A beautiful rainbow over the Oahu skyline. (Photo: Getty Images)

There are many ways to see the island of Oʻahu—take a guided tour, hitch a ride on a helicopter, or explore the coast by boat.  These are all exciting options, but we prefer sightseeing by car. The reason?  Well, you choose the route, you can linger as long as you want, and you can eat and shop along the way.

The island of Oʻahu is just the right size for taking a drive. It’s large enough that you will not run out of things to do and sights to see yet small enough that you can complete the drive in one day.

Chances are that although it’s possible to see all of the island’s postcard-worthy sights in one day, you won’t want to. You’ll meet a honu (turtle) and want to stay to play. You’ll discover a waterfall and decide to go for a swim. You’ll hike a mountain and find the view is a perfect background for a photoshoot of you and your someone special, and you’ll linger much longer than you intended. Nevertheless, here are our recommended stops for driving around Oʻahu in day.

1. Waikīkī

Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head on Oahu. (Photo: Getty Images)

Most visitors to Hawaiʻi stay in Waikīkī. This is most likely where you’ll be starting your day. Watch surfers paddling out for their morning session or catch a wave yourself at Waikīkī beach. You can also make the short, but the steep 0.8-mile hike up Diamond Head. The trail will lead you to old military bunkers, a lighthouse, and summit views of the ocean and Oʻahu’s Southern coast. Getting outdoors and into nature is a great way to start the day!

2. Hawaiʻi Kai and Waimānalo

View of Waimanalo Beach and a lifeguard tower through ironwood trees on the windward side of Oahu. (Photo: Getty Images)

The East side of the island is an outdoor lover’s playground with Sea Life Park and Hanauma Bay being two great options for those wanting to see, swim, and play with Hawaiian marine life. If this is a priority for you, plan on spending lots of time in East Oʻahu. There will be so much to see.

Another great way to start your road trip is with a short two-mile hike up to Makapu‘u Point lighthouse. You can save Waikīkī and Diamond Head for another day and head out early for a sunrise hike. From the vantage point at Makapuʻu, you’ll gain gorgeous views of the sun coming up over the blue horizon, the coastline, Rabbit Island, Molokaʻi, and even whales if you’re there between December and May.

The drive up the coast from Makapuʻu will take you through the town of Waimānalo. Roadside cafes and eateries make this a convenient and delicious place to stop for a bite to eat. Waimānalo is a hidden treasure. Many people don’t get the opportunity to experience this local haunt, but you can.

3. Kailua

Tempting and alluring scenic ocean view at Lanikai Beach looking out towards Na Mokulua aka the Mokulua Islands in Kailua on Oahu. (Photo: Getty Images)

Not too far up the coast from Waimānalo is the trendy beach town of Kailua. If you want to see what everybody’s been talking about, venture through Kailua to check out Lanikai beach, hike up Lanikai pillboxes for a whimsical view of the offshore Mokulua Islands or sunbathe at Kailua beach. Both Lanikai and Kailua beaches have been winners of the prestigious #1 Beach in America title.

With many restaurants to choose from and lots of healthy options, Kailua is a great place to get a good meal.  We recommend eating here before continuing your road trip, as dining options are limited along the stretch of road from Kailua to the North Shore.

4. Pali Lookout

(Photo: Kevin Allen)

Located just mauka (mountainside) of Kailua, there are two main reasons why you should check out Pali Lookout. One, you’ll see amazing views of the Koʻolau Mountain Range. Two, this pali (cliff) is the site of a major battle that took place in 1795. You’ll be able to stand where King Kamehameha I and his army defeated the Oʻahu forces before going on to unite all of the islands into one kingdom. The strong winds and crisp air here are refreshing.

5. Kāneʻohe

View of the entrance and Ko’olau Mountains as one drives through the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Park. Strolling or driving through these lush 400 acres in windward Oʻahu, you will truly agree that Hoʻomaluhia is rightfully named “a peaceful refuge.” Opened in 1982, this garden in Kāneʻohe features plantings from major tropical regions around the world. (Photo: Getty Images)

Kāneʻohe, the next stop on our drive around Oʻahu, is known for its rich, lush green landscapes. These two gorgeous stops prove it. You may have caught glimpses of the Byodo-In Temple in various shows like Hawaii Five-O and Magnum P.I. But even if you have, you’ll still be in awe when you gaze upon the Japanese temple replica and its verdant surroundings. Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Gardens is another tropical treasure with acres of Native Hawaiian plants and jaw-dropping Koʻolau mountain views.

6. North Shore

(Photo: Getty Images)

Leaving Kāneʻohe destined for Oʻahu’s epic North Shore, you’re in for a scenic one-hour drive. You’ll see lush forests, beautiful bay views, and Oʻahu’s “country” side. You will pass the small offshore island called Chinaman’s Hat as well as Kualoa Ranch where many movies have been filmed. (We highly recommend you come back to spend a day here.) You will also pass the Polynesian Cultural Center. (This is a great place to experience a lūʻau. Maybe after your day at Kualoa?)

