Among whole Oahu, east side is richest in outdoor attractions and outdoor activities. Oahu great lookouts, great hikes, great beaches are all here. Hanauma Bay is the crown jewel among all Oahu. Makapu’u Point light house, Lanikai Beach (+ Pillbox Hike), Byodo-in Temple and Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout all worth a visit.
Vast Coral Reef
The name Hanauma comes from the shape of mountain circling around. The whole bay is rich in marine life, although near shore no longer has abundant sea animals comparing to my first visit in 1999. You still can see big fish quite easy without swimming far out. If you want to swim out to see better marine life, better bring float and wear diving fins. The bay most of time is crowded. If you plan to drive over, come early. Limited parking lot fills up very quickly before 8:00AM or 9:00AM. Then, you will have to park at another parking lot not so closed and down the hill. Consider bus or shuttle if your driving schedule doesn’t fit well. Morning visit is also great in term of tide schedule. When you swim, avoid touch on coral reef as possible as you can. The action is not only to protect yourself from sharp coral reef but also proect coral reef itself. (corol reef seems die at near shore in this visit). Years ago, Hanauma Bay was totally close down (for many straight years maybe) to rehab bay environment. So enjoy it and protect it.
What happens to coral reef?
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse locates at the end of Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail. This 2 miles round-trip trail is an easy walk and rewards you great view. If you don’t have time to hike, you can stop at Makapu’u Point Lookout instead. We also saw Paragliding in the area fi this activity interests you.
Makapu’u Lookout
Lanikai Beach is rather unknown to pubic yet. It is reported a popular beach for celebrities. Water is very clear but very windy at the time of our visit. We saw people kayaking and we also have great fun playing water there. If you get more time, you can hike Pillbox Hike to a bunker and get great view.
Tranquil Lanikai beach
Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout is away from shore into mountain area of HI-61. This has great view but way more windy that Lanikai. It feels like you are going to blow away anytime.
very windy Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout
East side mountain
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