Leeward Coast

The sunny and dry Leeward Coast of Oʻahu lies at the foot of the Waiʻanae mountain range just 30 miles from Waikīkī, but the contrast between the regions is striking. Where Waikīkī offers urban hustle and bustle, the Leeward side of Oʻahu is less developed, with picturesque towns, beautiful off-the-beaten-path beaches and rural landscapes to explore.
 
If you plan to stay on the Leeward Coast, you’ll have two major resorts to choose from in the beautiful Kō Olina resort area. Home to the luxurious Four Seasons Oʻahu and Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, this 43-acre marina offers stretches of postcard-worthy shoreline with ample opportunities for water sports and championship golf. Other fun and family-friendly attractions in the area include the Paradise Cove Lūʻau and the Wet n’ Wild Hawaiʻi water park. Local beaches include Mākaha Beach, one of the first spots where surfers began big wave surfing, and Yokohama Bay.
 
At the very end of the road, you can hike to Oʻahu’s western-most point at sacred Kaʻena Point for incredible Pacific Ocean views. If you hike to Kaʻena Point, be sure to stay on the trail because the area is also a bird sanctuary, and bring water and other supplies with you because the remote area doesn’t offer amenities. Leave no trace, and pack out whatever you brought with you in order to respect the land and maintain the pristine natural area for others.