guided kayak and snorkeling adventure and paddle to the sandbar with an affordable kayak rental!
Explore Hawaii’s Hollywood backlot on Kualoa Ranch’s Movie set tour! Visit film sets used in famous Hollywood movies and TV shows such as LOST, Hawaii Five-0, 50 First Dates, Jurassic Park, Jurassic World, Godzilla, Mighty Joe Young and many more.
Enjoy a day of snorkeling and cruising in a private speed boat on Kaneohe Bay. Create an memorable experience for a small group of family and friends, all while enjoying the incredible scenery of Hawaii's best snorkeling spot on the windward coast!
Enjoy a Treetop Canopy Zipline Tour at Kualoa Ranch, Oahu’s most popular zipline tour! Zoom across 7 thrilling lines soaring above the iconic Jurassic Valley, see famous Hollywood film set locations. A safe & fun adventure for friends and families.
Discover the beauty of Oahu's North Shore on an incredible tour to Waimea Waterfalls, Haleiwa Town and have a bite at the world famous Fumi's Shrimp Shack!
Kayaking is one of the most popular things to do on Oahu. Join a beginner guided kayak tour or an advanced paddle adventure to the twin islands. You can also explore the waters of Kailua beach on your own with the self-guided package.
Enjoy a fun day at a secluded beach in Kaneohe Bay. enjoy swimming, kayaking, stand up paddling or just relax on a hammock amidst the beauty of Kualoa Ranch.
Explore Kailua & Lanikai Beach! Escape the crowds of Waikiki for a fun-filled day of swimming, snorkeling, biking and body boarding. This 5-hour Kailua beach tour beach equipment and lunch. Perfect for families!
Experience a private adventure & explore Oahu on a 6 hours tour. Sample local foods & visit hidden spots with a local guide on this four-passenger tour.
Capture the most beautiful moments on the island on a sunrise tour that visits some of the most scenic locations at the best time of day for picture-taking.
Start your day with a beautiful hike at Makapuu trail and enjoy breathtaking views of Oahu's windward coastline. Get a shuttle ride to Makapuu Lighthouse Trail for an unforgettable scenic easy hike! A great activity for the whole family!
Stand-Up Paddling is a great work out and relaxing way to paddle atop the crystal clear waters of Kailua. Learn how to get up and paddle, and SUP on your own!
Enjoy Hawaii's natural beauty on these photo tours, taking you to the most scenic locations on the island, including Haleiwa, Makapuu and Pali Lookout!
See the island from on two wheels with Bike Hawaii's mountain bike adventures in Oahu! For beginners, take an easy downhill ride. For more experienced riders, ride a biking trail at North Shore. For those who want a challenge, Maunawili trail awaits!
Discover the most iconic sights of Oahu's east coast. Begin with either a waterfall hike or a visit to the Lyon Arboretum, then take a hike along the Koolau summit. Capture some of the most breathtaking views of Makapuu, Hanauma Bay & Diamond Head.