The Hawaiian islands are some of the most magnificent places on Earth. With sparkling waters from the Pacific Ocean, gorgeous flora and fauna, and interesting spectacular mountain-top views across the island of Oahu, it is easy to see how these islands are at the top of many bucket lists. When you stay with us at Marina Hawaii Vacations, lace up your hiking boots and explore the best natural places on Oahu island.
The Best Easy Hikes
Many who visit Hawaii are not avid hikers. Numerous trails are great for beginners to get out and take in the natural beauty of the island. The Diamond Head hike is a favorite due to its breathtaking views and easy-to-navigate trails. Many other paths, such as Manoa Falls, Pali Twin Falls, and Hanauma Bay Trail offer beautiful water views. Whether it’s waterfalls or views of the ocean, these hikes are sure to make any sea lover swoon.
As of May 12th, 2022 all out-of-state visitors must have an advanced reservation to enter Diamond Head State Monument. The reservation system will activate on April 28th, 2022 allowing for reservations to be made 14 days in advance. Click here to reserve.
For The Intermediate Hiker
If you love hiking but are not interested in extremely difficult trails, there are a large number of intermediate trails that would be perfect. Many of these trails will take you through a bit of wilderness to hidden gems that you can only reach by foot. Waterfalls, pools, and caves are waiting for you to discover them without too many dangerous terrains or challenging climbs.
Taking It To The Extreme
Test your skills and stamina with hikes to the tops of beautiful summits and through harsh jungle trails. Pali To K1 is a perfect example of a trek that offers heart-stopping climbing opportunities, as well as challenging hiking terrain. One of the most exciting and hazardous hikes is the Kalihi Saddle. Make your way over an eroding, basalt ridge line and through overgrown areas to the top. Trails such as these are not for the faint at heart and require advance knowledge in climbing and hiking as well as the appropriate gear. Be aware of the trails that you are hiking as some may be labeled as illegal treks and stay aware of the difficulty of each trail you consider traversing.
The best way to take in the most beautiful areas of the island is with a hike. Whether it is a beginner hike along the shore or an advanced hike to the summit of one of our gorgeous mountains, it is well worth the trip. Stay with us at Marina Hawaii Vacations in Honolulu, Hawaii, for a comfortable place to return to and relax after a day of hiking.
The sounds of the waves lapping the shores and the squeak of worn leather fill the air in perfect harmony when you go horseback riding on Oahu. As your horse carefully picks its way through the Oahu trails, you’ll reach the beach opening and find yourself entranced by the water. At this moment you’ll realize what they mean when they say, “Life is better when seen between a horse’s ears.”
When you stay with Marina Hawaii Vacations in our vacation rentals in Honolulu Hawaii, this image becomes a reality with a horseback ride through the island.
Finding The Right Horseback Riding Trails
Whether you are a seasoned rider or this is your first time out, there are multiple stable organizations on the island that have access to varying levels of trails.
For a laid-back walking tour through some of Oahu’s most beautiful landscapes, visit Kualoa Private Nature Reserve. On the far north end of the island, you can discover a horseback riding experience for everyone. From fast-paced advanced rides to couples rides to explore with your honey, any rider can find the ideal adventure at Gunstock Ranch. One of the best horseback riding experiences you can have on our beautiful island is with Hawaii Polo Trail Rides. These oceanfront trail rides will take your breath away before your horse’s hooves hit the sand. You can head out with a group, book a private ride, or even book a lesson on polo.
These and many other stables are a fantastic way to see Oahu from every corner and experience the joy of getting in the saddle.
A Few Tips To The Best Ride On Oahu
Horseback riding is a pastime that not many people get to experience; here you have the opportunity to climb into the saddle as well as explore our beautiful island all in one. Though this may be a magical moment you will never forget, there are a few things to keep in mind when you set out for your ride.
1.) Wear the appropriate apparel
It may be a warm, tropical climate on Oahu; however, it is essential to wear two key clothing items for an optimal experience. Boots with a heel are preferred, as this will keep your feet where they need to be in the saddle and prevent your feet from slipping in the stirrups. Long pants or jeans are also recommended to keep you from getting pinched by the fenders of the saddle and keep your legs protected through wooded areas.
