A guide to Oahu’s east coast

With nearly 600 surf spots, over 50 miles of sandy beaches, over 35 golf course, 88% sunshine and an average temperature of 77 degrees, it’s really no wonder Oahu is the main hub for travelers to the 50th state. There’s so much to do within this island’s 600 square miles that could take up a whole lifetime and then some. Oahu’s timeless natural beauty and its modern urban luxuries make it one of the world’s top travel destinations.

A unique few days can be spent on Oahu’s east shore, which provides fine white sandy beaches as well as rugged coastline and windy fun. On the windward coast, as it’s called on the island, body surfing, body boarding, kiteboarding and windsurfing reign supreme. The morning, however, is the best time to visit Hanauma Bay, located on the southeastern corner of the island. This gorgeous protected bay is teeming with fish and sea life. Morning is the best time for snorkeling.

The coast between Hanauma Bay and Waimanalo is rugged yet scenic, with popular bodyboarding and body surfing waves – especially at Sandy’s and Makapu’u Beach. If you have time and weather permits, take the paved road along the hillside by Makapu’u to visit the lighthouse, where whales are often spotted during the winter. Here there is also a nice view of Rabbit Island.

Farther along the road past Waimanalo you will reach Kailua, a very developed yet quaint town. Kailua Beach Park and neighboring Lanikai Beach have the finest white sand around. Many visitors to Kailua enjoy taking a kayak to the two Mokulua Islands just off shore. Both islands are state seabird sanctuaries, and the public is only allowed access to Moku Nui.

Take a ride over the Pali Highway on the way back to town, stopping at the famed Pali Lookout, the site where King Kamehameha unified the islands. This lookout provides a sweeping panoramic view of the windward coast.

Photo courtesy of Trek Earth