Your ideal destination is Ko Olina, situated on the west side of Oahu, approximately 30 miles or roughly an hour away from Waikiki.
Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life during your Hawaiian vacation? Waikiki Beach and downtown Honolulu might not provide the serene escape you crave, as they offer more of the same!
With stunning premium resorts and a laid-back atmosphere, Ko Olina, meaning “place of joy” in Hawaiian, offers a perfect setting for a relaxing vacation with its beautiful beaches and golf courses.
Contrary to the perception of a quiet retreat, the Ko Olina resort area has plenty to offer! Without the typical crowds found in Waikiki and Honolulu, you can explore and experience much more with Ko Olina as your base.
Embark on a virtual tour with us as we showcase the best things to do in Ko Olina and its vicinity!
Best Things to Do in Ko Olina Lagoons & Nearby
1. Enjoy the Beautiful Ko Olina Lagoons
Why settle for one when you can indulge in four stunning Ko Olina lagoons? These lagoons, nestled in a beachfront resort area, are a treat open to everyone!
These four lagoons boast exquisite beaches with soft white sand and clear, tranquil, turquoise waters!
Carefully crafted on the west side of the island, the machine-made Ko Olina lagoons use ocean water barriers with clever gaps.
Connected by a mile and a half of well-kept seaside pathways, you can effortlessly stroll from one beautiful lagoon to another.
The Ko Olina lagoons feature the finest beaches around, each equipped with restrooms and showers. While there are no lifeguards, worry not, as these lagoons are secure havens with gentle waves, shielded from strong ocean currents – perfect for all ages and skill levels.
Personally, I’m drawn to the Kohola Lagoon for its secluded vibe, which may be because you need to take a short walk to reach it.
With depths ranging from 10 to 15 feet, the lagoon offers life vests and flotation devices for rent if needed. Resorts also provide kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear for Ko Olina water adventures.
Book an exciting, 5-star rated Oahu tour now!
Snorkeling Delight in Ko Olina Lagoons
Snorkeling in the calm Ko Olina Lagoon waters is a safe haven for families and beginners. Nai’a and Kohola Lagoons, closer to coral reefs, offer glimpses of sergeant fish, butterflyfish, wrasses, triggerfish, parrotfish, and the ever-present tangs!
Ko Olina Lagoons Parking Tip
While each lagoon has public parking, it tends to fill up quickly. Opt for Ulua Lagoon for parking, and take a leisurely stroll down to your chosen lagoon.
Ko Olina Lagoons Parking Hours
Public parking in designated areas is available from sunrise to sunset daily.
1 Kohola Lagoon (Hawaiian for whale)
Largest among the four, Kohola Lagoon, in front of the Four Seasons Resort and Disney Aulani, is adjacent to Lanikuhonua nature preserve and Ko Olina Secret Lagoon. It’s usually less crowded, and you can discover ancient petroglyphs carved on stones.
2 Honu Lagoon (Hawaiian for turtle)
Situated in front of Beach Villas at Ko Olina, the Honu Lagoon is an oceanfront condominium resort.
3 Naia Lagoon (Hawaiian for dolphin)
Serving the Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club, Naia Lagoon offers the convenience of the Longboards beachfront restaurant for a quick bite.
4 Ulua Lagoon (Hawaiian for fish)
Smallest among the four and part of Ko Olina Beach Park, Ulua Lagoon boasts around 100 parking spots, making it your top choice for parking convenience.
2. Hike the Ko Olina Beach Park Walking Trail
Fancy a casual walk by the beach?
The Ko Olina Beach Park Walking Trail is a well-kept, neat path linking the four Ko Olina lagoons through the grassy beachfront areas, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean waters.
The Ko Olina Walking Trail is an excellent hike for families with kids. The path covers approximately 4 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 270 feet.
Personally, one of my favorite things to do in Ko Olina is jogging on the trail early morning!
The trail also provides breathtaking ocean sunset views, making it one of the best sunset hikes on Oahu!
Strolling along the Ko Olina Beach Park Walking Trail with your partner during sunset is one of the most romantic activities in Ko Olina!
3. Enjoy the West Coast Sunset from a Cruise
Looking for a different sunset experience than the Ko Olina lagoons? A sunset cruise off the west coast of Oahu allows you to witness stunning sunsets over the open ocean while enjoying spectacular views of the coastline and mountains.
Taking your partner on a late evening cruise off Ko Olina and the west coast of Oahu is one of the most romantic activities in Ko Olina!
