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- Beautiful coral reef and abundance of marine life
- Snorkeling
- Swimming & sunbathing
Hanauma Bay Beach Park on the southern shores of Oahu was named the best beach in the United State in 2004. The beach is a protected cove with a stretch of white sand and tall palm ... moretrees. Because of the shape of the bay, the water is mostly kept calm providing ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling and also making it very accommodating for kids of all ages. No surfing or body boarding is allowed on the beach.
The curved bay had been declared a protected marine wildlife conservation area and underwater park in 1967. A rich coral reef extends throughout the cove and into deeper water. The marine life is diverse and abundant, making snorkeling and scuba diving, particularly fun and exciting. As a protected site, visitors watch a short video of the bay's history and wildlife before entering the beach. The bay floor is the crater of an ancient volcano that flooded as the exterior walls collapsed letting the ocean water rush in.
The bay is often full and finding parking can sometimes be difficult. Most amenities can be found at the beach. Gift shops also provide the opportunity for obtaining souvenir. Non-Hawaiian residents have to pay an entrance charge of $7.50 dollar, which is waived for Hawaiian residents, children under 12 and active military persons. Opening hours of the beach is at 6:00 am daily with the exception of Tuesdays when the beach is closed.
As a protected marine conservation area, no fishing is permitted neither is it allowed alcohol on the beach or intervening with the marine life. The sun is quite blistering at the beach therefore it is recommended having sun glasses, sun cream and other such items.
Type: Beach, Geological Feature
Features: Bathroom, Drinking water, Equipment rentals, Food for purchase, Lifeguards, Lockers / storage, Parking, Picnic tables, Showers, Wheelchair access
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- Spectacular view of the surrounding
- Hiking to the top
- Learning about the history of Diamond Head
Type: Geological Feature, Hike, Mountain, Park, Scenic Lookout, Volcano, Landmark
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- Spectalar moments watching The Eddie competition
- Jumping of the Waimea cliff
- Body boarding and snorkeling
Waimea Bay has become renowned worldwide since the 1950's when adventurous surfers challenged the powerful waves that forms on its coast, hence giving birth to the big wave-riding ... morephenomenon. Waves at Waimea Bay can reach 20 feet or more in height. Surfers from all over the world gather at the location in the months of November through February, the big wave season, to take part in the thrill and excitement.
Waimea Bay is home to the Quicksilver competition, in honor of Eddie Aikau, a legendary Hawaiian Waterman. The Quiksilver contest only takes place during massive swells. Several other famous competitions take place at Waimea Bay or the beaches in the vicinity. One such competition is the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing also known as the Super Bowl of surfing which happens between the months of November and December.
Despite being renowned for the big waves and surfing competitions at its beach, Waimea Bay is also a beautiful place to enjoy the beach. During the summer months, the water is calm and give the perfect opportunity to swim in the crystal clear blue waters or undertake any other water activities such as canoeing, scuba-diving, wind surfing and more.
Exploring the surrounding is another experience. Not far is the town of Haleiwa with shops and restaurant. A botanical garden and cultural attraction can be found nearby in Waimea valley and is home to very beautiful Waimea Falls. Waimea Bay nevertheless, still attracts surfers from all over the world seeking excitement and adventure and to take part in the most famous competitions in surfing.
In other seasons, the beach provides the perfect conditions for body boarding or body surfing. Another activity that is often undertaken is cliff diving from the popular 'Waimea cliff".
Overlooking Waimea Bay Beach Park is the Saints Peter and Paul Church, a popular landmark on the North Shores of Oahu. It can easily be seen from the beach. Humpback whales and dolphins can also be spotted particularly at dawn from the beach. The beach also has a nice grassy area, which is great for playing football or just relaxing in the shade of trees when it is too hot.
Nearby Waimea Bay Beach Park is also other attractions such as the Botanical garden home to the beautiful Waimea Falls. The town of Haleiwa is also not very far when shop, restaurant provides the opportunity to have some wonderful time. You may also want to try the famous cool shave ice.
Type: Beach, Park, Scenic Lookout
Features: Bathroom, Drinking water, Lifeguards, Parking, Picnic tables, Showers
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- Very nice beach entertainment in the evenings
- Nice waters for body boarding and kayaking
- Nice shops and restaurants
Waikiki beach is located on the south shore of Oahu. It is one of the most popular beaches visited water sport enthusiasts from all over the world. The name of the beach in Hawaiian ... moremeans "sprouting water". The beach stretched for two miles and is coated with beautiful white sand and a backdrop of hotels, restaurants, various shops and beach bars.
Being very popular, the beach is a bit crowded and parking can be difficult to find. All sorts of activities are undertaken at the beach, but the most popular are, surf boarding, kayaking, swimming, an snorkeling. Equipment for rent can also be found for the various water sports. You may also be able to take surf lessons. Waikiki Beach provides activities for all ages, families with children will find a variety of organized activities for kids and teenagers.
