-
Clear and calm. A family favorite for picnicking in the adjacent park. Located on Ala Moana Boulevard across from Ala Moana Shopping Center. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
The largest shopping mall in the state offers more than 200 shops and restaurants to choose from at the gateway to Waikiki across from Ala Moana Beach Park. You'll find everything from the latest fashions to Hawaiian souvenirs. Makai Market food court has over 20 food vendors, many offering ethnic entrees. A "Keiki Hula" show is presented free on Sundays at 10:00 a.m. at Center Stage. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Aloha Stadium hosts the Aloha Flea Market every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Terrific deals on apparel, local snacks, art and crafts. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Opened in November 1994, the marketplace features unique shops and restaurants surrounding the downtown Honolulu landmark built in 1926 at Pier 9 to oversee Honolulu Harbor. Ride an elevator to the top of the tower, 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily. Entertainment and special events are staged amid a decor reminiscent of Hawaii's Territorial Period when "Boat Day" bazaar-like events were popular. Open daily, 8:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.
-
Waves at this famous spot break forming a hollow tube for surfers to maneuver through, hence its name. Located at Ehukai Beach across from Sunset Beach Elementary School, the beach is calm and safe during summer and dynamic and rough during the winter. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Located at the Bellows Air Force Station in Waimanalo, this beach is a popular spot for body boarding and body surfing. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Explore the fascinating Pacific - the people and cultures on the different islands, life in and under the blue ocean waters, and the stars in the Pacific sky that guided Polynesian voyagers to Hawaii. The Hall of Discovery features hands-on exhibits that make discovering Pacific culture, science and nature a fun experience for your whole family. Find the North Star, the Big and Little Dipper and the constellation Orion in daily planetarium shows. The Bishop Museum was built in 1889 to honor Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, great granddaughter of King Kamehameha I. Open daily except Christmas, 9 am - 5 pm. Admission. 1525 Bernice Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817, (808) 847-3511. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Operated by the Pacific Fleet Submarine Memorial Association, the museum sits adjacent to the Arizona Memorial Visitors Center. The Bowfin was built in 1942, launched a year later and saw service through 1946. The diesel-powered Balao Class submarine was called back into service from
1951-1954 during the Korean War as a practice ship. Open daily, 8 am - 5 pm. Admission.
-
This replica of the famous Byodo-In Temple in Kyoto, Japan is located in a peaceful garden in Kaneohe on Oahu's windward side. 8 am - 4:40 pm daily. Admission. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Located four miles from Waikiki in downtown Honolulu, this old neighborhood is boundaried by River to Bethel streets and Merchant to Beretania streets. Herb shops, noodle factories, acupuncture studios, and Oriental restaurants create color and charm. Maunakea Street claims the most lei shops per linear foot in the islands. Maunakea Marketplace, a 12,000-square-foot open market with more than 70 shops, offers fresh produce, seafood, and meat. Wo Fat, Honolulu's oldest Chinese cafe, was established in 1882 and is presently located at the corner of Hotel and Maunakea streets.
-
Set in a picturesque, older residential area in the hills above Honolulu, the museum's main building houses a permanent collection and exhibits of art of the last four decades. The Milton Cades Pavilion features David Hockney's Lenfant et les Sortileges (The Bewitched Child), based on his sets and costumes for Maurice Ravel's opera. The gardens are ideal for strolling and there is a view from the terrace of the city and Diamond Head. Open daily, except Monday, 10 am - 4 pm; Sunday, 12 noon - 4 pm Closed on major holidays. Admission. The Contemporary Cafe is open Tuesday - Saturday, 11:30 am - 2 pm for lunch. Sunday open at 12 noon. Reservations are suggested.
-
Diamond Head is one of Hawaii's most recognized natural landmarks. It is actually a volcanic crater created nearly 300,000 years ago during an eruption that contributed to the creation of the island of Oahu. Diamond Head is now a state monument operated by the Department of Land and Natural Resources. A popular activity is hiking the 0.7 mile (1.1 km) trail that starts on the crater floor and ends at the summit overlooking the Waikiki coastline. It is 560 feet (171 m) from bottom to top. Allow about two hours to complete the hike. The gate to the trail is open from 6 am - 6 pm daily. Enter off Diamond Head Road between Makapuu Avenue and 18th Avenue. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
The statue was erected on the 2400 block of Kalakaua Avenue beside Waikiki Beach to honor the pure blooded Hawaiian and Olympic swimming champion who made surfing synonymous with the islands. He also served as Ambassador at Large for the State of Hawaii and official Greeter for the City of Honolulu. With bloodlines linked to King Kamehameha I, Duke popularized surfing around the world and is considered one of the greatest surfers of all time. He served 13 consecutive terms as sheriff of Honolulu until he retired in 1961.
