This Lush Hawaiian Bayfront Town Is A Hidden Oasis With Coral Reefs, Secret Beaches, And Scenic Hikes

World-class beaches, lush forests, ferocious volcanoes — Hawaii is such a unique destination that you wouldn't believe these landscapes are in the middle of the Pacific. Where do you even begin exploring it? Is the thrill of night snorkeling with manta rays drawing you in? Or, maybe you're searching for an underrated state park with captivating coastal trails. Either way, you can avoid the regular tourist crowds and experience it all by visiting Kāneʻohe. Located on the shores of Kāneʻohe Bay, this hidden oasis is a wonderful getaway for those who wish to be in a tropical state of mind. From gorgeous botanical gardens to pristine sandbars, Kāneʻohe offers the best of life in the slow lane.

The majority of Hawaiian cities have a story behind their names — "Kāneʻohe" is believed to translate into "bamboo man." The legend goes that a woman who lived here had a husband so cruel that it reminded her of the jagged rim of cut bamboo. However, some researchers believe that the name actually comes from a holy bamboo grove ("ohe" in Hawaiian) of a god called Kane. Owing to the city's agricultural roots, the name stuck. However, these days bananas are the only produce grown in the area for commercial purposes. Much of the city is residential now, especially after a rapid population surge post-World War II. 

Your vacation in Kāneʻohe starts with flying into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. From there, you can take a 20-minute cab or an hour-long bus (with multiple transfers) to get to the city. As for accommodation, Paradise Bay Resort is your top choice — the hotel provides free kayaking, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding equipment. Otherwise, there aren't too many hotels in the area, but you can browse Airbnb for other options.

Hawaii is basically synonymous with the beach, and you'll find the perfect shore to splash around on in Kāneʻohe — from romantic bays to family-friendly parks. Kāneʻohe Beach Park is where most people head for kayaking, boating, fishing, and picnicking. However, beware that swimming is dangerous at this beach since the water is murky and shark sightings are frequent. Instead, lounge near the grassy area with a delicious Hawaiian drink in hand, like a Haupia. If your heart is really set on swimming, make your way to Kualoa Ranch — this establishment offers a Secret Island Beach Adventure package, so you can feel like you have your own little private island for a day. Whether you kayak, chill in a hammock, or play volleyball, this is where you can fully embrace the beach lifestyle. 

For truly immersive snorkeling, the Kaneohe Sandbar is the place to check out during high tide — you can head there by kayak or with a tour. This site is teeming with marine life and the kaleidoscopic coral reefs provide a carpet of shelter. Here, you can spot sea turtles as they glide through the water, manta rays as they swim past you, and schools of colorful tropical fish. Bring your waterproof camera to capture all the sights (here are some of the best underwater cameras). However, it is important to note that you can't snorkel in this area during low tide. It's also worth touring the offshore island, Moku o Loe, where you can observe hammerhead sharks or soak your hands in a pool to touch urchins and sea cucumbers.

For every picturesque beach, there's an equally scenic hike in Kāneʻohe. The Friendship Garden is possibly one of the most verdant haven you'll ever lay your eyes on. Here, you will find 10 acres of abundant foliage and vegetation that lead you to incredible vistas of the city and bay. The Friendship Gardens Trail is quite short — a mere half-mile loop — but it does get steep in certain parts. Luckily, you can hold on to the ropes to help with the ascent. As you trek past the bamboo forests, you'll hear the songbirds filling the air with delightful melodies. Butterflies are a common sight, too. The journey itself is rewarding and the panoramas from the top are just the icing on the cake.

The Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden provides several trails on its 400-acres. Featuring several collections of plants from across continents, the garden boasts a variety of palm trees, tall bamboos, evergreen pines, leathery cacao, and more. While roaming the Philippines and Malaysia section, you'll come across silk-cotton trees, ivory cane palms, and tulipwood. Meanwhile, the India and Sri Lanka garden includes ebony, elephant apple, butter tree, and fig. Over at the African wing, admire the cycads, mimusops, tamarind, and looking glass mangrove. The best thing about visiting the botanical garden is that you get to experience it for free.

If you are looking for something a bit more challenging, follow the Likeke Falls Trail. The out-and-back route takes you to a perpetual, spring-fed waterfall. The hike is rated as moderate, but rainy days can make it muddy and slippery. You'll venture through the jungle before arriving at the gorgeous cascade, making this short less-than-a-mile path worthwhile. More fun awaits at Oahu's only dedicated snorkeling beach, Hanauma Bay, a mere 40 minutes away from Kāneʻohe.