2.) Stay relaxed
The majority of horses used in programs like this are calm and used to trail riding. That said, any horse can be easily spooked. When you’re standing around the horses or out riding, try not to make loud noises or sudden fast movements. If you act calm and cool, then the horse will follow suit.
3.) Posture
Most riding facilities can give you a quick crash-course on safe riding posture. Essentially, the best way is to sit up tall and keep your legs slightly in front of you with your heels down. This will prevent you from leaning forward, and it will improve your balance.
A Marina Hawaii Equine Adventure
For the ultimate equine adventure while staying at Marina Hawaii Vacations, book a stay in one of our beautiful vacation rentals in Waikiki and check out one of the many surrounding trail ride opportunities. Saddle up and head out for a unique adventure! There is no better way to experience our beautiful island than from the back of a horse.
Check Out Our Beautiful Waikiki Vacation Condos
It’s no secret that Honolulu is a dream destination for so many people. From the gorgeous beaches to the surf scene to the cultural experiences of Honolulu and Waikiki, there is an experience waiting for every type of traveler on this beautiful island state. To get the best out of your Hawaiian adventure, the best place to book your stay is with Marina Hawaii Vacations, a vacation rental company renting condo units in primarily three different properties, the Ilikai Tower, Ilikai Marina, and Discovery Bay, with options for every type of vacationer. While there is plenty to do in Honolulu, Oahu during your vacation, there are also plenty of free things to do that will help you make the most of your experience. From gorgeous hikes and beaches to historic sites, there are plenty of completely free things to do in Honolulu.
Hike in Diamond Head
Of everything there is to experience on this island, one of the most famous free things to do in Honolulu is to hike up the famous crater, Diamond Head to see the sunrise. Hawaiian sunrises can’t be beaten, and the best way to see them is from points of higher elevation, like this iconic spot upon the dormant volcano and former military base. The hike itself is two hours and 1.8 miles long, and the views from the top are better than any other spot on the island. Once you make it to the top, you’ll be greeted by expansive views of Waikiki, and of course, if you’re early enough, the rising sun.
As of May 12th, 2022 all out-of-state visitors must have an advanced reservation to enter Diamond Head State Monument. The reservation system will activate on April 28th, 2022 allowing for reservations to be made 14 days in advance. Click here to reserve.
Experience the Beach and the Surf at Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay, which is located along Oahu’s gorgeous North Shore, is one of the most famous beaches in the world. From the magnificent horizon to the enormous waves, simply sitting on this beach is a must-do experience, and one of the best free things to do near Honolulu. Here, you’ll be able to watch surfers take on huge waves, and even swim in the ocean yourself!
Visit Pearl Harbor
One of the most important free things to do in Honolulu is visiting USS Arizona Memorial Park and Pearl Harbor. Here, you’ll be able to learn about one of the most pivotal moments in United States history through exploring the museum and the designated National Historic Site. You’ll also have the chance to take a ferry ride over to see the memorial. While visiting a historic monument might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you picture your Hawaiian adventure, it truly is one of the most important things to experience while you’re in Honolulu, allowing you to get a sense of the deep history of Hawaii and the United States.
Explore the Nature Reserve and Wildlife at Ka’ena Point
While it’s a bit further away, Ka’ena Point is a gorgeous nature reserve featuring hiking trails, beautiful coastline views, and a chance to see wildlife. While you can drive to the nature reserve, Ka’ena Point itself must be hiked to, although you can hike to it from either side of the sanctuary. While you’re there, make sure to keep your eye out for wildlife such as albatross, and even monk seals, who might be out there enjoying the sun and sand themselves.
Watch a Traditional Hula Dance in Waikiki
If you’re looking for that picture-perfect Hawaii experience, look no further. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, Waikiki’s Kuhio Beach hosts a sunset hula show. The show is as traditional as it gets and guests often spread out around the beach to experience its local magic, making this one of the best free things to do in Honolulu.
Free Things to Do in Honolulu
Hawaii is a magical vacation spot, featuring a little something for everyone, and in addition, there are plenty of free things to do in Honolulu that will make your experience even more fruitful. From exploring Hawaii’s wilderness on the trails to learning about its history, the opportunities are truly endless when it comes to free things to do in Honolulu. Your stay with Marina Hawaii Vacations will surely be a special one, as you spend your hotel downtime staring at those beautiful Hawaiian ocean views and relaxing in one of their many beautiful condominium accommodations soaking up the sun, sea, and sand.
