ALOHA!
There is no other place on the earth like Hawaii. The paradise is found! With its string of volcanic islands and sun-kissed beaches in the Northern Pacific, as well as its deep tranquility and exotic wildness, Oahu is the perfect embodiment of this tropical wonderland. From majestic waterfalls to diverse marine life, the island truly has it all. There's something for everyone on this beautiful island, whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Oahu is sure to captivate and inspire you.
With its emphasis on "ohana" (family) and celebration of cultural diversity, Hawaii offers a wealth of learning experiences and natural wonders at every turn. If you're planning your first trip to this tropical paradise, here are the top 12 activities that come highly recommended.
1. Sunset at Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in the world, located on the south shore of the island of Oahu in Hawaii. This beautiful, crescent-shaped beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, soft golden sand, and picture-perfect views of Diamond Head.
As the sun sets over Waikiki Beach, the air comes alive with the soothing melodies of iconic ukuleles and Hawaiian chants. Hula dancers, adorned in beautiful swaying skirts, captivate audiences at beachfront resorts, bars, and shopping centers. Tiki torches are lit, casting a warm glow over the crowds that gather to catch these performances and keep Hawaiian traditions alive.
For those seeking a peaceful evening stroll, there are plenty of unique spots to explore along the serene shores. With the moon casting a soft glow and a sea breeze to cool off the heat, it's the perfect opportunity to enjoy a glass of the exotic Mai Tai and the company of that special someone. Don't miss out on the magic of Waikiki Beach at night!
2. Pearl Harbor
No trip to Oahu would be complete without a visit to one of the most symbolic historical sites in the United States. Just a few miles west of Honolulu lies Pearl Harbor, a monument of valor and solemnity that offers a powerful perspective on the need for peace. Every year, thousands of visitors pay their respects to the brave men and women who lost their lives in the service of their country and reflect on the enduring legacy of this memorable moment in history.
The memorial hall at Pearl Harbor, which straddles the sunken USS Arizona and is dedicated to more than a thousand American sailors who lost their lives on that fateful day, is only accessible by boat. This sacred place is better experienced in silence. While admission to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona is free, timed tickets to the memorial are required, and can only be obtained in person on a first-come, first-serve basis due to limited availability.
3. Iolani Royal Palace
Few places in Hawaii evoke a more poignant sense of the islands' history than the Iolani Palace. Built under King David Kalakaua in 1882, this majestic and picturesque palace has been telling its storied past and living history ever since. Today, the palace serves as a living museum that allows visitors to step back in time and explore Hawaii's royal past. With its opulent architecture and intricate design, the Iolani Palace offers a unique glimpse into the history of this remarkable island paradise.
Standing tall amidst the modern skyscrapers and diverse cultural influences of downtown Honolulu, the Iolani Palace is a stately and dignified monument to the rich history of Hawaii. As the crown jewel of the Hawaiian monarchy, this remarkable palace bears witness to extraordinary historical events that continue to inspire Hawaiian life today.
4. North Shore - Surfing Paradise & Sunset Beach
Escape the hustle and bustle of Honolulu with a day trip to North Shore, a perfect getaway destination for an unforgettable experience. With its stunning beaches, breathtaking landscapes, laid-back pace, and friendly locals, it has everything you could want from a trip to Hawaii. From the unique names of every beach and break to the world-class surfing competitions that draw talented surfers from around the world to ride the epic waves at Banzai Pipeline each winter, the North Shore is a renowned paradise for surfers and non-surfers alike.
Sunset Beach is a must-visit destination on the North Shore of Oahu, especially during summer. It is a perfect place to relax and unwind while logging in some beach time. Exploring the surroundings of Sunset Beach by bicycle is highly recommended as it is a great way to get around and see the beauty of the area. The waves at Sunset Beach during summer are relatively calm, which makes it a great spot for swimming or trying out other water activities. Additionally, there is a swimming channel before the reef that provides a safe area to enjoy water activities.
If you are looking to escape the scorching heat, there is a plenty of tree shades, coves, and parks to relax and cool off. From the beach park, you also can hike 1.25 miles north to the stunning Sunset Point, where you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of North Shore's sunset. The view is simply breathtaking, and it is a perfect way to end your daytime in Oahu.
There's no shortage of iconic beach parks lining the beautiful coastline of North Shore. At Laniakea Beach, you can hang out with green sea turtles sunbathing on the sand. Shark's Cove offers a chance to observe unique reef formations and the peaceful habitats of beautiful Hawaiian marine life. At Waimea Bay Beach Park, you can explore the tranquil seafront and enjoy various water activities but beware of its extreme rip currents in winter.