When you see the shrimp trucks serving up yummy plates of garlic shrimp, you’ve reached the North Shore country town of Kahuku. Travel a bit more and you’ll hit Haleʻiwa and the famous 7-mile miracle which is home to several white-sand beaches of miraculous beauty, starting with Sunset Beach and ending with Haleʻiwa Beach Park. Laniakea Beach where the honu are known to rest is located here. You can swim near the honu or watch them rest on the sandy shores but please don’t touch. Honu are endangered species. During the summer, the 7-mile miracle beaches are picture-perfect for sunbathing or sunset walks. During the winter, big swells roll in, and the dangerous surf becomes a playground for the world’s best watermen. Also along this 7-mile stretch is Waimea Valley where you can walk through a botanical garden, swim at a waterfall and participate in cultural activities.

Cool off with Matsumoto Shave Ice’s rainbow of tropical shave ice flavors. Matsumoto’s is “the shave ice place” on the North Shore. They do their toppings right and now they even have an edible cracker bowl imported from Japan. Mmm!

7. Ko ʻOlina

View of Ko Olina beach and the Kohola lagoon from the hotel room. (Photo: Getty Images)

The North Shore of Oʻahu is a beautiful place to end the day, and the sunsets are just stunning. If you’ve made it this far, rest assured you’ve seen the best of Oʻahu. However, if you’ve made good time during your drive around Oʻahu, our last suggestion will be the icing on the cake. Ko ʻOlina on Oʻahu’s Westside is wild and gorgeous. An area boasting breathtaking beaches, golf, and water activities, some of Hawaiʻi’s best resorts are located here, like Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, and Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko ʻOlina. You can swim in one of the area’s four manmade lagoons, catch a traditional Hawaiian lūʻau at Paradise Cove or simply enjoy the sunset over the endless blue sea.

Your drive time back into Waikīkī from Ko ʻOlina will be about 45 minutes.  From Haleʻiwa, the drive time back into Waikīkī is just under an hour.

The post Road Trip: Drive Around Oahu in a Day appeared first on Hawaii.com.

The USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. (Photo: Star-Advertiser)

In the early morning hours of December 7, 1941, the world was forever changed when the Japanese launched a surprise air attack on the United States at Pearl Harbor Naval Base near Honolulu, Hawaii.

Following the assault from hundreds of Japanese fighter planes, nearly 20 American naval vessels and at least 300 airplanes were damaged or destroyed.

Far more devastating is the 2,400 American lives lost, including civilians, and another 1,000 wounded, making it one of the most defining moments in U.S. history.

In fact, the attack was the catalyst that catapulted the U.S. into World War II. The following day, acting President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared war on Japan, thus changing the balance of power in the world and cementing the United States’ status as a global superpower.

Now, visitors from all over the world journey to Pearl Harbor to commemorate that fateful day and remember fallen comrades.

Plan Ahead to Visit Pearl Harbor

Even though many decades have passed since the attack on Pearl Harbor, the naval base remains the most visited site on the island of Oahu. Guests visiting Pearl Harbor can explore many memorials, exhibits, and other historic venues.

When organizing your Pearl Harbor tours, make sure you plan ahead, and early, as tours sell out fast.

Read up ahead of time on how to get your tickets to Pearl Harbor.

Also, if you are staying on Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, you can still make a visit to Pearl Harbor easily fit into your itinerary by booking a Pearl Harbor day tour that includes flight, transportation, and entrance ticket.

Things to See at Pearl Harbor

Inside the USS Arizona Memorial. (Photo: Star-Advertiser)

USS Arizona Memorial

Still found bobbing within the waters of Pearl Harbor, alongside its modern-day models, is the USS Arizona —- one of seven battleships tied up along what is known as “Battleship Row”.

Visitors to the accompanying USS Arizona Memorial will get a unique glimpse into one of the most important and pivotal moments in American history via rare memorabilia, photographs, documents, and other visuals and mixed media covering the time period spanning this integral era of US history.

Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park

Visitors may also walk through the USS Bowfin Submarine, docked in Pearl Harbor, to get an intriguing glimpse into what combat submarine life was really like.

Visitors will board the submarine and are invited on a self-guided, narrated tour using a Walkman-style cassette recorder keyed to stops throughout the submarine.

Battleship Missouri Memorial

The USS Battleship Missouri secured its place in history as the site of Japan’s unconditional surrender to the United States, thus bringing an end to World War II, when the formal papers were signed on the deck of the battleship on Sept. 2, 1945.

Visitors can still visit the ship today, as it remains intact and bobbing along the harbor.

USS Oklahoma Memorial

The U.S.S. Oklahoma Memorial is dedicated to the 415 sailors and 14 Marines who lost their lives when the USS Oklahoma sank during the 1941 strike on Pearl Harbor.

The names of those sailors and Marines are engraved in black granite on 429 individual white marble columns, each of which is 7 feet tall and weighs 120 pounds.

Visitors view large planes inside the Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor. (Photo: Star-Advertiser)

Pacific Aviation Museum

Known as “America’s Aviation Battlefield,” the Pacific Aviation Museum provides visitors with a stunning visual narrative of aviation’s role in the history of the Pacific.

The Museum is home to two WWII era hangars, which survived the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, and the Ford Island Control Tower.

Pearl Harbor Visitor Center Hours

Pearl Harbor is open every day of the year except New Year’s Day (January 1), Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day (December 25).

Operating hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Visit the National Park Service website for additional information.

How to Get to Pearl Harbor Visitor Center

Those planning to visit Pearl Harbor can do so by bus or by car.

