Hawaii - Oahu Hotels

Upon arrival you’ll get leid – which sounds a lot better than it reads – with a Hawaiian garland called a, um, lei. The hospitable attitude of Hawaii-Oahu is contagious. But other than Hawaii-Oahu’s ridiculously beautiful people, you’ll be met by a thriving nightlife, shopping heaven, and beaches that will make your eyeballs pop.

History lovers, you can educate yourself at Pearl Harbor and other memorials. Families, you can drop by Waikiki Aquarium and Honolulu Zoo at Kapiolani Park. They’re relatively small, but still worth it for a family outing. And for those who are too lazy to do anything that requires energy or brain cells, you can sunbake on the beach.

As Lilo & Stitch revealed to us, Hawaiian culture is focused on family: ‘Ohana means family; family means nobody gets left behind’. If that doesn’t make you go awwww, then there’s probably something wrong with your heart. But if it pulled at your heartstrings, then join the ohana – Hawaiians will welcome you with open arms.

Hawaii-Oahu has everything: beaches, history, friendly people, and they even speak English! (Foreign languages are beautiful and mysterious, but they can and do hinder your relaxing holiday.) Not in Hawaii-Oahu! You’ll be whisked away to a tropical paradise that you’ll never want to leave. Welcome and aloha!

OAHU’S TOP 10

OAHU LOCAL

Honolulu

As the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu has lots to offer. The most famous beach here is Waikiki, but if you don’t like crowds, go elsewhere. You can also explore military memorials in Honolulu. Visit Pearl Harbor and the Pacific Aviation Museum are must-sees.

Honolulu has a worthy shopping scene. There are the typical malls like the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center and DFS Galleria (Duty Free Shops), but try the International Market Place for something a little different. Where else can you find market stalls amongst banyan trees?

Central Oahu

Central Oahu isn’t that well-known, which pineapple lovers the world over are doubtlessly disgusted about. The Dole Pineapple Plantation is not only noted for its pineapple farming also for having the world’s largest maze. It’s a great place to take children to. Meanwhile, the Pineapple Variety Gardens are more educational – you can see the pineapples at various stages of growth.

Windward Coast

For those in search of Hawaii’s natural beauty, you’ve found it on the Windward Coast. The coast stretches across Oahu with isolated beaches, imposing mountain views and attractions like the Valley of the Temples, with its Japanese Buddhist temples. For the best view, climb to Nuuanu Pali Lookout. You’ll be glad you did – and the exercise can help you work off all those pineapples!

North Shore

Hawaii isn’t noted for its frenetic pace, but Oahu’s North Shore is the most laidback of the laidback. Which is one reason why it’s so popular with surfers. The other reason, which, come to think of it, may be more significant, is the BIG waves. Catch them with the pros at Banzai Pipeline. Best time to go is winter, when the waves can reach up to 12 metres. Invest in a brown wetsuit.

The North Shore is more than a surfer’s paradise. You can hike through lush foliage in Waimea Valley and see natural rainforest beauty at its finest at the Kualoa Ranch. The ranch has been the setting for quite a few Hollywood blockbusters (including Jurassic Park and Pearl Harbor – and this time we do mean the Josh Hartnett film!).

OAHU EATS

Like its culture and lifestyle, Oahu’s culinary world blends various cultures together. From traditional Hawaiian to American and Asian-Pacific flavours, you’ll be amazed by the variety and the fusion of so many cuisines.

OAHU EVENTS

Most of Oahu’s events centre on summer, so you’re in luck if you’re here around June! The Annual Pan-Pacific Festival Parade is a prime example. Entertainment includes traditional taiko drummers, dancers and floats.

In June, the King Kamehameha Celebration Floral Parade honours King Kamehameha, who first established the unified Kingdom of Hawaii.

In July, the Prince Lot Hula Festival is when the Hula Halau (troupes) perform the hula for you. Get up early to reserve the best spot!

Hawaii is home of the ukulele. The world’s most irritating instrument when not played properly. The world’s most versatile when played well. Plenty of the latter should be on display in July’s Ukulele Festival Hawaii in Kapiolani Park.

Then in September, the Aloha Festival Floral Parade will have you astounded by the flora of Hawaii. And even more astounded that an event takes place in a month not beginning with J. Floats of Hawaiian flowers start at Ala Moana Beach and end at Kapiolani Park.

In December, celebrate the start of the holiday season at Honolulu City of Lights. The tropical Christmas festivities include Christmas trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses. Incongruous, but cute!

WHEN TO GO

Hawaii-Oahu only has two seasons: winter and summer.

· Temperatures are between 19°C (66°F) and 32°C (90°F) for most of the year in Oahu.

· Rainfall is heaviest in winter between October and April.

· Summer is drier and hotter than winter, because the sun is almost directly overhead.

GETTING THERE AND AROUND

Most people will arrive in Hawaii at Honolulu International Airport.

Getting around in Oahu is best done in a car, especially if you’re exploring the island beyond the city centre. But if you’re staying in Honolulu or Waikiki, you could also opt for TheBus Fares are $2.50 and you’ll need exact change. If you’re off for a shopping stint, take the Free Shopping Shuttle. It’ll pick you up around Waikiki and will drive you to the Ala Moana Center. It takes you on a little detour to Hilo Hattie’s flagship tourist shop, though.

WHAT TO MISS

· Avoid Downtown, Pearl City, Waianae, Nanakuli, Waipahu and Kalihi after dark. Luckily, the police officers on Hawaii are very helpful.

· Get away from Honolulu if you don’t want to be in the bustling city. There are many other areas that are better for a tranquil and relaxing beach holiday.

Hawaii Oahu Information

Attractions & Activities

Restaurant & Nightlife

Climate