Hawaii Travel Guide

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RUNWAY

W H E R E D R E A M S T A K E F L I G H T

What to do and see in Hawaii

THE VELVET
H A W A I I T R A V E L G U I D E

ALOHA!

Welcome to the Hawaii online travel guide, the second of our series of online travel guides!

This guide focuses on the island of O’ahu, which is also known as the heart of Hawaii and is home to the bustling town of Honolulu, as well as some of the most breathtaking views and stunning beaches

It is the third largest Hawaiian Island, but it is home to over ⅔ of Hawaii's population (950,000 of 1,4 million).

Oahu Follows Hawaii Standard Time (GMT 10 hours), which is five hours behind Eastern Standard Time and two hours behind Pacific Standard Time But, it does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so add one extra hour to the time difference during this period (March through November)

In this guide we will cover the best time of year to visit, the top attractions as well as where to stay on O'ahu.

We hope you enjoy it!

Julia

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O'ahu

O'ahu is sometimes known as "The Gathering Place," probably because of its central location and its history as a place where people went for marriages, births, and funerals.

It is home to Hawaii’s capital, Honolulu and the renowned beaches of Waikiki O'ahu's two mountain ranges, the Waianae on the west and the Koolau on the east, were once volcanoes, but now they are both extinct and home to the famous hikes such as the Diamond Head and Koko Head trails on the Koolau range and the Mokuleia Trail on the Waianae range.

There is plenty to do on O'ahu from cultural experiences, such as visiting Pearl Harbour, to hiking, relaxing on the beach, not to mention the diverse watersports on offer and of course the bustling nightlife of Honolulu and Waikiki.

Here is my guide for what to do in O'ahu and why O'ahu should be on your travel bucket list.

Julia Rees The Velvet Runway
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Contents The best time of year to visit O'ahu WHEN TO GO6 THE DIAMOND HEAD TRAIL11 THE DOLE PLANTATION18 WHERE TO STAY AND WHERE TO EAT 39 THE POLYNESIAN CULTURE CENTER 24 HALE'IWA20 THE BYODO-IN TEMPLE26 THE MANUA WATERFALL29 HANAUMA BAY STATE PARK32 RELAX ON THE BEACH34 THE PEARL HARBOUR MEMORIAL 37 THE KOKO CRATER TRAIL14 Our top ten tips for what to see and what to do WHAT TO DO10

When to go

The best times of year to visit Hawaii are Spring and Autumn ( which are the “low” season in Hawaii), as you will still have great weather but there will be fewer tourists. However, there is really no bad time to visit Hawaii!

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WHEN TO VISIT HAWAII

Hawaii's perennial warm weather makes it a great destination to visit at any time of year, although temperatures are slightly lower in the winter months (November to April) than in the summer (May to October)

That being said, the best time of year to visit is between March and October as this is when the Islands have the warmest temperature and the least amount of rain

Hawaii has a dry season (April to October) and a rainy season (November to March), and the best weather is often found in April, May, September, and October, which is also conveniently the time when you can find some good travel bargains.

The summer months can be hot and humid, especially in Honolulu and Waikiki and as it's also the school holidays in the US, it can be busy (and therefore expensive) too! Hurricane season in the Pacific runs from June to November, although hurricanes are very rare, the last major hurricane to hit the Islands was Hurricane Iniki in 1992

"Hawaii is not a state of mind but a state of grace."
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When to visit Hawaii

High Season : December to late March/early April and Summer (July/August)

The high season in Hawaii runs from mid December, with the two week holidays attracting lots of visitors, through to the Spring.

The Summer season also attracts lots of visitors, as it's a popular family destination

During these two periods you might find hotels have minimum stays and booking attractions may be more difficult.

Low season (Late Spring and Early Fall) Ironically, you might find that the best time to visit Hawaii is during low season, which is late Spring and early Fall

Spring (from late March to mid May) and Fall (from September to Thanksgiving) are great seasons to visit Hawaii, as the weather is still very warm, but there are fewer tourists which makes for a cheaper stay and more relaxing sightseeing!

