In 2019 went on our first holiday to Hawaii visiting the Island of Oahu. The island has so much to offer from war history to nature spots, you will find so many things to do and see.
How to travel around the Island
There are a few different sources of transport you can use to get yourself around the Island. We used the local bus while we were staying in Waikiki area, the bus tickets were US5.25 per adult for an all day ticket and were easy to use. Also hired a car to drive ourselves around the Island while we staying at North Shore. Driving around the Island is pretty easy, the roads are well maintained and only hit traffic if there is road works or driving into downtown Waikiki/ Honolulu
Things to do in Waikiki and surrounds
Aloha Stadium– holds a local swap meet every weekend which is a great place to pick up local crafts and souvenirs which are a lot cheaper then the stores at Waikiki beach area.
Waikele Premium Outlets-.If you decide to go to the outlets you can get a savings passport at the information booth by showing our passport.
Pearl Harbor War Memorial– You are able to access the memorial with the local bus network, the stop you will get off is the Arizona memorial. On arrival you join the line and walk through to the ticket booth to receive your free ticket, they hand out 1000 free walk up tickets each day, if you weren’t able to reserve a time online. We found this very easy and didn’t need to get there as early as we did as the crowds were not huge.
Diamond Head State Monument – A fantastic hike to the top of a 300,00 year old volcano crater, with provides you with amazing views over the Island. Entry is $5 per car or $1 per person if you walk in.
Recommended Places to dine in Waikiki
Rainbow Drive In – Great local spot for Hawaiian plate lunch
Dukes Waikiki – Good beachfront restaurant, very busy so be prepared to wait awhile for a table
Egg n Things Saratoga – Busy breakfast spot, great menu range
Things to do North and South Shore
Dole Plantation – Offer several different ticket options, we opted for a combo ticket for the Pineapple outdoor Maze and Pineapple express train which takes you on a narrated 20 minute train journey where you learn the history of the plantation and see where they harvest the pineapples. Make sure to try the famous dole whip, very refreshing on a hot day.
Sharks Cove – Great place for some easy snorkeling, free parking, It’s sheltered from the waves which makes it safe for children and lots of tropical fish to see
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve– One of the most popular places to snorkel on the Island. The entry fee of US7.50 per adult valid for 1 day. If you are driving here, i would plan to arrive as soon as it opens as the parking lot fills up first, otherwise you can get street parking at the bottom of the hill of the main highway.
Kualoa Ranch – Private 4,000 acre ranch, which is home to many famous movie locations. We did the ATV bike tour of some of the ranch and its famous movie sites, which was a lot of fun.
Recommended Places to Dine North & South Shore
Ted’s Bakery – Nice local spot for lunch, make sure to try the famous Choloate Haupia Cream Pie
Kona Brewing Company – Great spot for drinks or a meal. Try the pizza’s they are delicous.
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