Take time when visiting Honolulu to explore Hawaiian culture by taking a hula lesson or attending a luau.
Discover Hawaii’s heritage and cultural traditions at sites like Pearl Harbor and Iolani Palace. Don’t forget Bishop Museum either; here, Hawaii’s history can be explored, from Polynesian voyagers and royalty, all the way through surfing and royalty!
The North Shore
The North Shore, stretching from Kaena Point to Kahuku, is famous for its massive waves that draw surfers from around the world to compete in amateur and professional surfing competitions. Additionally, this area features iconic beaches, hikes of unparalleled difficulty and delectable cuisine – something Kaena Point to Kahuku can only offer its residents.
Navigating one hour away from Waikiki will take you into the relaxed North Shore. Open your window and breathe in the salty air as you pass Dole Plantation and head through pineapple fields toward Haleiwa’s rustic old town, where Hawaiian art galleries await, rainbow-colored shave ice is available and traditional plate lunch is served daily.
Many hotels in Hawaii have hired cultural advisers to educate visitors about its rich culture and values, said Sanders. These advisors can assist visitors in avoiding activities that don’t respect these elements of Hawaiian life while suggesting other authentic experiences.
Shopping
Oahu offers shoppers plenty to keep them occupied when it comes to shopping, from its largest outdoor mall in the world to surf shops and local boutiques. In addition, Oahu features several malls designed specifically to attract tourists offering resort wear as souvenirs that make great keepsakes from this visit.
Waikiki’s Ala Moana Center offers classic department stores, Whole Foods and clothing boutiques for an enjoyable shopping experience. Additionally, catch a movie at its theater complex or enjoy lunch at one of its numerous restaurants. For less crowded shopping experiences head over to Waialae-Kahala mall; its stores provide all these services as well as dining options; you’ll even find unique gifts in places like Native Books Hawaii Nohea Gallery and Bishop Museum’s Shop Pacifica!
Hiking
Oahu’s lush mountains and vibrant seas provide endless hiking and camping opportunities, but make sure to plan and adhere to trail rules in order to protect both yourself and the environment.
Waimea Falls hike is often busy and popular among visitors to Hawaii, offering stunning coastal views and waterfall swimming opportunities. Additionally, its side trail leads out to Dead Man’s Catwalk – an exposed concrete strip thought by some to have once served as part of war-era installations or hang glider launching sites – an enjoyable challenge that needs to be treated carefully! Embark upon it responsibly!
On a clear day, this hike offers stunning ridgetop views across Oahu’s coastline as well as Molokai and Lanai islands. Additionally, its lookout features old pillboxes or bunkers decorated with murals and quotes.
Beaches
Oahu boasts many stunning beaches for swimming, surfing and relaxing on its shores, and several sacred spots; however, not all are created equal. Before heading out on your beach excursion or relaxing on its shores make sure that you bring reef safe sunscreen and rash guard.
Lanikai Beach, which can be found just north of Honolulu, features fine powdery sand and breathtakingly blue water – ideal conditions for swimming and kayaking alike! Additionally, this beach offers access to facilities to cater for wheelchair users.
Kailua Beach on Oahu’s west side is an idyllic beach with tranquil water and shallow reef, making it the ideal location for snorkeling when the waves are calm.
Waimanalo Beach Park has long been known as Oahu’s “secret beach”, though its status may no longer be quite so hidden. You’re likely to have it all to yourself on weekdays!
Relaxation
Oahu provides not only stunning natural beauty, Polynesian cultural experiences and relaxation activities to rejuvenate you; there is also a wealth of relaxation activities on offer here. Soak up some rays on world-famous beaches; join an open-air yoga class at sunset by the beach; or hike to the top of a jungle for peace and quiet.
Discover Hawaii‘s culture through painting, architecture and literature at one of Hawaii’s acclaimed museums. Begin at Bishop Museum where important Polynesian cultural and natural history exhibits are featured, then visit Iolani Palace where you can gain more knowledge on Queen Lili’uokalani before her overthrow by the United States government in 1893.
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