Here’s a collection of recommended spots along Oahu’s east coast, including sightseeing areas, local eats, shopping, beaches, and spiritual power spots.
This region is lined with breathtaking natural scenery that will leave you completely captivated once you visit.
With its stunning, highly popular beaches, it’s an ideal area for scenic drives and relaxing walks.
Everything is listed in alphabetical order, so you can easily browse the table of contents to find places you want to visit or activities you’re interested in.
Popular Tourist Spots on Oahu’s East Coast
The east coast is filled with natural spots offering stunning views of the Koʻolau Mountains—considered the most breathtaking scenery in all of Hawaii!
You’ll find plenty of places where you can fully enjoy Hawaii’s beautiful nature, making it the perfect area to escape the city and unwind.
Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden
Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden, the largest scenic botanical garden in Hawaii.
Located on the northern foothills of the Koolau Range, it occupies an expansive 1.6 square kilometers.
In addition to Hawaiian flora, you can see many plants native to the Philippines, Africa, Sri Lanka, India, Polynesia, Melanesia, Malaysia, and various parts of tropical America.
By the way, Hoomaluhia in Hawaiian means “to give peace and to protect,” and true to its name the garden is sheltered by majestic nature and offers a calming, restorative atmosphere you won’t want to miss.
Because the facility is managed by the City of Honolulu, most activities are free.
It’s a bit of a hidden gem where you can enjoy spectacular views, fishing, camping, and a variety of other activities.
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Makapuu Lookout
Makapuu Lookout is an iconic scenic spot on Oahu’s windward coast.
This viewpoint offers views of the beautiful ocean and the majestic Koolau mountain range.
Offshore directly ahead is a notably large uninhabited islet called Rabbit Island, named because its shape looks like a rabbit lying on its side.
To the right, further inland, you can see the Makapuu Lighthouse, and below the cliffs to the left is Makapuu Beach, where large waves break year-round.
This area is also famous for being a place where humpback whales that migrate from Alaska in the winter season (around November to March) can be seen!
It’s a spot where you can enjoy the scenery easily in about 15 minutes, so be sure to stop by if you happen to pass by.
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Popular Eats on Oahu’s East Coast
The east coast is packed with trendy spots, unique restaurants, and well-known eateries!
It’s especially known for its great breakfast and lunch options, and every place offers flavors that are absolutely worth trying at least once.
Boots and Kimos
When in Hawaii, make sure to try Boots and Kimos’ macadamia nut pancakes at least once.
The pancakes are topped with the original signature sauce and their light, fluffy omelets are a local favorite!
Many Hawaiian pancake shops have branches in Japan, but Boots and Kimos has not expanded to Japan.
The restaurant is almost always busy, so if you want to dine in, arrive right at opening to avoid the line.
Even on weekdays you might wait around an hour, so for busy times takeout is recommended — you can usually get it in about 15–20 minutes.
These pancakes are undoubtedly among the top three on the islands — you should try them at least once.
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Popular Shopping Spots on Oahu’s East Coast
Centered around the stylish town of Kailua, the east coast offers a great selection of different shops♪
In particular, there are so many supermarkets that it feels like you can find almost every major store in Hawaii, making it a perfect area for hopping around and enjoying some shopping!
Popular Beaches on Oahu’s East Coast
Oahu’s east coast is home to some of Hawaii’s top beaches, including the famous snorkeling spot Hanauma Bay and the award-winning beaches of Kailua and Lanikai.
In addition to these well-known spots, you can also enjoy quieter, beautiful beaches as well as areas great for surfing!
Kualoa Beach
Kualoa Beach, one of Hawaii’s most sacred power spots.
It is one of the places with great historical significance on Oahu and was once considered the most sacred sanctuary.
In ancient Hawaii, successive chiefs are said to have brought their family’s children here to teach them their traditions.
The relaxed, easygoing atmosphere may be thanks to the sacred power emanating from the land.
It isn’t very crowded, so you can feel almost like you’re at a private beach.
It’s a place you can stop by even for a short while, so visit if you have the chance.
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Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach, famous across the U.S. as the so-called “Heavenly Sea,” is one of Hawaii’s most iconic beaches.
It’s one of the island’s best-known shores—chances are many visitors will have this spot on their list.
Emerald-green water, pristine white sand, and gentle waves make it feel truly heavenly.
Its beauty captivates everyone who visits, and it’s a favorite among locals as well.
This naturally formed beach has very fine, powdery sand—almost like flour.
You can relax in the clear water, hike up to the Lanikai Pillbox for panoramic views, or paddle toward the twin islands (the Mokulua Islands) for an active adventure.
Enjoy the overwhelmingly beautiful scenery to the fullest.
→ View more about Lanikai Beach
Popular Spiritual Power Spots on Oahu’s East Coast
The east coast of Oahu is considered one of Hawaii’s most spiritual areas, with many well-known power spots concentrated throughout the region.
In addition to its overwhelming natural beauty, you’ll find plenty of places that leave you feeling refreshed and uplifted after a visit!