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What to do

Our top ten picks for visiting Hawaii: an overview of the top 10 attractions, including Pearl Harbour, the Diamond Head Hike, the Valley of the Temples and more.

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Hike the Diamond Head Trail

Diamond Head is one of Hawaii’s most recognised landmarks and can be found on the eastern edge of Waikiki’s coastline. It is well known for its hiking trail and its stunning 360 degree coastal views, but also for its military history.

The Diamond Head Crater is an extinct volcano that was named Le’Ahi by the Hawaiians , which translates as the brow of the Ahi Tuna fish, because of the crater’s ressemblance to the back and fin of a tuna fish.

However, in the 1800’s, it was named “Diamond Head” by British soldiers, who (mistakenly) believed that the glittering stones they saw at the top of the crater were diamonds. (Sadly, there were no diamonds just sunlight reflecting off the calcite crystals)

Today, Diamond Head has been turned into a state national park which covers over 475 acres, including the interior and outer slopes of the crater.

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Since May 12th 2022, entry and parking reservations are required for non residents so make sure to book in advance.

Reservations may be made up to 30 days in advance, and entry will not be allowed without a reservation, so make sure to book your reservations as soon as possible to avoid missing out! We only booked a couple of days in advance, but were very lucky as we got some of the last remaining tickets!

DISTANCE : APPROXIMATELY 1.8 MILES

ROUND TRIP (ROUGHLY 3KMS)

ELEVATION : 560 FEET (170M)

DIFFICULTY : EASY TO MODERATE (SOME STEEP SECTIONS, STAIRS AND SWITCHBACKS)

TIME : 60 90 MINUTES

Also, you have to arrive within the first 30 minutes of your reservation period If you arrive later than 30 minutes after your booked period, you may be denied access and/or parking, and there are no refunds for no shows or late arrivals.

The last entrance to hike the trail is at 4:00 pm. The gates are locked at 6:00 pm daily and all visitors must be out of the park by this time

The Diamond Head Hike is suitable for most, including children, seniors and anyone with an average fitness level. However, the one thing that makes it a bit more difficult is the mid day heat and some of the uphill sections that can be quite strenuous.

If you can, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon for cooler weather and fewer crowds. Make sure to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated Find our more about the Diamond Head Trail here.

HOURS: OPEN DAILY FROM 6AM TO 4PM (CLOSED: THANKSGIVING, CHRISTMAS & NEW YEARS) RESERVATIONS : REQUIRED

COST : PARKING FEE: $10 PER CAR, HIKING FEE: $5 PER PERSON

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Hike the Koko Trail for spectacular views and a great sense of achievement!

The Koko Crater trail (also known as the Koko Head Stairs) in East Honolulu is one of the most popular hikes on the island, but you should be aware that, unlike Diamond Head, this hike is steep and strenuous, and that if you suffer from vertigo, part of the ascent/descent will be challenging.

Also, Koko Head could actually be quite dangerous if you’re not careful, as, unlike Diamond Head, there are no fences or handrails and you have complete freedom to roam around and you can walk to the edge of the cliff if you want to! So, please be careful when hiking with children.

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Koko Head Railway Stairs comprise 1048 steps (although it feels like twice that!), which take you up 990ft (301m) over a distance of just 07 miles (1.13km), but it feels like a lot more, as you are gaining almost 1 ft of elevation for every 2 feet of distance, and at the Koko Head Crater summit, you will be 1207 ft (368m) above sea level.

The beginning is hard because you haven't had time to warm up, but the rest of the climb is worse!

The hike can be broken into three parts: the gradual slope at the beginning that goes for a little over half of the journey, the steep ascent up the final leg, and a terrifying section with a rickety bridge (with a 40ft drop below) that connects the two

The Koko trail follows the old wooden railroad used by the military when the infrastructure and bunkers on the top of the Koko Head were in use.

