Aloha, Oahu The Land of paradise

Aloha, have you ever arrived somewhere and had that feeling that you can’t explain? Well for me, this is Oahu, Hawaii, Paradise filled with Hawaiian culture and tropical weather, pure serenity.

No trip is like the other, I have been to Oahu two times and look forward to going again it is magical; each visit is a new adventure and new things to be experienced.

On my first trip to Oahu, I was on my way back to Australia after living in Calgary, Canada for two years. I spent one week celebrating New Year, and Wow what a blast, let’s say I was slightly inebriated; I had the best time celebrating the new year by joining an endless summer pub crawl and watching the fireworks.

My second trip was for one week and I had my 2-year-old son in tow; traveling with kids does not have to be hard, so don’t let that put you off; you can make any holiday one to remember and see the joy of your kid’s face is priceless.

Language English

The currency is the American Dollar.

Getting to Waikiki

Honolulu international airport is about a 20-minute drive to Waikiki the airport is easy to navigate; you can find Shuttle buses that cost approximately $16 one-way as of 2021.

If there is more than one person, a taxi may be worth looking into, a taxi ride to Waikiki is about $35+. If you are on a tight budget and feel you can navigate public transport with your luggage, jump on the #19 or #20 bus for as little as $2.75 one-way.

The bus comes every 20 minutes and takes about an hour to get to Waikiki. Or opt for a rental car to get you from the airport and around the island; there are plenty of rental companies that start from as low as $10-$15 a day + insurance/fees.

Getting around Oahu

Don’t have a hire car, no worries, Oahu has a pretty incredible bus service and is pretty cheap and easy to use. Check out The bus.

The Waikiki Trolley is a hop-on-hop-off bus & trolley system that takes passengers to destinations throughout Honolulu on four different color lines. Pick your route, jump on, and relax.

It is an easy system to navigate. Pick from a 1day pass or 4- or 7-day pass. 1-day all-line-pass from $45 per person or try the 4-day all-line-pass at $65 per person.

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Let’s talk about when to visit Oahu and the weather

The weather in Hawaii is incredible; what a relief it makes planning easy. The winter temperature is around 26c (80F) I celebrated New Year here and had fantastic weather with minimal rain.

Tropical storm & hurricane season is June-November; my second trip was in August, and the weather was bliss. If whale watching is on your bucket list, a winter trip may be for you; this is the best time to see whales.

Hawaii can be a place to visit all year round; I have done a breakdown to help you better prepare for your trip if the weather is a question for you.

January, February, and March – Winter is the colder month to visit, so you may want to have a light jacket with you. The Chinese New Year falls in January or February that will have entertainment and fireworks, don’t forget whale watching. March is the Honolulu festival a cultural event. A cheaper time to visit and fewer crowds.

April, May, and June

The best time to visit is Spring – the temperature is not too hot, less rain and fewer crowds, and people generally start arriving in June for the summer holidays.

July, August, and September

 Summer is the hottest time and the busiest with summer holidays around the world; this brings big crowds and higher prices.

October, November, December

Fall the temperature is nice but keep in mind it may be wetter with rainfall but fewer crowds, the best time to head to the North shore and see the big waves, and surfs up!

So many things to do in Oahu

Oahu is quite expensive, let’s face it, it is an island where most things are imported; unless locally grown. What I love about Oahu; it can be as relaxing or adventurous as you plan; it has something for everyone. Whether it is your first, second, or third visit, there are loads of free and budget activities to enjoy.

Ideas: Endless Hikes, cascading waterfalls, Botanical gardens, loads of free Hawaiian entertainment, Relax, swim and soak up the sun on the many beaches, and multiple shopping centers, breathtaking sunset on the beach with the lights glistening on the water is mesmerizing.

Head to the North shore to see the waves, the pipeline, golf, surfing, pampering, and free walking tours (book ahead) Waikiki is a tourist destination there are plenty of people out on Kalakava avenue offering information and maps, or visit the information center. Never a dull moment.

Places to stay in Oahu

Waikiki is full of accommodation; there is an endless choice depending on your budget and what you look for in a hotel or hostel; The Aloha state has something for everyone.