In the opening scenes of the classic film series, Jurassic Park, there are always panoramic views of beautiful mountain formations and a bird’s eye view of a jungle island. They show fascinating depictions of prehistoric creatures soaring through the sky and roaming the lands below. Though there are obviously no real dinosaurs roaming the island of Oahu, the landscapes portrayed in the films are real and just as breathtaking in person. When you stay with us in our vacation rentals in Honolulu Hawaii, you can take a wild adventure to the places this iconic series was filmed, as well as many others like it.
A Jurassic Paradise
Anyone who loves dinosaurs and films will find themselves immersed in a world of wonder when they visit an iconic part of Hawaii. Kualoa Ranch, a short drive from our property in Honolulu, Hawaii, was one of the main filming grounds of Jurassic Park, and it is home to various structures, such as the gates to enclosures and bones, which were featured in the movies. Take a photo next to the Jurassic Park sign, ride horseback through the valleys, float along on a boat tour, pedal your way on mountain bikes, zipline along the jungle treetops, or embark on a jeep expedition! There are also special movie site tours to see backdrops and movie props that still remain on the grounds.
Take A Tour
Along with Jurassic Park and Jurassic World, a large number of Blockbusters have been filmed at Kualoa Ranch. Scenes from Lost, Hawaii 5-0, Fifty First Dates, Godzilla, George of The Jungle, and several others have come to life on these grounds. One of the best ways to soak in the full effect of the area is with a tour. There are several opportunities for ATV tours that will take you through the 4,000-acre lands and dramatic scenery and allow you to get a first-hand look into this natural oasis. The trails take you along some of the most stunning tropical areas of the island as well as to the tallest accessible waterfall on the island, Manoa Falls. Movie buffs and nature lovers alike will be in paradise with one of these tours.
Soak It All In
Though Kualoa Ranch is a popular destination, there are plenty of other fascinating stops on the island to get your film fix close by our vacation rentals in Honolulu Hawaii. Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head Monument, Waikiki Beach, Manoa Trail, and numerous other places offer fantastic opportunities to take in the majesty of our island home. A Marina Hawaii Vacations getaway is the perfect excursion for film fanatics and adventurers, so stay with us in one of our vacation rentals in Honolulu Hawaii and experience it all.
A Luau is one of Hawaii’s most iconic celebrations and is something that attendees will never forget. Imagine passionate and talented fire twirlers, dancers, and performers giving their all to an age-old tradition right before your eyes. When you stay with us in our vacation rentals in Honolulu Hawaii at Marina Hawaii Vacations, the nearby Paradise Cove is the perfect place to discover the beauty of the Hawaiian culture firsthand.
Living Tradition
Paradise Cove is a destination within a destination that preserves the culture and traditions of Hawaii in a way that also educates others about the beauty of our ancestors. Whether it is dining on traditional Hawaiian cuisine, singing along with the songs of our ancestors, or watching the powerful dances of warriors of the past, you can find it here. The Hawaiian lifestyle is near and dear to our hearts, and we’re delighted to share it with those visiting our beautiful island home.
The Experience
When visitors come to Paradise Cove, it is to soak in the true heritage of Hawaii. Several packages offer exciting pieces of our culture. Choices of traditional meals, various arts and crafts, ceremonies, and dances are included in each package in order to feature as much of our traditional luau culture as possible. You can find yourself front row for some of the most spectacular viewings of authentic Hawaiian culture. The Paradise Cove experience is a favorite amongst guests that stay in our vacation rentals in Honolulu Hawaii.
Your Hawaiian Adventure
We are well known for our beautiful landscapes and breathtaking beaches, but our culture is one of the most exciting and unforgettable parts of visiting our islands. Stay with us at Marina Hawaii Vacations and visit places like Paradise Cove for a personal experience that will instill a part of Hawaii in your heart forever. Our vacation rentals in Honolulu Hawaii are waiting for you; so what are you waiting for? Come and experience the incredible traditions of our ancestors with us!