We treated ourselves to a Small Group Yacht Sunset Cruise from Oahu with an intimate sunset dinner and hosted bar. Picture this – lounging on upper deck chairs, sipping Mai Tai cocktails, and taking in fabulous views!
Just before sunset, we were lucky to spot a pod of humpback whales on their winter migration!
4. Snorkel at Electric Beach near Ko Olina
For the experienced snorkeler seeking the best spot near Ko Olina, head to Electric Beach, one of West Oahu’s top snorkeling locations, about 15 minutes north of Ko Olina.
Electric Beach, part of Kahe Point Beach Park, gets its name from its proximity to a power plant that releases clean warm water through two large cooling pipes.
The pipes create an artificial reef, attracting a variety of sea life.
The best snorkeling is around the pipes, about 200-300 feet from shore and 20 feet deep at their openings.
It’s advisable to wear swimming fins and be cautious of strong, unpredictable currents.
The warm waters attract a plethora of fish, including snappers, butterflyfish, triggerfish, parrotfish, tangs, and moray eels.
You might even spot Hawaiian green sea turtles and spinner dolphins, known to frequent the area.
5. Family Fun at Coral Crater Adventure Park
If you’re a fan of the American Ninja Warrior TV show, Coral Crater Adventure Park in Kapolei, just a few miles from Ko Olina, is a must-visit.
The park offers ATV off-roading on rugged trails in their 35-acre park, ziplining with breathtaking views, and an aerial adventure tower featuring a climbing wall, obstacles, and a thrilling 50-foot free fall.
6. Play a Round of Golf at the Ko Olina Golf Club
What could be more rejuvenating on vacation than a round of golf on one of Hawaii’s premier courses?
The Ko Olina Golf Club offers an 18-hole course right beside the resorts and lagoons, making it the perfect locale for an early morning golf round before the kids wake up!
Playing golf at one of Hawaii’s top courses is undeniably one of the best and most enjoyable activities in Ko Olina.
For those looking to either learn or enhance their golf skills, the Ko Olina Golf Club’s golf academy provides a variety of classes and golf clinics equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. Where else but amidst the manicured greens of the Ko Olina Golf Club, beneath swaying tropical palm trees, and with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean?
7. Romantic Dining Date
Planning to commemorate a special occasion in Ko Olina? With numerous upscale resorts, fine dining is right at your fingertips!
The prestigious Four Seasons Resort presents two exceptional dining choices – Mina’s Fish House and Noe.
For an intimate dining experience, Mina’s Fish House is undoubtedly the top pick. A beachfront restaurant with a laid-back, cozy ambiance, it offers stunning views of the ocean and sunset. Here, you can relish contemporary Hawaiian cuisine infused with Asian and European influences – the culinary masterpieces of Chef Michael Mina.
Craving Italian pasta? Noe, the Italian restaurant with a Japanese twist, helmed by Chef Takatsuka, is an excellent alternative.
Disney’s Aulani Resort features a superb beachfront restaurant – ‘Ama’ama, showcasing contemporary island cooking with a modern twist. ‘Ama’ama, named after a local fish, is considered a delicacy in Hawaii.
Among my personal favorites is Roy Yamaguchi’s Asian fusion restaurant, Roy’s Ko Olina, which harmoniously blends flavors from Hawaii, Japan, China, and Thailand. The open kitchen allows diners to witness the chefs at work.
For a lively dining experience, Monkeypod Kitchen offers vibrant ambiance, live music, and local artwork. Indulge in poke tacos, wood-fired pizza, and macadamia nut-crusted fish. Dining at Monkeypod Kitchen is undeniably one of the most entertaining activities in Ko Olina!
8. Explore the Pu’u O Hulu Trail (Pink Pillbox Trail, Maili Pillbox)
In search of a brief and easy hike on Oahu’s west side? Give the Pu’u O Hulu Trail, popularly known as the Pink Pillbox Trail, a try!
The Pink Pillbox Hike spans a short 1.6 miles (round trip), offering a moderately challenging hike along a ridge with an elevation gain of about 700 feet.
The trailhead is situated on Kaukama Road near Nanakuli, just beyond the entrance to the Kahe Power Plant. You can park in a small dirt parking lot on the right side of the road.
Anticipate breathtaking views along the trail, alongside numerous colorful pillboxes (World War II bunkers). The initial pillbox is painted pink, hence the trail’s nickname.
From the summit of the Pu’u O Hulu ridge, on a clear day, you can behold sights all the way to Kaena Point (the westernmost tip of Oahu), the Pacific Ocean on the west coast, and the towns of Waianae, Nanakuli, and Maili.
