Image courtesy of Geography
When people think about Hawaii, many of them do not realize that it is a State. To be exact, it is the 50th state. Yes, Hawaii is the smallest and consists of numerous islands but there is so much more to it. No, people do not live in grass shacks, not everyone knows how to surf, and just because someone is born or lives in Hawaii, it does not automatically make them Hawaiian. Each island itself is unique in its own way. If you get the chance, visit all of them. You will not be disappointed. If you come to Oahu, here are some places you definitely need to check out!
Pearl Harbor:
December 7, 1941 is a day that will always be remembered. Marking the United State’s entrance into WWII, Japanese planes attacked Pearl Harbor and the island of Oahu. What is left of the harbor is the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri. Come by and honor the heroes that represented our nation and take a tour of this historical site. Oil continues to leak from the USS Arizona and can be referred to as the “tears of the Arizona,” adding a strong emotional feel to the environment.
Image courtesy of Pearl Harbor Oahu
Lanikai/Kailua:
A pretty touristy location on Oahu, Kailua is home to many hikes and beaches. Probably one of the most popular beaches is Lanikai Beach. Who can resist pure white sand, beautiful shades of blue, and fantastic scenery? The sand is so fine, with no rocks or coral near the shore. Out in the distance are two islands you can boat, kayak, or even stand up paddle board to. Just behind the beach is a great hike available to try called the Lanikai Pillboxes Trail. It overlooks the beach and the lovely Lanikai neighborhood. Fun fact: the pillboxes are remnants from WWII.
North Shore:
Oahu’s North Shore is an attraction you must go to at least once during your stay. Surrounded by amazing beaches, delicious restaurants, food trucks, and small shops, you will always be busy exploring something new. Rent snorkeling gear and immerse yourself with the marine life at Sharks Cove, dive for shells at Sunset Beach, jump off the huge rock at Waimea Bay, and stop for a satisfying snack at Haleiwa Bowls in Haleiwa Town. The scenic drive there is completely worth it.
Image courtesy of Guides
Diamond Head Lookout:
Near Waikiki, this area is located in the heart of a very beautiful neighborhood. Do not confuse this lookout with the Diamond Head Trail. This is not a hike but a lovely place to have a picnic and watch wind surfers and surfers from above. Definitely watch the sunset here as well. You can see how the sky morphs into wonderful colors and reflects off the water. It is a beautiful sight.
Waikiki:
This is probably the most touristy location on the south shore of Oahu but you still get a thrill out of it. Here in Waikiki, you are welcomed to numerous beaches that stretch on for miles, a “mall” (if you would like to call it that) along the main strip, high end as well as hole in the wall restaurants and cafes, and luckily nearby is the zoo and aquarium. Waikiki beaches have a mellow, laid back feel and are great for learning how to surf and stand up paddle board. Don’t forget to bring lots of sunscreen and stay for the sunset!
Image courtesy of Planet Ware
Makapu’u Lighthouse/Tidepools:
Looking for outstanding views and a good workout? Check out this hike! The Makapu’u Lighthouse trail is a fairly simple hike up to the lighthouse. You can see the beautiful ocean from above that contrasts nicely with the red and white colors of the lighthouse. If you are feeling a bit risky, halfway up the hike, there is a path that takes you off the trail to scale down a mountain to tidepools. The way down is marked with white arrows so you know which way to go. Once you finally get down, you can swim in the crystal clear pools as well as see the waves crash up onto the rocks, and even see hermit crabs and other little fish. Hiking back up is pretty strenuous but bearable.
Image courtesy of Flickr
Lulumahu Falls:
You must be thinking what an odd name. Hawaii does have some rather interestingly named places, many of them funny to hear people pronounce. If you guessed that Lulumahu Falls is a waterfall, you are correct! It is no easy journey getting to the end of the hike but after adventuring through a bamboo forest, passing a reservoir, crawling and climbing over slippery rocks and tree branches, and crossing through a stream, you will finally reach a breathtaking 50ft waterfall. The water is cool to the touch and feels refreshing after a treacherous hike.
Shaved Ice:
No vacation to Hawaii is complete without getting shaved ice! This delicious treat is perfect after a hot day at the beach or a hike in the mountains, and is something you cannot miss out on. It seems so boring being just ice and syrup, right? Wrong! Depending on where you go, you can get some of the best shaved ice. The ice is so light, “soft,” and smooth, and topped with the right syrup flavors, it is a match made in heaven. Waiola’s, Shimazu’s, and Matsumoto’s are some popular places to try.