The railway was built by the US Army in 1942 on top of the extinct volcano and named the Koko Crater tramway, and used to haul cargo and supplies up to the top Today the abandoned railway is used as hiking stairs known as the Koko Crater Steps.

DISTANCE : APPROXIMATELY 1 6 MILES (2 6 KM) ROUND TRIP

ELEVATION : 1,207 FEET (368 M)

DIFFICULTY : MODERATE TO HARD TIME : 60 120 MINUTES

BOOKING : NOT REQUIRED

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The bridge terrified me, as not only was it suspended above the ground, but there were also wide gaps in the railroad ties, and some parts that were worn away hence my warning for those that suffer from vertigo!

Luckily, for those who do not want to take this way there is a small bypass path that goes around it, and which is the recommended route!

However, once you are finished with this scary part the hike gets really physical! The slope gets steeper and steeper to reach an incline of nearly 70%, once you reach the 2/3 level of the ascent Added to the physical challenge, you can hear gunfire from the nearby shooting range, so it almost feels like you are on an army assault course rather than a recreational hike!

However, if you’re feeling discouraged you can keep check on your progress during the ascent, as there are numbers written on the right hand rail at regular intervals with the last one at the summit!

If/ Once you get to the top, you will be able to see the facilities left abandoned after the military activity has stopped. But, this is NOT why you have climbed the Koko trail. To the right of the bunker, the path continues along the top to reach several viewpoints where you have stunning views over Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, the southeastern tip of the island and part of Waikiki.

I recommend Koko Crater for anyone who enjoys a good challenge and it’s a really great feeling to reach the top! It's become my motto for life "one step at a time takes you where you need to be".

You’ll also notice there are people who train by running up and down the stairs several times. But, once was enough for me!

If you are trying to choose between the Diamond Head and the Koko Trail, take account of the age and fitness level of your group. Koko is not suitable for young children and only for elderly people with a good level of fitness

Also, the Koko trail is located on the hot, south side of the island and there is no shade If in doubt, start with Diamond Head and if this feels easy then try Koko Head.

As always when hiking, pay attention to your fitness level, weather conditions and the state of the trail (which can become very slippery in muddy weather), wear good hiking shoes and make sure to reapply sunscreen and stay hydrated

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Visit the Dole Plantation

After all that exercise, it might feel like time for a more relaxing activity, and a trip on the Pineapple Express at the Dole Plantation might just fit the bill.

This fully narrated, twenty minute train tour is an experience for the whole family. You’ll learn the story of pineapple in Hawaii, hear how James Drummond Dole founded his world famous agricultural empire where Dole Plantation stands today, and travel through the stunning scenery of the island’s famous North Shore.

You will see pineapples, but you will also see lots of other vegetation, including cocoa plants, coconut trees, sugar canes, lemon, lime and banana trees

You can also take the garden tour or explore the pineapple maze, which is actually the world’s largest maze.

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The Garden Tour comprises eight different gardens, with plants such as coffee, exotic fruits and colorful cacao pods, used to make Waialua’s signature single estate chocolate.

Depending on the season, you’ll also be able to smell the delicate fragrance of lei flowers including plumeria, pikake, and pua kenikeni

The maze stretches over three acres and includes nearly two and a half miles of paths with around 14,000 colorful Hawaiian plants.

And of course, a trip to the Dole Plantation would not be complete without tasting the plantation's speciality "Dole Whip"

This is a frozen pineapple dessert, which is delicious, but do NOT buy it just before riding on the Pineapple Express, as you aren't allowed to take any food and drink aboard and it would be a shame to waste it!