The Pink Pillbox Hike ranks among the top sunrise hikes on the west coast of Oahu, with the sun ascending from behind Koko Head crater and Makapuu Point.
9. Ko Olina Snorkeling Tour
Seeking a more enriching snorkeling encounter than the one at Ko Olina Lagoons? While snorkeling at the lagoons is ideal for beginners and families, the marine life doesn’t compare to destinations like Electric Beach.
Electric Beach, known for its superior marine life, demands good swimming skills to access the prime spots near the pipe openings.
A great alternative for snorkelers of all levels is a snorkel trip departing from the Ko Olina Marina.
The boat captain will guide you to coral reefs typically teeming with marine life. Snorkeling gear will be provided (weak swimmers and non-swimmers can usually participate with the appropriate flotation devices).
If you’re fortunate, you may even catch sight of Hawaiian green sea turtles, spinner dolphins, and humpback whales (in winter).
Here are some highly rated snorkeling tours departing from Ko Olina:
10. Discover Mermaid Caves
Eager to explore hidden underwater caves? Venturing into the Mermaid Caves stands out as one of the exhilarating things to do near Ko Olina!
Named for their fairy tale allure, Mermaid Caves are partially submerged caves filled with crystal-clear blue water, surrounded by coral reefs.
Situated near Kahe Point Beach Park, the parking lot is just before the power plant, on the left side of the coastal road.
I highly recommend swim fins and a snorkel with a mask. Keep in mind that strong currents are common in this area, so exercise caution and explore in a group.
Low tide is the safest time for cave exploration, as water levels are much easier to manage.
The caves exude a magical ambiance with sunlight dancing off the clear, warm water, and vibrant tropical reef fish like butterflyfish, triggerfish, parrotfish, and snappers gracefully swimming around.
You might even encounter Hawaiian green sea turtles, which are frequently spotted around the caves.
Exercise caution and avoid going too deep or too far into the caves; passages can become narrow, and dark corners pose potential dangers!
11. Learn to Surf near Ko Olina
Vacationing in Hawaii and keen to surf? Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing, popularized by Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing and a Hawaiian native.
Away from the bustling crowds of Waikiki, Ko Olina provides the perfect setting to learn surfing!
Our entire family opted for a small-group surf lesson with Surf HNL: Surf Lessons near Ko’olina!!!!!, and the experience was fantastic.
The lessons took place on the southwestern end of the island, at Barbers Point, where the waves were gentle.
The instructor was excellent, and our teenage kids were up on their feet riding the waves by the end of the lesson!
I took a bit longer, but it was still a blast! Learning to surf at Barbers Point is undeniably one of the best activities near Ko Olina.
12. Discover the North Shore Highlights
Want to explore more of Oahu? The North Shore, roughly an hour away from Ko Olina, offers a plethora of exciting experiences.
The North Shore is more rural and scenic, featuring Ehukai Beach, famously known as the Banzai Pipeline, a world-renowned spot for professional surfing.
Even if you’re not a pro surfer, a visit to the Banzai Pipeline is a must to witness experienced surfers gracefully ride massive 40+ foot waves!
Traveling with family and younger children?
The Polynesian Cultural Center is a theme park reminiscent of Epcot Center, allowing your kids to delve into native Hawaiian culture and history, as well as the broader Polynesian seafaring heritage through interactive activities and shows.
With six villages themed along Polynesian islands, the Alii Luau Hawaiian feast, and a 100+ artist performance (HA: Breath of Life), the Polynesian Cultural Center is a must-visit on the North Shore.
Waimea Valley is another family-friendly attraction, featuring a stunning waterfall with a natural pool where small children can splash around and a beautiful botanical garden with ancient Hawaiian structures.
The Toa Luau at Waimea Valley is a popular, 5-star rated luau that includes the entrance fee to Waimea Valley and the Toa Luau feast and entertainment.
Teens getting restless? They’ll love family-friendly cage-diving with sharks tours from Haleiwa Harbor on the North Shore.
These tours take you to shark-infested deep open ocean waters where you’re lowered in a steel, polyglass cage under the surface (with breathing tubes).
Cage diving with sharks in Oahu provides an exhilarating experience, and our kids were thrilled to see large sharks swimming just an arm’s length away (safely on the other side of the polyglass cage).
13. Day Trip to the Windward (East) Side of Oahu
Vacationing in Ko Olina and craving the tropical rainforests you’ve heard about? Ko Olina, on the leeward side, is sheltered and doesn’t see much rain.
