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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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- 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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- Scenic view of the surrounding
- Spotting humpback whales and the Hawaiian green turtles
- Great for diving when the water is calm
The Halona Blow-hole located on the island of Oahu off of Hanauma Bay is a rock formation and a blow-hole formed by underwater lava which took the form of a tube and has an opening ... moreon both sides of it. As the ocean water enters the tube, the pressure increases as the tube narrows such that the water shoots upward into the air sometimes to a high of 30 feet or more. The Halona Blow-hole is a popular attraction. The location is very scenic, there are steep cliffs and fantastic views.
The blow-hole is most active during high tide. It is also the best location to go and look out for humpback whales or Honu (the Hawaiian green turtle). When there is no surf and a light northerly wind blowing, diving is possible along the coast. If the waves are breaking, it is recommended to dive elsewhere. The tidal change produces very strong currents known as 'Molokai Express" that can drag a person out to sea. Some persons have lost their life trying to sit on the blow-hole or trying to hold parts of their body into the stream of water. The area is quite dangerous, so it is best to be careful and stay at the lookout point and enjoy the view from a safe distance.
The Hawaiian name Halona means "peering place". On a very nice day, the view can be very fantastic. From far off on the horizon, the islands of Molokai, Maui and Lanai can be seen. To the right of the blow-hole is located Halona Cove, a small sandy beach that is perfect for swimming when the surf is calm. The site is also known for the famous love scene of Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr in the film "From here to eternity".
Type: Attraction, Geological Feature
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- The Amida Buddah
- The meditation pavillon
- The various wild life
Located on the island of O'ahu, Hawaii, The Byodo-In Temple at the foot of the Ko'olau mountains had been established on the 7th of June 1968 to
commemorate the 100th anniversary of ... morethe first Japanese immigrants arrival to the island. The temple is a smaller replica of the 900 years old Byodo-in Temple in Uji, Japan, which has been designated as a United Nations world heritage site.
The temple is a non-practicing Buddhist temple where people of any faith can go for worship, meditation, or to admire its beauty. The temple has a three meter lotus Buddah inside which is covered in gold and lacquer. The Amida Buddah is thought to be the largest figure carved outside Japan. The hall and the entire artistry reflects the essence of the culture of the Fujiwara aristocracy. On the outside, a large brass peace bell can be seen and the temple is surrounded by Koi ponds covering an area of 8000 square meters.
A
plush landscape gives a sense of serenity and tranquility. wildlife in the surrounding includes peacock, black swans, turtles, and other animals. The Byodo-In Temple has gained increased popularity as many sequences of famous TV series had been filmed there including: Hawaii Five-O, House of the Rising Sun, ABC series Lost and many others. Various events can be organized at the temple such as weddings, concerts, funerals, classes and so on. The Byodo-In temple is a landmark of Hawaii reflects all of Hawaiian heritage.
Type: Attraction, Cultural, Historic, Temple, Landmark
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- Predominantly mormon community.
- Polynesian Cultural center, the most paid visitor attraction in Hawaii, is located here.
- The La'ie Hawaii temple, found in La'ie, is the 5th oldest mormon temple in the world.
Just between Hau’ula and Kahuku lies a small town on the northeastern shore of Oahu, by the name of La’ie. It is mainly a residential community and has a population of 6,138 as per ... morethe 2010 census over an area of 2.1 sq. miles, resulting in a population density of 2,900 people per mile. The zip code used for this town is 96762.
La’ie was a pu’uhonua, a sanctuary for fugitives long ago. The name La’ie actually means the leaf (La) of a certain type of plant called a screwpine (Freycinetia arborea). This plant was considered to be sacred to Kane, the god of the Earth, god of life and god of forests.
The community is predominantly mormon, and the cultural attractions of the town include the Mormon temple located here, the La’ie Hawaii temple, which is the 5th oldest mormon temple in all the world. The Polynesian Cultural center, a large open museum and park which features the cultures of seven Polynesian island nations. It is the most paid visitor attraction in all of Hawaii and also the state’s largest living museum. Also located here is the Hawaii campus of Brigham Young University. A small shopping square can also be found.
One thing you should definitely check out, however, is La’ie point (or Laniloa point), which is a lithified dune protruding out into the ocean. To get there, take the Kamehameha Highway onto Anemoku Street toward the ocean. Take a right, and follow Napaka street till the very end. Accompanying this dune, will be two other lithified dunes, namely Kukuihoolua and Mokualai, which lie just offshore. Close by, you can find Pounders beach (La’ie Beach Park) and Hukilau beach.
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- A Fun and Refreshing Waterfall Swim
- A Short and Easy Yet Sensational Hike
- Beautiful Botanical Garden
As the highlight of Waimea Valley, the 45-foot tall Waimea Falls offers the amazing experience of swimming at a Hawaiian waterfall. Mountain waters rumble down a rocky cliff into a ... morecool pond where you can escape the hot Hawaiian sun. A short hike through lush Hawaiian rainforest will have you seeing native plants and flowers, native sites, and much more! Snap amazing photos of plants you can only find in Hawaii, and learn about the wealth of cultural history that can be found on the way to the breathtaking Waimea Falls.
