Kaneohe, Hawaii

Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is on my list of the top ten most beautiful nature places you can drive to. Hoʻomaluhia means "to make a place of peace and tranquility."  This breathtaking gem was built in 1982 by the US Army Corps of Engineering to prevent flooding.  There’s a lot to do here, you...

Stand Up Paddleboards can be rented in the nearby town of Kailua at various watersports shops. Kayaks can also be rented as another option. The bay can be reached by public access points in neighborhoods at Kaneohe Bay (there are 3 on Mikiola Drive) or at Kaneohe Beach Park.Rental Options: Kail...

Likeke Falls Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Kaneohe, Oahu, Hawaii.

Resting at the foot of the Ko'olau Mountains, the Byodo-In Temple was built to commemorate the first Japanese immigrants that came to Hawaii. This beautiful Buddhist temple is a smaller-scale replica of an over 950 year old Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan. The temple grounds host wildlife such as ...

Park off the Old Pali Highway before the lookout in the dirt parking lot. There is an entry along the fence that will go through. The first part of the hike takes you through a bamboo forest. Most of the time it will be muddy, so be prepared to get dirty. This will lead you to an open grassy val...

The trail, is roughly 3.2 miles and is a great option if you're in the Kailua area. You'll hike in a covered forest along the riverbank, which leads to an amazing waterfall and swimming hole. Many people like to jump from the waterfall into the pool below, and some with a bit more courage even cl...

To get here, park at Kalama Beach Park parking lot and just walk down to the beach. The break is just off to the left, look for the surfers or bodysurfers. Shorebreak's is best primarily on a wind swell with the prevailing wind onshore. It can be hella fun and a good place to learn and also to ho...

The Makuku Ridge Trail located near Honolulu, Hawaii begins along the Judd Trail, quickly branching off to Makuku Ridge. This is an out-and-back trail with great views along the route, but keep in mind it is a little more challenging as there are some steeper inclines. Be sure to wear proper foot...

Judd Trail, located near Honolulu, offers a peaceful loop hike through lush forests with bamboo groves and large banyan trees. It’s known for its relatively short loop, making it suitable for families and beginner hikers. The trail also leads to the scenic Jackass Ginger Pool, where many visito...

Kailua Beach Park, located in the town of Kailua, is a great spot for the whole family. There is a large parking lot with a bathroom and a place to rinse the sand off.

Lyon Arboretum Short Loop is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii.

Located in close proximity to Honolulu, the 150-foot Manoa Falls is accessible from the nearest road by a hike of approximately 0.8 miles (one way). The hike passes through a diverse array of ecosystems in Manoa Valley and feels like a true jungle, which makes it a great photo-zone. This valley i...

To get to Aihualama trail follow the Manoa Road into the back of Manoa Valley. Manoa Road ends at Paradise Park, continue up the road, through the parking lot, towards the entrance of Lyon Arboretum.  At the sharp left bend in the road to Lyon, proceed straight ahead until you reach the parking a...

There's no better way to spend a relaxing day in Hawaii than sitting out on the Kaneohe Bay Sandbar, surrounded by great views of the Koolau Range and Oahu coastline. Located in northeast Oahu, the Kaneohe Sandbar is a fun place to spend your day snorkeling, playing water games, and enjoying foo...

Kayaks can be rented in Kailua. Popoia Island, also known as Flat Island, can be seen from Kailua Beach Park and is a short paddle out.Rental Options: Kailua Beach Adventures Two Good Kayaks

Mount Tantalus, also known as Pu'u Ohia, is a prominent peak in Honolulu, Hawaii. The trail that winds up this mountain is a moderate 1.03-mile loop, suitable for hikers of average fitness levels. The path is well-marked and offers a steady incline, with a few steeper sections that require carefu...