The windward side, or the east shore, is where you’ll find tropical rainforests, nature hikes, and the most impressive waterfalls!
A top activity on the windward side is the hike to Manoa Falls, covering a tropical rainforest, a dense bamboo forest, and a stunning 150-foot waterfall – the largest on Oahu!
Lanikai Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on Oahu, and adjacent Kailua Beach offer kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding to the popular islets of Mokulua (the Mokes).
Parasailing and kitesurfing are popular on these beaches due to the winds!
Many of the best Oahu hikes are on the east side: Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Hike, Lanikai Pillbox Hike, and Manoa Falls Hike are popular easy hikes for families and kids.
For a challenging hike, consider the Koko Head Hike to the top of the ancient volcanic crater or the daring Mt Olomana Three Peaks Hike, a technical hike for skilled hikers.
A fan of Jurassic Park movies? Don’t miss Kualoa Ranch, a stunning adventure ranch where several Jurassic Park scenes were filmed.
Best Things to Do in Ko Olina (+ Nearby): FAQ
What are things to do in Ko Olina with kids?
The most enjoyable activities for kids in Ko Olina include having a blast at the lagoon beaches, where they can indulge in swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Another exciting option is a visit to the Coral Crater Adventure Park, offering thrilling adventures. For an aquatic experience, consider a Ko Olina snorkeling tour. Additionally, kids can catch some waves and learn to surf with lessons available near Ko Olina.
What are things to do in Ko Olina for adults?
The best things to do in Ko Olina for adults are to take a sunset cruise, play some golf, and enjoy a romantic fine-dining dinner!
How do you get to the secret beach in Ko Olina?
The secret beach in Ko Olina is located between the Four Seasons Resort and the Paradise Cove Luau on the west side of Oahu. You can find more information and directions in our best snorkeling in west Oahu post.
Can anyone go to Ko Olina Lagoons?
Yes, the four Ko Olina lagoons are open to the public and you can access all four beaches. You can rent equipment and book tours from the resorts, and have meals at their restaurants.
Can you swim in Ko Olina lagoons?
Yes, you can swim in all four of the Ko Olina lagoons, and can rent flotation devices like life jackets from the resorts or nearby stores.
What island is Ko Olina, Hawaii, on?
Ko Olina is a beautiful, secluded resort area on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.
Book a Guided Oahu Hiking Adventure!
Excited about hiking in Oahu but haven’t hiked in Hawaii before? This guided hiking adventure is a great way to get started.
It’s customizable to your interests and abilities, and a local guide that’s familiar with the terrain will accompany you. Plus, round-trip transport is included.
You can pick two short hikes or a longer hike, and your guide can suggest specific hikes if you don’t know which ones you want to try.
Best Oahu Tours
Have you booked these popular Oahu tours and excursions yet?
Love snorkeling? This Turtle Canyon snorkeling excursion from Waikiki lets you frolic with colorful fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles. Hands down the MOST BOOKED Oahu snorkeling tour: turtle sightings are guaranteed!
The most popular luau in Oahu, Paradise Cove Luau has a 4.5 rating on Viator with over 3.5K reviews. The tour includes pick-up from your Waikiki hotel, pre-dinner games, arts, and crafts, a delicious meal, and an award-winning show.
Based in Waikiki but want to see more of the island? This full-day Oahu Circle Island Tour includes Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Haleiwa, the Dole Plantation, and more!
Pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor! This popular Pearl Harbor tour includes boat tickets and round-trip transport from Waikiki.
A super popular Oahu North Shore excursion, this Oahu shark cage dive allows you to observe wild sharks in the open ocean from the safety of a cage! It’s a THRILLING Oahu adventure for your bucket list.
We have a detailed guide to the top Oahu tours and excursions if you are in the midst of planning your itinerary for the island.
Renting a Car in Oahu
If you want to explore more of the island of Oahu on your vacation, you should get a rental car.
Oahu’s popular attractions are spread over the island: the windward coast, the North Shore, and Ko Olina are great places to explore beyond Waikiki (or the greater Honolulu area).
While Oahu does have public transport options that are better than the other islands, a car offers a lot more flexibility and time savings.
We always use Discover Cars to book Oahu car rentals. They search across a variety of rental car companies, both budget and brand, to offer you the best deals, AND they offer free cancellations. Plus, there are no hidden fees.
Honolulu Airport-Hotel Shuttle
If you are not planning to get a rental car at Honolulu Airport, consider booking shuttle transport in advance!