If you are coming by bus, a good starting point would be to depart from Waikiki or the Ala Moana Shopping Center and catch a public bus, which will take you straight to the USS Arizona Memorial Visitor Center (just confirm with the driver when boarding to be sure/safe, and to know when to get off)!

For more information and the full bus schedule and operating stops/locations, visit thebus.org.

If you’re traveling by car, the trip typically takes about 45 minutes by car and over an hour by bus from Waikiki.

Traffic will factor heavily into your drive time, so use a maps app to check on traffic and road conditions for the date and time you intend to visit Pearl Harbor. The address to plug in is: 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818.

Parking fees were added in April of 2023, at a cost of $7 per day.

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1. Haleʻiwa Sign(s)

 

 

 

 

 

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One of the most iconic roadside attractions on the North Shore, there are actually two Haleʻiwa signs—one as you enter the town coming from Pūpūkea and another on the tail end of the bypass road around Haleʻiwa. Both are fantastic places to get a quick photo with the fam as you enter or exit Haleʻiwa, and the signs have truly become synonymous with Oʻahu’s beach culture. 

2. The Angel Wings

 

 

 

 

 

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Quite possibly the most Instagrammed location in Hawaiʻi, the angel wing painting on the side of the (now closed) Anahulu’s Shave Ice and (still open) surf shop Blue Planet is the perfect frame for any photo. The wings are a part of Colette Miller’s “Global Angel Wings Project,” which started in 2012. Miller has been painting angel wings around the globe in an effort to remind everyone that “we are the angels of the earth,” and encourages everyone to take a picture with her wings and share the message on social media.

3. Sunrise Shack

 

 

 

 

 

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Capping out the North Shore—although there are way more photo-op spots to find—is the original Sunrise Shack right on Kamehameha Highway. Looking like a literal ray of sunshine, this bright yellow shack is known for its bulletproof coffee, acai bowls and smoothies. It’s also adorable, and is absolutely worth posing in front of—if there’s no line—for a picture or two.

4. Lanikai Pillbox

On Oʻahu’s east side, the Lanikai Pillbox reigns supreme as being one of the most visited—and photographed—landmarks in the area. It’s not a difficult hike to the summit and the view of the pillbox, and from the pillbox, is more than worth the effort. It does get crowded, especially on weekends, so it’s best to go early in the day or to try to find time on the weekday.

5. Lanikai Beach (The Mokes)

The jewel of Oʻahu’s eastern coastline, Lanikai Beach provides visitors and locals with a gorgeous stretch of sand, crystal clear blue waters and an impressive view of the two islets sitting off the coast, Nā Mokulua—commonly referred to as The Mokes. It’s one of the most idyllic beaches and views on Oʻahu, and if you can frame yourself between the two islands for a photo, you’ll have a great memory to share. 

6. Haʻikū Gardens

 

 

 

 

 

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A lesser known locale, Haʻikū Gardens is located just below Haleiwa Joes in Kāneʻohe and is the perfect place to have a picnic or quick photoshoot. With a small pier, manicured green lawn and a variety of local flora, the area exudes that natural, tropical charm Hawaiʻi is known for. However, it is also a wedding venue, so if there is a matrimonial procession in place, you’ll have to come at another time. 

7.  Byodo-In Temple

Hidden amongst the ridges of the Koʻolau Mountain Range, the elegant Byodo-In Temple is one of Oʻahu’s top visitor attractions. The temple is a replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist temple at Uji in Kyoto Prefecture of Japan, and it is a gorgeous representation of Eastern culture and styles. 

8. Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden

A lush wonderland of local plants and flora as well as international greenery, Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden has become a bit of an Instagram phenomenon—for the wrong reason. People love taking photos of the magnificent driveway into the garden, which has an epic view of the Koʻolau Mountain Range. However, this has led to numerous traffic issues and park officials have since prohibited photography on the road. If that’s the shot you were after, don’t fret—there are way more places to photograph in the gardens. 

9. Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout

If you want a bird’s-eye view of Kāneʻohe and Kailua—and much of Oʻahu’s east coast—head over to the Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout. Located thousands of feet above sea level, it’s a great place to capture the beauty of the island and get a high-altitude selfie. Beware, it does get windy up on the Pali and if you have long, flowing hair, you may want to bring a tie or scrunchie to keep things manageable. 

10. Makapuʻu Lookout

This one requires a bit of a hike, but making it to the top of Makapuʻu Lookout provides an excellent vision—and backdrop—of the coast. You may even see whales breaching on the horizon during the Island’s whale watching season. Not only is Makapuʻu Lookout a great place to get the photo of your vacation, but it’s also a particularly fun and easy hike to do with the family, and parents will feel safe letting their keiki take the trail as it’s really just a paved road to the top.

11. Kakaʻako Murals 

 

 

 

 

 

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Painted by some of the best mural artists in the world, the large-scale murals found along the streets of Kakaʻako—specifically around Auahi Street—are a pop of color and style for your social media feed. The street art is painted annually when POW! WOW! Hawaii brings some of the most talented international artists to Hawaiʻi for a week of art and culture.

