The Adrenaline Junkie’s Guide to O‘ahu
You can lounge on the beach later. From the sky to the water, here are some of the top ways to full-send your way through Waikīkī and get your adrenaline pumping.
First thing's first: check in and get settled-you'll need this breather before getting out there. For some people, the best part of a Waikīkī escape is unwinding and kicking back, and for others it's all about getting the blood pumping. Read on for some of the most adrenaline-boosting experiences on the island.
Sky’s the Limit
Skydiving Over the North Shore
Looking for a good view? How about one from 14,000 feet up. Jump (or get pushed), it's pure adrenaline-free-falling over the coastline, watching the mountains and ocean stretch out in every direction. If it's your first time, don't get scared off by the slightly squirrelly plane ride: by the time the parachute opens, expect to already be planning your next jump. (Pro tip: book a morning slot for the clearest skies.)
Doors-Off Helicopter Ride
Not into jumping out of planes? Fair. But don't skip out on seeing Oʻahu from above. A doors-off helicopter ride is just as exhilarating, with the added bonus of unreal photos. Fly over waterfalls, skim past mountain ridges, and over secret beaches you'd never see from the road. Hold onto your phone-it's a long way down. This is the perfect place to make a mental note of all the trails and hidden beaches you'll want to hit when you're back on the ground.
On Solid(ish) Ground
Kualoa Ranch: Jurassic-Level Adventures
Kualoa-Jurassic Park's famed filming location-isn't just for movie buff. Anyone who wants to rip through jungle trails on an ATV, zipline between massive banyan trees, or ride horseback through valleys that look straight out of a dream will find something for the thrills. If you want an adventure-packed day, this is your spot.
Hike to Makapuʻu Tide Pools
You've probably heard of the Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail, but the real adventure is off the beaten path. Halfway up, look for an unmarked trail leading down to the tide pools. It's a scramble over lava rock (sturdy shoes, trust me), but the reward? Natural saltwater pools with unbeatable views. Just time it right-this isn't the place to be when the surf is high.
Rock Climbing on Oʻahu
Bet you didn't think of Oʻahu as a rock-climbing destination. There are solid crags for bouldering and sport climbing all over the island. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned climber, spots like Mokulēʻia and Waimea Bay have routes worth checking out.
Motorcycle Ride Along the Windward Coast
Oʻahu's east side was made for the open road. Rent a bike, start in Honolulu, and ride up past Lanikai, Kailua, and Kualoa. You'll hug the coastline the whole way, with mountains on one side and nothing but blue on the other. Stop at a roadside fruit stand, grab a coconut, and soak it all in.
The Deep Blue
Shark Diving—No Cage Needed
You've probably seen shark tours before, but this is different. With Ocean Outfitters, you're in the water-no cage-just you and some of the ocean's most misunderstood creatures. It's humbling, it's thrilling, and we will definitely ask you if ocean pup is an accurate nickname.
Scuba Dive a Sunken Ship
For our PADI Certified friends: Oʻahu's underwater scene is just as wild as what's on land. Head out for a wreck dive and explore sunken ships covered in coral, home to turtles, reef sharks, and massive schools of fish. One of the most popular wreck dives is the YO-257, a sunken Navy ship off the coast of Waikīkī. It's a cool, eerie dive with history and plenty of marine life.
Need More Thrills?
Book a few days with Blue Hawaiian or another local outfitter and line up more high-adrenaline adventures. Just be sure to save some time for a post-adventure plate lunch and a drink-you've earned it.