-
This small but fascinating museum, located at the back of St. Augustine's Church in Waikiki, depicts the life of Father Damien, who devoted his life to the Hansen's Disease sufferers isolated at Kalaupapa Settlement on Molokai. A 20-minute video tells the history of the settlement. Open Monday - Friday, 9 am - 3 p.; Saturday, 9 am - 12 noon.
-
The gardens include 20 acres of exotic plants and trees from different parts of the world, from tropical orchids that are the trademark of the islands to the cigar box tree from the Amazon used to make aromatic containers to the West African sausage tree with gourd-like fruit resembling sausages. Open daily. Admission. 50 North Vineyard Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96817. (808) 522-7065.
-
Pass Haleiwa Town and find this ideal spot with a sandy beach, playing field, basketball courts, picnic tables and restrooms. Jet ski and windsurfing lessons are available nearby. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Situated northwest of O'ahu's central plain, this quaint plantation town, has strived to maintain its historic features. Arts and crafts stores line Kamehameha Highway, the main road through town. Be sure to stop at Matsumoto Shave Ice for a tasty and refreshing treat.
-
On Kalanianaole Highway just past Hanauma Bay. The rocky shelf between the ocean and the highway presents a dramatic picture. When the waves wash into a lava tube below the surface, the force drives the water through a hole at the top of the tube, spraying water into the air like a geyser. There is a way down to the site, but be extremely cautious. As true whenever you are near the ocean in the islands, have at least one person keep an eye on the surf at all times, even on what appears to be a calm day. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Located off Kalanianaole Highway at Koko Head. Protected as a state underwater park, the bay sits in the crater of an ancient volcano. Snorkelers can view thousands of exotic reef fish in their natural habitat. Open daily, except Tuesday, 6 am - 7 pm summer, 6 am - 6 pm winter.
Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Pier 7 serves as the berth for the Falls of Clyde, entered into the National Register of Historic Places as the only four-masted full-rigged ship left in the world, and the Polynesian voyaging canoe Hokulea, a modern replica of an ancient sailing vessel that was used to recreate the voyage which first brought Polynesians to Hawaii almost 1,000 years ago. The center's museum features one of only two known humpback whale skeletons on display in the world, films, displays and hands-on exhibits designed especially for children. Open daily, 8:30 am - 5 pm Admission. Honolulu Harbor.
-
Devoted to teaching children first-hand, hands-on about Hawaii as an island home, the center offers a calendar of events throughout the year featuring more than 100 two-hour nature adventures designed for specific age groups from age 3 and up. Family hikes are also offered. Reservations are required. There is a fee for most activities plus the cost of required materials. Open daily except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, 8 am - 4:30 pm. 2131 Makiki Heights Drive. (808) 955-0100.
-
The new Capitol replaced Iolani Palace as the seat of state government on March 15, 1969. Housing the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and the state legislature, the structure is admired for its symbolic design. The conic shape of the legislative chambers represents volcanoes, the 40 pillars encircling the building are reminiscent of native royal palm trees, and the water surrounding the structure is symbolic of the Pacific Ocean. Look toward Iolani Palace from the Capitol steps, and there is a statue of Queen Liliuokalani, last ruling monarch of the islands. The queen used her hours in confinement after the monarchy was overthrown to author songs, including the sentimental ballad Aloha Oe.
-
Built in 1922 as a vaudeville house complete with orchestra pit and dressing rooms, the building later became a movie theater. Closed for a number of years, the theater was beautifully restored and reopened as a 1,400-seat multipurpose performance facility, designed to accommodate concerts and musical theater.
-
Learn the story of the 400,000 immigrants who came to Hawaii to work on the sugar plantations, changing the face of the islands forever by creating a diverse multi-cultural society. See how each group differed in lifestyle and cultural traditions. Explore original and replica homes and buildings representing each ethnic group and the plantation lifestyle. Reservations recommended for tours, which are conducted hourly through 2 pm. Open Monday - Saturday, 10 am - 2 pm. Admission. 94-695 Waipahu Street, Waipahu, HI 96797 (808) 677-0110.