The waters in Waikiki Beach are primarily calm and protected by reefs. There is a long shelf which makes it possible to wade out a good distance. The beach is two miles long consists of several sections which have their own name. On the west side is Kahanamoku Beach, also the widest stretch of Waikiki Beach, Kuhio Beach is close to the Kapahulu Groin (also known as The Wall). Queen's surf beach is found east of Kuhio Beach and is a very popular boy boarder site. Kaimana Beach is then found further east and is very nice for swimming having a sandy ocean bottom.
Waikiki Beach has all the facilities of a modern beach and the convenience of being located near resorts, restaurants, and gift shops. The Honolulu Zoo, the Waikiki Aquarium and the Kapiolani Park can be found on the east side of the beach, and Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon is at the west end of the beach.
Type: Attraction, Beach, Historic, Landmark
Features: Bathroom, Equipment rentals, Food for purchase, Lifeguards, Parking, Picnic tables, Showers
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- Beautiful view of the mountain and Chinaman's Hat
- Spectacular green wall
- Apua fishpond
Just at the edge of Kane'ohe Bay off of Kamehameha Highway, on the Windward side of the island is Kualoa Regional Park. This is a perfect location for having a relaxing time at the ... morebeach. It is never crowded, the water is calm and you have stunning views of the Kualoa Mountains and Chinaman's Hat. The location itself is considered as being sacred by the ancient Hawaiians since whale bones used to wash on shore in the location. The bones were used for making jewelry and valuable tools. In Hawaiian, Kualoa means "long ancestral background". Hawaiian chiefs used to bring their children to the park to teach them about their heritage and tradition. Today, the park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Kualoa has a very narrow beach and a shallow ocean bottom near the shore with some rocky patches. There is a very little reef area. It does not ideal for swimming. You should also keep a look out for the Portuguese-Man-of-War (Jellyfish) and the stinging limu (seaweed). High surf and strong current are possible, so, you should always monitor the ocean conditions. On the south end of the park, there is a stone barrier which makes it a very nice area for a dip. Two ancient Hawaiian fishponds, Moli'i and Apua, can also be found there. About 30 campsites are located in the park. A permit is required if you want to use the camping site.
The main attraction of the Kualoa Regional Park is the beautiful view of Mokoli'i Island (Chinaman's Hat), the nickname was given because the island looks a bit like a coolie hat when watched from offshore. Kualoa Regional Park also has a very large grassy area perfect for a picnic. All throughout the park are scattered ironwood and wiliwili groves and paved paths that go all the way to Apua fishpond and the Ancient Molii Pond.
Kualoa Regional Park is a great escape for recreation, big parking space, many parallel beaches, restrooms, showers, Kualoa ranch is just across the street if you want to buy a snack or go horseback riding. The area is always nice, and breezy being surrounded by mountains from all sides. It is also very popular with tourists.
Type: Beach, Park, Scenic Lookout
Features: Bathroom, Camping, Food for purchase, Parking, Picnic tables, Showers
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- Pineapple garden maze
- Insight on various fruits and plants grown in the region
- Scenic tour of the surounding
Dole Plantation began in 1950 as it operated as a food stand. Since, it has become a very popular attraction on Oahu. Visitors of the Dole Pineapple Plantation can experience a fun ... moreday trip and learn about the history of pineapples in Hawaii. Everything from the agricultural aspect, the soil chemistry, and the tale of James Dole.
Dole Pineapple Plantation is but two miles away from the town of Haleiwa and a
45 minutes drive from Honolulu. The train ride to the plantation offers the opportunity or some scenic views which can leave you breathless.
The Pineapple Garden Maze, which obtained the spotlight in the Guinness Book of Records as the biggest maze in the world can also be seen at Dole Plantation. Going through the maze made of green hedges, twists and turns can have you painfully seeking the way
out! The maze covers more than two acres and incorporates 1.5 miles long.
Many different activities can be undertaken while at the plantation. The garden tour will have you explore many other plants and trees, some native to the region others brought to the country. They include, bananas, cacao, coffee, papaya, mango and lei flowers.
The
plantation also has a visitor center where snacks and drinks can be obtained or simply for relaxing. A gift shop provides the perfect opportunity for obtaining pineapple-related gifts and other souvenirs. It is thought that the first pineapples were planted on the island when a
shipwreck coming from Mexico brought with it plants, tools, garments and pineapples. From then on, Spanish explorers started growing pineapples and other fruits. Jim Dole, then pioneered the pineapple industry and established the Dole Pineapple Plantation in Hawaii.
Various
activities are organized on the plantation subject to a small fee. Some
of the activities even include a stop to Pearl Harbor or scenic excursions of the surrounding. Dole Pineapple Plantation is world famous and a distinct attraction of Oahu, Hawaii.