2 million years of wind and rain helped carve out Waimea Valley where the majestic Waimea Falls sits. Ancient Hawaiians grew crops in the fertile soils of the valley, and ancient temples, or Heiaus, were first introduced in this area around the 12th century. The area of Waimea on Oahu was once a very spiritual place to ancient Hawaiians, and is one of the few places where you can experience Hawaii’s rich cultural past! Ancient Hawaiians used Waimea Falls for ancient games of skill by climbing the slippery rocks of the falls and for breath-holding contests!
Features: Bathroom, Drinking water, Food for purchase, Lifeguards, Parking
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- 45 feet high Waimea Falls
- Botanical garden with more than 5000 plant species
- 78 Archeological sites for history lovers
The Waimea Valley is indeed the most beautiful
place on the island of Oahu and it makes you understand the meaning of your
earthly existence. It is a massive natural park that spreads ... moreover an area of 1800 acres. The visit to
this place enables you to appreciate the nature and learn more about Hawaiian history
and culture. The park is also a natural sanctuary for rare plants and birds
exclusive to Hawaii.
The
park also contains 78 archeological sites that unveil the living style and
culture of ancient people of Hawaii. These sites include fishing area, shrines,
houses, religious sites and agricultural farms etc. Storyboard displays present
at some of the excavated sites explain the history and significance of that particular
site. Tourists can indulge in many activities that continue with the cultural
theme such as local Hawaiian games, Hula lessons, history walks, kapa
demonstrations, lei making, listening to music, making stories with kupa and
arts and crafts.
The
park also offers a spectacularly beautiful botanical garden with rare
collection for lovers of natural beauty. There are more than 5000 species of tropical
and subtropical plants including endangered native plants as well.
However,
the 45 feet
Waimea falls is the most popular attraction of the park. The water falling form
such an height creates an absorbing and mystic atmosphere enough to captivate
the watchers. You can also enjoy swimming in cool and crystal clear waters of
the pool.
Type: Attraction, Botanical Garden, Geological Feature, Hike, Mountain, Park, Scenic Lookout, Waterfall
Features: Drinking water, Showers
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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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- Great for surfing very powerful waves
- Beautiful coral reef, nice for snorkeling
- Swimming
Sunset beach on the north shore of Oahu offers a combination of nice surfing conditions, beautiful sun and soft nice sand at the beach. The sand is golden, and there are palm trees ... morethat line up the beach providing shade. In the summer the water is calm and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. A tide pool also can be seen where people often collect shells and observe marine life. The best place to snorkel is in the offshore tide pool around the protected area of the beach.
The winter period is most active. Many surfers converge to Sunset beach which is a world famous beach. Waves can reach 30 feet high, there are very powerful currents. The currents known as Sunset Rip runs on every big swell. Many well known international surfing competitions take place at the beach. Sunset Beach is not the place for beginners. The powerful current sucks back the water with great force that it could potentially hurl inexperienced surfers deep into the ocean.
Sunset Beach is about 2 miles long not very far to two other popular surfing beaches, Ehukai Beach and the Banzai pipeline. The powerful current is such that you may enter the water in a certain area, and just a few minutes later find yourself further down the beach. There are different amenities including lifeguards. Sunset beach is also a very nice place for watching the sunset, which is also the reason the beach was given the name Sunset Beach.
Features: Bathroom, Lifeguards, Parking, Showers
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- Koko crater
- Look out for humpback whales and turtles
- Diving and swimming
Halona Beach Cove on the south-eastern shore of Oahu at the foot of Koko Crater is a beach that gained popularity after the shooting of the movie "From here to eternity" on the location ... morein 1953. The beach is small and sandy pocketed on three side by steep, jagged lava rock. The site offers an ideal location for swimming but caution must be taken and not attempt swimming when the surf is rough. Outside of the protected area, the current can often be quite strong and the water turbulent.
The beach is hidden from view from the parking. Access requires going down a steep path. Although the path is easy, care should be taken as the rocks are slippery and sharp. You should always wear shoes has you hike the rocks to reach the beach. There are no lifeguards or any facilities except for parking.
During the winter season, the location is the ideal place for spotting humpback whales as they go on their journey leaving the North Pacific. Hawaiian green turtles can also be seen swimming about. With light northerly winds blowing on the surf, diving is possible but should not be undertaken when the wave is breaking. The tidal waves change erratically forming strong current known as Moloka'i that can drag divers out to sea.
Just a few walking distance from the beach is Koko crater which is a massive cinder cone that visually dominates the area. Horse stables can be found within the crater. West of the beach cove is a rocky point known as Bamboo ridge. The location is a popular fishing spot since the 1920's. The name was given after the fisherman bamboo fishing poles which could be seen along the edge of the cliff in the past.
Type: Beach, Geological Feature, Historic
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