Waianae

Waianae, a picturesque and historic community nestled on the windward coast of Oahu. With its stunning beaches, lush green mountains, and rich cultural heritage, Waianae offers a unique blend of natural beauty, modern amenities, and old-world charm.

Once a thriving sugar plantation town, Waianae has evolved over the years into a vibrant and diverse community that is steeped in history and tradition. From the ancient Hawaiian fishponds that line the coast to the historic plantation homes that still stand today, Waianae is a place where the past and present seamlessly intertwine.

Visitors to Waianae will be enchanted by the community’s stunning beaches, which offer some of the best swimming, snorkeling, and surfing on the island. The world-famous Waianae Bay, with its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand, is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Hawaii’s natural beauty.

Beyond the beach, Waianae is a hub of cultural and recreational activities. The community is home to a number of parks, museums, and historical sites, including the Waianae Heritage Center, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Foodies will also delight in Waianae’s diverse culinary scene, which features everything from traditional Hawaiian cuisine to contemporary fusion fare. From fresh poke bowls and shave ice to farm-to-table dining and gourmet coffee, there’s something for every palate in Waianae.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an action-packed adventure, or an immersive cultural experience, Waianae has something for everyone. So come and discover all that this magical community has to offer – we can’t wait to welcome you to Waianae.

Flights To Waianae

Tips For Booking Cheaps Flights To Waianae

  • Book in advance: Airfare prices tend to rise as the departure date approaches, so it’s generally a good idea to book your flight several months in advance and look for budget airlines as it may offer cheaper fares than traditional airlines.
  • Be flexible with your travel dates: As with any destination, airfare prices to Waianae can vary greatly depending on the day of the week, time of day, and time of year. If you have flexibility in your schedule, try searching for flights on different days and at different times to see if you can find a better deal.
  • Use flight comparison websites: Websites like SkyscannerKayakEarlytripsTicketsaway and Google Flights allow you to compare prices from multiple airlines at once, helping you find the best deal. These tools often use complex algorithms that take into account factors like fuel prices, currency exchange rates, and travel restrictions.
  • Consider alternative airports: Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) is the closest major airport to Waianae, but flights to other airports in Hawaii may be cheaper. Consider flying into a different airport and then taking a connecting flight or ferry to Waianae.
  • Be willing to make connections: Nonstop flights are usually more convenient, but they can also be more expensive. If you’re willing to make one or more connections, you may be able to find a cheaper flight. 
  • Travel during off-peak times: The Big Island is a popular destination, so airfare prices tend to be higher during peak travel times, such as summer and major holidays. If you can, try to travel during the shoulder season or off-peak times to save money.
  • Use miles or points: If you have frequent flyer miles or credit card points, you may be able to use them to book your flight to Waianae for free or at a discount.

Places To Visit

Natural Attractions:
  • Makua Beach (aka Cockroach Bay): This beach is located on the western tip of Oahu and is known for its stunning sunsets and clear waters. It’s a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. However, be aware that the beach can be subject to strong currents and undertows, so use caution when swimming.
  • Poka’i Beach Park: This beach is a great spot for families, with a lifeguard on duty, picnic tables, and restrooms. The water is generally calm, making it a good place for swimming and paddleboarding.
  • Lualualei Fishpond: This ancient Hawaiian fishpond is located on the coast and is a great spot for birdwatching. It’s also a cultural site, with traditional Hawaiian practices and ceremonies taking place here.
Cultural Attractions:
  • Waianae Cultural Festival: This annual festival celebrates the rich history and culture of Waianae. It features traditional Hawaiian music, hula dancing, crafts, and food.
  • Makaha Valley Historical Park: This park is home to several ancient Hawaiian structures, including a heiau (temple) and a canoe shed. It’s a great place to learn about Hawaiian history and culture.
  • Ka’ala Farm: This working farm is dedicated to preserving traditional Hawaiian agricultural practices. They offer tours and workshops on topics like taro farming, lauhala weaving, and traditional Hawaiian medicine.
Outdoor Activities:
  • Ma’ili Beach Park: This beach is a popular spot for surfing, with consistent waves year-round. It’s also a great place for swimming and picnicking.
  • Piliokahe Agricultural Park: This park offers hiking trails, community gardens, and a farm stand selling fresh produce. It’s a great place to get some exercise and connect with the local community.
  • Makua Kea Beach: This beach is a hidden gem, located on the western tip of Oahu. It’s a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. However, be aware that there are no facilities or lifeguards on duty.
Historical Sites:
  • Makaha Beach: This beach is not only a great spot for swimming and surfing, but it’s also home to several historical sites. Look for the ancient Hawaiian fishponds and the ruins of a heiau (temple) on the beach.
  • Makaha Valley: This valley is steeped in history, with petroglyphs, heiaus, and other ancient Hawaiian structures scattered throughout. Take a guided tour to learn more about the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Outdoor Activities:
  • Piliokahe Agricultural Park: This park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There are also community gardens and a farm stand selling fresh produce.
  • Makua Cave: This natural limestone cave is a popular spot for hiking and exploring. It’s located on private property, so be sure to get permission before visiting.
  • Poka’i Bay: This bay is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. There are also several hiking trails in the area, offering stunning views of the coastline.
Cultural Attractions:
  • Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center: This health center offers a variety of cultural programs, including hula dancing, ukulele lessons, and Hawaiian language classes.
  • Waianae High School Performing Arts Center: This performing arts center hosts a variety of cultural events, including hula shows, concerts, and plays.
  • Waianae Public Library: This library offers a variety of cultural programs, including Hawaiian language storytime, hula classes, and craft workshops.

