Top 15 Things To Do On The Windward Coast O'ahu

The Windward Coast might be the one of my favourite areas on O’ahu. The views are jaw dropping, the activities are one of a kind, and it has the most Hawaii landscape views.

With so much to do in the area, these are my top 15 things to do on the Windward Coast O’ahu.

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

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Top 15 Things To Do On The Windward Coast O’ahu

These are my top 15 things to do on the Windward Coast O’ahu, from entering Jurassic World, to scenic hikes, secret beaches, and even a taste of Japan in Hawaii.

P.S. For simple and easy trip planning to O’ahu check out my O’ahu travel planner that you can print out, or use on your phone. It includes checklists for top things to do on the Windward Coast and more!

1. Koko Crater Tramway

Koko Crater is a unique crater to hike up because you don’t just hike a trail but a railway leading up to the top of the mountain. This railway used to get supplies to the top of the mountain during WWII when the summit was used as a lookout.

But! I actually don’t recommend doing the full hike. You can get the gist of the trail and the views from just hiking a bit of it. The view is pretty good from even just a few steps up (it’s probably worse at the top anyway because you’re further away!).

And it’s actually a pretty dangerous hike. The mountains becomes quite steep, it’s not maintained, and there’s NO shade.

I was told that there are at least two helicopter rescues from Koko Crater Tramway a week because tourists aren’t prepared for it… and I saw that myself. I saw people hiking it in flip flops with only one small water bottle.

So unless you’re an experience hiker it can be quite a dangerous hike despite it’s easy look.

P.S. There is also a shooting range directly below Koko Crater so you may be hearing a lot of gunshots which can be quite jarring.

an old wooden railroad is surrounded by leave-less trees branches and yellowed grass, it seems to be going higher and higher up a steep crater mountain. In the distance, you can see small specks that are people walking on the tramway

2. Hawi’i Kai Lookout

Hawai’i Kai is the first lookout point of many on the Windward Coast, but this is the only one that’s one the left side of the road (if you’re coming from Waikiki Beach).

This is a quick stop for a view and photo opportunity. You’ll see the full scale of all the mountains from Koko Crater all the way to Diamond Head – depending on the visibility that day!

a panoramic view at hawaii kai lookout on the windward coast. Spanning from far off in the distance on the left is diamond head crater, which appears very small now. There are towns in the middle, with the taller mountain range behind. These are much taller because they are already in the clouds in the sky above. Continuing to the right you end with koko crater mountain.

3. Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve (Snorkeling)

Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve is THE spot to go snorkeling on the Island. It’s so popular that due to over tourism, you now have to reserve a time in advance (ticket sales only open 48 hours in advance, but they do save some spots for walk-ins).

There is a small paid parking lot that fills up quickly, so either be sure to arrive early, or you can also book a package with transportation from Waikiki Beach (the other benefit of this is that you can book it more in advance so you don’t have to stress about it selling out on your dates).

Even if you don’t want to snorkel, you can still visit Hanauma Bay for an impressive view. You still have to pay for parking, but if you stay less than fifteen minutes you’ll get a refund (when I went it was also only $3 for parking).

Once inside, there’s a small paved trail to the top which gives you a lookout onto Hanauma Bay below.

P.S. If you are interested in snorkeling in Hanauma Bay, be sure to wear reef safe sunscreen (like this mineral based Zinc sunscreen from Coppertone).

a view from above of the hanauma bay nature reserve. Its a beach with clear blue teal waters thats secluded between a rounded mountains around it. On the beach, you can see beach chairs and umbrellas already set up, and its really not busy, considering how popular it is

4. Hālona Blowhole

A short drive away from Hanauma Bay is the Halona Blowhole lookout.

Although at first it may seem like just another jaw-dropping view, there’s actually a little secret surprise here. You have to know where to look though, but it’s most likely the spot with the biggest crowd!

The Halona Blowhole is like a geyser in the lava rock shore of the ocean. On windy days and during high tide, the blowhole fills up and spits out water high in the sky (it can go up to 30 feet high!).

Of course, since this is a wonder of nature, this is a destination that needs the right conditions, and you might have to wait a bit. I got lucky, and didn’t plan a thing and I saw it go off several times. It wasn’t like waiting for a geyser to fill up either, it was constant.

I do feel like the coast is often very windy, but I do recommend trying to plan visiting during high tide at least!

And if you’re visiting from November to February, you might also spot some migrating Humpback Whales from here!

