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Traveling to Hawaii is a dream come true and I finally got to take another visit. I was very young during my last trip to the islands so it felt like my first time there. This time around, the trip meant a lot more to me because I made memories and experienced things that I will always remember. I had forgotten some of the best things to do in Oahu since so much time has passed. After a week of traveling, I am now prepared with a full to-do list for those of you traveling to this place.
Visiting during the summertime is amazing because the weather is perfect year round. A lot of beach destinations get way too hot during this time of the year, but Hawaii is completely different. I felt so refreshed coming from the humid and hot streets of New York to arrive in this tropical paradise.
There are a million things for tourists to do in Hawaii, the place would not exist without wanderlust travelers. I had such an amazing set of activities that I stumbled upon so I wanted to share my opinion on the best things to do in Oahu.
Wahiawa Falls
Experiencing this waterfall is the stereotypical Hawaii experience that you are looking for. Of the best things to do in Oahu, this is one of the most stereotypical island activities I experienced. I really love hiking and that was an aspect of this trip that I was excited to explore. Visiting Wahiawa Falls is the perfect hike because there is a refreshing reward at the end. This waterfall was so beautiful and so fun to swim with. Even if you do not want to swim in it, it is worth visiting just to see its beauty! I was scared at first but there was really nothing to be afraid of and I quickly relaxed. Everyone in the water was also really encouraging about not being afraid of approaching the waterfall. This hike is definitely, an unforgettable experience that is worth diving into.
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Matsumoto’s Shaved Ice
This is the best treat on the island! If you do not believe me, you have to believe the hype. There was such a long line out the door. I have never seen a line like this at an ice cream store so seeing it for shaved ice is insane! I have had a lot of shaved ice, but this one was really special for some reason. They somehow nailed the perfect ratio of ice to syrup. They also have so many flavors to choose from that you will definitely be able to find something that you like. I wish I lived in Hawaii so I could try every flavor. This place is definitely worth booking a flight just for a taste of this sweet treat.
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Makapuu Lighthouse
This was a highly recommended hike on the island and I loved it. It was fairly easy, with a paved path and a short trail. The hike was steep and had its rough points but the amazing views made it worth the trip. At the top, like a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, there is a beautiful view of a lighthouse. There is also the opportunity to go down by the water but because of the waves hitting a rock, you will get drenched! Bring a swimsuit if this is the route you prefer.
We had gone on a hike previously that my dad chose because it was the “path less traveled.” It became clear early one why that trail was not popular. We were covered in mud and had to turn back after a few miles. Don’t try to outsmart the system, just visit the top sights while you can! Hawaii is such a far flight for most of us that you want to make the most of your trip, especially if it’s the first time.
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Hanauma Bay
If you have never been snorkeling, like yours truly, this is definitely a good place to get started. The water is shallow so you can stand in certain spots without hurting the wildlife. There are coral reefs in the water that a lot of beautiful fish swim through. The beach was not really crowded and the whole experience felt very safe. I did not get the chance to deep sea dive into snorkeling yet but as a beginner, this was an amazing experience. I recommend bringing a picnic and spending the day on this beach. It is beautiful and the water is still enough to comfortably swim. This beach was one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen so it stood out as one of the best things to do in Oahu.
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Surfing in Waikiki
Surfing is another activity that I had not done yet before this trip! I am clearly lacking experience in water activities but traveling to Hawaii was the perfect solution to this problem. I learned quickly that this is not as easy as it looks but luckily I had a lot of help getting out into the water. Surfing was scary but it ended up being one of my most memorable events of this trip. It was such a big step out of my comfort zone so it became something that I do not think I will forget anytime soon. It is really easy to find a lesson to take since the whole island is set up for tourism so find a good teacher and hang 10!
I traveled with family friends who have lived on this island for many years. I also worked with a photographer on the island so I was well briefed on the best things to do in Oahu by the locals. If you are a blogger or in need of photos in Hawaii for whatever reason, I highly recommend reaching out to Elise!
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Photos by Elise Nichole
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