10 Inexpensive or Free Things To Do on O’ahu

Never Stop Exploring O’ahu

Whether you live on O’ahu or are just here for a short visit, you need to set aside time to explore and get to know this beautiful island. Especially if you live on island, it can be easy to get caught up in the rat race. Here are 5 ideas to encourage you into an adventure this upcoming weekend. For FIVE MORE ideas, check out the YouTube video I have linked for your benefit.

Waimea Falls

There are many waterfalls to chase on O’ahu, but Waimea Falls, on the North Shore, is one of the easiest to get to. This makes it a perfect adventure for the whole family, young and old. The park does charge a small fee which helps to maintain and preserve the epic botanical gardens on site. There is a 3-and-a-half-mile paved hike and also a shuttle if you have someone in your party unable to walk longer distances. From the botanical gardens, beautiful birds, to the invigorating hike, in my opinion it’s still swimming in the pool under the falls that is the best part of this escapade.

Manoa Falls

Manoa Falls is another must if you feel that you’re capable of the work. To get to this waterfall you are up against an 8 and a half mile, unpaved and moderately uphill hike through the jungle. I would not say this hike is difficult, but you will sweat. This is a much longer fall than the Waimea falls coming in around 150 ft tall. Also, the pool below the fall is not ideal for swimming in. However, the beauty and significance of witnessing this fall in person cannot be put into words. There is a small fee for parking, in this ever-changing world we live in, I will recommend you check the current price. I believe it is still under $10, and if you are staying in town, it is much closer than the North Shore.

Valley of the Temples

Located in Kaneohe in this memorial park there is a replica of Japan’s 950-year-old Byodo-In Temple. There is a pond around the temple with beautiful Koi fish and black swans. There is food for sale so that you can feed the fish if you choose. Don’t forget to locate the massive ‘sacred bell’ and ring it before you leave. This sacred and tranquil place offers a chance to slow down and quiet the mind.

Kayak to the Mokes

Off of the Lani Kai shore there is a set of twin islands we refer to as the Mokes. One of my favorite adventures is to kayak out to the Mokes. There are several companies that offer rentals for kayaks on that side. It is only Moku Nui, which is the bigger of the 2 islands that you are allowed to go to. The most pristine place to swim is the 8 ft deep ‘Queen’s Bath’ on the backside of Moku Nui. Take a picnic, lots of water and your hat–go check it out!

Pearl Harbor Memorial

The Pearl Harbor National Monument is an excellent place to explore the history of the island during WWII. They have guided tours, a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, a visitors center and exhibits to explore.

My cousin, who lives in California, came for a visit last month and we spent time together sightseeing and adventuring. To hear about the inexpensive things we enjoyed, watch the video I’ve included!