A Day in Nature’s Embrace: My “Nature and You” Guided Hikes to Manoa Falls in Oahu 
If you’re in Oahu and looking for a peaceful yet adventurous escape from the busy city of Waikiki, I highly recommend the Nature and You tour. It was a beautiful, and refreshing day surrounded by nature, kind people, and wonderful panoramic views. Here’s a little recap of my experience!
A Sweet Start at Treasures and You 
Our morning began with pick-ups around Waikiki, and we stopped by the Treasures and You, the gift shop in And You Creation’s office before heading out. I got to browse their cute little gift shop and enjoyed complimentary Kona coffee and cookies (yes, free snacks!). They also offered free souvenir photos with fun dolphin and whale props which I personally thought so wholesome and perfect for memories. 
The staff there were very kind and welcoming. I also had a chance to use the restroom before we started the drive to Manoa Falls Trail.
Into the Forest with Our Guide
When we arrived, our guide NaHoku handed out walking sticks to everyone, which turned out to be a lifesaver later on! He was such a professional—friendly, funny, and so knowledgeable about the local plants, ecosystem, and even the history of Manoa Falls. Along the way, we saw the famous old banyan tree—it was massive! NaHoku gave it a big hug, but it was so wide it would take a whole group to wrap around it completely. 
The Hike Experience 
We took breaks along the way to hydrate and snap some photos. The trail did get a little steep, muddy, and slippery in places, especially with small rocks scattered around. If I didn’t have the hiking stick, I might’ve stumbled—so definitely bring a stick (first-come, first-served, but they provide some), wear comfy shoes, and pack light but bring water.
At one point, our guide picked up a bright red flower from the ground and held it up to show us. He told us it was from the African Tulip Tree, a common but beautiful tropical tree found in Hawaii. The flower looked like a vibrant flame, and he explained that it’s originally from Africa but now thrives in warm places like Hawaii. It was such a thoughtful little nature lesson, and I loved how he made the experience feel so interactive and educational. 
What really impressed me was how our guide consistently picked up trash along the trail throughout the entire hike. He didn’t just talk about nature—he actively protected it. It was such a small act, but it spoke his love and respect for the environment. It made me feel even more connected to the purpose of the tour. 
Eventually, we reached the gorgeous Manoa Waterfalls! Fortunately, there had been some rain recently, so there was a good amount of water streaming down, making the view even more breathtaking. The waterfall was surrounded by rich greenery, and even though it was a popular spot with many visitors, it still felt peaceful and magical. There were lots of people enjoying the view. We noticed a few hikers trying to go beyond the designated trail to get closer to the pool (which is forbidden), and our guide gently reminded them to stay safe and follow the rules.
The hike back down was actually more slippery than going up—so be extra careful when descending! We also spotted tiny frogs and even a fruit traditionally used for anesthesia in Hawaii—so cool to learn about these things from a local expert.
Scenic Lunch with a View at Tantalus Lookout, Puu Ualakaa State Park 
After a restroom stop, we picked up our pre-selected lunch and headed to Makiki Heights for a picnic with an amazing view of the city, mountains, and ocean. I chose a tuna sandwich, which was simple but satisfying. Other options included veggie sandwiches, or ham sandwiches, and açai bowls too (although the guide said they’ll stop offering açai bowls soon).
Right next to the lunch spot, there was a beautiful lookout point where we could enjoy a panoramic view. We took some last photos and enjoyed the peaceful scenery before heading back to Waikiki.
Saying Goodbye 
As we drove back and said our goodbyes, I felt a little sad to leave. It was such a special day, and our guide really made the experience feel personal and meaningful. If you’re someone who enjoys learning about nature, gentle hiking, and soaking in stunning Hawaiian views, this tour is for you. I left feeling grounded, inspired, and so grateful for the time spent in Oahu’s natural beauty.
Thank you, Nature and You! 
* This is a firsthand experience from a guest who joined our Nature and You Tour, sharing all the exciting moments, tips, and highlights to help you plan your own unforgettable adventure!
If you want to find more posts about tours, Please check And You Creations Official Website