Admission to the Dole Plantation grounds is free, and there are also plenty of free activities, including a pineapple cutting and chocolate making demonstration and a fish feeding pond

Additional fees apply for the Pineapple Express Tour, the Garden Tour and the Pineapple Maze

PRICE:NO ADMISSION FEE TO ENTER THE VISITOR CENTER. THE ONLY ADMISSION CHARGE IS FOR THE 3 ATTRACTIONS (TRAIN, MAZE, GARDEN). ADVANCED RESERVATION NOT POSSIBLE HOURS: OPEN EVERY DAY, FROM 9:30AM 5:30PM (CLOSED ON CHRISTMAS DAY)

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Stroll around

Hale'iwa Old Town.

Hale'iwa is less than 15 minutes from the Dole Plantation on the North Shore of O'ahu, so it's definitely worth adding a stop at Hale'Iwa when you are in the area.

Hale'iwa Town (pronounced Ha lay ee vah) first became a tourist destination in 1898 when the Hale’iwa Hotel was constructed

In Hawaiian, ‘Hale’ means house and ‘iwa’ refers to the local frigate bird, so ‘Hale'iwa’ translates to ‘house of the frigate bird’.

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Architectural guidelines require the design of new buildings to reflect the plantation style architecture of the early years of Hale'iwa’s sugar industry, so walking down the streets of Hale'iwa feels as if you’ve taken a step back in time, and Haleʻiwa is filled with cool surf shops and boutiques, charming art galleries and laid back restaurants housed in plantation era buildings

You can also visit the Hale'iwa Surf Museum, which opened in 1993 and houses an impressive collection of surfboards and memorabilia originating from the early 1900s through to the present day. Admission is free.

The Rainbow Bridge spans across the Anahulu River and is one of the most iconic structures in Halei'wa, and on hot days, you will probably see people jumping off the bridge into the river below.

However, a safer way to cool down is to rent a paddle board or a kayak from one of the many surf shops in the Old Town, head out to the beach or cool down with a shaved ice.

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The Polynesian Cultural Center is located in a small town called Laie on the North Shore, and comprises 6 villages : Hawaii, Tonga, Tahiti, Samoa, Fiji and Aoteroa (New Zealand) The island exhibit in the center of the villages features seven hand carved moai or stone statues created onsite by artisans from Rapa Nui (Easter Island).

Entrance to the Hukilau Marketplace is free, and this is a great place to eat and shop (with free parking). It's a vintage throwback to 1950’s Hawaii offering fun souvenirs, local goods and nostalgic food.

So, even if you don't have the time to visit the villages, this is a great place to stop for lunch and some gift shopping.

Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center

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You can also continue into the evening with a Grand Hawaiian "luau" , and end the evening with a spectacular production called "Ha Breath of Life" .

This tells the story of Mana and his beloved Lani, and is animated by Polynesian dance, music and blazing fireknives.

The show features over 100 Polynesian natives, special effects, music and dance and is a Pacific isle saga of birth and death, love and family, tragedy and triumph.

Tickets for all packages can be purchased directly on site or you can save 10% by booking online.

Copyright © 2022 Julia Rees / The Velvet Runway All rights reserved 25 PRICE: FREE TO ENTER THE MARKET PLACE PACKAGES FROM $69,95 HOURS: OPEN 12:30 PM 9:00 PM CLOSED SUNDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, THANKSGIVING DAY, AND CHRISTMAS DAY LOCATION : 55 370 KAMEHAMEHA HWY LĀʻIE, HAWAIʻI 96762

Visit the Byodo In Temple in the Valley of The Temples Memorial Park

The Byodo In Temple is located at the foot of the Ko'olau Mountains in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park

It was established on June 7, 1968, to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii. It’s actually a replica of Japan’s iconic Byodo in Temple in Uji, Kyoto, and the original was built around 1,000 years ago!

This Buddhist temple is now a non-practicing temple that allows visitors, and you will love the feeling of serenity and peace that you will find in the beautiful grounds, especially the Peaceful Pavillion and at the Reflection Pond.

Entrance to the Valley of the Temples

Memorial Park is free and you will first drive past the Valley of the Temple's Cemetery, and you should keep going until you arrive at a parking area and the entrance to the Temple itself.

