We arrived in Honolulu in the darkness of night — our captain determined to beat a storm and strong winds nipping at our stern. When we woke the next morning, sunshine revealed a surprisingly large urban skyline, with glass towers rising from the harbor.
I love Hawaiʻi — it’s my happy place — but we hadn’t spent much time on Oʻahu, and we definitely weren’t used to navigating such a big city in the islands. This stop would show us both sides of Oʻahu: dramatic coastlines above the sea and unforgettable marine life below it.
🌴 Exploring Oʻahu Above the Sea
A scenic drive, dramatic cliffs, and North Shore adventure
A short cab ride took us to the airport rental center, where we picked up a small SUV for the day. Our plan was to explore Oʻahu’s eastern coast on our way to Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore.
We headed out of the city toward Makapuʻu near Waimanalo. Along the coast, we were treated to stunning aqua-blue water and giant offshore rock formations. The wind gusted to nearly 40 mph at times, whipping the ocean into angry, churning waves. In a few protected bays, surfers tested their skills — usually staying upright for only a few seconds.
We stopped briefly for photos near the lighthouse trail. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time for the hike, which I’m sure offers incredible views. With a noon tee time waiting, we still had miles of coastline to cover.
🌄 A Spectacular Coastal Drive
The drive north wound through small towns and past beautiful bays framed by towering green cliffs. These mountains seemed to rise straight from the pastures beside the road, their peaks often wrapped in mist.
We passed Kualoa Ranch, where horses grazed peacefully, then continued through Kaaawa, Punaluu, Laie, and Hauula toward Turtle Bay. All along the way, emerald and blue-green water sparkled beside reefs, offshore rocks, and quiet beaches.
Modest homes and shopping centers dotted the hillsides, surrounded by lush parks and pastureland. It was beautiful — though I couldn’t help thinking about what strong storms or hurricanes might look like along that exposed coast.
⛳ Golf in a Gale at Turtle Bay
We arrived at Turtle Bay with time for a quick lunch and a visit to the practice facility. The wind was still roaring, so we leaned on the wind-golf skills we’d learned years ago in Oklahoma and Kansas.
The course was well designed, with bunkers, streams, and water features shaping each hole. The last three holes were the highlight, running close to the North Shore beaches. Waves crashed against the shore in a wild, unorganized rhythm, their spray blown sideways by the wind.
Our scores weren’t great, but the experience was exceptional. I’d happily recommend this course for both the scenery and the challenge.
🍽️ Dinner and Return to the Ship
On the way back, traffic routed us along the coast again due to an accident on the H2. We arrived early at Roy’s Waikiki, only to find it packed.
We ordered our favorite Asian ribs and spring rolls, followed by short ribs for Bob and scallops for me. Everything was delicious, though the loud, crowded atmosphere took away a bit from the ambiance.
We finished with Roy’s molten chocolate soufflé and headed back to the ship, grateful to find parking near the terminal.
🌊 Exploring Oʻahu Below the Sea
Wreck diving, reef life, and a manta ray encounter
Our second day in Honolulu was short, with a 2 p.m. departure, so I booked an early two-tank dive with Trident Adventures.
At 6:30 a.m., Allison, Roger, and I headed to the harbor to meet our boat. Only five divers were aboard, which made for a relaxed and comfortable trip. After a safety briefing, we headed out into the swells that had followed us into port the night before.
🤿 Dive One — Sea Tiger Wreck
Our first site was the Sea Tiger wreck, a former Japanese freighter intentionally sunk as an artificial reef.
We descended to about 110 feet along the mooring line. Visibility was around 40 feet, and the current was manageable. On the sand below, white-tip reef sharks rested quietly. Moray eels peeked from crevices, and two giant sea turtles swam over to inspect us.
We explored the superstructure before beginning our ascent, completing our required stops at 50 feet and 15 feet. Back on board, we compared notes, thrilled with what we’d seen.
🐠 Dive Two — Horseshoe Reef
The second dive was at Horseshoe Reef, about 50 feet deep and closer to the harbor. During the briefing, our dive master mentioned a manta ray had been spotted the day before.
At first, the reef seemed fairly quiet and brown, and I found myself spoiled by previous dives in places like Cozumel. Then it happened — a massive, graceful manta ray glided slowly past us.
It was breathtaking and unforgettable.
After about ten more minutes, our dive time was up. We surfaced wide-eyed, trading photos and stories as the boat headed back.
🌺 Visiting Oʻahu Above and Below the Sea
Two unforgettable days in paradise!
Bob and I chose to escape Honolulu’s urban side to experience what Oʻahu offers both above and below the water.
In just two days, we discovered:
- Dramatic coastal drives
- A windswept oceanfront golf course
- World-class wreck and reef diving
- Giant sea turtles and manta rays
It was a perfect reminder of why Hawaiʻi holds such a special place in my heart.
Above and Below the Sea in Honolulu Oahu
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What a great adventure! Such amazing photos. You are really making the most of this trip. I’m loving the blog.