Oahu?

[DisneyRN]

We are getting "hitched" next June (6/9/12 ) on the Eastern beaches of Oahu...Waimanalo Bay, to be exact. We have rented a condo for 12 days in Kaneohe, and we really want to hit the "not so touristy" spots.

Any suggestions? Of course, I am sure we will end up at the Polynesian Cultural Center, Hanauma Bay, Pearl Harbor, etc. But, for those little secret spots, I am open for suggestions...

[Disney4us2]

Off of Pali Hwy there is Pali Drive. That road will take you to the Pali Lookout. It overlooks the Kailua/Kaneohe side.

On the North Shore there is Mokuleiea Beach Park. It is not really a swimming beach, but very beautiful with the ocean on one side and the mountains behind you. Also on the NS is Matsumoto's shave ice. That is always a must do for me.... even when I lived there.

[Mfarquar]

I agree with Disney4us2 - get some real shave ice! We tried to get Matsumotos while we were there, but had to get Aoki's because Matsumotos was closed. But, it was still fantastic!

Also, Shark's Beach is GREAT for snorkeling. We saw more life there than Hanuma Bay. We saw a ton of turtles, and no worries - no sharks that we can report!

[murphy1]

My grandma lived in Kailua as a kid and that's a nice area still, along with the beaches and parks there, I believe that is the same area the Obamas go to on holiday, so it might be getting more known.

[TheDuckRocks]

There are really no beaches in Kaneohe, take the very short drive over to Kailua and use the beach there.
In Kaneohe the Koa Pancake house is great, also for breakfast in Kailua Is Boots & Kimos (macadamian pancakes) and Cinnamon's. These places also serve lunch, but check on dinner as other than Cinnamon's I don't think the others do. If you happen to be in the mood for Mexican food Los Garcia's in Kailua on the windward side is probably your best option. In Honolulu Compadre's is the better selection. In Kaneohe Zia's Cafe has the best cheesesteak sandwich I've ever eaten and their Italian food is very good, there is a lovely Chart House sitting on beautiful grounds and my favorite Thai restaurant anywhere is Chao Phya Thai Restaurant.
Don't miss the Japanese temple in Kaneohe, peaceful and beautiful.

[minnie-mouse]

Waikiki was always my favorite -the beaches, the shopping & restaurants on the beach. Also, take a ride up to the North Shore, truly beautiful and serene. Don't forget to climb Diamond Head for some amazing views!!