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Take some time to explore the grounds, ring the sacred bell (it is customary to ring the sacred bell before entering the temple) and meditate in the Peaceful Pavillion, which is situated just behind the temple and is the perfect spot to enjoy some tranquillity.

Then, you can pass in front of the Reflection Pond, which is home to hundreds of orange koi fish on your way to the temple

Make sure to remove your shoes before you enter the temple itself Here you will find the Amida, a golden Buddha, which is over 9 feet tall!

There are 52 smaller sculptures throughout the temple as well, so you can have fun and see if you can spot them all!

Don't forget to collect your shoes when you leave

the temple! PRICE: GENERAL ADMISSION $5 00 (AGES 13 64), $4.00 SENIORS (AGE 65 & UP), $2.00 CHILDREN (2 12 YEARS). HOURS: O8:30AM 4:30PM DAILY. LAST ENTRANCE TO TEMPLE GROUNDS IS 4:15PM. RECOMMENDED VISIT: 1 2 HOURS Copyright © 2022 Julia Rees / The Velvet Runway All rights reserved 27

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Hike up to the Manoa Waterfall

Did I say the word "hike" again?

Well, yes I did, but let me reassure you that the hike to the Manoa Waterfall is not only beautiful but also a lot less strenuous than the Koko trail.

This stunning 150 foot waterfall is reached on a short, easy trail through the jungle, which is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, although the path is occasionally rocky and it can get muddy after it rains, so make sure to wear walking or running shoes.

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The Manoa Valley has its own microclimate and is considered to be a rainforest, and so as well as walking shoes, make sure to take a lightweight waterproof jacket and do NOT forget mosquito repellent as mosquitos abound on this trail!

However, don't let that put you off as the trail takes you through eucalyptus trees, banyan trees, tropical flowers, and even a bamboo grove, before you arrive at the 150ft high Manoa Falls.

DISTANCE : APPROXIMATELY 1.7 MILES

ROUND TRIP (ROUGHLY 2 6KMS)

ELEVATION : 800 FEET (2,4 METERS)

DIFFICULTY : EASY (GRADUAL CLIMB, CAN BE MUDDY AND THEREFORE SLIPPERY)

TIME : 60 90 MINUTES

The waterfall is spectacular, and whilst we were there we saw a marriage proposal, so it's a great backdrop for photos too!

However, you CAN'T swim in the Manoa Falls, partly because of the danger of falling boulders, but also because of the risk of leptospirosis, not to mention the mosquito fish, guppies, bufo toads, and poison dart frogs who may be sharing the water with you!

As always, remember to stay hydrated (there is no place to fill up on the trail so fill your water bottle before you leave) and pay attention to the signs and weather conditions.

HOURS: OPEN DAILY FROM SUNRISE TO SUNSET

CAR PARK FROM 8AM 6PM DAILY RESERVATIONS : NOT REQUIRED COST : FREE TO HIKE PARKING: FREE IF YOU PARK IN THE

RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD AND WALK

1/4 MILE TO THE TRAILHEAD; OR PAID PARKING IF YOU PARK IN THE PARADISE PARK PARKING LOT AT THE TRAILHEAD.

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. Hanauma Bay is one of the most famous snorkelling beaches on Hawaii.

The beach and surrounding natural park get their name from two Hawaiian words: “hana” which means bay and “uma” which means curved Hanauma Bay was declared a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park in 1967, and a marine education center for visitors was opened in 2002.

Snorkel in Hanauma Bay State Park

. HOURS: OPEN FROM 6:45AM TO 4PM DAILY CLOSED MONDAYS & TUESDAYS, CHRISTMAS DAY AND NEW YEARS DAY RESERVATIONS REQUIRED PARK ENTRY FEE $25 00 PARKING LOT FEE $3 00

Hanauma Bay is the perfect place to discover the marine life of O'ahu and it offers a great experience, for people of all ages, whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced snorkeler

However, you can't just turn up and snorkel! Reservations are REQUIRED, and there is a mandatory 9 minute orientation video for visitors to learn about the marine life, preservation and safety rules for the park

The bay is now closed to the public every Monday & Tuesday (as well as Christmas and New Year's Day) to allow the fish two days of undisturbed rest and feeding without interruption.