This shared shuttle can be canceled up to 24 hours from the date of service. It serves hotels in Waikiki and Honolulu and then back again to the airport the day you leave. It’s convenient and inexpensive, and saves time and hassle!
Read Also: Where to Stay in Kauai: The Best Hotels and Vacation
Where to Stay in Oahu
Honolulu (Waikiki in particular) offers a large number of hotels and resorts, along with shopping and dining options. Most visitors to Oahu choose to base in Honolulu at least for a part of their stay.
While many of the large chains have a presence if you are looking to use your memberships, Honolulu also has several unique boutiques to consider.
Our faves include Halekulani for a splurge stay, the Lotus Honolulu for views of Diamond Head, and The Laylow for its awesome location.
Want more room to spread out or looking to stay elsewhere on Oahu? You will find VRBO listings all over the island!
On previous trips to Oahu, we have stayed in VRBO rentals in Waikiki as well as on the North Shore and the east coast and we’ve found the choice and quality great.
More Oahu Travel Inspiration
Planning a trip to Oahu? Check out our other in-depth Oahu travel guides for help finalizing your Oahu itinerary!
Start by discovering the best things to do in Oahu. We also have a detailed guide to Oahu’s North Shore, a round-up of things to do on the east side of Oahu, and the best things to do in Ko Olina, on the west coast of the island.
Of course, you’ll want to learn about all the exciting things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital, and Waikiki, the touristic core of Oahu.
Best beaches in Oahu
We also have a guide to the best beaches in Oahu, and a round-up of the must-visit Oahu waterfalls.
Oahu is home to so many must-visit landmarks! Check out our in-depth article on how to visit Pearl Harbor, and our guides on the beautiful Waimea Valley in Oahu and the spectacular Byodo-In Temple.
Want to enjoy the thrill of observing sharks in the wild? Check out our article on shark cage diving on Oahu’s North Shore!
Discover the top places to go snorkeling in west Oahu, where you will find a long coastline with lovely beaches, and tips for snorkeling Kaneohe Sandbar on the island’s east coast.
And if you love marine life, also check out our complete guide to (respectfully!) see and swim with dolphins in Oahu, and the best spots to snorkel with turtles in Oahu.
For hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, we have a round-up of the best Oahu hikes, and if you are looking to exclude the harder Oahu trails, a guide to the best easy Oahu hikes.
Find out how to do the iconic (and VERY popular) Diamond Head Hike near Waikiki for exceptional views. We also have a guide to the very popular Manoa Falls Trail in Honolulu.
More advanced hikers will want to read up on the Koko Head Hike, a long set of stairs leading to expansive views.
Learn where to go for the best sunsets in Oahu, whether you want to hike or enjoy watching a colorful Hawaiian sunset without working up a sweat.
We also have a guide to the best sunrise hikes in Oahu, one of which is the spectacular Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail in the southeastern part of the island. The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is another wonderful sunrise hike on Oahu!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ko Olina stands out as a tranquil and picturesque escape on the west side of Oahu, offering a respite from the bustling scenes of Waikiki and Honolulu. With its four exquisite lagoons, Ko Olina provides a unique blend of machine-made luxury and natural beauty, creating a perfect setting for a relaxing vacation. Whether you’re indulging in the serene beaches, exploring the walking trails, embarking on exciting snorkeling adventures, or enjoying a round of golf, Ko Olina has a diverse range of activities to cater to different preferences.
Beyond the resort area, the surrounding attractions like Electric Beach, Coral Crater Adventure Park, and the Pink Pillbox Trail offer thrilling experiences for adventure enthusiasts. The culinary scene in Ko Olina, featuring romantic dining options and vibrant restaurants, adds a touch of luxury to your stay.
For those seeking to venture beyond Ko Olina, day trips to the North Shore and the windward side of Oahu open doors to additional breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences. From the adrenaline-pumping activities to serene beach walks, Ko Olina offers a well-rounded vacation experience, making it a versatile and delightful destination for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure in Hawaii.
Explore Ko Olina and its surroundings to discover a harmonious balance between leisure and excitement, ensuring a memorable Hawaiian getaway for every type of traveler.
It’s Ethan Richards, the guy leading the way at “Go Hawaii US.” I’ve been playing with the colors and designs of this tropical paradise, making your Hawaiian experience a whole lot of fun. Over at Go Hawaii US, we’re here to make your visit incredible. Let’s add some excitement and insights to your Hawaii adventure together!