Best Vacations Spots

  • Makaha Beach: This beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. It’s also home to several historical sites, including ancient Hawaiian fishponds and the ruins of a heiau (temple).
  • Makua Beach (aka Cockroach Bay): This secluded beach is located on the western tip of Oahu and is known for its stunning sunsets and clear waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing.
  • Poka’i Beach Park: This beach is a great spot for families, with a lifeguard on duty, picnic tables, and restrooms. The water is generally calm, making it a good place for swimming and paddleboarding.
  • Lualualei Fishpond: This ancient Hawaiian fishpond is located on the coast and is a great spot for birdwatching. It’s also a cultural site, with traditional Hawaiian practices and ceremonies taking place here.
  • Waianae Cultural Festival: This annual festival celebrates the rich history and culture of Waianae. It features traditional Hawaiian music, hula dancing, crafts, and food.
  • Makaha Valley Historical Park: This park is home to several ancient Hawaiian structures, including a heiau (temple) and a canoe shed. It’s a great place to learn about Hawaiian history and culture.
  • Ka’ala Farm: This working farm is dedicated to preserving traditional Hawaiian agricultural practices. They offer tours and workshops on topics like taro farming, lauhala weaving, and traditional Hawaiian medicine.
  • Piliokahe Agricultural Park: This park offers hiking trails, community gardens, and a farm stand selling fresh produce. It’s a great place to get some exercise and connect with the local community.

Hotels In Waianae

Top Hotels

  • Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina: This luxury resort is located on the western coast of Oahu and features stunning ocean views, a private beach, and a variety of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple restaurants.
  • Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club: This beachfront resort features spacious villas, a lagoon-style pool, a full-service spa, and several dining options.
  • Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa: This family-friendly resort is located on the beautiful beaches of Ko Olina and features a variety of amenities, including a lazy river, water slides, a kids’ club, and several dining options.
  • Beach Villas at Ko Olina: These luxury villas are located on the beach and feature full kitchens, laundry facilities, and private balconies or lanais. The resort also offers a pool, hot tub, and fitness center.
  • Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort: While not located directly in Waianae, this resort is a short drive away and is one of the top hotels in the area. It features multiple pools, a private lagoon, several restaurants, and a spa.

Budget Friendly Hotels

  • Makaha Resort and Golf Club: This hotel offers rooms starting at around 150 per night, as well as suites with kitchenettes starting at around 200 per night. The hotel is located near several beaches and hiking trails.
  • Pacific Beach Hotel: This hotel offers rooms starting at around $150 per night, with shuttle service to and from Waianae. The hotel features a pool, restaurant, and fitness center.
  • Seaside Hawaiian Resort Waikiki: This hotel offers rooms starting at around $150 per night, with shuttle service to and from Waianae. The hotel features a rooftop pool, hot tub, and restaurant.
  • Aqua Palms Waikiki: This hotel offers rooms starting at around $150 per night, with shuttle service to and from Waianae. The hotel features a pool, hot tub, and restaurant.
  • Ewa Hotel Waikiki: This hotel offers rooms starting at around $120 per night, with basic amenities. It’s located near several restaurants and shops, and offers shuttle service to and from Waianae.

Please note that prices may vary depending on the time of year and availability. I would recommend checking the hotels’ websites or contacting them directly for the most up-to-date pricing and availability.

Best Time To Visit

  • Weather: Waianea has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The peak tourist season is from December to April, when the weather is dry and the temperatures are slightly cooler. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider visiting during the off-peak season from May to October, when the weather is still warm and sunny, but there are fewer tourists.
  • Activities: If you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and surfing, the summer months from June to August are a great time to visit. The water is warm and the waves are perfect for surfing. If you’re interested in whale watching, the best time to visit is from December to April, when humpback whales migrate to the waters around Hawaii.
  • Cultural Events: Waianae has several cultural events throughout the year, including the Waianae Cultural Festival in May, the Prince Kuhio Celebration in March, and the Aloha Festivals in September. If you’re interested in experiencing Hawaiian culture and traditions, these events are a great time to visit.

Overall, the best time to visit Waianae depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your trip.

Scroll to Top