This Week Hawaii

Things To Do on Oahu: Five Activities on Windward Oahu

Oahu • June 20, 2018

Driving along the H-3, Likelike or Pali, you can’t miss it—the lush, picturesque mountain range bathed in an early morning light, or shrouded by low-hanging clouds from a passing storm. Sometimes it’s decorated in ribbons of waterfalls; other times, it’s beautifully green and shimmering under the bright sun. 

The Koʻolau mountain range is verdant and unique, as synonymous with the island of Oʻahu as the craterous Diamond Head and historic Pearl Harbor. Yet aside from keeping their eyes peeled for its unmatched beauty, visitors tend not to explore the surrounding area beyond the natural wonders on land and at sea. Typically, East Oʻahu sightseeing is limited to a trip to Kailua Beach or a stop to observe Mokoliʻi, or “Chinaman’s Hat,” before returning to town following a drive back over the Koʻolaus.

Little do people know, such a limited Windward itinerary means you’re missing out on the complete Oʻahu experience. At This Week Hawaii, we always challenge people to travel beyond the Koʻolaus and enjoy all of the truly unique offerings this special island has to offer. Here are some of our favorites:

Byodo-in Temple (Valley of the Temples)

This Hawaiʻi State Landmark is both breathtaking and tranquil, boasting an iconic design and a lush landscape. Situated at the foot of the Koʻolau range, the Byodo-In Temple was designed after the nearly 1,000 year old temple in Uji, Japan, and is open to people of all faiths and beliefs. In fact, many Hawaiʻi residents and visitors from Japan use the temple for their wedding ceremonies! When unoccupied, Byodo-in Temple invites visitors to stop, explore and meditate in its hallowed halls before wandering its verdant grounds, unique gardens and large reflecting pool with Japanese koi. 

Cinnamon’s in Kailua

No trip to the Windward side is complete without a stop at Cinnamon’s , a local breakfast and lunch spot popular with visitors and locals alike. Cinnamon’s breakfast specialties include the sweet yet tart Guava Chiffon pancakes, signature Kalua Pork Eggs Benedict and mouthwatering Loco Moco, which you can upgrade to the ‘MoeMoe’ Moco, featuring kalua pig, homemade beef stew and lau lau! If you’re looking for a true taste of Hawaiʻi, then Cinnamon’s is the foodie joint for you.

Kualoa Ranch

Visit Kualoa Ranch to get a better sense of Oʻahu’s truly diverse landscape. Far removed from the bustle of downtown Honolulu and other urban meccas, Kualoa Ranch is a thriving natural respite made up of 4,000 acres of dense rainforest, wide-open valleys, Hawaiian cultural sites and pristine beaches. As a visitor at the Ranch, you can spend your day enjoying ATV tours, ziplining, horseback riding, beach activities and so much more, all with sweeping, panoramic vistas and the picturesque Koʻolau Mountains as your backdrop. For all the movie buffs out there—Kualoa Ranch is also home to some of Hollywood’s most popular Box Office hits, including Godzilla, Jurassic Park and Jurassic World! PC: Kualoa Ranch.

Lanikai Beach Park

The aptly named Lanikai Beach, translated as “heavenly sea,” is a pristine luxury—sparkling blue waters, sprawling white sand and curved palm trees straight from a postcard. From Lanikai Beach you can spot the majestic Mokulua Islands, two islets just off of Wailea Point to where you can kayak or canoe. Whether you enjoy aquatic sports, swimming, paddle boarding or simply lounging on the shore with a good book, Lanikai Beach offers something for everyone. PC: HTA / Daeja Faris.

Waiahole Poi Factory (drive a little further)

Drive a little further for authentic Hawaiian food from Waiahole Poi Factory. This family-owned business cooks up some of the island’s best poi, made fresh and on site daily. Located in lush and accessible Waiāhole Valley, Waiahole Poi Factory is also known for its traditional Hawaiian plates featuring lau lau, kalua pig, squid luʻau and haupia. Don’t leave Windward Oʻahu without sampling Waiahole’s delectable, hand-pounded poi!

Complete Guide to Hawaii Volcano and Lava Viewing
By Gavin Hillman April 3, 2025
Discover everything you need to know about Hawaii volcanos and lava viewing, including the best locations, times, safety tips, tours, and real-time updates for an unforgettable volcanic adventure.
Road to Hana Guide: where to stop and what tosee
By Gavin Hillman March 29, 2025
Planning your Road to Hana adventure? Discover the best stops, waterfalls, beaches, and hidden gems along this scenic Maui drive.
By Cheryl Lee March 26, 2025
Kauai is full of breathtaking places to see! These are the most beautiful spots you need to visit!
By Cheryl Lee March 23, 2025
Feast on some of our favorite places to dine at on Kaua'i!
By Cheryl Lee March 23, 2025
Kaua'i is known for their steep cliffs, canyons and tropical rainforests. The island has over 50 miles of picturesque white sand beaches.
By Cheryl Lee March 13, 2025
Waimea Canyon is a spectacular nation treasure! The canyon rests at the end of a long, curvy and slowly ascending road up Highway 552-Koke‘e Road, ending at Koke‘e and Waimea Canyon State Parks.
March 5, 2025
A Legacy of Style, Family, and Island Spirit
By Gavin Hillman December 30, 2024
What is the best way to see Oahu’s North Shore? The not so simple answer is “It depends on your preference.” Choices you need to consider... 
Fireworks are displayed in front of a tall building
By Cheryl Lee July 27, 2024
Enjoy an amazing FREE Fireworks Show every Friday Night!
A black and white photo of a beach with buildings in the background.
By Maui January 9, 2024
A national historic landmark, the waterfront town of Lahaina has a rich history involving Hawaiian monarchs, missionaries and whalers. Lahaina served as the capital of the Hawaiian kingdom from 1820-1845 and in the middle 1800s, whalers came by the thousands to winter in the little seaport, anchoring their ships offshore. Lahaina’s colorful history and idyllic […]
More Posts
Share by: