Hawaii is a state of mind as much as a place—and for me, no island embodies this better than Oahu. While many travelers picture the bustling beaches of Waikiki when they think of Honolulu, my recent trip revealed another side of Oahu—one filled with lush trails, ancient banyan trees, sunrise yoga, and quiet moments of reflection.
Where I Stayed: The Moana Surfrider
Let’s start with the stay. I checked in at the iconic Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, right in the heart of Waikiki. As Hawaii’s oldest hotel, the Moana opened its doors in 1901 and still holds the elegance of another era—with the added comfort of modern amenities. One of my favorite features? The grand banyan tree that stands like a sentry in the courtyard—its branches sprawling, offering cool shade and a sense of permanence that anchors the hotel.
Mornings at the Moana were my favorite. Breakfast was made to order and absolutely delicious, but what truly set the tone for my day was the beachfront yoga class at sunrise. Watching the light stretch over the ocean as waves rolled in was a moment of complete peace. The Moana also offers a Ho’ala sunrise ceremony—a meditative experience grounded in Hawaiian tradition. It includes chants, intention setting, and a ceremonial dip in the ocean to cleanse the mind, body, and spirit. It was the kind of soulful travel moment I’ll carry with me long after the tan fades.
The Iconic Diamond Head Hike
Hiking at Diamond Head
No trip to Oahu feels complete without summiting Diamond Head. This volcanic crater is a symbol of the island, and for good reason. The trail is steep in spots, but relatively short—just under a mile each way. The reward is incredible: panoramic views of Waikiki and the endless Pacific. I went early to beat the heat and the crowds, and I highly recommend doing the same—especially if you’re hoping to catch the sunrise. The hike is filled with history too: you’ll pass through bunkers and observation stations dating back to World War II.
Exploring More Trails on Oahu
But Oahu’s hiking trails go far beyond Diamond Head. This island is a paradise for outdoor lovers, with trails for all levels that deliver on both natural beauty and serenity.
- Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail: One of my favorite discoveries. It’s less crowded than many of the popular routes and offers incredible ridge views, dense forest canopies, and glimpses of both the Koʻolau Mountains and the ocean. Bring sturdy shoes—it can be muddy—but the peace and vistas are more than worth it.
- Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail: A relatively easy coastal walk that rewards you with dramatic cliffside views and the historic lighthouse perched on the edge of the island. In season, it’s a great spot for whale watching.
- Manoa Falls Trail: This short, shaded trail leads to a 150-foot waterfall and is easily accessible from Honolulu. It’s a great family-friendly option that still delivers a lush jungle experience.
Wellness Beyond the Trails
If hiking isn’t your thing every day, don’t worry. Oahu makes it easy to enjoy wellness in other ways. The Moana Surfrider’s spa is a sanctuary offering Hawaiian-inspired treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate. There’s something special about knowing the spa stands in the same historic building where travelers have been unwinding for over a century.
Looking ahead, the nearby Prince Waikiki—just at the edge of Waikiki—will be opening a brand-new spa in late 2025. It promises to blend cutting-edge wellness technology with island hospitality, including a chill lounge and a vibe pool. Even now, the Prince is worth a visit. Every room faces the ocean, and their curated experiences are ideal for travelers looking to blend luxury and self-care.
The Takeaway
One of the most important things I’ve learned through travel—especially closer to home—is the value of slowing down. Whether it’s greeting the sun on a yoga mat, hiking a ridge trail with no cell signal, or savoring a quiet cup of Kona coffee under a banyan tree, Oahu offers space to breathe.
If you’re longing for that tropical vacation feel without leaving the U.S., Oahu delivers. It’s not just a beach destination—it’s a place to reset, explore, and reconnect with yourself. So when you plan your next vacation, don’t just fill it with things to do. Leave space for silence, for movement, for ocean breezes and sunrise light. You may return home with more than memories—you might just come back renewed.
Contact me today to start planning a uniquely yours Hawaii vacation.