On my first trip, I stayed at The Beachside Waikiki Hostel 5-minute walk to the beach, bars, and restaurants. It offers free breakfast to help keep the costs down and free wi-fi. You can book a mixed dorm or female-only dorm or book a private room.

You can also rent a bike if feeling a bit more actively adventurous. Staying here was fun, the location was perfect, the staff was friendly and helpful, the atmosphere is vibrant and offering live music, and being surrounded by fellow travelers is a highlight to hear others’ journeys and make new friends.

On my second trip, I stayed at Aston Waikiki Circle Hotel right on the main promenade of Kalakava avenue close to the Duke Kahanamoku statue in the center, it is easy walking to everything day and night.

I chose this hotel as I was on a budget; this was the cheapest hotel I could find, it didn’t have a pool that kept costs down without compromising on location, I did this because the beach was my pool that was right across the road and who wants to spend all their time at the hotel right? although it was the lowest price, it did not disappoint.

Places to eat in Oahu

There are so many great places to eat in Waikiki, there is an endless choice, depending on your budget. A couple of places I ate and enjoyed are:

Tikis Grill & Bar is locally owned and operated right on Kalakaua Avenue across from the beach, be seated to view the stunning sunset views while you eat and sip on cocktails of the famous Waikiki beach, you can choose to get your drink in a souvenir coconut to take home, I still have mine. The food is casual American & pacific-Rim menu with flavors of the island, using fresh local produce.

Dukes Waikiki is where the Hawaiian-born legend Duke Kahanamoku grew up swimming, surfing, canoeing & bodysurfing and where the restaurant sits in front. Offering Hawaiian/American style food, sit outside and enjoy the view.

Duke’s is in the heart of Waikiki at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort. Do you love dessert? You must try the Hula Pie, macadamia nut ice cream, and warm fudge sauce. Delicious.

Walk along Waikiki Beach, go and admire the Olympic athlete who represented the US. The Duke Kahanamoku statue is on Kalakaua Avenue, the center of the beach, across from the Hyatt Regency.

Save money with a travel card

 Go city Oahu If you are on a budget, I recommend getting the go city tour card, it can save you hundreds, you can choose between an all-inclusive pass for 1 to 7 days, it includes your admissions to many of the must-see attractions.

This card covers the main Must-See attractions in Oahu listed below like Pearl Harbour, Hanauma Bay, Polynesian cultural center, Diamond Head, Byodo-In Temple, and much, much more.

Note some of the attractions include transport; on others, you will need to arrange alternative travel to the attractions if you have a rental car or Honolulu has an awesome bus system The Bus.

Who loves shopping? 

I am not a big shopper, but I did love visiting: My favorite: Ala Moana Center. I love the open-air shopping mall, you don’t feel closed in or not missing the gorgeous weather, it is the world’s largest open-air shopping center.

Explore over 350 shops and over 160 dining options to spoil yourself there is something for everyone’s budget and do not miss some hula & ukulele entertainment. If you have kids, there is a cool playground too.

The best thing is it is within walking distance from Waikiki approx. 2.2 miles or jump on one of the many different buses that take you to Ala Moana center or look for the pink line to jump on the trolley Waikiki Trolley

The international marketplace is in the center of the main beach walk of Kalakava avenue, easy to walk to, 11 am-7 pm, it has over 80 stores and eateries and entertainment and history across three levels, the shopping center is made around a large banyan tree that’s been there since the 1800s.

Out for an evening stroll, stop and see the 30-minute Polynesian show that includes Hawaiian hula and Tahitian dancing that starts at sunset each night.

Waikiki Beach Walk is in the heart of Waikiki, with some unique boutique shops, locally made products, and dining and outdoor live entertainment on offer, it’s a place to check out on your holiday to Hawaii, it’s open late so an evening walk can be an option to visit this center.

Swim at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve.

Hanauma Bay is like swimming in an aquarium, seriously it’s full of marine life and crystal clear water, if you love swimming and snorkeling, this is a MUST SEE, you may be lucky to spot the Hawaiian state reef fish humuhumunukunukuapua‘a (AKA: triggerfish), among loads of other fish species, turtles and other marine life.

