Waimalu HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Waimalu, Hawaii.
1. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
HISTORIC WAR MEMORIAL
Pearl Harbor National Memorial offers visitors a profound historical experience commemorating the 1941 attack that propelled the United States into World War II. Visitors can take a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial and watch a fascinating documentary film about the event. The memorial serves as both an educational site and a solemn tribute to those who lost their lives during this pivotal moment in American history.
2. Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area
ANCIENT HAWAIIAN TEMPLES
Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area features ancient Hawaiian heiau (temples) nestled within a scenic natural setting. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails while learning about the cultural significance of these historical structures. The recreation area provides a perfect balance of outdoor adventure and cultural education for those interested in Hawaiian heritage.
3. Pearlridge Center
LARGEST INDOOR MALL
Pearlridge Center is Oahu's largest indoor shopping center, offering extensive retail, dining, and entertainment options. The mall features two distinct sections connected by a monorail, creating a unique shopping experience. Visitors can shop at numerous stores, enjoy local cuisine, and participate in regular community events held throughout the year.
4. Consolidated Theatres Pearlridge
MODERN CINEMA EXPERIENCE
Consolidated Theatres Pearlridge provides a contemporary movie-watching experience with comfortable seating and the latest film releases. The theater features modern amenities including digital projection and premium sound systems. Movie enthusiasts can enjoy both mainstream blockbusters and selected independent films in a convenient location within the Pearlridge Center.
5. Halawa Valley Overlook
SCENIC VALLEY VIEWS
Halawa Valley Overlook offers breathtaking panoramic views of the ruggedly beautiful Halawa Valley with Hawaii's H3 interstate highway running through it. Visitors can enjoy the perfect vantage point for photography and appreciate the natural landscape of Oahu. The overlook provides a peaceful respite and stunning visual experience for nature lovers and photographers alike.
6. Dole Plantation
PINEAPPLE PARADISE EXPERIENCE
Dole Plantation offers visitors a comprehensive pineapple cultivation experience on a historic plantation site. Guests can navigate the world's largest maze, take a train tour of the plantation grounds, and learn about Hawaii's pineapple industry history. The plantation also features the popular Dole Whip treat, a must-try pineapple soft serve dessert that has become synonymous with Hawaiian vacations.
7. Byodo-In Temple
JAPANESE BUDDHIST TEMPLE
Byodo-In Temple is a non-denominational Buddhist temple located at the foot of the Ko'olau Mountains, serving as a replica of the 950-year-old temple in Uji, Japan. The temple grounds feature a large reflecting pond, meditation areas, and a sacred bell that visitors can ring for good luck and blessings. Surrounded by lush gardens and peacefully wandering wildlife, the temple provides a serene setting for contemplation and appreciation of Japanese architecture.
8. Ala Moana Regional Park
BEACHFRONT URBAN PARK
Ala Moana Regional Park spans more than 100 acres of beach and green space, offering a popular recreational area for both locals and tourists. The park features a half-mile stretch of beach with calm waters protected by an outer reef, making it ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, tennis courts, walking paths, and easy access to the adjacent Ala Moana Center for shopping and dining.
9. Moanalua Ridge Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN HIKE
Moanalua Ridge Trail offers hikers a challenging yet rewarding trek with spectacular views of Oahu's landscape. The trail serves as an alternative route to view the famous Haiku Stairs (Stairway to Heaven) without illegally accessing the stairs themselves. Adventurers can experience diverse terrain, from forested paths to exposed ridge sections, making it a favorite among experienced hikers seeking impressive vistas.
10. Pink Box
HISTORIC PILLBOX HIKE
Pink Box is a popular hiking trail featuring historic military bunkers with panoramic views of Oahu's coastline. The trail offers an easy to moderate difficulty level, making it accessible for hikers of various experience levels. Visitors can enjoy unique artwork painted inside some of the pillboxes, adding a cultural element to this outdoor adventure.
11. Waimalu Annual Festival
CULTURAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Waimalu Annual Festival celebrates the area's rich cultural heritage with traditional Hawaiian music, dance, and food. The summer event draws both locals and tourists, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. Attendees can experience authentic Hawaiian traditions while enjoying performances and sampling local culinary specialties.
12. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
ACTIVE VOLCANIC LANDSCAPE
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park showcases the raw power of nature with its active volcanoes, dramatic landscapes, and unique ecosystems. Visitors can witness the ongoing volcanic activity of Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, through safe observation points and educational displays. The park offers numerous hiking trails through lava fields, craters, and rainforests, providing an unforgettable experience of Hawaii's volcanic origins.
13. Haleakalā National Park
MAJESTIC SUNRISE DESTINATION
Haleakalā National Park is home to Maui's highest peak, offering visitors the chance to witness breathtaking sunrises above the clouds. The park encompasses diverse landscapes ranging from the lunar-like crater summit at 10,023 feet to the lush Kipahulu coastal area with its famous Seven Sacred Pools. Visitors can explore over 30 miles of hiking trails, observe rare native species like the silversword plant, and experience both alpine wilderness and tropical rainforest within the same day.
14. Road to Hana
SCENIC COASTAL DRIVE
The Road to Hana is a legendary 64-mile scenic drive featuring over 600 curves and 59 bridges along Maui's lush eastern coastline. The journey takes travelers through rainforests, past waterfalls, and alongside dramatic ocean views, with numerous stops at natural attractions and local food stands. More than just a drive, this iconic route represents an immersive experience of Maui's natural beauty and traditional Hawaiian culture that many consider a highlight of their Hawaiian vacation.
15. Waiʻānapanapa State Park
BLACK SAND BEACH
Waiʻānapanapa State Park features a dramatic black sand beach formed by ancient lava flows meeting the ocean, creating a striking contrast against the turquoise waters. The park encompasses lava tubes, sea arches, blowholes, and a network of hiking trails showcasing Hawaii's volcanic coastline. Visitors can explore ancient Hawaiian sites including burial caves and a heiau (temple), connecting them to the area's rich cultural history.