OAHU
OAHU…The Gathering Place
Oahu is the third largest Hawaiian island, yet it is home to 75% of the state’s population. Because of its fine harbors, Oahu became the political, economic, military, educational and cultural center for the state. By 1850 the Hawaiian royal court had moved permanently to Honolulu, which has since been the seat of government for the monarchy, republic, territory and state.
While many visitors to Oahu only experience the sprawling International Airport or the high-rise hotels and beaches of Waikiki, there are a true variety of environments on the island, including the rugged natural beauty of the Koolau Mountains, the beautiful natural beaches and huge waves of the North Shore and the many small towns that line the coast of both the Windward and Leeward sides.
One of the most well-know views on Oahu is Diamond Head, the distinctive shape that just out to the sea that is visible from Waikiki’s beaches. Also iconic to Honolulu are the Iolani Palace, formerly home to Hawaii’s last reigning monarch and the “Pink Palace”, the classic Sheraton Royal Hawaiian Hotel that was one of the first guest accommodations on Waikiki Beach.
Some highlights of Oahu include:
Pearl Harbor: Immortalized in the sneak attack on December 7th, 1941 that started WWII in the Pacific, this major attraction offers trips to the Arizona Memorial, tours aboard the “Mighty Mo,” the battleship Missouri and the chance to go aboard the Skipjack, a WWI submarine.
The Polynesian Cultural Center: One of Oahu’s favorite attractions because it offers intimate glimpses to Polynesia’s many cultures. There are villages representing life and crafts from Hawaii, Samoa, Maori New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, The Marquesas and Tonga. Evenings feature an authentic luau feast and a show featuring dance and music from all the represented cultures.
The North Shore: Anchored by the picturesque surfing town of Haleiwa, this peaceful area locals call “The Country” gains national prominence every winter when waves as big as 30 feet pound well-known surfing spots like Waimea Bay, Sunset and Banzai Pipeline. During the time the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing competition is underway the population swells with spectators and championship surfers from all over the globe.
Waikiki: This area of Honolulu, with its luxury hotels and high-rise condominiums, draws visitors from around the world. Walk its crowded streets for impeccable shopping and dining, including the newly completed Beachwalk area.
Oahu is the third largest Hawaiian island, yet it is home to 75% of the state’s population. Because of its fine harbors, Oahu became the political, economic, military, educational and cultural center for the state. By 1850 the Hawaiian royal court had moved permanently to Honolulu, which has since been the seat of government for the monarchy, republic, territory and state.
While many visitors to Oahu only experience the sprawling International Airport or the high-rise hotels and beaches of Waikiki, there are a true variety of environments on the island, including the rugged natural beauty of the Koolau Mountains, the beautiful natural beaches and huge waves of the North Shore and the many small towns that line the coast of both the Windward and Leeward sides.
One of the most well-know views on Oahu is Diamond Head, the distinctive shape that just out to the sea that is visible from Waikiki’s beaches. Also iconic to Honolulu are the Iolani Palace, formerly home to Hawaii’s last reigning monarch and the “Pink Palace”, the classic Sheraton Royal Hawaiian Hotel that was one of the first guest accommodations on Waikiki Beach.
Some highlights of Oahu include:
Pearl Harbor: Immortalized in the sneak attack on December 7th, 1941 that started WWII in the Pacific, this major attraction offers trips to the Arizona Memorial, tours aboard the “Mighty Mo,” the battleship Missouri and the chance to go aboard the Skipjack, a WWI submarine.
The Polynesian Cultural Center: One of Oahu’s favorite attractions because it offers intimate glimpses to Polynesia’s many cultures. There are villages representing life and crafts from Hawaii, Samoa, Maori New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, The Marquesas and Tonga. Evenings feature an authentic luau feast and a show featuring dance and music from all the represented cultures.
The North Shore: Anchored by the picturesque surfing town of Haleiwa, this peaceful area locals call “The Country” gains national prominence every winter when waves as big as 30 feet pound well-known surfing spots like Waimea Bay, Sunset and Banzai Pipeline. During the time the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing competition is underway the population swells with spectators and championship surfers from all over the globe.
Waikiki: This area of Honolulu, with its luxury hotels and high-rise condominiums, draws visitors from around the world. Walk its crowded streets for impeccable shopping and dining, including the newly completed Beachwalk area.