-
View memorabilia from Hawaii's sugar plantation era spanning the 1800s through the early 1900s. And take a ride on the original 1895 cane haul railway! Open Sundays for 90-minute, 13-mile scheduled rides at 1 pm and 3 pm. Please arrive 30-minutes prior to departure to purchase tickets. Weekday charter rides also available. Admission. 91-1001 Renton Road, Ewa Beach, HI 96706. PH 808-681-5461
-
This 18.5-acre coastal site offers picnicking and view of Kaneohe Bay and Heeia Fishpond. 46-465 Kamehameha Highway (Highway 836) at Kealohi Point, Heeia.
-
Oriental art, American and European masterpieces, and visiting exhibitions are among the fine collections presented at the Academy. Lectures, films and concerts are offered on a regular basis. Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 am - 4:30 pm; Sunday 1 pm - 5 pm. Closed on holidays. Admission.
-
The 14-acre zoo specializes in tropical species and features exhibits built around tropical ecosystems. The "Elephant Encounter" show, Education Pavilion and Petting Zoo are favorite attractions. Open daily, 9 am - 4:30 pm, except Christmas Day. Admission. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
This 400-acre botanical garden and nature conservancy with 30-acre lake is situated at the end of Luluku Road in Kaneohe on the island's windward side. Stop at the Visitor Center for information, permits and car passes necessary for use of camping grounds and facilities, horse corral and day use picnic areas. Open daily, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., except Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
-
Located in downtown Honolulu at South King and Richards streets, this National Historic Landmark is the only oficial state residence of royalty in the United States. King Kalakaua used it as his official residence until his death in 1891. His sister and successor Queen Liliuokalani occupied the palace until the monarchy was overthrown in 1893. The palace then was used as the capitol for the Republic, Territory, and eventually the State of Hawaii. It was vacated in 1969 when the new State Capitol was completed. The Royal Hawaiian Band performs free on most Fridays at noon on the palace grounds at the Kalakaua Coronation Pavilion, site of the king's coronation in 1883. The palace features 45-minute guided tours conducted Tuesday through Saturday, 9 am - 4 pm. Admission. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
The history of the Japanese people in Hawaii, from immigration to the present, is depicted in photographs and artifacts in this gallery located on the grounds of the Japanese Cultural Center. Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 am - 4 pm Closed most holidays. 2454 South Beretania Street, Honolulu, HI 96826. (808) 945-7633.
-
Located at the end of Farrington Highway (Highway 930) in Makua, this relatively remote dry area is good for picnicking and shore fishing. A long family hike of 2.7 miles offers tide pools within volcanic coastal areas, small natural stone arches, and views of the coastline and Kaneana, the large sea cave that is the legendary home of Nanue, the shark man.
-
Steady breezes and sandy shorelines make this spot, located five miles past Waimanalo, the island's windsurfing capital. Lessons are available from one of the schools. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
This fully restored site in Makaha Valley is located on private land. Open Tuesday - Sunday, 10 am - 2 pm.
-
Given to the Hawaiian people in 1877 by King David Kalakaua, the park is named for his queen. The Royal Hawaiian Band does frequent free Sunday concerts at the park's bandstand. Enjoy music under the stars at the Waikiki Shell concert venue.
-
Honolulu's oldest church, the "Westminster Abbey of Hawaii," was built in 1842 of coral and timber. Open Monday - Saturday, 9 am - 3 pm. Services, in English and Hawaiian, are open to the public on Sunday at 10:30 a.m. 957 Punchbowl Street, Honolulu, HI 96813. (808) 522-1333. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Dedicated to the healing arts, this heiau is located at the end of Aiea Heights Drive in Aiea and features a garden of medicinal plants used by ancient Hawaiian medical practitioners. The heiau became part of the park in 1951. Open daily, May through September, 7 a.m. - 7:45 p.m.; October through April, 7 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. at Aiea District Park. (808) 488-6626.
-
Erected in honor of the Hawaiian warrior who unified the islands under one ruler, the statue is located in downtown Honolulu on South King Street, the statue fronts the state courthouse and faces Iolani Palace across the street. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
This 200-acre site is located on the slopes and basin of Koko Head Crater on the eastern end of Oahu, inland of Sandy Beach, off Kealahou Street.
