You always hear about all of the things you “must do” while in Hawaii. There are so many different places that you could pick its hard to know whats worth it and what you should skip. Im here to tell you about seven things to not do while in Oahu, Hawaii.
I lived in Hawaii for a short time as a child and it has become one of my favorite places to visit as an adult. I feel like no matter how long you are on Oahu there are always a hundred more things you could do for the first time. If it was my very first trip to Hawaii these are the things I would definitely not do.
1. Resort Luau’s
If you’re staying at one of the more popular resorts chances are they host some type of Luau. These usually consist of some type of buffet and a show. The resort Luaus are typically not worth the price and you can get a much better Luau experience somewhere else. For example the Polynesian Cultural Center has luau packages that are a better experience for the cost.
2. The Dole Plantation
I know that this one is on ALL of the must do lists, but hear me out. There are so many better ways to spend a day in paradise than at a pineapple gift shop. That’s basically what the Dole Plantation is. Besides a train and a maze through the pineapple fields there isn’t much to do here.
3. Sea Life Park
Again this one is a popular option mainly for people with kids. The way I see it is you can go to any old aquarium when you are at home. Why go to an aquarium to see animals that you are literally surrounded by? Get in the ocean and skip this one.
4. Diamond Head
Diamond Head is one of the most popular hikes on Oahu and that makes it one of the most crowded hikes. In my opinion there are far better hikes with prettier scenery and less people. If crowds are your thing then go for it. One of my favorites that I would suggest instead is Manoa Falls Trail. I mean look at how pretty this hike is.
5. Surf Lessons
This one is funny to me because one surfing lesson is definitely not enough no matter where you are. I know some people dream of catching a wave in Hawaii but the way I see it is if you don’t already know how to surf save your money and stick to the boogie board.
6. Stadium Swap Meet
Everyone knows that Oahu is a huge destination for tourists which means cheap souvenirs galore. The Aloha Stadium swap meet is the place to find a million of the same plastic keychains and aloha t-shirts that won’t last more than a year. Trust me when I tell you that these things are the biggest waste of money.
7. Waikiki Beach
I put this one last because Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the world. The main reason it is so popular is because all of the major hotels are located here. It’s beautiful, but crowded. If your’e on an island, why go to the same beach as everybody else? Sunset Beach and Lanikai Beach are two popular beaches with much smaller crowds. Or you can do what we did on our last trip and stop somewhere along the road for a more peaceful beach day (just make sure you aren’t on private property!)
For most people Hawaii is a once in a lifetime kind of vacation; so it’s important to make the most of your time there. If you skip these things your’e sure to have the Hawaiian vacation of your dreams.
Do you have a Hawaii bucket list? Let me know what’s on it so I can add it mine!