Hanauma Bay was a volcanic crater that become protected conservation for marine life in 1967. There are amenities (restrooms, showers & change rooms) at Hanauma Bay and lifeguards ensuring everyone’s safety, also you can buy food if your peckish or take your own snacks to save on costs.

Advice is to arrive early to beat the crowds or arrive mid-afternoon when people are leaving, but there is only a limited amount of people allowed into the reserve each day, this is to keep the marine life safe.

When you buy your entrance ticket you will have to watch a 9-minute video on conservation to help protect the marine life and safety rules. If you do not have a snorkel set, you can rent one from here, here is also a great viewpoint for photo opportunities and there are lockers at the beach.

Opening Hours: It is open every day except Tuesdays and closed for Christmas and New Year’s Day. In Summer, the state park opens at 6 am- closes at 7 pm, in winter it closes at 6 pm.

Getting there:If driving arrive early as the car park fills up quickly with limited 300 car park spaces, the car park can fill up as early as 7:30 am.

You can take the city bus #22 from Waikiki, which runs down Kuhio avenue for as little as $2.50  The Bus, takes around 50 minutes. Jump on the trolley

Or book a return trip shuttle with pick up from your hotel, the shuttle service includes a snorkel set (fins, snorkel & mask) to use and costs about $25.00 and has 3 allocated pick up and drop off times.

Costs:

• $7.50 per person over 12 years
• Free entry (12 years and under) must get a free ticket to enter.
• Driving- parking is $1 per car
• $10 for a small locker or $12 for a large locker
• Rent a snorkel set from $20
• Shuttle service is $25 including a snorkel set, the entrance fee of $7.50 is not included in the price.

Climb the Diamond Head summit trail

Diamond-head-summit-trail Rise and shine, wake early, get your walking shoes on, pack your camera and your water bottle, beat the heat, and head to the famous Diamond head summit trail, excitement has set in and I can’t wait to be rewarded with breathtaking views, be sure to use the restrooms at the base of the summit if needed as there is none along your hike.

You will be met with two stairs, first with 74 stairs then a narrow-lit tunnel and the second with 99 stairs, and a spiral staircase with 52 steps, there are many switchbacks and in parts is steep, throughout your walk you will have incredible viewpoints of the inner crater and ocean and mountain views.

I’m not going to lie, I am not fit as I endure the pain of the stairs I wondered if I will make it, I have done this hike two times, the second time with my two-year-old son and I can say I will definitely do it again.

As you make your descent fellow hikers are asking “are we nearly there, is it much longer”, knowing well where they are coming from after climbing all the stairs and tackling the steep trail, I smile and say  “it’s worth it, keep going, you will be blown away by the amazing view. After your hike, if you are feeling hungry or need to cool down with a shaved ice cone grab some with the food vans onsite.

The crater is known to the Hawaiians as Lēʻahi (Lae=brow ridge ahi=Tuna) due to the shape of the ridgeline which resembles a tuna’s dorsal fin. An English name was given by the British soldiers in the 19^th century when they mistook calcite crystals on the adjacent beach for diamonds.

How long does the hike take:

The hike is 2.5km round trip (1.6 miles) around 2 hours depending on your pace, Diamond head is 560ft (171 m) in elevation, be sure to wear appropriate footwear as some of the trails are uneven and steep and have many stairs and a narrow lighted tunnel.

How to get there & cost

If you are a keen walker and want to burn the extra calories you can walk from Waikiki to Diamond head Monument and pay $1 per visitor or drive it $5 per car to park, there is an area to pay close to avoid paying the parking fee.

The park opens at 6 am, I suggest going in the morning to avoid the heat, be sure to take plenty of water.

A visit to Pearl Harbor is a must

Pearl harbor, do you like history and how much do you know? Did you serve in the military? Or simply want to pay your respects. Pearl Harbor is a must to visit and pay your respects. 2020 will mark the 80^th Anniversary.

