Makaha: Oahu’s Little Secret

Sneaking away from the hustle and bustle of the real world is always a good idea, and Makaha definitely qualifies as “away.” Oahu’s western shore is quiet but far from boring, making it the ideal place to relax, recharge and be rejuvenated.

Ample sunshine, little rain and temperatures that average in the upper 60’s and 70’s all year long will start you off on the right foot and the Waianae Mountains and stunning stretches of shoreline will complete the picture of vacation perfection. The lack of crowds and congestion will work to your advantage as well.

Makaha Beach Park and Turtle Beach are fine places to dip your toes into the sea of ocean activities, which include snorkeling, surfing, fishing and whale watching. This region is actually known for producing serious waves worthy of the professionals, so at times it would be wise to sit back and let the hot shots do their thing.

Golf, tennis and horseback riding will satisfy the need to exert yourself while exploring the lay of the land, and the nearby towns have all that you’ll need as far as souvenir shopping, entertainment and useful stuff, too, like grocery stores. Stocking the kitchen of your vacation condo with basics means more laid-back moments on your private lanai – but of course there are plenty of restaurants to take advantage of in case you feel like letting someone else do the work.

The Honolulu airport is 45 minutes away and happenin’ Waikiki is just a little farther, so you’ll be able to follow the ebb and flow of your moods, trading solitude for frenzy whenever you please.

Cliché as it sounds, a trip to Makaha will truly deliver you to the best of both worlds.