Fun fact: Hālona actually means lookout in Hawaiian… so this is the lookout blowhole lookout!

the image is divided into three horizontal sections. On the bottom is black lava rocks on the shore end. Then you have the vast ocean hitting the rocks and leading all the way into the sky. But something stands out between the water and the rocks - a spray of water that came out of the halona blowhole.

5. Makapu’u Lookout & Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline Trail

There are actually three possible destinations at this stop: a hike to view, a hike to a beach, or just a lookout. So depending on how much time you have, you can do any one of them, or even all of them!

You can park at the Makapu’u Lookout for a view of the coastline with the soaring mountains behind. Or you can head to the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline Trail will either take you to a viewpoint or Alan Davis Beach. I opted to go to the top…

The route to Alan Davis Beach looked a tad more rugged, whereas the trail to the Makapu’u Lookout was wide and completely paved (this was also easiest trail I did in Hawaii).

At the top of the hike, you will have the same view you have from the lookout below but with a little bit extra! For starters, you’re higher up, but you’ll be able to see the lighthouse below, and Koko Crater on the other side.

P.S. You can also stop at Makapu’u Beach Park at the bottom of the mountain for a view of what you climbed up and a different view of the lighthouse on the cliffs edge.

a stark but simple image of a golden cliffside with the sun shining on it during sunrise. There's a small white lighthouse with a red roof that steels your focus. The mountain is against the vast ocean that leads into the sky.

6. Lanikai (Beach & Hike)

Lanikai is home to the famous Lanikai Beach and Lanikai pillbox hike, and is the best spot on the Island to watch the sunrise.

Lanikai Beach is the epitome of Hawaiian beaches. It’s family friendly, secluded, and has one of the best views with the clearest waters.

There’s just a few small problems… there’s absolutely NO PARKING, there’s no lifeguard, and can actually be a tad busy now.

So if you are still interested in going, I recommend booking a place to stay in the area (so you can walk) or opt to taxi or Uber instead.

The pillbox hike will have similar issues with parking, I also only recommend doing it if you’re an experienced hiker.

the beautiful lanikai beach the moment you walk out on to it you're greeted with a small pooling of water over the sand. Outriggers are lined up along the edge of the beach before a line of bushes and palm trees start separating the beach from the outside world. The outriggers are teal and white, the tea matches the colour of the ocean in front of it. In the distance two small islands pop out from the horizon. There are also people walking and sitting on the beach. There are also a lot of people actually in the water. A lot of the photo is taken over by blue skies, with a few white clouds littering the horizon.

7. Kailua Town

Bordering Lanikai is Kailua, and this is the largest town on the Windward Coast. They have a beach, with similar views to Lanikai and a proper parking lot.

Near the beach, a popular (historic) stop is the Kalapawai Market from 1932. Here you’ll be able to pick up a quick sandwich or coffee, or even a Hawaiian souvenir or beach essential.

Further into the actual town, you’ll want to stop by Mānoa Chocolate & Wine Bar for a free chocolate tasting. From this experience I actually booked their Cacao farm tour on Kamananui Orchards in the North Shore (and would highly recommend it if you like chocolate!).

P.S. There’s also a cacao orchard on the Windward Coast too, keep reading to find out more about that!

I also had my favourite coffee in Hawaii at ChadLou’s Coffee Roasters around the corner.

And if you’re in the area on Thursday or Sunday, be sure to check out the Kailua Farmers Market or the KailuaTown Farmers Market.

Warning When Parking in Kailua

If you are renting a car and driving around the Island, you have to be very vigilant when parking in Kailua. It’s a rising problem for tourists in the area, a towing company is watching and waiting for you to leave your car and tow it immediately (at your expense of course).

This happened to me while I left for 5 minutes to get a coffee. Be sure to read EVERY sign – even if they aren’t facing you where you park…

And if this does happen, know your rights, that they have to accept ANY method of payment under the law in Hawaii.

manoa chocolate tasting. Sitting at a long bar, there are sheets in front of people at the bar. On the sheet is a list of manoa chocolate bars and their tasting notes. You can see about 3 on the table, shared between two people each. There are also small paper cups filled with a brown liquid. Two people stand behind the bar, one is facing your table. The other is facing the opposite bar on the other side, where you see a group of six people doing another tasting. This is in the middle of the manoa chocolate store.

8. Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout

As with all the lookouts in Hawaii, Nu’uanu Lookout does not disappoint. It’s a bit out of the way if you’re coming from the coast, but it’s more than worth the detour.

Unlike the other lookouts, be aware that you will have to pay for parking here (but at least there are also bathrooms).

The views are absolutely INCREDIBLE. You’re not just looking out at the towns and ocean, but you’re IN the mountain.

