Hiking the Kahana Valley Nakoa Trail

Awapuhi Kuahiwi Ginger

While there are no glorious waterfalls on this valley hike, the main attractions are solitude, dense jungle and crossing the large Kahana stream. The Kahana Valley (or Nakoa) trail is a relatively short, but moderately difficult loop trail on the northeast side of Oahu in the Kahana state park. First and foremost, bring insect repellent. Kahana Valley is crawling with more mosquitoes... Read More

Top 10 Beaches on Oahu

The sand, sun, surf and bazillions of people at Waikiki beach.

Waimea Bay Map The home of big wave surfing, Waimea Bay is located on the famous 7-mile-miracle stretch of coastline on the North Shore. The bay has two faces. It can be as smooth as glass in the summer or a violent onslaught of gigantic waves in the winter. Regardless of the time you visit, there is always something to do at Waimea. Whether you’re watching the Eddie Aikau... Read More

Snorkeling at Shark’s Cove

The Deeper Area of Shark's Cove

Shark’s Cove is located here on the North Shore of Oahu and is known as one of the better snorkeling locations on the island. Despite the name, I’ve never seen any sharks at the cove. I have seen plenty of beautiful fish, honu (turtles), eels, taco (octopus), starfish and much more under the water. Humpback whales and Spinner dolphins can even be seen from the shore. Da... Read More

Halona "Cockroach" Beach Cove

Halona Beach Cove

This little “beach” is the location of several scenes in the Adam Sandler movie, 50 First Dates. Technically it’s named Halona Beach Cove, but to the locals it’s known as “Cockroach” Cove. Probably to deter the tourists because I’ve never come across any cockroaches there. Although there is a long and very dark cave that passes under the... Read More

The Journey Up Mount Haleakala

Haleakala Crater

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel through five different climate zones within an hour? Probably not, but you have to admit it sounds pretty cool. Take a trip from sea level to the 10,000 foot summit of Mount Haleakala (House of the Sun) for an unforgettable journey through ever-changing environments. A friend described the trip by stating, “Once you reach... Read More

Hiking the Manoa Falls Trail

Manoa Falls Zen Stones

The Manoa Falls trail is a short hike through the rain forest of Manoa Valley. Personally, I think the hike is more rewarding than the actual waterfall. Depending on the amount of recent rainfall, the falls may be flowing steadily or may be only a light trickle. The trail is a dense jungle environment following the Manoa Stream the entire way. There are plenty of areas to wander... Read More