For a perfect family picnic in the evening, pack up some local favorites such as the renowned Giovanni's Scampi Shrimp, Matsumoto's Shave Ice, and Hale'iwa's Acai Bowls and head to Haleiwa Ali'i Beach. Don't forget to check out my post on the best eateries in Oahu for more recommendations!" Whether you are looking for a relaxing day at beaches, an adventurous bike ride, or a picturesque sunset, North Shore has something for everyone.
5. Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay
For the ultimate snorkeling experience, Hanauma Bay is a must-visit destination. Nestled within the remains of an ancient volcano, the bay's turquoise waters and abundant sea life make it the most popular snorkeling spot in Oahu, drawing in millions of visitors every year. Located on the southeast shore of the island, Hanauma Bay offers not only unparalleled snorkeling opportunities but also stunning views, nearby hiking trails, and top-notch beach amenities. The bay is also home to a 7,000-year-old coral reef, adding to its unique appeal.
To make the most out of your visit to Hanauma Bay for snorkeling, consider bringing your own gears to save cost if you are planning for multiple visits. It's important to note that the bay can get very crowded, and parking is limited, so taking public transit like Bus 22 ("Beach Bus") is recommended. The bus runs every 30 to 60 minutes, except on Tuesdays when the park is closed, and takes around 50 minutes to travel between Waikiki and Hanauma Bay.
6. Halona Blowhole & Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail
Venturing beyond the popular Hanauma Bay, the southeast shore of Oahu boasts rugged seashores and serene viewpoints that are not to be missed. Along the Kalaniana'ole Highway, multiple lookouts offer breathtaking views of the coast. One of the most popular stops is the Halona Blowhole Lookout, where visitors can witness ocean waves surging through an underwater cave and spouting through a hole in the ledge, creating a stunning display of pressurized mist. Meanwhile, the Halona Beach Cove provides a picturesque backdrop for families to explore and enjoy. Don't miss out on these hidden gems of the Oahu island's southeast shore.
If you want to plan an easy yet stunning hiking that is suitable for all ages to your itinerary, then Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail is a must-visit spot. The paved trail offers breathtaking ocean views, numerous resting spots, and the historic Makapu'u lighthouse. From the trail, you can witness the majestic Koko Head Crater, Sandy Beach, Hanauma Bay, and Diamond Head in the distance. On the other side, you can see the tide pools, Rabbit Island, and neighboring Molokai Island. If you are lucky, you may even spot some whales playing in the Pacific Ocean. With such amazing scenery, it's easy to lose track of time and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Oahu.
7. Diamond Head State Monument
Nothing comes close to Diamond Head as Hawaii's State Monument, an iconic landmark formed on top of the erupted Ko'olau Volcano over 200,000 years ago, reciting the ancestral history and glory of the island. The extinct crater of Diamond Head is also known as Lē'ahi in Hawaiian which means "brow of the tuna". Hiking to the top of the crater is a quintessential Honolulu experience that you cannot miss. The trail leads you through a 0.8-mile trek with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the neighboring islands, and Honolulu's skyline.
Located just a 20-minute walk from Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head has been one of the most popular hiking trails in Oahu with breathtaking views of the southeast coastlines and ridges. Although the entire trail is paved, it is still steep and strenuous. To beat the crowds, it's best to start your hike early in the morning. It's important to wear comfortable shoes and to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, and make sure to wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the scorching heat.
The view of Diamond Head from Tantalus Lookout (Puu Ualakaa State Park) is particularly stunning. From Tantalus Lookout, you will see Diamond Head's distinctive shape and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean lapping at its base. The view is especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset, when the colors of the sky are at their most vibrant. To reach the lookout, you can drive up Round Top Drive, a winding road that ascends the mountain ridge. Along the way, there are several pullouts and parking areas where you can stop and take in the views. At the top, there is a large parking lot and a lookout area with benches and interpretive signs about the area's history and ecology.
8. Byodo-In Temple (平等院テンプル)
The Byodo-In Temple is truly a magnificent place to visit on your trip to Oahu. Situated in the Valley of the Temples, it offers a peaceful sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city. As you enter the grounds, you will be immediately struck by the lush greenery and tranquil setting. The temple is a replica of a 950-year-old temple in Uji, Japan and features classic Japanese Heian architecture with rich vermillion walls.
One of the main attractions of the temple is the stunning 9ft, gold-leafed Lotus Buddha that catches the first rays of the morning sun. It's a sight to behold and one that will stay with you for a lifetime. While the Byodo-In Temple is located within an interdenominational cemetery, it does not detract from the beauty and serenity of the space. In fact, it adds to reverence and peacefulness that permeates the area. You will find that the temple is not only a place for religious worship but also a space for quiet reflection and appreciation of natural beauty.
As you walk around the temple grounds, you will be surrounded by colorful fish and wild birds, adding another layer of natural beauty to your visit. Overall, visiting the Byodo-In Temple is a must-do on your trip to Oahu, whether you're religiously inclined or not. It's a place where you can connect with nature, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of this world.
9. Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden
For the perfect Instagram spot, look no further than Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden. This stunning garden spans 400 acres and is located beneath the dramatic ridged cliffs of the Ko'olau Range. It showcases a diverse range of trees, plantations, and shrubs from around the world, divided into 6 regionally themed areas accessible by car. The garden is also home to many wild birds and animals, adding to the natural beauty of the scenery.
As social media brings increasing attention to beautiful spots like Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, it's important to remember that popularity can bring safety and environmental concerns. As visitors and genuine Hawaii supporters, we should be responsible and respect public signs. Instead of rushing to capture the perfect shot, let's take our time and appreciate the serene beauty of mother nature. By doing so, we can ensure that this special place is enjoyed by all for years to come.
10. Kualoa Point & Mokoli'i Island (Chinaman's Hat)
Mokoli'i Island, also known as Chinaman's Hat, is an uninhabited island off the coast of Oahu that resembles something from prehistoric times. Its distinctive pointed formation juts out of Kaneohe Bay, evoking the image of a nesting place for a pterodactyl. Located near the Kualoa nature reserve, a filming location for Jurassic Park, the island is a popular destination for large family picnics on the wide grassy field and narrow white-sand beach. Swimmers can enjoy a good channel and stunning mountain scenery as a backdrop.
To reach Mokoli'i Island, renting a kayak is strongly recommended as swimming is not advisable due to the presence of hammerhead sharks and shifting tides. The kayak trip takes approximately 20 minutes from the beach park and can be booked at Kualoa Ranch or as part of the Secret Island Beach Package, which provides you the opportunity to explore the island at your own pace.
11. La'ie Point State Wayside
The coastline of Oahu is well-known for its picturesque views, one of the unique locations is the small peninsula on the northeast corner, as you head towards the North Shore. It is an unexpected geographical feature that adds to the charm of the area. At Lā'ie Point State Wayside, visitors can enjoy crashing surf, a lava arch, and a slice of Hawaiian folk history.
One of the main attractions at Lā'ie Point is the near-shore island with the hole in it, which is called Kukuiho'olua, also known as Puka Rock. In Hawaiian legend, this island was once part of a giant lizard that was chopped into pieces by a demigod to stop its deadly attack on Oahu. The point is a rocky natural pier that offers cliff diving opportunities for the brave. Additionally, you can observe a small bird sanctuary islet just offshore. This sanctuary islet is home to a variety of seabirds, making it a must-see for bird enthusiasts.
12. Polynesian Cultural Center
If you're looking for a fun and enriching Hawaiian experience for your family, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a must-visit destination. This attraction offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse cultures of the Pacific islands, including Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand, Samoa, Fiji, and Tonga all in one place.
As one of Hawaii's top paid-admission attractions, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers frequent village shows and a park-wide boat parade showcasing native dances and cultural values by students from Brigham Young University at Hawaii. While the price tag may be a bit steep, the experience is well worth it. Plus, the nonprofit center was opened so that students at BYUH could work their way through college by sharing their island heritage with visitors.
The performers and artists at the Polynesian Cultural Center are passionate about presenting their cultures in an authentic way while still delivering that entertainment factor to visitors. The Lu'au Show & Buffet are simply irresistible, and the center offers one of the island's top-performing Hawaiian dances.
To wrap up your evening, you won't want to miss the iconic show, Hā: Breath of Life, an incredible revue that showcases Polynesian culture through song and dance. It tells a beautiful story of a young man's journey through life, love, and loss. The performances are energetic and captivating, with stunning costumes and intricate choreography. The music is a blend of traditional Polynesian rhythms and modern beats, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.
For more information and ticket packages, please check online or contact your resort. You won't regret making the Polynesian Cultural Center a part of your Hawaii vacation.
Amidst the stunning natural beauty and the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii, there is an undeniable sense of spiritual connection and harmony with the environment. From the towering volcanoes to the endless expanse of ocean, every aspect of Hawaii seems to radiate a unique energy that has captivated visitors for centuries. Whether you're exploring the lush rainforests, hiking through rugged terrain, or simply lounging on the beach, Hawaii has a way of invigorating your soul and refreshing your spirit.
Just remember, you don't have to live in Hawaii, or even be a Hawaiian, to truly embrace and showcase the Aloha spirit. The lessons we learn from this magical place - the importance of respecting nature, the value of community and family, and the power of living with Aloha - are things that we can carry with us always.
So, until we meet again, let's continue to cherish the memories and stories we've shared in Hawaii, and carry the spirit of aloha with us wherever we go!
ALOHA! MAHALO!
TipsyMonkeys
Honolulu, Hawaii, the United States
July 2019
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