I also just liked looking behind me at the towering mountains themselves.

nuuanu lookout point on the windward coast or actually of the windward coast. The right and left sides of the photo are bordered by mountains ranges. they lead you down into the town below abd finally the ocean beyond it. There are thick white and grey clouds in the sky above.

9. Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden

If you are itching to get even closer to the epic mountains, you have to go to the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Gardens.

Don’t get deterred by the name, this is so much more than a botanical garden and should be on your top things to do in O’ahu.

It’s also the most unique botanical gardens I’ve ever been to. Normally, you’re walking around, admiring different flora. But here it’s actually more about the mountain views than anything (don’t worry they still have unique plants to see too!).

The Botanical Gardens are so large that you’re actually driving through them and stopping at different places along the way. Sometimes it’s a view, or a small hike to a view, and other times it’s for a themed flora garden.

I recommend arriving for when it opens so you have the least amount of people in the gardens (and your photos).

There are two main stops to go to at the first/second and last parking lots (p.s. the first and second parking lot both lead to the same location).

The first parking lots lead to the visitors centre where you should pick up a map, and talk to someone to find out where you should go based on your interests.

Then, you’ll also want to walk down to the lake for a view (be sure to walk beyond the path toward the back of the lake for the best view of the mountains).

P.S. to make this stop even better, the gardens are COMPLETELY free.

an encapsulating scene, a road leads your eye to a red jeep driving ahead. You realize the sheer tiny size of it when you realize the talls trees, and even taller mountains that take over the rest of the photo. It's almost taken over by greenery but the vibrant blue and white sky take over the top third of the photo.

10. Haiku Gardens (Halewaia Joe’s)

I was a bit confused with the Haiku Gardens when I visited because when you look it up, it seems to be a restaurant (Haleweia Joe’s) or a wedding venue…

But you can in fact visit the Haiku Gardens without visiting the restaurant or attending a wedding (you might not be able to walk around if there’s an actual wedding taking place I imagine…).

The Haiku Gardens are open to the public and free to walk around. There’s a path to access them just to the right of the main entrance to Haleweia Joe’s.

Walk down to the gazebo and around the pond as well for the best view of the gazebo with the mountains.

Of course you can eat at the restaurant to enjoy the views even longer, but you will most likely have to wait (they don’t accept reservations). AND at least when I visited (in October), the restaurant only opened an hour before sunset so you wouldn’t be able to see the view for very long anyway…

a relaxing jaw dropping view of the haiku gardens from above. There's a green pond, with the reflection of a white gazebo, which sits right above it going out into the middle pf the pond. Around it is green grass and lush green trees behind that. But the view is all about the taller than life mountain behind leading way up into the blue and cloudy sky.

11. Byodo-In Temple

Byodo-In Temple is another very unique attractions on the Windward Coast.

It’s a non-practicing Buddhist Temple in Hawaii, and it actually never was practicing in the first place. It was built in 1968 to commemorate the first Japanese Immigrants in Hawai’i.

But it is based on the very real Byodoin Temple in Uji Japan, and was built using the same practices from centuries ago (not using any nails!). So it’s nonetheless still impressive to see!

If you haven’t been to Japan this is a nice taste of the country. And having been to Japan, this brought me back to visiting all the temples throughout the country. And having been to Japanese temples, this might have been one of my favourite with the mountains in the background. Plus the colours are vibrant and compliment each other (the red and green!).

And as a bonus, you were never allowed to photograph the Buddha inside the temple in Japan, and here you can!

P.S. Across from the temple is also my favourite McDonalds, sit outside for incredible views while enjoying your chicken nuggets!

a beautiful relaxing scene that makes you unsure of where you are. A red painted rounded bridge leads you across a stream to a Japanese temple of the same colour. It seems so small compared to the towering deep green mountain behind it. Are you in Japan or Hawaii here - that is the question.

12. Waihole Poi Factory

The Waihole Poi is the one place you absolutely have to eat at on the Windward Coast, even though it might not be your favourite food in Hawaii (let’s just say traditional Hawaiian food has very unique tastes and textures!).

But they do have all the traditional Hawaiian food and more! So you can try poi, kalua pork, and lau lau. I actually loved eating here to try the Kava and Mamake tea!

P.S. See a full list of Hawaiian foods you have to try (and where to find them on O’ahu!).

the outside of the waihole poi factory. People are standing at the open windows outside putting in their orders.

13. Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts are now locally grown on the Island, but Hawaii does macadamia nuts differently.

Although they have the raw nut, they more about the toppings and seasonings on the nut. You can find quite the unique flavours from Maui onion and garlic, to Kona coffee.

Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts is more like a souvenir shop than a farm but you are able to taste all the unique macadamia nut flavours (and maybe decide to buy one as a souvenir).

And there are some other shops stalls set up for you to peruse at the same time.

P.S. Looking to find the perfect Hawaiian souvenir? See my suggestions for what to buy in Hawaii.

a closeup of several rows of bags of macadamia nuts from Tropical Farms of Hawai'i. The label is a bright teal colour and a landscape painting of hawaii in the middle. You can see the macadamia nuts through the clear bag. The closest flavour is caramel glazed macadamia nuts. There's also a bowl on the table with a lid. The bowl is filled some free tasters.

14. Spot Mokoli’i (China Man Hat Island)

Mokoli’i is an island just off the Windward Coast but the shape makes it a point of interest on the map.

If you hadn’t already guessed, it’s known for resembling the shape of an old china mans hat.

So it will be very easy to spot and there are several viewpoints that you’ll be able to see it from. Whether you’re driving on the coast you might be able to spot it, or take a break on Kualoa Beach admiring the island in the distance.

P.S. based on Hawaiian lore, it’s actually a lizards or dragons tail that was chopped off by the goddess Hi’iaka and tossed into the ocean. The rest of the lizard is in the mountain range on land. Mokoli’i, the Hawaiian name, means little lizard.

a relaxing hawaiian beach with mokolii island, or china mans hat in floating out in the water. There are some people on the island, but it is far from busy. Behind the island you can see the silhouette of the Windward Coast mountain ranges. Clouds lead off the land and separate and become more sparse over the ocean, leaving bluer skies

15. Kualoa Ranch (Jurassic Park)

And finally, the last stop on the Windward Coast, but by far the least: Kualoa Ranch. You can spend an ENTIRE day at the ranch, but you’ll at minimum need half a day here.

I don’t typically book these types of adventure tours on vacation, but this is a must do.

I booked their most popular tour, the UTV Raptor ride. But they also offer bus tours, zipline tours, and horseback riding adventures.

On every activity, you’ll go deeper into the Kualoa mountain range and learn more about the history and the land, but also the movies that were filmed here (most famously Jurassic World). Each tour will vary slightly on where you go, and what you see / learn.

When I say this was a highlight of our trip would still be an understatement. Not only was the UTV ride something I’ve never done before (even as a passenger it was fun!), but you get to see views you can’t see otherwise.

Plus, the dinosaur gimmick was pretty fun too, because let’s be real, it really does feel like you’ve entered the prehistoric era.

driving through jurassic world. On a dirt road, there's a UTV ahead creating dust behind it. They're turning a corner. Off the road are the soaring kualoa mountain range. There's a line of blue skies before white clouds take over on the top of the image.

Honourable Mentions: What To Do On The Windward Coast

21st Degrees Estate

The 21st Degree Estate is a family-owned Cacao orchard on the Windward Coast that offers tours and tastings.

I wasn’t able to tour this cacao orchard because they were closed (they only offer tours twice a week), but I do recommend doing a cacao farm tour in Hawaii.

I did the Kamananui Cacao Orchard tour on the North Shore instead, but the 21st Degree Estate is a great Windward Coast option.

on the left, a cacao tree is the main focus of the image. There are full size cacao pods hanging from the lush green tree. The tree isn't tall, about an average person, so you can easily pick the pods. The pods higher on the tree are green, but there are three hanging off the tree trunk that are more red and brown. This tree is just one of many in a row. There's a man walking away, wearing shorts and a tshirt with a clear umbrella over his head, shielding himself from the rain. The ground is wet and muddy, and covered in leaves. — *Kamananui Orchard Tour on the North Shore*

Adela’s Country Eatery

If you’re looking for a local place to eat on the Windward Coast I cannot recommend Adela’s Country Eatery enough. This honestly might have been the best meal in O’ahu for me.

They’re also known for her taro cheesecake (and won some awards) – so naturally I ordered that too, and it did not disappoint.

The main downside is that everything is made fresh to order to you’ll have to wait about 45 minutes (unless you place your order in advance – which they recommend doing).

And there’s no place to actually sit in the restaurant, but there are many options in the surrounding area, I took it down to the nearby beach.

P.S. I ordered the taro noodles, with Original Moringa Pasta Sauce, and the Macadamia Crusted Fish. See my Hawaiian food post if you want more restaurant recommendations on O’ahu.

a hand holds up a clear plastic container in the middle of the photo. Inside the container is a pile of purple noodle and a piece of breaded fish. There's a plastic fork sticking out of the noodles. Behind the hand, slightly out of focus but still discernible is a sandy beach leading into the ocean where there are two islands popping out on the horizon. There are green palm trees on the left. It's sunset, so there's a nice calming hue to the image.

