Hawaiian islands are the world’s most famous tropical chain of islands formed due to volcanic activity in the Pacific ocean. The archipelago is made of 132 islands stretching over 1500 miles with the most accessible ones being the following:
Oahu (read below) and for water adventures refer here
Maui refer here
Big Island
Kauai
Lanai
Molokai
Hawaii is often stereotyped as a honeymoon destination, but this island has many activities to be enjoyed with friends and family. We went in a group of four friends exploring Hawaii’s unique charm of the natural wonders, cultural heritage and places of historical significance.
On this vacation, we immersed ourselves in the Hawaiian traditions with their cultural events night, enjoyed their local produce of pineapple delicacies, paid homage to the historic site of pearl harbor, explored the underwater world to visit our marine friends and much more. Read more about our exciting and thrilling water adventures in Oahu here.
1. Luau Dance: A trip to Hawaii is just about incomplete without enjoying their beautiful cultural Luau dances, fire shows and making Leis (garland of orchids). We enjoyed these activities while relishing a 3-course dinner (includes vegetarian options) and sipping Mai Tais. It was indeed a great way to indulge in luxury and acquaint oneself to the Hawaiian culture.
Link for bookings: https://www.diamondheadbeachluau.com/
VIP seats: $159 per person including dinner, 4 drink tickets, Hawaiian village activities and admission to Waikiki Aquarium.
2. Tropical Delicacies These islands are well-known for their year-round delicious fruits and Thai food trucks. Food trucks do a great job of providing economical, good quality food with attractive seating arrangements.
From a variety of brunches and dinners, what stood out the most are:
Opal Thai : A unique Thai dinner place where Opal (name of the owner) got us talking about our tastes, likes and dislikes of Thai dishes, veg/non-veg preferences and simply didn't let us order from the menu. He surprised us with his selection of Thai dishes which were sumptuous! Upon further research, we found that he often surprises his customers with his choice of dishes, which are a MUST TRY in north Oahu.
3. Diamond Head: If you are looking for a spot to capture panoramic views of the island and coral waters, this hike is for you! We started late afternoon at around 4 pm. Since we did not have a rental car we requested our snorkel troop to drop us at the start point.
It is a moderate trail with steep stairs. The round trip from the parking to summit and back will take ~2-3 hours. To read the history about this trail click here.
4. Pearl Harbor: Driving 30 mins west from Waikiki, our visit to this historic site of USS war memorial was impactful! We spent a few hours here learning about the tragic incidents of WWII. The remains of the submarine are still visible through the shallow waters.
There are five sites at this location and tickets can be easily purchased at the entry point. Self-guided three-hour tour will cost around 20$ per person. This attraction is closest to the airport (~3 miles) and hence can be best planned on the day of arrival/return from HNL airport.
5. Byodo In Temple: A calm and serene Japanese temple known as the ‘Valley of Temples’ is located at the foothills of the Ko'olau Mountains; with beautiful weather amidst the valleys.
The drive to this temple is very scenic and often crosses the mountain ranges. It is an excellent location to meditate and appreciate the beauty and peace of a temple on this tropical island.
6. Dole Plantation: If you have a spare day in hand and are thinking to explore some more regions of the island, a visit to dole plantation may turn eventful; especially if traveling with kids. Couples and younger groups may skip this and instead indulge in one of the water excursions (read here)
The entry to the plantation is $11.50 for adults. If visiting, prefer weekdays and morning time slots to avoid huge lines for train tours. The train will take through the farms to see the seedlings, semi-grown pineapples and narrate the history of the Dole plantation
After our 5 day visit, we agree to why millions of travelers dream about visiting the Hawaiian islands from all over the world. It is truly a charming destination that will turn you to an ‘Aquaholic’.
Download this one pager to take along to your next trip to Oahu
~ Nomadic Traveler ~
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