Beyond the Beaches: Discover O'ahu’s Magical Gardens and Epic Tours

Mar 18

When thinking about O’ahu, after the obvious tropical paradise images that immediately come to mind, you might think about it’s pivotal history during World War II at Pearl Harbor. There are several opportunities to experience Pearl Harbor at your own pace and in a way that will feel memorable to you.

In addition, whether your interest lies in exploring Hawaii’s diverse flora and fauna, or adventurous tours through remnants of iconic movie sets, there is truly something for everyone.

Pearl Harbor

Visiting Pearl Harbor gave me ALL the feels. World War II occurred during my grandparents’ time, but I’ve long had a fascination with the “greatest generation.” Walking through the Visitor Center, reading and listening to stories of the notorious attack at Pearl Harbor, took me back in time. I actually cried as I listened to some of the personal accounts and reflected on what life must have been like, not only during that era, but every day since for all those who were there.

Pearl Harbor offers a number of options for experiencing the different historic sites - including inter-island tour options for those not staying on O’ahu. We chose to purchase the self-guided audio tour passport that included admission to the Visitors Center, Aviation Museum, the Battleship Missouri and the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links for products and/or services we love. If you decide to make a verified purchase through the links in this post, I will earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for choosing to wander with us. We hope your adventures are filled with as much joy and awe as we’ve experienced!

Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch is a nature reserve covering 4,000 acres on O’ahu’s windward coast. It is not open for self-guided tours, but instead offers several opportunities for full- or half-day guided tour experiences. Options range from peaceful beach and water sport days at Secret Island Beach, to high adventure UTV Raptor and Zipline tours. Kualoa Ranch also offers visitors opportunities to learn about their sustainability efforts.

As you explore Kualoa Ranch, expect to see expansive vistas of the ocean, valley and meadows; and maybe even relics left behind from movie sets featured in Hollywood classics including Pearl Harbor, Kong and Jurassic Park.

Waimea Botanical Gardens

There are several botanical gardens scattered around O’ahu. While simply driving around or hiking the many trails on the island will naturally share Hawaii’s tropical beauty with you, the botanical gardens give you something extra.

We toured the Waimea Botanical Gardens on the northern side of O’ahu, across from Waimea Bay Beach Park. The garden features more than 5,000 tropical, subtropical, native and globally endangered plant species. The self-guided tour wanders along a paved, 3/4-mile path. Along the way, you might see Waimea Falls (swimming optional when allowed based on weather conditions), native birds, Hawaiian cultural sites and resident artisans. There’s also a snack bar and coffee house where you can sit and enjoy the beauty surrounding you.