Hidden Oahu: 10 Unique Experiences Only Locals Know
Discover Hidden Gems in Oahu
Oahu has a collection of less-known treasures and places that are off the beaten path that only locals know. Some of these listed here are cool finds, but there are even more than that you could plan your days around.
These are great places that will feel like your own little secret, whether you want a place to snap the perfect photo of waves crashing against untamed lava rocks, or if you just want to relax with a craft beer after uncovering the hidden wonder of a botanical garden. Discovering these hidden gems in Oahu takes you on a different kind of Hawaiian island adventure.
1. Naked Cow Dairy Farm and Creamery
Where to taste the island’s artisanal cheese
Good for: Families, Food
Naked Cow Dairy Farm and Creamery is one of those places that you not only need to see to believe but truly taste as well. They have carved a niche in the artisan cheese community, and are proudly succeeding.
This local dairy has the delicacies that are deserving of the name ‘artisan’. For example, you may have heard of pepper jack cheese, but Naked Cow Dairy Farm and Creamery’s Pika Moon is a creamy cheese with Hawaiian-grown chili peppers, with every aspect of the cheese being locally sourced and environmentally conscious. Be sure to pick up some unique souvenirs before you leave.
Location: 86-344 Kuwale Rd, Waianae, Hi 96792, USA
Phone: +1 808-696-7430
Naked Cow Dairy Farm and Creamery
2. Ko Hana Distillers
A great find for rum fans
Good for: Couples, Photo
Ko Hana Distillers is a must-visit in Oahu for any fan of distinct Hawaiian rum, particularly Ko Hana Agricole. Even if you don’t usually enjoy rum, Ko Hana Distillers is another local icon that could easily become the highlight of your Hawaiian trip.
The native Hawaiian sugar cane is the ingredient behind the meticulously handcrafted Ko Hana Agricole rum. Make sure you plan ahead to find the right tour time that works best for your schedule, and you can easily schedule a tour from their website. After the tour, make sure to leave plenty of time for taste-testing at the on-site bar.
Location: 92-1770 Kunia Road #227, Kunia Camp, HI 96759, USA
Open: Daily from 10.30 am to 5 pm
Phone: +1 808-649-8030
Ko Hana Distillers
3. Kumu Kahua Theater
Plays about life in Hawaii
Good for: Couples, Nightlife
Kumu Kahua Theatre in Honolulu is celebrated for producing plays written by local Hawaiian playwrights that focus on life in Hawaiʻi. This vibrant community theater develops original works, serves as a crucial incubator for local talent, and contributes significantly to the cultural landscape by telling the unique stories of the islands.
Kumu Kahua has been instrumental in developing over 250 original plays, providing a platform for both new and established local writers to see their work staged. Check online for show times and programs and book your tickets in advance.
Location: 46 Merchant St, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
Phone: +1 808-536-4441
Kumu Kahua Theater
4. Waialua Sugar Mill
Shopping inside a historic sugar factory
Good for: Shoppers, Unusual
The Waialua Sugar Mill is a historic sugar factory that is now the home to local shops and boutiques, offering goods such as coffee and organic skincare. You can tour the old refinery for a fascinating look into a Hawaiian sugar plantation and processing.
On top of the local marketplace and historic attractions at Waialua Sugar Mill, visit on a Saturday to experience a small farmers market, which is great for picking up indigenous produce or eating a classic Hawaiian lunch.
Location: 67001062, 76-106 Kealohanui St, Waialua, HI 96791, USA
Open: Sunday–Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm
Waialua Sugar Mill
5. Pillbox Hike
Hiking in Instagram-worthy landscape
Good for: Photo, Adventure
Pillbox Hike is one place you need to visit, not just for the destination but for the adventure. Often referred to as the Kawai Ridge Trail, the Pillbox Hike follows a narrow trail up to 2 of the most iconic military bunkers in Hawaii.