12. Leonard’s Bakery

 

 

 

 

 

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There’s more to Leonard’s Bakery than its fluffy malasadas and ʻono plate lunches. The local favorite has a distinctly old-Hawaiʻi look and vibe, and its big neon sign is just asking to get its picture taken. And, of course, you have to get the staple “hand holding a malasada” photo to remember just how good the food was in Hawaiʻi.

13. Leʻahi (Diamond Head)

No trip to Oʻahu is complete without a handful of shots at the summit of Leʻahi, also known as Diamond Head. A postcard-perfect view from the top, Diamond Head has been a favorite amongst visitors and locals for literal decades. There is a reservation process now in effect for visiting hikers, so be sure to have your reservation in place before being turned away at the gate.

The post The Top Oahu Photo-Op Landmarks You Have to Visit on your Hawaii Vacation appeared first on Hawaii.com.

The announcement comes just in time for the three biggest Aloha Festival events of the year, the Royal Court Investiture & Opening Ceremony, 68th Annual Waikīkī Ho‘olaule‘a and the 74th Annual Floral Parade.

Kicking off the month-long festivities, the Royal Court Investiture & Opening Ceremony takes place on Saturday Sept. 10, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Helumoa Gardens located at The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort. The Aloha Festivals Royal Court will be wearing the regalia of aliʻi as they are honored as representatives of Hawaiʻi. The opening ceremony will also include hula performances and musical acts all in Waikīkī.

A grand hoʻolauleʻa (party) will be taking place the following Saturday, Sept. 17, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Often regarded as one of Waikīkī’s biggest parties, the Annual Waikīkī Ho‘olaule‘a was sorely missed during the pandemic. Taking place on Kalākaua Avenue—the street is shut down to traffic during the party—booths highlighting Hawai‘i cuisine, crafts and culture are all on offer as attendees roam the block. With multiple stages for entertainment and a smattering of ʻono local fare and grinds, the Waikīkī Ho‘olaule‘a is truly the can’t-miss event of the year.

Putting a beautiful cap on a trilogy of events and culture, the 74th Annual Floral Parade rounds out the month. From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24, this vibrant procession of Hawaiian culture will make its way from Ala Moana Park, through Kalākaua Avenue and end at Kapiʻolani Park. It is a rare chance for visitors and locals to see pāʻū riders—women on horseback wearing long, colorful skirts and dresses—as well as a smattering display of intricately designed floats all decorated with a rainbow of fresh flowers.

It’s great to see the Aloha Festivals back in action. Not only does it provide visitors with great events to add on to their itineraries, but the spectacles also promote and perpetuate Hawaiian culture and history. For more information on the events listed above, and to check out any other celebrations happening throughout 2022, visit the Aloha Festivals website.

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Kailua, a quintessential beach town, is blessed with two gorgeous beaches and steady onshore trade winds that make it great for windsurfing, kayaking and other water sports. Once a sleepy town of barely 3,000, it’s now a bedroom community of more than 36,000 residents. Best known for its long, sandy beaches, which are considered among the most beautiful in the world, life revolves around the beach.

Welcome to Kailua

Kailua is only 12 miles northeast of Honolulu, but the lifestyle is anything but urban. Once you cross over the Nuʻuanu Pali and come out of the tunnels, be prepared for sunny skies, gorgeous greenery, deep sand beaches and an endless expanse of blue-green ocean.

Before you head to the beach, stop in town. You’ll find dive shops and ocean activity stores where you can purchase or rent snorkel equipment, kayaks, and other essential gear for fun in the surf and sun. A friendly, laid-back town, Kailua claims a healthy scattering of locally owned shops and eateries plus there’s an evening open market on Thursdays.

Lanikai and Kailua Beaches

Kailua’s two beaches—Lanikai and Kailua—have long earned rave reviews from beach critics who roam the nation in search of top beaches.

Lanikai Beach

Lanikai is known for its clear turquoise water and long expanse of powdery sand beach. A particularly good swimming beach, it is located in a picturesque setting, with palm trees lining the backshore and the nearby twin islands of Mokumanu and Mokulua offshore.

In Hawaiian, Lanikai means “heavenly sea,” and its white sand beach and balmy breezes create a peaceful ambience fitting of the name. Mokumanu and Mokulua islands are bird sanctuaries, but popular destinations for kayakers and boaters.

To find Lanikai, drive past the Kailua Beach boat ramp, along Mokulua Drive to a large one-way loop that encompasses the village. This is a prime beachfront property with a beach to match. Public access to the beach isn’t hard to find, but there are no lifeguards or bathroom facilities, and parking is scarce. NOTE: THERE IS NO PUBLIC PARKING IN THE LANIKAI LOOP DURING THREE-DAY HOLIDAY WEEKENDS.

Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach is outfitted with services that make it possible to rent a kayak, rent a guide, or rent equipment for windsurfing, kitesurfing, boogie boarding, or snorkeling. The Kalapawai Market, a vintage beachfront grocery, stocks everything anyone needs for a picnic. This is a beach made for a day trip—and then another one.

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That virgin undertaking at the southeastern-most point of Oʻahu, and I’m hooked, line, sinker and all! I revel in the crowds and excitement on the trail, and parking is easy with recent improvements by the state. Here’s why this trail holds such a draw. It’s not the Lighthouse, because you only see the picturesque structure crowned in red and the white fence leading up to it from a distance. The hike actually wends it way to the top of a hill, bypassing and rising above the off-limits path to the Lighthouse itself. What’s attractive about the hike is: One, it’s a short ascent, just under a mile. Two, the view at the top is breathtaking, of the scenic shoreline of Makapu’u beach stretching toward the North Shore, of southeastern Oʻahu including the inside of Koko Crater with its distinctly eroded lip, and of off shore islands, crystal tide pools and waves breaking dramatically against the base of the cliff far below. Three, there’s great fluke-slapping, geyser-spouting, wondrously breeching aquatic giants in them thar waters below. Yes, whales!

The stunning Ka Iwi shoreline is now my most frequent morning outing. The wide, paved path is lined with cactuses and windblown brush. As you round the bend for the final stretch to the top of the hill, look up to the left and see a number of WWII pillboxes peaking out of the landscape. Toward the summit, marked by two lookout points, a plaque is dedicated to nine naval aviators who crashed into the hillside in 1942. Meanwhile, the entire stretch offers gorgeous, show-stopping views of the coast and the dreamy, deep blue sea stretching to the horizon.

On this particular day, I’m scouting for humpback whales, which can be spotted in the waters December through May. It’s not a good sign when I’ve reached the top with nary even a spout sighting. The hoard at the lookout, well-equipped with binoculars and telescopic lenses are taking their last disappointed glances when someone screams and points, and we all collectively gasp.

As if on cue, one of our sought after mammoth sea mammals has gracefully risen, its entire body rocketing upward and landing in a grand and glorious slow motion body slap in the deep cliffside waters just below us. But our second collective gasp is even more pronounced. From the shadows of the larger figure, a much smaller black silhouette has just risen and is mimicking the movements of the larger one. It’s a mama and her calf, and the lot of us stand magically glued to the pair for perhaps an hour as they play, with the mommy seemingly teaching her baby all the the right moves. Mom slaps her tail and baby follows. Then comes a large pectoral fin slap, with a reverberating echo that reaches our ears, followed by the softer echo of a tinier pec slap. There’s head slaps and full breaching arches. It’s a firework-packed show, with more twirls and frolicking and splashing than I’ve ever been treated to up on my front row perch. Hana hou mama and little one, hana hou!

TRAIL: Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
LENGTH: 1.5 miles round trip
HOW TO GET THERE: From Waikīkī, take Kalākaua Avenue to Diamond Head Road. Follow the signs for H1 freeway going east. H1 quickly turns into Kalanianaole Highway. Go past Hawaiʻi Kai, Hanauma Bay, Sandy Beach and Hawaiʻi Kai Golf Course. About a mile past the golf course, turn right onto Makapuʻu Lighthouse Road, entering an open gate marked by a sign that reads “Ka Iwi Scenic Shoreline.”

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Waikiki Beach Days

If you are staying in Waikiki, just about the entire stretch of beach is an excellent place to set down your towels and picnic basket. Be sure to bring, or rent, a beach umbrella as well. You’ll appreciate the mid-day sanctuary from the warm Hawaiian sun, especially if you have very little ones.

Babies and toddlers will enjoy playing in the sand and making their way down to the gentle lapping water. Older children will find adventure swimming, snorkeling or even surfing. They’ll love the way the water, sun and sand feels on their skin. And Mom and Dad can soak in the joy of their laughter and squeals of delight.

The Best Family Beaches Around the Island

If you’d like to explore outside of Waikiki, the first family-friendly beach on your list should be Hanauma Bay. Please note, however, that Hanauma Bay is closed on Tuesdays and not ideal when it’s windy. Kailua Beach is also an excellent choice for families; it’s also less than ideal when the winds pick up.

If you don’t mind the drive, Ko Olina Resort offers four lovely lagoons that are ideal for younger children. Ko Olina is located on Oʻahu’s west side and is home to Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa as well as Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu at Ko Olina. The beach areas are open to the public, and you will find public restrooms and showers. This area of the island is almost always sunny. So, if it’s raining where you are, you might consider driving out west to Ko Olina. The added bonus is that the sunsets here are spectacular.

Family Attractions on Oahu

Aside from the beach, Oʻahu is full of attractions. In Waikiki alone, there is the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium. Local parents love these spots, because there is a great shaded park within the zoo and the aquarium is air-conditioned. Oh, yes, and these are also great learning environments for the children.

Sea Life Park is a family favorite. Located at scenic Makapuʻu, children are invited to revel in the beauty, wonder and fascination of ocean animals. There are dolphin shows (sit in the splash zone), penguin feedings, and reef creatures to marvel at.

The biggest, and quite possibly the best, attraction on Oʻahu is Kualoa Ranch, where the Jurassic Park movies as well as many other blockbusters were filmed. Movie site tours, ziplining, ATV rides, horseback escapades and secret beach adventures are all part of the fun at this private nature reserve.

Other places of note are the Polynesian Cultural Center, Waimea Valley and the Dole Plantation. The Polynesian Cultural Center is a vast expanse of living villages where you can interact with cultural demonstrators. And don’t miss the canoe pageant that happens daily at 2:30 p.m. Each village shows its best with singing, dancing and storytelling over the lagoon.

At Waimea Valley, located along the North Shore’s 7-mile miracle of gorgeous surf spots, you will find an easy hike to the valley’s waterfall. There you can take a dip under the watchful eyes of a lifeguard. There is a popular beach just across the street, Waimea Bay. However, the surf here can often be very dangerous, particularly during the winter months.

