Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Oahu

"Starting 2 miles above downtown Honolulu, a narrow switchback road cuts its way up into the Makiki Valley's forest reserves and climbs almost to the top of Mt Tantalus (2013ft), aka Puʻu ʻOhiʻa. There is a a profusion of tropical plants along the way, as vines climb to the tops of telephone poles and twist their way across the wires. This 8.5-mile circuit is a two-way loop called Tantalus Drive on its western side, Round Top Drive to the east."

"Tantalus is the sort of place teenagers hang out on weekends to hide from their parents and escape the real world. But don’t let the reputation fool you. The parking area up here has an insane view of the city of Honolulu and the shoreline, which makes for a fantastic background for a photo op."

"National & State ParksRound Top Drive, Honolulu, HI MoreLess Info. There are restrooms, picnic facilities, drinking water, and a scenic lookout available at the Puu Ualakaa State Park. It covers a forested area on a cinder cone volcano that is close to downtown Honolulu."

"This 1.7-acre park is located on a peninsula just south of town and offers spectacular views of an iconic landmark- an offshore islet complete with a beautiful arch in the middle, as well as the Mokualai Islet Seabird Sanctuary. Take some time to marvel at the waves crashing against the rugged cliffs as you ponder the legend of “Laniloa the Mo’o” (giant lizard) and his role in the formation of the small islands in the area. (We’ll leave you with that teaser so you can read about the legend once you get there- it’s located on a granite plaque mounted on a 6-ton lava rock.) Simply put, the views here are phenomenal and not to be missed."

"In one day, you can drive this 100-mile path with some beach hopping, but you might have to cherry-pick between the longer activities like the hike, Waimea Valley and the Polynesian Cultural Center if you don’t want to feel rushed. Depart early from Honolulu for your drive north through the farmlands and mountain views of the center of the island, to stretches of empty beachfront and the northwest terminus of the highway at Kaena Point. If you want to do some hiking, the Kaena Point Trail is a 3.5-mile, out-and-back path from the end of the road to the remote western point of the island inaccessible to vehicles."

"Tour Waimea Valley where you can learn about Hawaiian culture, admire a beautiful variety of trees, shrubs and plants and enjoy a swim at a waterfall. (See this link for TripAdvisor reviews of Waimea Valley.)"

"Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is a 400 acre protected area that was originally built up as flood protection. It offers events like camping, drawing or painting classes, and specific catch-and-release fishing days on the weekends!. The garden is about 35 minutes from Waikiki (by car or service only) on the eastern side of the island."

"Let me start by saying we rarely bother photographing man-made nature, such as botanical gardens. There is nothing inherently wrong with it, but it feels a bit inauthentic; it’s like building a wildlife photography portfolio by going to a zoo. With that said, the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens are absolutely worth the trip!"

"Park Description and Highlights: Sand Island is a happening community park that shows off Honolulu’s metro/beach combination. A walking path helps you explore its large amount of green space, long sandy beach, and ocean and city views. A partially protected lagoon encourages swimming, and ball fields ensure the park’s place in every day local life."

"A barely visited half-mile ribbon of sand hides in plain sight from much of Honolulu. Industrial Sand Island, sitting between the airport and the port, is home to this large urban park. The beach faces the open pacific and has fine-grained sand."

"Down the road, at Shark’s Cove, you’ll want to walk in its tidepools and snorkel its fairly shallow depths, before stopping at world-famous Waimea Bay. Choose a beach to lounge at for the rest of the day, before exploring Haleiwa Town and getting an early dinner at Haleiwa Beach House. Instead of ending your day on the North Shore here, consider driving back to the Polynesian Cultural Center for its evening show, Ha: Breath of Life, featuring over 100 Polynesian dancers—one of the best shows in Hawaii. Believe us, it may be out of the way, but it’s worth it."

"The next major point of interest, just 4 miles east, is Waimea Bay, where you’ll find a large and popular sandy beach with a big rock people like to jump off of. Across the road, the Waimea Valley preservation has botanical gardens, a waterfall you can swim in and cultural tours of the religious sites. There's an entrance fee for this attraction."

"Further on past pipeline is Shark’s Cove (opposite this beach is a small carpark with food trucks), Waimea Bay (rock jumping has become a popular activity) and Laniakea Beach also known as “Turtle Beach” where turtles make a regular appearance on the sand to lay eggs. It’s impossible to miss this as you’ll notice the cars all gathered around."

"La'ie Beach Park is known for the white soft sand and its surf zone. Not known by many, and not yet a popular destination for tourists, you can enjoy this lesser known place in all of its glory. The ticklish sand, the brilliant blue waters, the playful waves and the solitude is a setting that heals all!"

"The beautiful hike to Likeke Falls, depending on how much time you spend snapping photos and admiring the Ko’olau Mountains, should only take 20-25 minutes. Likeke Falls is one of the least frequented waterfalls in Oahu, but it’s definitely worth the drive, especially if you’re already planning on visiting Maunawili Falls. The short hike is highlighted by mountain vistas, valley overlooks, and lush flora."

"Located near Kailua, the Likeke Falls trail is an easy and muddy trek to a small set of waterfalls. While the Likeke waterfalls themselves are a bit unimpressive, the hike through the lush Hawaiian rainforest is extremely pleasant. Overall, the Likeke Falls are one of the best waterfalls in Oahu."

"Your local Wahiawa Subway® Restaurant, located at 823 California Ave brings delicious ingredients and mouth-watering flavors in billions of sandwich, salad and wrap combinations to you. An alternative to traditional fast food, we offer freshly cut veggies, toppings, protein and freshly-baked brea..."

"Serving more than 200 menu selections including 50 delicious desserts. Offering Dine-In, Curbside Pickup and Takeout Services. Also offering Delivery Services through Door Dash"

"Cheesecake Factory 2301 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815Zack Cooper seated us. He was very professional and kind. You can see his smile through his mask...."

"In light of the COVID-19 situation and in an effort to prioritize the health and well-being of our guests and colleagues, Buffet at Hyatt is closed at this time. Sunrise to Sunset SHOR at Hyatt Regency offers relaxing, iconic Waikiki views coupled with locally inspired, international dishes to...See More"

"Due to COVID (July 2021) buffet was serviced by chefs behind the counter. I wouldn't even pay $5 for the meal, but we ended up eating there anyway s..."