The Pillboxes are part of the charm of the experience, as they are painted bright pink and make for the perfect Instagram moment. On top of a fun and challenging hike, you will love the panoramic views of the tropical beauty of the island and the ocean, which touches the horizon as far as your eyes can see. Be sure to pack a pair of sturdy shoes and a pinch of adventurous spirit.
Location: 265 Kaelepulu Dr, Kailua, HI 96734, USA
Open: Daily from 6 am to 8 pm
Pillbox Hike
6. Ka’ena Point State Park
For when you want to explore the wild Oahu coastline
Good for: Photo, Adventure
Ka’ena Point State Park is a hidden gem that is off the beaten path and wraps around one of the most visually appealing corners of Oahu. The wild coastline of Ka’ena Point State Park is one of its most intriguing aspects, and the path allows you to get an up-close view of the waves crashing into the cove where you can feel the spray off the rocks.
On top of rocky coastal views, many parts of the park are comprised of traditional Hawaiian prairie lands, which feels peaceful. Keep your eyes peeled for some of the local wildlife.
Location: Farrington Hwy, Waialua, HI 96791, USA
Open: Daily from 6 am to 6.45 pm
Ka'ena Point State Park
7. White Plains Beach
A stunning beach away from the crowds
Good for: Budget, Photo
White Plains Beach is one of Oahu’s low-key beaches where you can enjoy relaxing coastal vibes without the hassle of crowds. If you want to learn how to surf, you can do it here. If you’d like to sprawl out on the beach without feeling smothered by people, or if you’d like to take a walk without too much noise or having to stumble over beachgoers, then you will definitely love White Plains Beach.
Though you’ll unlikely come across throngs of beachgoers on this south-facing beach, you will still be able to find rentals and shower amenities, as well as a picnic area. So, pack a lunch, beach towels, and snorkeling gear for a fun day by the sea.
White Plains Beach
8. Sharks Cove
An uncrowded lava-rock beach
Good for: Adventure, Photo, Unusual
Sharks Cove is a beach park in Oahu that you’ll feel like is a well-kept secret due to its uncrowded and unusual features. The cove is primarily a lava-rock beach which is a remarkable sight, and you can appreciate the history of the island’s formation through these natural features.
Because of the low crowds at Sharks Cove, you’ll also find good opportunities for scuba diving, which will expose you to diverse marine life and, for the experienced divers, thrilling underwater caves. It’s also renowned for its pristine waters, which makes it an ideal spot for snorkeling enthusiasts, so do bring your mask and flippers for submarine adventures.
Location: Haleiwa, HI 96712, USA
Phone: +1 808-462-8290
Sharks Cove
9. Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden
A place where you can appreciate Oahu’s tropical beauty
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
At Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden, you can experience the tropical beauty of Oahu. Though you can do so in many parks and at many beaches across the island, very few could give you the ability to experience all the indigenous flora all in one place.
Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden will give you just that, and you can come and see multiple geographic regions of botanical collections represented, with the sprawling lake and plant life throughout the lush 400 acres. Group tours are available. If you enjoy fishing, grab one of the complimentary bamboo poles, and try your luck.
Location: 45-680 Luluku Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA
Open: Daily from 9 am to 4 pm
Phone: +1 808-768-8942
Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden
10. Beer Lab
Locally brewed beer and tasty pub grub
Good for: Couples, Food
Beer Lab is a destination for craft beer lovers in Oahu. Nothing says fun in the sun like lounging back with a locally crafted beer at one of Beer Lab’s 3 locations. Each taproom has a large selection of locally brewed beers, and if you’re really interested in enhancing your beer tasting senses, then you can sign up for a beer workshop.
Some locations see lesser crowds than others, so if that’s the environment you like, then you may want to consider the Waipahu location. When the hunger strikes, grab a small plate of pub food with locally sourced meats and cheeses.
Location: 98-1005 Moanalua Rd, Aiea, HI 96701, USA
Open: Monday–Thursday from 11 am to 10 pm, Friday from 11 am to midnight, Saturday from 8 am to midnight, Sunday from 8 am to 8 pm
Phone: +1 808-762-0027
Beer Lab
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