to see/do/eat in Oahu, Hawaii

pictures: 1. & 2. Crouching Lion hike, 3. Waimea Valley/ Waimea Falls, 4. Secret Beach on Chinaman's hat

I have had quite a few emails asking for my recommendations for my favorite places to go and do in Hawaii. After 3 years on the island and a handful of visits before, I have compiled quite a list. I'm not sure what your goal is on your visit to the islands but remember that we are beach loving folks and our favorites might not fit your ideal visit or fit your location. I'm in the midst of compiling questions for a future f.a.q.'s page so I plan to throw a link to this on there.

But here is what we consider as our must do/see/eat in Oahu:

where to stay: (I have stayed at all of these places, and yes, I am partial to the North Shore)
$: beach houses or camping at Malekahana (north shore). They have campsites, yurts, tiny straw huts, and beach duplex houses (more info)
$$: the condos at Kuilima Estates. These are great for families or bigger groups and the price is right. Usually you get kitchens as well if you're trying to dine on a dime. (google "Kuilima Estate Rentals" for more info)
$$$: There are some amazing house rentals on the north shore OR Turtle Bay Resort. Prices vary.

to do/see:
-If you're visiting from October-March, check the surf report and go watch the north shore waves. Absolutely amazing. Pipeline, Waimea, and Sunset specifically.

-Hike Chinaman's hat: you must do at low tide to walk/swim out to the island. Ask lifeguard on beach. And don't forget to wear water shoes or flip flops to walk on the reef! ouch! Start on the north side (left side if you're looking towards the ocean) of the cement barricade and head towards the right side of the island when swimming/walking across. (more info)

-Polynesian Cultural Center: best luau on the island by far! You must go to the luau dinner and night show ( you HAVE to do this at least once in your lifetime) and it is worth every cent. You'll thank me. (more info)

-Maunawili Falls hike: not paved and may not be for all ages but a beautiful waterfall at the end! (more info)

-Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail: (paved road) (more info)

-Crouching lion hike: (not recommended for inexperienced hikers!!! Go at your own risk. Incredible views. Took us 3 hours up and 2 hours down and is a VERY intense hike with very steep cliffs. Probably one of the craziest/scariest things I have done in my life) (more info)

-Gorgeous snorkeling at Hanauma bay: avoid Saturdays or Holidays because this place gets busy but if you swim out past the shallow reef, it is unreal. (more info)

-Snorkel at Sharks Cove (more info)

-Waimea bay: go play, layout, and jump off the rock into the ocean at Waimea Bay. Be careful, if the waves are big, the shore break might not be suitable for swimming and you'll learn the hard way. Parking is a pain. (more info)

-Go for a beautiful walk/hike up Waimea Valley up to the Waimea falls. I did this at 8 months pregnant so it is suitable for all ages. Does cost $ per person. Don't forget your camera!! It is absolutely GORGEOUS! Pay the $ and go see. (more info)

-Hang out at the hidden Kawela bay (watch for turtles in the water) (more info)

-Pearl Harbor Memorial (go early!)

-Look for resting turtles on the sand or go snorkeling at Lanaikea beach (more info)

My favorite beaches to beach at:
Pipeline (more info)
Sunset Beach
Waimea Bay
pretty much anywhere on the north shore...

fun things to do downtown:
-paddle boarding or long board surfing at Waikiki: we always rented a 12 foot board to do tandem surfing. We enjoyed paddle boarding down there as well. Rentals are on the beach or for cheaper options, just go a few blocks back from the beach and I'm sure you'll find one.
-Get a rental scooter and scooter around Waikiki

to eat (with included areas):
Kahuku Grill $ Ah-mazing cheeseburgers burgers. (Kuhuku/ north east side)

Kua 'Aina Burger $ I recommend the avocado burger. (Haleiwa/ North Shore)

Storto's $ Mouth-watering sub sandwiches. My recommendation is a turkey sub (on their sub white bread, don't try to go healthy here) with everything on it plus avocado and papaya seed dressing. (Haleiwa/ North Shore)

Waialua Bakery $ Everything tastes homemade. Sandwiches are unreal. Loved the cranberry and turkey. (Haleiwa/ North Shore)

Shave ice: $ Everyone likes to go to the famous Matsumotos (the line can be horribly long) but Cameron and I always liked the General Store (more info) where we get Da'works or the Pineapple Bowl. (Haleiwa/ North Shore)

Haliewa Joe's $$ The perfect place for fresh seafood and a lovely lunch or dinner. Highly suggest! Their seared ahi or coconut shrimp is particularly good. (Haleiwa/ North Shore)

Haleiwa Thai $$ Don't forget to order coconut rice with your curry. Salty plus sweet! (panang or yellow are our fav curries) I love the ambiance and the food! Major fav! (Haleiwa/ North Shore)

Leonard's bakery malasadas $ You'll find Leonard's downtown or on the east side. Try the malasadas with filling!

Ted's bakery $ Yuuuummmmmy cheeseburgers with homemade buns. My vote for the best burger! For dessert, love their Haupia and chocolate pie or chocolate eclair! (North Shore)

Nico's or Uncle's $-$$ Both are local spots rather than touristy, really fresh fish right off the boat. (Honolulu)

Doraku Sushi $$ Cameron loved the tempura brownie but I thought all the rolls were heaven. (Honolulu/Waikiki)

Mariposa @ Neiman Marcus $$ This is one of my favorite places if you're looking for a fancier lunch. (Honolulu)

La Mer at the Halekulani Hotel $$$ French food with an amazing view of the ocean. (Honolulu/Waikiki)

*Let me know if you want a more detailed food preference. I worked as a hired companion/ assistant and have tried practically every decent and some not so decent place on the island.

To shop:
-Aloha Stadium: for all the souvenirs your heart could ever desire at inexpensive prices but this can also get really old really fast. Beware. (google for more info)
-Ala Moana mall
-Waikiki strip (the main drag in Waikiki). I love the selection of swimsuits at the Macy's here!

Feel free to send over any other questions!