The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary If You Love Spending Time Outdoors In Hawaii
By Megan Shute|Published April 26, 2023
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Megan Shute
Author
With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
The beautiful windward coast of Oahu is known for incredible hiking and lush jungle, Honolulu is the center for business and culture, and the north shore is a haven for surfers. Still, the west coast is often overlooked for other, more accessible parts of the island. It’s a shame because this coastline is home to simply stunning beaches, incredible hiking opportunities, and countless hidden gems to uncover. I’ve spent years exploring these wonders, and can’t wait to share some of my favorites with you. If you want to explore outdoor adventures and activities in Hawaii, travel off the beaten path for a two-day getaway to discover incredible natural wonders, pristine waters, and if you’re lucky, wildlife.
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
With less than an hour of drive time, minus the trip there, this nature getaway features stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Waianae Mountains and several incredible stops along the way.
Hike at Kaena Point State Park
We’re starting our adventure at the northwestern tip of Oahu with a hike through Kaena Point State Park.
This untamed state park encompasses the rugged and wild coastline of the northwestern tip of Oahu. It is full of natural beauty and hidden gems, including heart-shaped rocks, tide pools, stunning cliff faces, and a natural reserve area created to protect nesting albatrosses, Hawaiian monk seals, and fragile native vegetation. This beautiful natural oasis is so remote you can only reach the point on foot.
For our purposes, we are walking to the point from the leeward coast, but you can also access the point from the north via a trailhead at the end of Farrington Highway. The 2.5-mile each-way trail is notoriously hot with little shade, so it’s best to start early. Be sure to slather on the sunscreen and wear a hat, too – don't make my mistakes!
According to ancient Hawaiian lore, this dramatic shoreline is where the souls of ancient Hawaiians would jump off into the spirit world to meet the souls of their ancestors.
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Explore Kaneana Cave
After your hike, we’ll be exploring a little-known natural wonder along the coast, Kaneana Cave.
Kaneana Cave (Makua Cave), Farrington Highway, Waianae, HI, USA
The cave sits at the base of a cliff outcropping and is approximately 100 feet tall and 450 feet deep. Kaneana Cave is thought to be 150,000 years old and was once underwater, carved out by the crashing waves of the Pacific. The stunning natural aspects of this otherworldly cave are absolutely mind-boggling.
Also known as Makua Cave, many legends feature this cave. One says that it was in this cave that mankind was born from the womb of the earth goddess. That’s how this cave got its name: Kaneana translates to Cave of Kane, the god of creation.
Featuring crystalline blue waters and backed by lush mountains, this magical stretch of fine, white sand is just moments away from the popular Ko’olina lagoons but feels worlds away from the beaches full of tourists found across Oahu.
Located between two limestone points and between the Pacific Ocean and Farrington Highway, Nanakuli Beach Park covers approximately 40 acres and is home to a 500-foot long and 125-foot wide stretch of white and golden sand perfect for your next beach day. From snorkeling and scuba diving to boogie boarding, canoeing, and – of course – sunbathing, everyone can enjoy an activity at this stunning beach.
Rumor has it that the luminous "Mermaid Cave" is also located near Nanakuli Beach, and if you’re able to find it – or have someone take you there – you are sure to create a memory that will last a lifetime.
Start with the signature Monkeypod Mai Tai, a drink I've dreamed about daily since I moved to the mainland. Made with Old Lahaina Rum, house-made macadamia nut orgeat, orange curacao, and topped with a delectable honey-lilikoi foam, it's easily the most popular drink on the menu. We’ll let you choose your meal, though: from salads and burgers to tacos, gnocchi, saimin, and fresh-caught seafood, there's something for everyone at this swoon-worthy restaurant. Don’t forget to save room for dessert – the cream pies are heavenly and come in a variety of tasty flavors.
Be sure to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean before or after dinner – the Ko Olina lagoons are a short drive from Monkeypod Kitchen.
Stay at Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club
Our day in paradise ends at Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club, but of course, if you live on Oahu, you can always just head home and enjoy a staycation.
Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club, Marriott Vacation Club, Kapolei - Oahu, 92-161 Waipahe Pl, Kapolei, HI 96707, USA
With mountain or ocean views in each well-appointed guestroom or villa vacation rental, you’ll live in luxury at this Marriott property. You’ll discover three outdoor pools, an on-site spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, two restaurants, a poolside bar, and more.
Since yesterday was full of adventure, let’s keep it low-key: a stroll along the coast and lounging by the pool or beach – maybe even swimming with sea turtles you’ll often see throughout the Ko Olina lagoons.
For a more affordable option – or one that fits your large family better – you can also find a variety of condo rentals available on Vrbo throughout this dreamy resort destination. No matter where you stay, this nature getaway in Hawaii is sure to satisfy your need for adventure.
So, tell us, will you be embarking on this incredible nature getaway? What other outdoor adventures and activities in Hawaii would you recommend to our readers? Discover other unique Aloha State day trips here.
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