Type: Botanical Garden, Cultural, Historic, Plantation / Ranch
Features: Bathroom, Food for purchase, Parking, Wheelchair access
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- Scenic outlook from the tower
- Gourmet dining at the Alowa Marketplace restaurants
- Nice shops to visit
The Aloha Tower is a landmark in downtown Honolulu. It is well recognized as a welcome symbol for tourists arriving in Honolulu Harbor. It was built between the wars and officially ... moreopened in 1926 at Honolulu Harbor's ninth pier. When it was built, it was the tallest structure in Hawaii at the time standing ten stories high and an extra 40 feet of the flag pole.
The tower itself has a square shape and is slender. It is topped by a dome that has an opening on all four sides. Just under the dome are two very big clocks one of which faces the harbor while the other faces inland and between them is written in big character that can be seen from miles "ALOHA". Surrounding the tower is the Aloha Tower Marketplace. Many quaint shops, and restaurants can be found in the marketplace which makes it a very interesting place to hang around after having visited the tower.
During the 1920's until the 1930's, when the tower had been built, passengers arriving in the harbor were greeted by hula dancers, thousands of colorful streamers and performances by the Royal Hawaiian Band in what was known as "boat days".
Boat days were a very big deal, the entire harbor was permeated with flowers; there were musicians playing, young men diving for coins tossed overboard by tourists.
Inside the tower, visitors obtain panoramic views of Honolulu Harbor and the surrounding areas. The observation deck is on the tenth floor. You'll have to take a small vintage elevator to get there, but it is quite small. You might want to avoid the ride if you're claustrophobic.
Today, many events take place on the tower's just adjacent to the Marketplace complex all throughout the year. Tours are also organized on a daily basis. The Aloha Tower played an important role after the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor which led to the defensive positioning of Coast Guardsmen at the tower to protect it from being occupied.
Type: Attraction, Scenic Lookout
Features: Bathroom, Food for purchase
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- 80 Feet High Waterfall
- Surrounded by Dense Forest and High Cliffs
- Accessible Only through Helicopter
Sacred Falls is nestled in dense forest and
surrounded by lush green vegetation and hill rocks. It gets its name from a
massive 1,370-acre state park in which it is situated. It is ... morea beautiful
and enchanting 80 high (24m) high waterfall that drops into a water pool below.
Due to its unparalleled beauty, it was once the most popular waterfall in the
entire Island of Oahu before an unforgettable tragedy struck in 1999.
On Mother's
Day of 1999, a lot of people had gathered in the narrow Sacred Valley to celebrate the occasion
when all of sudden, boulders and collapsed from surrounding cliffs collapsed
into the valley. Due to the narrow track, people were unable to escape and as a
result, 8 of them died at the spot and almost 50 were seriously injured. The Hawaiian government closed the park to the general
public after that instances and there is no chance that it will open in near
future. Therefore, the helicopter tour is the only way to site this beautiful
fall.
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- 2 mile Scenic Hike
- 500 foot Climb in Elevation
- Ocean looks Turquoise from Here
Located within the 38-acre Makapuʻu Point State Wayside
Park, is the Makapu'u Lookout. The trail leads from the former Coast Guard
residential area to the summit on a relatively easy ... moresandy path.
From the summit, visitors can watch for
whales from November to April using the provided telescope or their own
binoculars. If it is a clear day, it is sometimes possible to see the blowholes
on Makapu’u Head’s rocky shore from the summit. On almost any clear day,
visitors can see magnificent sea cliffs, Visitors can also often see Makapu’u
Beach Park, Rabbit Island, and Kaohikaipu Island.
Visitors to the park can also take another
short hike to see the Makapu’u Lighthouse. This path starting near the same
trailhead also offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Type: Hike, Scenic Lookout, Landmark
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- Very nice for strolls
- Great for picnic
- Great for camping
Waimanalo Beach Park covers five miles on the windward side of Oahu. The beach has beautiful white sand, the ocean water is crystal clear, it attracts visitors and locals alike as ... moreit is considered as one of one of the best beaches in the area. All along the beach makes for the perfect setting for taking a stroll. Ironwood trees line up all along the beach providing plenty of shade. The beach is at the foot of the Koolau Mountain range that offers the perfect backdrop for pictures.
Waimanalo Beach Park is most popular for sunbathing, swimming, picnics, camping, and beach walks. The reef provides a natural shield from the surf, but beyond the reef is great body boarding and surfing spot. Caution must be taken when entering the water because often the shore break can be quite powerful. During the winter period, if you are camping, bring along a light jacket because when the wind is blowing, it can be quite chilly.
The beach is often empty during weekdays, but can get crowded on weekends. Underwater the view can be quite magnificent, Beautiful coral reef and marine life makes for the perfect snorkeling opportunity. Snorkels would often trick the fish to come out of their hiding place by standing still for a few minutes. The fish are very friendly and often would swim very close.
Waimanalo Beach was the location where Magnum P.I. was filmed. Famous author James Michener wrote the novel Waimanalo taking inspiration from the beach. The beach is also a favorite place for couples recently married. The scenic surrounding makes for very nice wedding pictures.
Features: Bathroom, Camping, Lifeguards, Parking, Picnic tables, Showers
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