Pearl Harbor resonated with me, the devastation that hit Pearl Harbor can be felt, we celebrate the survivors and be able to honor those who lost their lives.

Soulful beyond words and inspiring for the future. I thank you!

Almost 80 years have passed since the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, where over 2,400 innocent lives were taken in an attack that only lasted 1 ¼ hour as the Japanese attacked the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii an event that changed the world forever and US history and bringing the US into World War II.

The attack come as a complete surprise as the Japanese arrived undetected, thought to be US navy planes that bought complete destruction across Pearl Harbor and other military bases in Oahu.

During the attack 6 of the 8 battleships were damaged and later returned to service and the other 4 were severely damaged they sank to the bottom of the harbor. More than 180 aircraft were destroyed and nearly another 160 were damaged.

The USS Arizona was hit by multiple bombs which lead to the battleship exploding and sinking, taking 1,177 men. Oil continues to seep from the USS Arizona’s wreckage, some say it is the tears of the fallen trapped inside, called “Tears of the Arizona.”

Visiting Pearl Harbor is an important part of living history to mark the spot where the US was drawn into the Second World War. The United States declared war on Japan the following day and become involved in fighting across the Pacific and Europe.

At the visitor center, there are many exhibits and museums that are memories of the survivors. You will watch a 23-minute documentary video then take the US Navy shuttle boat to the USS Arizona Memorial, the heart of Pearl Harbor.

Things to see at Pearl Harbor

USS Arizona Memorial – The Memorial is a beautiful structure directly above the sunken battleship. It was built in 1962, Tickets are free, however only 1,300 tickets are given out each day, so arrive early to get your ticket, if you book a tour then this is not a concern.

Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park- The USS Bowfin submarine (SS-287), nicknamed the “Pearl Harbor Avenger,” was launched on December 7, 1942, one year after the attack.

The submarine retired after 9 war patrols and is now open to the public for tours, you can get a feel of how life was living and working in the submarine which is a very cramped space. Children under 4 years old are not allowed inside the submarine

Battleship Missouri Memorial – This giant is known for being the location where representatives of the Empire of Japan signed the surrender documents ending World War II. Decommissioned for the last time in 1992, it was brought to Pearl Harbor to become a museum.

You can explore the decks and learn about life aboard a battleship. Keep an eye out for the dent in the battleship’s side where she was hit by a kamikaze plane

USS Oklahoma Memorial- The USS Oklahoma (BB-37) was one of the battleships sunk during the attack on Pearl Harbor. It was hit and severely damaged by several torpedoes, causing it to capsize and sink. 429 crewmen died in the attack.

In 2007, the USS Oklahoma Memorial was built, honoring the men who lost their lives. Located just a short walk away from the Battleship Missouri, the memorial has 429 black granite and white marble columns that call to mind men in their uniforms standing at attention.

Pacific Aviation Museum- The museum has many aircraft on display in Hangars 37 & 79 of Naval Air Ford Island. The location itself is historic. Although much of the airbase was destroyed, these two buildings remained intact. You can still see the bullet holes high up in the windows. Inside the hangars, you will find many of the aircraft from across a century of military aviation.

The museum also has a flight simulator, where you can experience the thrill and adrenaline of being in the cockpit of a World War II-era plane.

Getting to Pearl Harbour

From Waikiki, it is about a 30-minute drive, if driving yourself parking is limited so arrive early, Taxi costs about $45+ driving is the quickest way. Bus #20 & #42 take you to Pearl Harbour and take approx. 1 ¼ hours.

Tours start at $97 including USS Arizona Memorial program, and a passport to Pearl Harbour starts at $72, not including USS Arizona Memorial, you will need to line up to get your free ticket, arrive early as there are only a limited number of tickets and are given on first-come, first-served basis.

You can explore Pearl Harbor yourself without a tour, and head to the visitor center to buy your tickets.

Hours: Open daily from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. Closed 3 days of the year- New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day (4^th Thursday in November) & Christmas Day.

Address:1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818

Vist the tranquil ground of  The Byodo-In Temple

When I arrived at the Byodo-in Temple grounds I instantly felt like I was in serenity, the gardens, and the temple is so beautiful and you really feel the tranquillity of the space, it is very peaceful and quiet in order to be respectful, you can really appreciate the uniqueness, the beauty of the Valley of the temple memorial park.