The Dole Plantation boasts the largest outdoor maze in the world. Keiki, children, have lots of fun making their way through. Parents, be sure to bring some cool beverages. It can take close to an hour to complete the maze. Visitors to the Dole Plantation can also enjoy riding a train, strolling through a botanical garden and feeding the resident koi fish.

Things to Do with Children

We’ve covered here the best family beaches and main family attractions on Oʻahu. We haven’t, however, begun to scratch the surface of possible things to do on Oʻahu.

You can rent a beach house on the North Shore during the summer and watch your children frolic in the ocean until sundown while you sit, hand-in-hand with your spouse sipping on your new favorite local craft beer. You can take a snorkeling tour off of the west coast and swim in crystal clear blue waters with turtles and dolphins. You can hike to Makapuʻu Lighthouse under the silvery glow of the full moon, ascending the gentle, stroller-friendly incline to behold the endless blue Pacific. You can savor a sumptuous picnic at the Spalding House Museum, where children will happily laugh and chase each other across the grassy lawn and through the garden trails.

With endless options, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. The most important thing to remember is that it’s not about how many sights your family sees or how many activities get checked off your itinerary. It’s about reconnecting and savoring the sound of sweet laughter, which is why family beach days are so perfect.

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Da Best Kine Grinds

Word to the wise when visiting this town — come hungry, as there is definitely no shortage of sweet and savory selections from its little hole-in-the-wall eateries to satisfy every appetite. Stop by the Coffee Gallery for your morning cup of joe, and experience the buzz of this bustling community’s contagious energy — and that’s not the caffeine talking.

For those looking for a bigger breakfast before hitting up Haleiwa’s numerous outdoor activities, Cafe Haleiwa is a can’t miss. Lunch will find you needing to refuel, and the area’s locally owned offerings, Killer Tacos (watch for local resident Jack Johnson — he’s a fan!), Konos and Grass Skirt Grill more than deliver. Also a haven for vegetarian and vegan eaters, Haleiwa boasts venues like Beet Box Cafe — a natural and healthy café tucked into the back of the town’s natural grocer, Celestial Foods.

Outdoor Oasis

Haleiwa also offers sun, sand, and surf lovers loads of options outdoors. All within minutes of the heart of town are numerous hiking trails, pristine SUP conditions at Haleiwa harbor, surfing at Puena Point (local shop Surf N Sea offers reasonable rentals just steps away), and several picturesque public parks for that perfect picnic.

Head just 15 minutes more down the road, and you will find the world-famous surf spots lining the Seven Mile Miracle stretch.

Shop ’Til You Drop

Nook and cranny specialty shops and boutiques boasting charming finds abound here in Haleiwa, as well as a myriad of well-known artist galleries, including renowned artist, Wyland. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy window shopping and browsing among the town’s quaint North Shore Marketplace, and perhaps even find that one in a million souvenir as the perfect memory to take home from their heavenly day spent in Haleiwa.

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Located just a hop, skip, and jump away from Waikiki, yet a world apart in terms of character and charm, Kaimuki is an eclectic neighborhood.  

A Little Bit of History

Kaimuki is the area located just mauka (on the mountain side) of Diamond Head. King Kamehameha III gave the land of Kaimuki to future King William Lunalilo in 1848. The land was then sold for $2,325 in 1884 and again for $20,000 in 1898. In the early 1900’s, Kaimuki developed into a high-class residential neighborhood. First came the families and then came the businesses. The neighborhood of Kaimuki has seen many changes in its 100 plus years of history. Today the area is a casual walking district skirted by beautiful historic homes perched up on the Maunalani Heights hillside.

Kaimuki is filled with niche shops, specialty boutiques, and unique eateries dotted along its main thoroughfare of Waialae Avenue. So grab a parking spot at either of the area’s two main self-pay lots (Kaimuki Plaza or Kaimuki Municipal), or see if you can nab that rare spot on the street, and join us in discovering this exciting Oahu enclave.

Where to Eat in Kaimuki

And as far as ono grinds go, Kaimuki lacks for nothing when it comes to a healthy collection of culinary options.

Old Favorites

Kaimuki’s Crack Seed Store has been serving up Li Hing Mui, Icees, and other specialty goodies for over 70 years. Okata Bento, an unassuming, hole-in-the-wall eatery has been around for over 30 years and is still cooking their food to order. Okata Bento tops our “cheap eats” list offering a cheeseburger complete with lettuce, tomato, and onions for only $2.50, including tax.

New Faces in Town

One of the new faces in town is Kaimuki Suprette, where patrons are transported back to the old-fashioned curb markets of our grandparents’ generation. Saunter up to the suprette’s counter and order among its deli-style items sourced from local farmers and ranchers.

Cool Treats

Kaimuki gets hot, but there are sweet treats to cool you off. Does an acai bowl from Aloha Crepes sound good? Or try the “handmade in Hawaii” flavors at Via Gelato. There are also fresh fruit shave ice cups available at Country Shave Ice, another fun hole-in-the-wall eatery.

