Welcome to the island of Oahu, a charming mix of ancient beauty spots dotted along a rugged coastline, a vibrant art and music scene, and home to arguably the best surf spots in Hawaii. Take a historical pilgrimage to Pearl Harbor, browse the boutiques and beach-front eateries of Waikiki, and spot green sea turtles at the popular Hanauma Bay.
Art and cultureRich in history, with a vibrant art scene, the spirit of Aloha is certainly thriving in Oahu. The variety of ethnicities and the blend of the old Hawaiian traditions and modern influences create an exciting atmosphere, which is reflected in the scene you’ll discover here, especially in the arts district of Chinatown.
The region on Honolulu offers historical monuments and vibrant activities on every corner. Native Hawaiian history is celebrated throughout the cities with landmarks such as The King Kamehameha I Statue, and Iolani Palace, where the last of the Hawaiian royalty resided.
What to see and do
From the chilled out surf scene along the North Shore to the vibrant nightlife of Waikiki, visitors to Oahu can spend their days delving into the culture of the island with the must see memorials of Pearl Harbor that are dotted aroundthe Central region, or lacing up their walking boots for hikes to the scenic Nuuanu Pali lookout on the Windward coast, or Kaena Point, located on the very western tip of the island. Surfing lessons can be taken on the calm waters of Waikiki beach, and to really get a feel of everyday Hawaiian life, head to the hip and happening neighborhood of Kapahulu (just east of Waikiki).
Where to eat
Local dishes and large portions meet upscale fine dining restaurants on Oahu. The Ko Olina marina nestled in the beautiful Leeward coast offers a fantastic location for dining, and caters for all tastes, with luxury resort restaurants and more casual dining to be found along the 43 mile stretch. Local dishes can be found in abundance along Kapahulu Avenue where you can pick up a ‘plate lunch’ for a couple of dollars in the local cafes that line the bustling streets.Honolulu is the destination for foodies, with the award-winning Roy’s Waikiki attracting visitors from across the globe.
Where to shop
Home to one of the largest shopping centers in Hawaii, Oahu is a shopper’s paradise. Bargain souvenirs and local produce, (including many pineapple products!) can be found in open air markets in each region, one of the most popular being the Aloha Tower, just west of Honolulu, which sells arts and crafts and is a fun place to browse around. Those hoping for a more luxurious shopping experience will enjoy the Waikele Premium Outlets which offer big name brands at discounted prices, and also the Ala Moana Shopping Mall which will be a favourite for the family, with over 200 stores and plenty of food options.
