From incredible lava formations and charming coves to challenging hikes and beautiful beaches, Oahu’s southeastern shore is a treasure trove of incredible spots you won’t find anywhere else in the world. And while I personally love Makapu’u and Hanauma Bay as much as the next person, my absolute favorite spot along this gorgeous stretch of coastline has to be Halona Cove and Blowhole.
Situated between Halona Point and the Halona Blowhole, this small rocky cove is perfectly picturesque, and has been featured in films like Pirates of the Caribbean and 50 First Dates.
Armin Rodler/Flickr
Most famously, however, was the beach’s appearance in the 1953 classic From Here To Eternity, where Deborah Kerr and Burt Lancaster shared their famous kiss as they rolled in the surf of this charming cove. Surrounded by a lava rock shoreline, the small pocket of sand at Halona Cove is often referred to as “Eternity Beach.”
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T Sea/Flickr
Despite its Hollywood fame, the only way to reach the stunning cove is via a rocky and slightly steep walk.
Bo Stern/Flickr
While Halona is a popular spot for tourists to stop while taking a scenic drive along Oahu’s coast, most people simply stop to watch the blowhole for a few minutes before heading out.
Megan Shute/OnlyInYourState.com
During periods of high tide and strong winds, rolling waves crash into the shore and shoot sea spray into the air through a cave, acting as a sort of geyser.
tobze/Flickr Just a warning, though: the surging waters found near the stunning Halona Blowhole are wildly dangerous; you should always keep your distance and stick to the official viewing area.
The rocky point to the west of the beach is called Bamboo Ridge, and has been a popular fishing spot since the 1920s. The spot was named after the fishermens’ bamboo fishing poles that could be seen along the edge of the cliff in the past.
Jimmy Smith/Flickr
The lava formations found here are unreal, and you can even check out a magnificent lava tube found towards the back of the cove that extends past the highway and into the mountain.
Megan Shute/OnlyInYourState.com
While the parking lot above may seem full, you’re sure to feel relatively secluded once you hike down to Halona Cove, and especially if you choose to walk along the lava rock ridge.
Turner/Flickr
With crystalline turquoise waters and stunning lava rock formations, the views and the swimming at Halona Cove cannot be beat - and trust us, is well worth the short - yet rocky - trek down to the water.
Kok Chih & Sarah Gan/Flickr
Don’t forget to check out the nearby Lanai Lookout while you’re at it.
Armin Rodler/Flickr
Megan Shute/OnlyInYourState.com
T Sea/Flickr
Bo Stern/Flickr
tobze/Flickr
Just a warning, though: the surging waters found near the stunning Halona Blowhole are wildly dangerous; you should always keep your distance and stick to the official viewing area.
Jimmy Smith/Flickr
Turner/Flickr
Kok Chih & Sarah Gan/Flickr
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