Is there anything better than spending a summer Saturday in an unfamiliar town, soaking in the scenery and sights? With Kahuku to the north and Hau’ula to the south, Laie is quite possibly one of Oahu’s most underrated small towns and is the perfect place for a summer day trip.

This small town on the northeast shore of Oahu offers visitors gorgeous beaches, a laid-back country vibe, and a retreat from the bustling capital city of Honolulu – even though it’s just an hour’s drive away. With a population of more than 6,000, you will find several incredible places throughout this small coastal community. You might even find it difficult to decide which of these attractions you absolutely must visit as soon as possible and which places can wait until another day.

First up, take in the views from Laie Point State Wayside.

Off the beaten path, on an indistinguishable road in Laie is Laie Point State Wayside, a small point that juts into the Pacific Ocean and offers up an incredible vista of the Ko’olau mountain range.

Learn about Hawaiian culture and history at the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Located on the northern shore of Oahu is the Polynesian Cultural Center, a Polynesian-themed attraction and living museum known for eight simulated tropical villages and phenomenal luau. A royal celebration of Hawaii’s cultural heritage, the Alii Luau features live entertainment as well as some scrumptious Hawaiian food. For the full experience, make a day of it and explore the Polynesian Cultural Center’s many exhibits during the day and see Ha: Breath of Life after the luau. Fun fact: the center is owned by neighboring Brigham Young University, and seventy percent of the staff are students at the school.

Now it's time to hang out at Pounders Beach.

Not far from the Polynesian Cultural Center, you will find Laie Beach Park, also known as Pounders. With beautiful turquoise water flowing around old pier pillings, this picturesque view isn’t the only thing Pounders has to offer – a beautiful limestone cliff on the south end of the beach is a popular spot for fishermen, and the offshore coral reef makes this a perfect, protected area for swimming.

Tacos from Guadalajara Grill for lunch? Yes, please!

This roadside eatery may not look like much, but the food will certainly not disappoint. And let's be honest - is there a better lunch food in paradise than a mouthwatering taco - or three?

Visit Brigham Young University Hawaii’s campus and the Laie Temple.

Part of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this temple was dedicated in 1915 as the first LDS temple built outside the contiguous United States. It is also the oldest LDS temple outside of Utah, and the fifth-oldest in continuous operation. The Visitors' Center attracts more than 100,000 people annually.

Spend some time relaxing at Hukilau Beach.

Half a mile in length, this Laie beach is perfect for swimming and body boarding during the summer months. Hukilau Beach each is not only stunning - but it's directly influenced by the Morman Church - the gates are closed every Sunday, so be sure to plan your day trip for a Saturday.

Dinner time already? Grab a burger from Seven Brothers.

For a modern take on American classics, check out this remote counter-serve spot in Laie. Their burgers and fries are best enjoyed with a classic milkshake, of course.

Make it a weekend trip by staying at Malaekahana Beach Campground.

Malaekahana Beach Campground, a secluded and remote slice of paradise perfect for a weekend spent getting in touch with nature. Found just 55 yards off Kamehameha Highway is this 37-acre campground surrounded by ironwood trees and backing up to a pristine white sand beach. Pitch a tent, or rent an adorable plantation style cabin. A weekend trip not only gives you more time to explore the Polynesian Cultural Center, but will allow you to split up your driving time into two days instead of one.

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