You may have heard of Waikiki, Diamond Head and Waimea Bay, but have you heard of Makapu'u? Sandy Beach? Ka'ena Point? If you're renting one of the many luxurious Hawaiian villas, you're probably not looking for your average vacation. You're looking for adventure. You're looking for something that no one has ever seen before. You're looking for the trip of a lifetime.

Locals have kept a number of hikes, beaches and restaurants a secret for good reason, and whether this is your first or 100th time visiting the island of Oahu, you won't want to miss out on these hidden gems:

Seven Bridges Trail

Located at the back of Manoa Valley, the Seven Bridges hiking trail was once used by the Hawaii Board of Water Supply to provide fresh mountain water to the then-small city of Honolulu. Although many of the pipes along the path are no longer in use, the stream still runs freely, which is why there are a total of seven bridge crossings before you reach the small set of waterfalls about four miles into the valley. Make sure you count all of the crossings - according to a local Obake, or ghost, story, this hiking trail is haunted. Oddly enough, on the way back, you'll only count six bridges.

Andy's Sandwich Shop

After getting mildly spooked by the Seven Bridges hike, you can calm your nerves at Andy's, a sandwich shop just about a three-minute drive from the trailhead. Serving up light and healthy deli sandwiches from turkey avocado to fresh tuna and mushroom melts, this charming hole-in-the-wall establishment stood its ground when big companies like Starbucks tried to buy the space. Thanks to local support, Andy and his team of kindhearted workers will be able to serve his devoted customers for years to come.

Sandy Beach

Located on the southeastern corner of Oahu, Sandy Beach is a thrilling and at times dangerous beach. Young bodyboarders come here after school to challenge themselves with the ripping shore break, which has injured even veteran swimmers. If you think you have what it takes to face the wrath of Mother Nature, be sure to enter the water with a pair of fins - the rip tide can take you hundreds of yards out to sea in no time.

Of course, if you don't want to get into the water, watching locals spin, flip and gracefully ride the waves is just as entertaining.

Are you interested in luxury vacation rentals?  Contact Villas of Distinction today at 800.289.0900 where a qualified villa expert will help you explore which luxury villa best suits your lifestyle.