Noteworthy Restaurants

More noteworthy Kaimuki restaurants include Koa Pancake House, a local breakfast favorite; Jawaiian Irie Jerk Restaurant, featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives; Big City Diner, a popular casual restaurant; Koko Head Cafe with its modern-global fusion brunch menu, brain child of emerging celeb Chef Lee Anne Wong; and 3660 on the Rise, an award-winning Euro-Asian Island restaurant with a recently revamped menu.

When driving through Kaimuki, there is one place that really stands out, Coffee Talk. Coffee Talk is a spacious cafe with a friendly vibe, a great selection of drinks, baked goods and light meal options. Many consider Coffee Talk to be the heart of Kaimuki.

Novelty Shopping in Kaimuki

Shopping in Kaimuki also offers novelty finds that are a welcome reprieve from the run-of-the-mill tourist gift shops of Waikiki.

A Jewel of a Find

Kaimuki is a great place to shop for jewelry, especially shell, pearl, and bead styles with outfits to match. Look for boutiques like Lily Lotus and Drift. Want to pick out a new pair of earrings and sip a cool drink? Try Jewel or Juice, which offers an array of jewelry, acai bowls, juice, teas, and blended coffee drinks. Or you can make your own new pair of earrings. The name of the local store Bead It speaks for itself. Featuring a wide array of baubles, beads, and gems, this place has everything one could need for creating their next bejeweled masterpiece.

Other Fun Finds

Other fun finds include Surf ‘N Hula Hawaii, a Hawaiiana vintage collectibles store. Two doors down is a novelty art shop, HI Bred Kollective. Kaimuki Goodwill store is a great place to stock up on some super affordable gently-used aloha shirts—perfect souvenirs to pack in your suitcase.

There’s also Gecko Books & Comics. Look for the dragon mural on the outside wall! One last fun find: a very small farmers market that boasts some of the best local fruits in season. Look for the “aunties” with their fruit and vegetable tables right across the street from Gecko Books & Comics on the corner of 12th Ave. and Mahina Ave. They’re there every day except for Sundays.

And after such a pleasant day spent in the slower-paced Kaimuki, one just might be brave enough to venture into the city for some Waikiki nightlife!

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The Made in Hawaii Festival honors and features all things Hawaiiana — island made and island proud. This year will mark the annual event’s 23rd installment and promises to be a festive time of food, fun, and community fellowship.

Get the Made in Hawaii Festival Event Details

Hosted by the Hawaii Food Industry Association, and made possible by the generosity of its sponsors First Hawaiian Bank, the Made in Hawaii Festival is a dazzling 3-day showcase of nearly 400 exhibitors, each presenting a smorgasbord of items unique to and produced in Hawaii. Attendees of this exciting event, which will be held August 18-20 (Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) at the Neal S. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall, can look forward to introductions to a wide range of Hawaii-made merchandise, including homegrown edible items, books, art, gifts, fashions, plants, crafts, produce and more.

Don’t Miss the Live Cooking Demonstrations and Music

Also to be enjoyed are live cooking demonstrations and entertainment by local island celebrities, the cream of the crop when it comes to both local cuisine and music! A few recognized names that will lend their names and incredible talents within the culinary realm include but are not limited to: Executive Chef Collin Hazama of Royal Hawaiian; Chef Ray German of Fish House at Four Seasons Resort Oahu; Executive Chef Russell Siu of 3660 On The Rise; Executive Chef Marc Freiberg of Mariposa at Neiman Marcus; Executive Chef Lee Anne Wong of Koko Head Café.

Not to be outdone are the locals who literally rock the stage when it comes to musical entertainment at the Made in Hawaii Festival. Representing the best of the melodic mele include such talents as Blayne Asinga, Maunalua, Natalie Ai Kamauu, Chad Takatsugi, Waimanalo Sunset Band, and more. And should you find yourself in need of a little laughter therapy? The hilarious Hawaii favorite Frank DeLima will be bringing giggles and smiles in ready supply.

See You There!

With an entire weekend of ʻono treats, island entertainment, and more than ample aloha to bless your heart, there’s just no reason not to join in the party! We look forward to seeing you there!

For more information, visit www.madeinhawaiifestival.com or www.hawaii.com/event/made-in-hawaii-festival.

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Hawaii is known worldwide as being a top destination, attracting visitors with its famed beaches and warm, tropical weather. But these heavenly islands also boast a bounty of aquatic adventures, and no one helps you make the most of the deep blue more than local company Hawaii Nautical.

With three convenient locations — operating out of West Oahu, Waikiki, and the Big Island’s Kona — Hawaii Nautical hosts a wide range of ocean excursions.

Ocean Life Sighted!

If you’re visiting the Big Island, try the Luxury Dolphin Sail and Snorkel, a half-day yacht adventure departing from Honokohau Harbor, where you will be served lunch and refreshments while experiencing some of the best snorkel spots of the Kona Coast, such as Pawai Bay and Makalawena.

Hawaii Nautical Handles Everything

And the greatest part? Hawaii Nautical handles everything, from providing snorkel gear to onboard cabins complete with private changing areas, restrooms, and fresh-water showers. You can even make this jaunt a private charter by purchasing all 6 of the yacht’s seats!

Travel the Kona Coast in Style

Another Big Island option is the 5-hour Kealakekua Sail and Snorkel, traversing Kealakekua Bay along the stunning Kona coastline, where participants will snorkel Kealakekua’s underwater marine sanctuary and glimpse the Captain Cook Monument. Dolphin and turtle sightings are a given and, during the season, so are humpback whales!

