Day 1: Explore Paradise
Some think of Kaneohe as the quintessential Hawaii town because it still retains that old-time feel. And, there is no better place to take in paradise than at Paradise Bay Resort (47-039 Lihikai Drive). Here, you’ll experience breathtaking panoramic views of Kaneohe Bay, Chinaman’s Hat, and the Ko‘olau Mountains.
All Paradise Bay Resort accommodations feature a full kitchen or kitchenette, and most offer a spacious private lanai. Complimentary amenities at the pet-friendly retreat add to its appeal; think free WiFi, complimentary snorkel equipment, and an outdoor pool and hot tub. It is the perfect place for a staycation while exploring all Kaneohe has to offer!
Nearby, Byodo-In Temple (47-200 Kahekili Hwy) is a hidden oasis within Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. This Hawaii State Landmark is a small-scale replica of a 950-year-old Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan, honoring Hawaii’s first Japanese immigrant workers.
Going towards the North Shore on Kamehameha Highway, you’ll discover many more Hawaiian treasures. Shop for tropical fruits, native plants, and Hawaiian food at roadside stands lining Kamehameha Highway, including Waiahole Nursery and Garden Center (48-190 Kamehameha Highway waiaholenurserygardenandfloralgifts.com) and at Waiahole Poi Factory (48-140 Kamehameha Highway). A little further up the road, discover the treasures – and delicious macadamia nuts and Kona coffee – at Tropical Farms (49-227A Kamehameha Highway).
Day 2: Scope Out Shopping Centers
Kaneohe has unique shopping – with lots of small local shops as well as U.S. Mainland chains. Within the shopping centers, entertainment – for keiki and adults – as well as several diverse eateries can be explored for days on end.
Windward Mall (46-056 Kamehameha Highway) is one of Oahu’s premier shopping malls. This enclosed mall features an array of stores, a movie theater, and more – including indoor playgrounds and many specific places for kids, like Got Funn? and Keiki Republic. Regular farmers markets and a great food court also add to the mall’s appeal. Be on the lookout for new merchants at this mall, as it always seems to be evolving.
Day 3: Play At the Park
A day can easily be spent in one of Kaneohe’s prestigious parks – whether walking through tropical foliage, camping, kayaking, or BBQing with friends and family.
In central Kaneohe, the 400-acre Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Garden (45-680 Luluku Rd) rests in the shadows of the Koolau Mountains with garden sections devoted to different types of tropical plants. Driving in or hiking the paved path are both popular options. Camping is also available.
Up the road from the botanical garden, play mini golf or enjoy an epic view at Bay View Mini-Putt and Zipline (45-285 Kaneohe Bay Dr). This is entertainment for the whole family with 36 holes of mini golf and a 400-foot-long zipline. Military pricing is available!
Around the other edge of Kaneohe Bay, Heeia State Park (46-465 Kamehameha Highway) has more panoramic views of the bay. Guests can have a picnic in this cozy park that has well-maintained restroom facilities and banquet halls.
Further away from Kaneohe’s center, Kualoa Regional Park (49-479 Kamehameha Highway) is considered a hidden gem on Oahu’s northeast side. This park’s sprawling lawns with the perfect vista of Chinaman’s Hat (Mokolii Island) is ideal for picnics and mellow beach outings. Adventurers can also kayak or SUP to the famous island – or even walk there during the low tide (but carefully plan the trip). Scuba divers, snorkelers, and spear fishermen also gravitate to the iconic island. Overnight camping is available in the park as well.
