'This tropical paradise is already a holiday hotspot - but I still found a few surprises'

When you think of Hawaii's O'ahu, what comes to mind? Is it the iconic Waikiki Beach? Snorkelling with turtles? Pipeline on the North Shore?

Whatever it is, it's clear that a trip to O'ahu is ideal to immerse yourself in culture, relaxation, delicious food, and incredible views.

But while the hit list of favourites may not come as a surprise, there are plenty of unexpected things to do as well.

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Waikiki Beach

We'll start with the obvious. You can't travel to O'ahu without visiting world-famous Waikiki Beach. As someone who grew up on the sunny beaches of South East Queensland, I have a very high standard of what a perfect beach should look and feel like.

However, after exploring O'ahu, it was very obvious that this beach is popular for a reason.

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Two Aussie beaches among the 'most popular' for 2025

I spent a serene few hours swimming in the breathtakingly clear turquoise waters and soaking in the warm sun.

Whether you want to relax on the beach, swim in the shallow waters, hire a surfboard, or uncover greater views on the frequent Catamaran cruises, Waikiki Beach has something for everyone.

Gunstock Ranch

Did you know you can do ranching in Hawaii? Neither did we!

O'ahu's Gunstock Ranch delivers a variety of horseback riding and eco-tours across the lush and vibrant landscapes of the picturesque North Shore.

I was lucky enough to embark on the Horseback Planters Tour, which included a scenic horseback ride, as well as a picnic lunch, and a planting experience to coincide with the Ranch's conservation efforts.

The Planters Tour provided insight into the Ranch's reforestation project, which dedicates a portion of the land to planting native Hawaiian trees.

It was in this area that we meaningfully planted our own native Milo tree and gave part of our energy (or mana) to Hawai'i.

Stay at Turtle Bay

The Ritz-Carlton O'ahu, Turtle Bay was one of the most spectacular places I have ever stayed.

Upon arrival, you are adorned with welcoming leis and surrounded by captivating ocean views.

Even my room overlooked the eye-catching pools, spas and surf, while featuring a cloud-like mattress for a perfect night's sleep.

Even if you are not staying as a resort guest, there is still plenty of opportunity to enjoy the culinary dining experiences available.

My personal favourite restaurant was Alaia, a beachfront venue located in the spacious lobby with signature dishes inspired by the seasonal local flavours of O'ahu's North Shore.

Additionally, you can sign up for a curated selection of unique experiences with highlights such as horseback rides at The Stables, Turtle Bay Golf, the Jamie O'Brien Surf Experience, and Night Snorkelling Exploration (this is an absolute must-do if you are intrigued by an up-close look at nocturnal marine life and bioluminescence).

Every day offered the exciting opportunity for new daily resort activities, areas to explore, breathtaking views, unique experiences, relaxation, and mouth-watering restaurants.

I also wanted to note that the resort may appear strikingly familiar if you, like myself, are a film enthusiast.

This is because it has served as the iconic backdrop for countless famous movies over the years, including my personal favourite, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, alongside Soul Surfer, Hunger Games: Catching Fire, and many more.

Jamie O'Brien Surf Experience

If there was one thing I was determined to do on my trip to Hawaii, it was to catch a wave. I was a little intimidated at the thought of paddling out in unknown waters, so I was recommended to sign up for the Jamie O'Brien Surf Experience in Turtle Bay.

The surf instructors thankfully made this experience incredibly safe and encouraging throughout the entire lesson, which is adjusted based on your skill level.

While sitting on my board, I was surrounded by clear blue water, coral reef, and witnessed some magnificent green sea turtles pop up beside me in the waves.

The entire surf experience was one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to enjoy the beaches of the North Shore as a beginner surfer.

Cirque du Soleil 'Auana

Back in Honolulu to enjoy the nightlife the city has to offer, you should not miss Cirque du Soleil 'Auana.

For years, I have considered attending a Cirque Du Soleil show to see what the hype was all about. I went in with an open mind and left in absolute awe.

The entire show was thrilling, mesmerising, and left me questioning how the acrobatic feats were possible.

In addition to the typical adrenaline-filled stunts of a Cirque Du Soleil show, this entire performance takes the audience on a journey inspired by stories and legends of Hawai'i for an enriched learning experience.

Embrace Lei Culture

Whether you are receiving, buying for loved ones, or making them yourself, leis are the perfect way to embrace the Aloha spirit on your holiday.

To buy a lei, I would recommend visiting Cindy's Lei and Flower Shoppe in the heart of O'ahu's Chinatown.

This little store featured a beautiful array of colourful, fresh and fragrant leis to choose from, and it was very special to select my own.

If you are looking to get a little more hands-on, I would suggest taking part in a lei workshop.

On my trip, I proudly made my own Lei Po'o (headworn lei) with Dillyn Lietzke from Palai and grew an enhanced appreciation for the effort and natural elements required to make these symbols of welcome, celebration, and aloha.

Breakfast on the beach

The best way to start my mornings on O'ahu involved a delicious beachside breakfast, and in Honolulu, we were spoiled for options.

Hau Tree at Kaimana Beach hotel, for example, provides a calming atmosphere with tables that extend seamlessly onto the beachfront just steps from the water.

You honestly can't go wrong with any of their menu items, whether you opt for the classic Hau Tree Eggs Benedict or give in to their most luxurious Ube Cinnamon Rolls (ideal for sweet treat lovers).

Another breakfast hotspot was Monkeypod Kitchen, which overlooks Waikiki Beach. I was not prepared for the large portion sizes (so keep that in mind), however, I will be back again for the buttery and crisp edge 'Big Island Blueberry and Lilikoi Flapjacks', along with the tropical views.

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Visit ʻIolani Palace

If you want to take a step back in time, look no further than the ʻIolani Palace. This historical landmark in Honolulu offers a unique glimpse into the history of Hawaii's last reigning monarchs.

I took part in the Chamberlain tour, which was an engaging way to hear fascinating stories from the perspective of a Royal Chamberlain with an up-close look at the home and belongings of King Kalākaua and Queen Liliʻuokalani.

I found this tour enchanting as it presents a rich look into history and left me shocked by how little I previously knew about the Hawaiian Monarchy.

Final Note

While the iconic hotspots of Hawaii are essential to visit, my recent trip made me realise there is so much more to the island of O'ahu than I previously thought.

It is the home of otherworldly beaches, a tantalising food scene, and a rich culture immersed in aloha.

The writer travelled as a guest of Qantas and Hawai'i Tourism Oceania. Qantas operates direct flights from Melbourne to Honolulu three times per week.