Dry-land plants cover the crater floor. Open daily sunrise to sunset except Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
-
The working ranch is now open to the public for horseback riding, sailing on catamarans, windsurfing, helicopter touring, snorkeling and scuba diving. There is no admission charge, however each activity carries a separate fee. Advance reservations required. 49-560 Kamehameha Highway, Kaneohe, HI 96744. Educational tours are conducted from 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. For more information, call (808) 237-7321.
-
Located at Kaneilio Point at the edge of Pokai Bay on the leeward coast.
-
Also known as the Royal Birthing Stones, this location is where royal women were brought to give birth. Reached by taking a dirt road off Kamehameha Avenue, just north of Wahiawa, opposite Whitmore Avenue.
-
Usually calm during the summer, this beach is best known for its perfect winter surf. Located on Farrington Highway a few miles past Waianae.
-
A popular spot for body surfers, but the pounding surf here is best left to experienced wave riders. Still, it's good spot for sunning and picnicking. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Look carefully for whales during the late winter and spring from this southeastern point of the island. The ocean crashing against the rough lava rocks make for quite a dramatic sight.
-
A scenic and refreshing ride begins in Waikiki and makes its way to Kapiolani Park, where you can circle the park or go on around Diamond Head along Diamond Head Road, turning up Monsarrat Avenue to head back toward Kapiolani Park, the Waikiki Shell and the Honolulu Zoo.
-
A 9.3-mile journey that will take you from the Old Pali Road to Waikupanaha Street in Waimanalo, this trail features a gently rolling terrain that makes it easier to traverse than ridge trails with enough challenge to still provide an ample workout.
-
Registered as a National Historic Landmark, the islands' oldest remaining houses tell of the encounter between American missionaries and native Hawaiians in the early 1800s. Guided tours, walking tours of historic Honolulu, special events and craft fairs. Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 am - 4 pm Admission. 553 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813 (808) 531-0481.
-
One of the island's most beautiful parks located near Fort Shafter. The Prince Lot Hula Festival is held annually in July at this park.
-
This unique island is shaped like a Chinese field worker's hat, hence its nickname. Kualoa Park provides a nice picnic spot.
-
A scenic 1.5-hour ride from Waikiki leads visitors to the less crowded beaches and scenic beauty on the island's north side, where residents enjoy a decidedly more casual way of life. Large winter waves lure surfers from around the world to competitions along this legendary stretch of beach. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Off of Pali Highway (Highway 61). View windward Oahu from this 1,200-foot elevation. Winds on the Pali, which means "cliffs," can be extremely strong and blustery, so be careful not to go too close to the ledge and hang on to your hat.
-
Pearl Harbor on historic Ford Island occupies World War II-era hangars that still bear the scars of our nation's first aviation battlefield. It's the newest attraction among the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites and a must visit for aviation and history enthusiasts. Open daily, 9am-5pm. Admission. Discount for Kamaaina and military.
-
One of the few beaches where swimming is safe all year. Also affords boaters safe anchorages in times of heavy surf. A peaceful picnic spot.
-
Tour the South Pacific as authentically costumed islanders demonstrate their arts, crafts, music and dance in seven recreated villages. The Polynesian dinner show is spectacular. Allow for a 1.5-hour drive from Waikiki. Open daily, except Sunday, 12:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Admission. Buffet dinner and show package. 55-370 Kamehameha Highway, Laie, HI 96762, (808) 923-1861 or (808) 293-3333. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Formally known as Puowaina Crater, this site provides a good overview of the city of Honolulu and its southern coastline. Once the site of ancient Hawaiian sacrifice, today the crater serves as the final resting place for more than 21,000 servicemen buried at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. Open Monday - Friday, 8 am - 4:30 pm. Closed on federal holidays except Memorial Day. 2177 Puowaina Drive, Honolulu, HI 96813. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
The largest remaining heiau on the island, this site is located above Waimea Bay and is reached by a dirt track off Pupukea Road, on the hill behind St. Peters and Paul Church.
-
Placed on the National Register of Historic Places, the palace is fully furnished with the personal belongings of Queen Emma, King Kamehameha IV and their son, Albert, as well as with artifacts and period pieces. Open daily, 9 am - 4 pm. Admission. 2913 Pali Highway, Honolulu, HI 96813 (808) 595-3167.
