If you have grown tired of Oahu's luaus and hula lessons, don't fret. There still is plenty to do: hiking, glider riding and snorkeling. So, put on your boots--or fins--and venture off the main path to discover some of Hawaii's hidden jewels. Of course, a visit to the nation's 50th state wouldn't be complete without a trip to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona. Whatever you decide to do in Oahu, you will leave with a lifetime of memories.
Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau ("Hill of Escape")
On the North Shore is Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau ("Hill of Escape"). It is a temple where wives of ancient chiefs gave birth. It is not visited often by tourists, and locals will not tell you about the place of worship that dates to the 1600s. There is a section that is raised and surrounded by stones that may have once been an altar. Locals leave offerings such as candy or food. If you go a little farther past the altar, there is a beautiful place to take pictures of North Shore. This is a sacred site, so you should not walk or climb on any of the rock walls or platforms.
Maunawili Falls
Maunawili Falls has a 2-mile hiking trail that not many locals visit. Getting there can be muddy if it has rained recently, so make sure you don't care if your clothes get dirty. You can see the Ko'olaus Mountains on the trail, and there are small waterfalls. There are also deep, cool pools to swim in and cliffs that you can jump off, so bring a bathing suit.
Glider Riding on the North Shore
Glider riding by Honolulu Soaring is at Dillingham Airfield on the North Shore. Taking a ride in its gliders will give you a unique vantage point. You will see the Waianae Mountains, Waimea Bay and the beach at Mokuleia. The glider flies from the North Shore to the South, where you will get a glimpse of Pearl Harbor. The average ride is 20 minutes and goes as high as 3,000 feet. Longer rides are available. The company also offers aerobatic loop rides and mini flying lessons.
USS Arizona Memorial
The USS Arizona Memorial is free to visit, but tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The tour includes a Pearl Harbor documentary, a boat ride and memorial exploration. There is a visitor center, movie theaters, museum, bookstore and gift shop. After the USS Arizona Memorial, you also can visit the Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, the Battleship Missouri and the Pacific Aviation Museum.
Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail
Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail is a mile and includes an uphill climb to view a lighthouse. The highest point is 500 feet and is hot, dry and windy. The scenic trail is paved, and you can watch humpback whales. As many as 10,000 humpback whales visit annually to mate and give birth. The season runs from November through May.
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is one of Hawaii's beautiful natural resources. It is a nature preserve and hosts the Marine Education Center. There is a living reef and a video about preservation efforts that are ongoing after years of neglect. There is a beach for sunbathers and picnic area. You can snorkel or dive to see the reef.
Tags: North Shore, Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbor, Heiau Hill, Heiau Hill Escape, Hill Escape, humpback whales