Bring a towel, swimsuit and reef safe sunscreen (sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate two chemicals that are harmful to the coral reef are banned througout Hawaii). You can rent snorkel equipment if required.

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Relax on the Beach!

After all that hiking, a relaxing day on the beach is well deserved and who doesn't love white powder sand to sink your toes into, shady palm trees to read or snooze under and warm, stunning azure blue waters to dive into?

So why not spend a little time doing absolutely nothing except relaxing? I know it's tempting to rush around and visit all the tourist attractions, but you can easily build a little beach time into your day!

Hawaii has so many amazing beaches that it's impossible to pick just one, and why should you?

Here, I have given my favorite beach recommendation for different areas of the island so you can spend a couple of hours on the beach no matter what attractions you are visiting that day.

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MY FAVORITE BEACHES

Waikiki Beach, close to Honolulu and downtown Waikiki

Lanikai Beach, near the town of Kailua on the Windward Coast

Kualo Regional Park, close to the Valley of the Temples and the Polynesian Culture Center.

Turtle Bay, close to the Valley of the Temples and the Polynesian Culture Center.

Sunset Beach, North Shore, close to the Dole Plantation.

Waimea Beach, close to Hale'Iwa and the Dole Plantation.

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Visit the Pearl Harbour Memorial

And of course, no visit to Hawaii would be complete without visiting Pearl Harbour.

The Pearl Harbour Memorial is dedicated to the fateful attack on Pearl Harbour on December 7, 1941, which killed over 2,400 Americans and marked the entry of the US into World War II

Almost half of the casualties at Pearl Harbour occurred on the naval battleship, USS Arizona, which was hit four times by Japanese bombers and eventually sank.

Fourteen minutes after the first bomb landed, the Arizona began to sink into Pearl Harbour, with a subsequent loss of 1,177 lives, including 23 sets of brothers.

Today, the Pearl Harbour Memorial is open to visitors 7 days a week, but if you wish to visit the USS Arizona, you need to pre book.

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The visitor center, two museums, and USS Arizona program are free for all visitors, but you need to book the shuttle boat trip to the Arizona Memorial (for which there is a $1 non refundable reservation fee).

The 45 minute USS Arizona Memorial program begins at the Pearl Harbour Memorial Theater.

It includes a brief introduction, a Navy operated shuttle boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, and time to experience the memorial itself.

I would definitely recommend the USS Arizona Memorial Program, which is a very moving experience, as you are literally standing above the burial site of the 1,177 men who lost their lives, and you can see the wreckage of the sunken ship beneath you

There is also a wall where the names of those who lost their lives are inscribed, as well as the names of the survivors who requested to be returned to the site to be interred with their shipmates after their death.

PRICE: GENERAL ADMISSION : FREE ($1 RESERVATION FEE FOR THE ARIZONA MEMORIAL)

HOURS: SEVEN DAYS A WEEK FROM 7:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M.

CLOSED THANKSGIVING DAY, DECEMBER 25, AND JANUARY 1.

RESERVATION REQUIRED FOR THE ARIZONA MEMORIAL

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Where to stay and where to eat

Our top picks for where to stay and where to eat in Hawaii

H A W A I I T R A V E L G U I D E 39 Copyright © 2022 Julia Rees / The Velvet Runway All rights reserved

Where to stay

Waikīkī, the most famous neighborhood in Honolulu, is the hub of O’ahu and offers a wide variety of accommodation, restaurants, bars, shopping, nightclubs, and things to do. It is a great choice for convenience (ease of transport), beaches, water sports and restaurants. It is good for families as lots of activities are on offer but not recommended if you are looking for a calm getaway.