-
Considered the most sacred burial ground in the islands, the 3-acre site serves as the resting place for King Kamehameha II through V, King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani. Initially planned by Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma following the death of their son in 1862, construction did not begin until after the king died in 1863. Upon completion in 1865, the remains of the seven monarchs were transferred from an old crypt at Iolani Palace. Closed weekends. 2261 Nuuanu Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96817. (808) 536-7602.
-
Heavy rip tides and powerful backwash make this an area for experienced surfers only. However, sunbathing is open to everyone. And there's often a lunch wagon nearby offering refreshments. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
This 62-acre oceanside park features the world's only known living wholphin, a hybrid false killer whale and Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, and performances by resident dolphins and penguins. Marine exhibits include a man-made reef tank and a giant glass-sided ocean science theater. Open daily, 9 am - 5 pm. Admission.
-
Located on the North Shore, the beach is named for its colorful sunsets. Site of the World Cup of Surfing. Waters are calm during the summer but rough during winter months. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Built inside historic Battery Randolph, the museum displays Pacific military history and the role Hawaii's citizens played in the nation's
defense. Open daily except Monday, 10 am - 4:30 pm. Donation.
-
This solemn museum and memorial pays tribute to the those who gave their lives when the Japanese Imperial Navy attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The U.S.S. Arizona was one of many U.S. warships sunk on that infamous day. Free tours begin at the visitor center and includes a 20-minute documentary film on the bombing of Pearl Harbor and shuttle to the memorial. Open 7:30 am - 5 pm daily. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Across from the Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor is the proud U.S.S. Missouri. Walk the decks of the great battleship upon which the Japanese officially surrendered to the U.S. on September 2, 1945 to end World War II. Open daily, 9 am - 5 pm. Admission. The ticket office, located at the Bowfin Museum, is open 9 am - 4 pm.
-
A one-hour tour of the campus focuses on its history, art and architecture. Departs at 2 pm. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from the Campus
Center.
-
Take a short walk from the Honolulu Zoo and visit the Aquarium, displaying marine life from the reef, shores and waters of the South Pacific. See the Hawaiian Monk Seal Habitat, Edge of the Reef tank, Coastal Gardens, the Mahimahi Hatchery and Nursery, and the Hunters of the Reef tank. Open daily, except Christmas, 9 am - 5 pm. Admission.
-
Clear, warm waters make this world-famous spot ideal for swimming, snorkeling and surfing. Legendary "beach boys" continue to give visitors
surfing lessons. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
This free two-hour walking tour will introduce you to the history of Waikiki. The tour identifies 23 places of interest in the Waikiki area. The tour is sponsored by the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association and led by expert storytellers, historians, and cultural guides. Tours begin at 9 am every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday from the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center in the heart of Waikiki.
-
Narrated tours between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu aboard an historic open-air replica of a bygone era. Tours run continuously and stop at 15 points of interest, including on and off privileges. The Honolulu City Line (Red Line) leaves the DFS Galleria in Waikiki at 10:15 am and includes over 20 stops, including the Honolulu Academy of Arts, Aloha Tower Marketplace, Iolani Palace, the State Capitol, and Bishop Museum. On and off privileges.
-
The small, gentle waves that break over the shoreline of this park, located two miles northwest of Sea Life Park, make it a great place for learning how to bodysurf or boogie board. Also a favorite picnic area. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
Located on the island's North Shore and made famous by the 1960's movie "Ride the Wild Surf," the bay continues to be the site of international surf meets during the winter. During the summer, the bay takes on a totally different look and tranquil feel as the waters are very calm. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
-
This memorial to local men who died in World War I was built in 1927 on the beach across from Kapiolani Park. The site once played host to swimming contests featuring Duke Kahanamoku, Buster Crabbe, and Johnny Weismuller.
-
Built in 1846 by New England sea Captain John Dominis, the residence was once occupied by Queen Liliuokalani. Located across the street from the State Capitol on Beretania Street.
-
A number of cruises operate from Kewalo Basin just outside Waikiki, enabling visitors to view the Waikiki to Diamond shoreline from the sea. Whale-watching expeditions operate from November through March, recording frequent sightings of humpback whales that migrate from northern waters to mate in the islands. Federal law protects the endangered mammals, prohibiting people from being within 100 feet of the whales and from disturbing them in any way. Related story on OutriggerHawaii.com.
