Activities

Activities: What is There to Do in Ko Olina?

Though Ko Olina is a little removed from some of the most popular sites on Oahu, it makes up for it by having nearly everything you could ask for all within the Ko Olina grounds. Plus, if you venture just a little beyond the Ko Olina boundaries, you’ll find more than enough to keep you busy on your vacation.

Swimming and Water Sports in the Ko Olina Lagoons

When talking about Ko Olina, the first thing anyone is going to mention is the lagoons (as evidenced by this article). We cover the lagoons more in-depth below, but they offer plenty of water sports to keep you busy.

Aside from swimming, you can try stand up paddle (SUP), canoeing, and snorkeling (the best snorkeling is found in the natural — not manmade — lagoon).

Hikes Near Ko Olina

For all of you hiking enthusiasts, know that there isn’t a ton of hiking near Ko Olina. If you’re looking for lush waterfall hikes, it’s best to rent a car and drive to the North Shore or the windward (east) side of the island.

However, there are a few options for hikes outside of strolling the 5-mile beachfront path (though that is a great option too).

Kaena Point: Continue driving up the leeward side of the island for approximately 40 minutes and you’ll arrive at this 3.5-mile hiking spot. This coastal hike offers some great views.
Barbers point lighthouse walk: An easy walk to a beautiful lighthouse just a 15 minutes drive from Ko Olina.
Mā‘ili Pillbox: A 2-mile round-trip hike up to World War 2 bunkers with stunning views of the coast. Just a 15-minute drive from Ko Olina.

Golf

If you are a golf enthusiast, you’ll love staying in Ko Olina. The Hawaii Star Advertiser named the course the Best Golf Course in Hawaii. Learn more about the Ko Olina golf course, including rates, here.

Sailing

Ko Olina has its own marina, so if you’re looking for an adventure out on the water, you don’t have far to go. Located just beyond lagoon four, the Ko Olina Marina is the spot to start your open water activities. Take a sunset sail, a snorkel trip, a sunrise sail, or a dinner cruise. If you’re excited to get out on the water, this is the spot for you.

Luaus

Paradise Cover offers a beautiful location to eat, be entertained and learn about Hawaiian history.

The Disney Aulani also offers their own luau, Ka Wa‘a, at the Aulani resort.

On Tuesday nights you’ll also have the opportunity to attend the Fia-Fia Polynesian Dinner Show at the Marriott.

Water Park

I know you didn’t come to Hawaii to spend your day at a water park. But if you need a break from the beach, the Wet ‘n Wild Hawaii water park doesn’t disappoint.

Sunset

Head out to your nearest lagoon (or walk to the natural lagoons for a quieter experience) and enjoy the incredibly beautiful Hawaiian sunsets. They don’t disappoint.