Whale Watch with Hawaii Nautical

And speaking of whale watching season, it officially kicks into high gear between the months of December and April, which is when you can hop aboard a Hawaii Nautical sailboat or power catamaran for a whale watch trip (available in both Waikiki and West Oahu) and witness thousands of whales’ migrations to the warm waters of the Aloha State (while noshing on yummy snacks!).

Set Sail on Oahu’s Wild West Side

When it comes to West Oahu adventures, Hawaii Nautical’s Dolphin Snorkel Sail sees guests setting sail on sleek catamarans for a 3-hour morning cruise, where they will enjoy a continental breakfast (and also a catered lunch!) while witnessing dolphins, turtles, and a myriad of other marine life, including whales in season. (The Waikiki location offers a similar Turtles Guaranteed trip that departs from Kewalo Basin Harbor).

A Disney Aulani Ocean Adventure

And for those island visitors staying at nearby Aulani Resort, an exclusive Disney Catamaran tour is offered a few days per week (call for exact days, as they change depending on the season), where you will sail aboard a brand new 65-ft. Gold Coast Catamaran, cruising along the leeward coast and witnessing Oahu’s stunning marine life during a guided snorkel jaunt. A lovely lunch, complete with a local ukulele player strumming tropical-inspired tunes is also included.

Fancy a scuba? Or a Dazzling Firework Display

And that’s not all! Fancy a scuba? Hawaii Nautical also offers the opportunity to cruise the scenic West Oahu coast to an array of dive locations, including wrecks, caves, and reefs — some of the best diving spots in Hawaii! They even offer transportation from select island hotels! Or how about watching a dazzling firework display from the water? You can do that with Hawaii Nautical, too!

A Truly Special Hawaii Memory

And if you want to make a truly special Hawaii memory, the company offers sailing vessels available for exclusive private charters. Options abound and are exciting as they are unique, so call today and let the knowledgeable staff help you handcraft an outing based on your specific Hawaiian dreams and wishes!

Visit the Hawaii Nautical website to book your ocean adventure.

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Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor is free, but it helps to line up tickets ahead of time. (Photo: Star-Advertiser)

Visiting Pearl Harbor is the #1 thing to do in Hawaii. The bombing of Pearl Harbor was the single most significant factor causing the United States to enter World War II and effectively change the course of history forever. Because of this, visiting ground zero of the Battle of Pearl Harbor has a great effect on people; those who visit tend to leave changed for the better.

All attractions at Pearl Harbor are at-cost except for the USS Arizona Memorial. Free tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial can be obtained in three different ways, and we’ve done our best to guide you through the somewhat cumbersome process below.

Although there are 1,300 free tickets available daily, due to high demand there are often more people than free tickets and not everyone gets to visit the USS Arizona Memorial that day. For this reason, we encourage booking a guided tour. Guided tours include guaranteed tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial. This allows you to bypass the ticket line and secures your seat on the shuttle boat to the USS Arizona Memorial.

Skip the free tickets and purchase a guided Pearl Harbor tour.

1. Walk-in to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center Before 7:00 am.

1,300 walk-in tickets are available daily on a first come, first served basis at the Visitor Center. We recommend arriving before 7:00 am to increase your chances of receiving a ticket. We can’t stress this enough. Someone wrote us once that they saved Pearl Harbor for the last day of their family vacation. They showed up too late, and all the tickets were gone. They traveled all that way, were so close, and never got to visit the Arizona Memorial. Don’t let that be your story! Please plan ahead, or simply purchase a tour.

As the early birds receive their tickets, they usually begin filling up the morning tours. That being said, you may need to wait a few hours for your USS Arizona Memorial tour. In the meantime, you can visit the other attractions (USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the Pacific Aviation Museum) or explore the exhibits and store.

2. Book online at 7:00 am for the next day.

Every day at 7:00 am, a limited number of “next day” USS Arizona Memorial tickets are released. They can be booked by visiting www.recreation.gov.

Please note: There is a non-refundable $1.00 convenience fee per reserved ticket. Reservations are limited to 12 tickets per person per day. It is suggested that you arrive an hour before your ticket time in order to pick-up your tickets. A minimum of five to ten minutes is required. If you are late, you may forfeit your free USS Arizona Memorial tickets to walk-in customers on standby.

3. Book online up to 2 months in advance.

You can visit www.recreation.gov to book free tickets to see the USS Arizona Memorial. You are allowed to book as far in advance as 2 months. The only problem is that these tickets sell out fast. We recommend you set a reminder for yourself 2 months before you’d like to visit. If you wait too long to book, the tickets might be sold out.

For example, today is August 23, and the next available tickets are not until September 26. Tickets on the day of October 23 are nearly sold out; all morning tours are sold out leaving only afternoon options available.

Please note: There is a non-refundable $1.50 convenience fee per reserved ticket. Reservations are limited to 12 tickets per person per day. It is suggested that you arrive an hour before your ticket time in order to pick-up your tickets. A minimum of five to ten minutes is required. If you are late, you may forfeit your free USS Arizona Memorial tickets to walk-in customers on standby.

Skip the free tickets and purchase a guided Pearl Harbor tour.

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