The West Coast has remained relatively undeveloped as far as tourism is concerned and is ideal for the most scenic, calm and secluded beaches, but there is a limited choice of accommodation and restaurants

If you’re on O’ahu to surf, then head to the North Coast, which is the surfer’s paradise! However, the downside is that it is not always safe for swimming because of the strong currents. There is also limited nightlife and entertainment, and there can be traffic congestion as there is only one main road.

The East Coast has breathtaking scenery, and some of the most stunning white sand beaches, such as Lanikae Beach but again limited entertainment and nightlife. It is a great choice for families as there are family friendly hikes, beautiful beaches and kid friendly restaurants.

Have a look here for some places to stay

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Hilton Hawaiian Village

The Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort is one of the most popular hotels in Waikiki

The hotel is located directly in front of Kahanamoku Beach, which is a great beach for families with small children.

The hotel has 8 different towers that total over 2,500 rooms. Located on the widest stretch of beach, this 22 acre paradise features the best pools and waterslides in Waikiki, as well as the only saltwater lagoon, the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, which is managed by the Hilton but free to the public

The Village itself has a wide range of shops and restaurants, which are also open to the public, as well as beautiful koi ponds and fountains.

The hotel offers a variety of daily activities, including yoga, lei making and hula and it boasts six pools for swimming and relaxation! Finally, they host their own on site luau on the Great Lawn on Sunday, Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays (weather permitting).

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Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger

If you prefer to be in downtown Waikiki, but just steps from the sand and surf of Waikiki Beach, then the Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger may be just what you're looking for!

Enjoy Kona coffee brewed Italian style at Hawaiian Aroma Caffe Waikīkī’s most Instagrammed coffee shop, alongside artisanal eats and locally crafted beers/seltzers at Maui Brewing Co. – boasting the State’s largest indoor bar.

The hotel has 498 rooms on a total of 25 floors.

Custom furnishings and artwork adorn each space, infusing the hotel rooms and suites with the unique personality and culture of the island.

Take a dip in the outdoor rooftop pool with views over Waikiki or catch a "dive in movie" on the deck. Find balance with a sunrise yoga class or try paddleboarding in the ocean. There are plenty of activities for all the family.

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Wherever you are on the island, you are sure to find somewhere to eat!

In Waikiki, you will have an incredible choice, ranging from 5 star restaurants to local eateries, with Kapahulu Avenue considered Waikiki’s restaurant row for cheap eats. There are lots of restaurants around the central Kalakaua Avenue, but there are also some lovely restaurants on the sea front with spectacular ocean views.

There is less choice on the other parts of the island, but you are always sure to find somewhere to satisfy your taste buds, and you can also eat at a Luau, where you will find traditional foods such as kalua pork, poi, laulau, lomilomi salmon and haupia

Where to eat

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Where to eat Waikiki

Here are a few of my recommendations:

Rumfire Waikiki Beach (pictured above) : The ultimate in oceanfront dining is found at RumFire Waikiki Beach at Sheraton Waikiki Rumfire offers a chic atmosphere, oceanfront location, and exciting Pacific Rim cuisine. The perfect place for a romantic evening under the stars.

Deck : Situated on the 3rd floor rooftop pool deck of the Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel, Deck features panoramic views and offers a unique American Pacific inspired menu, fresh handcrafted cocktails, locally brewed beers as well as a vast selection of wines.

Tropics Bar and Grill : Part of the Hilton Hawaiian Village and set directly on the beach, the perfect place to experience authentic Hawaiian beach cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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I hope you find this guide to Hawaii helpful. Don't forget to visit The Velvet Runway for more travel guides and tips. Happy travelling! Julia x thevelvetrunwaycom julia@thevelvetrunway.com Copyright ©2022 Julia Rees / The Velvet Runway All rights reserved

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