Where Is The Windward Coast (The East Coast Oahu)

The Windward Coast is Eastern side of O’ahu.

It’s what you’re picturing when you think of Hawaii: giant jungle-like mountains and crystal blue water beaches.

There are no official borders for the Windward Coast so I’ve included some stops that are technically a part of Honolulu. I based this list off of what the official The Hawaiian Islands website included in the region.

It’s nicknamed the Windward Coast because it’s the Windward side of the island. This means it faces trade winds, bringing in moist air from the ocean. This allows for healthy vegetation and greenery. So the mountains and surrounding area is very lush and green.

A paved roads surrounded by brightly lit greenery all around. From the green grass, to the lush palm teres on eitehr side. And finally there's a mountain with ridges in the distance, at the end of the road that covered in green. The clouds are moving above it, but you can still see blue skies on the right

How Long Do You Need On Windward Oahu

I spent a day and a half driving along the Windward Coast, but I also skipped out on some of the longer half or full days activities you could do (like snorkelling at Hanauma Bay).

I did one half day activity at Kualoa Ranch, and one hike (Kawaii Shoreline Trail), but I also didn’t spend any time relaxing at any of the many beaches.

So depending on what you’re interested in doing, I recommend a minimum of two days on the Windward Coast but I can easily see spending upwards of five days!

two people running away with their back to the camera in the middle of a field while giant mountain ranges loom above them in the clouds

How To Get Around The Windward Coast

The best way to see the Windward coast is with a car, because a lot of the stops are quick view point spots along the coastaldrive.

But that being said, a lot of the beaches or attractions will have small to no parking lots so they’re better reached by other means of transportation.

You can either book an organized tour, take the bus or even shuttle, or an Uber to avoid parking issues.

Driving The Windward Coast

If you’re coming from Waikiki, there are two routes to get to the Windward Coast.

I recommend driving along the coast at least once. This is where all the views and stops are (with a few exceptions). It will be the longer route of course so for a more direct drive you’d go through the mountains.

As I mentioned, if you are renting a car, be sure to check all the parking signs before leaving your car anywhere. There is also an issue with car thefts throughout Hawaii.

P.S. I rented my car from Enterprise at the Discovery Centre in Waikiki Beach. The airport had the cheapest prices but my flight landed after they closed, so this was the next best option.

an epic highway drive on the windward coast oahu. A large tree towers from the ground way above the highway from the right all the way to the top left of the frame. Behind it is the blue spotted sky with grey clouds. In the distance, you're driving towards a giant mountain.

Organized Tours On The Windward Coast

There are several organized tours that go to the Windward Coast from Waikiki Beach if you’d rather not drive or deal with parking.

This Island highlights tour takes you around the entire Island but includes a lot of stops on the Windward Coast. For example, you’ll stop at the Halona Blowhole, Makapu’u Point, Byodo-In Temple, Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts, and Kualoa Regional Park.

Where To Stay On The Windward Coast

There aren’t too many options to actually stay on the Windward Coast, and if you’re looking for a larger (brand name) hotel, you won’t find those here.

Staying on the Windward Coast will be home stays, like this one in Kailua. If you’re top priority is staying near Lanikai Beach this is one of the best options as well. Although it’s not walking distance (about 45 minutes) to Lanikai Beach, it’s a quick taxi or Uber (and you are still steps away from Kailua Beach).

Alternatively, you can stay in Waikiki Beach and go on day trips to the Windward Coast (this is what I did). I stayed at the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Spa, and would highly recommend it. It’s centrally located, the hotel offers cultural resort activities, and I was able to upgrade my room to have a Diamond Head view!

Or see more hotels around O’ahu on Booking.

a hotel room with a king bed perfectly made in the middle of the room with white sheets. Across from the bed is a tv (that's on). Above the bed are some coral decor. It's a very simple room. There's a small couch hidden behind the bed in the far corner. The piece de resistance is the view out of the sliding doors that lead onto a balcony. You can see the mountain perfectly framed in the windows.

Printable O’ahu Travel Guide

Make the most of your first trip to O’ahu with my printable and portable travel guide. Includes 14 pages to plan the perfect trip to Hawaii, and stay organized while you’re there.

I’ve provided tips and advice for travelling on O’ahu, common phrases, and even the weekly market schedule. Plus there’s a checklist for every region on the island, food to try, and souvenirs to buy!

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