An interesting fact the temple is entirely built without using any nails. When seeing the temple, I am in absolute awe that this can be done.

I would allow at least 30 minutes for your visit and before entering the Byodo-In Temple be sure to remove your shoes. Hint: pack some bug spray as mozzies (mosquitoes) are an issue, so spray before you view.

Byodo-In Temple is at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. The Byodo-In Temple was completed on June 7, 1968, to commemorate 100 years of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii.

The Byodo-In Temple is a smaller replica of a 900-year-old Byodo-In Temple, a United Nations World Heritage Site in Uji, Japan. Byodo means Equal. The Temple is home to Amida, a golden Buddha the largest figure carved outside of Japan standing at 18feet.

The Bell House, called kanetsuki-do, has a five-foot-high, three-ton brass bell, called Bon-Sho (sacred bell), Ringing the Bon-Sho bell is believed to purify the mind of evil and temptation.

It is said that ringing the bell will bring you happiness, blessings, and long life. A soft wooden log called the “shu-moku” is used to strike the bell, it resonates with a sound that creates an atmosphere of serenity for meditation.

The Byodo-In Temple is a non-practicing Buddhist temple and welcomes people of all faiths to worship and meditate. The Temple grounds can be used for weddings, funerals, and memorial services.

The grounds are surrounded by an amazing landscape with wild peacocks and a large pond filled with Japanese Koi fish. You can buy fish food from the gift shop, a fun activity for the kids to feed the fish.

It is one of many island locations where the TV shows like Hawaii Five-O, Magnum, P.I. and LOST featured the temple in their episodes.

How to get there:

It is a 30-minute drive to the Byodo Temple by taxi or self-drive. You can catch a bus for as little as $2.50, the bus is not direct and does not drop you off at the Temple entrance you will need to be prepared to walk uphill and the bus ride can take around 1.5hours to arrive.

Costs & opening hours: General Admission $5.00 (ages 13-64), $4.00 Seniors (age 65 & up), $2.00 Children (2-12 years). Open hours: 8:30am – 5:00pm daily. Gift shop: 8:30am – 5:00pm daily.

Be amazed at The Polynesian Cultural Center

PCC is my favorite attraction on the island, one of a kind, one not to be missed.  The PCC brings all cultures from the Pacific to one all-mighty place (Hawaii, New Zealand, Tonga, Samoa, Tahiti, and Fiji). Travel through time and experience thousands of years of culture from six different islands.

This authentic experience will blow your socks off, each village has a cultural presentation that is 20-minutes long and runs throughout the day at set times with loads of awesome interactive activities for the whole family.

A world of adventure- you will leave PCC feeling like you have experienced the best of these cultures & islands.

Tip: If you are traveling with kids, on arrival be sure to grab a “Passport to Polynesia” find the signs around the park, get to know the locals, and get some stamps.)

PCC opened in 1963 as a non-profit organization with all revenue used for daily operations & support for the education of students attending the adjacent Brigham Young University- Hawaii.

If you are feeling overwhelmed & don’t know where to start, jump on one of the 32 seat canoes & have a personalized tour of the 16-acre center on the beautiful lagoon, or if you’re tired after a long day of walking take a ride, sit back and relax, while someone else does the work for you.

Not to be missed: The vibrant Huki- Canoe parade at 2:30 pm every day, watch as each island puts on a beautiful presentation of their music and dance on large platform canoes, the show goes for around 40-minutes, along the lagoon there are multiple viewing points, be sure to find a spot early to get a good view.

6 village Islands not to miss:

Hawaii: Welcome to their own beautiful island home “Aloha” experience their rich culture and beauty with the sound of the ukulele, smell, and touch. Learn how to Hula, try ancient Hawaiian games, dance, learn to fish with no net, and taste Hawaii’s delicacy Poi, watch the art of lauhala weaving. Go and enjoy the magic and be enchanted.

Check out the Iosepa- learn about the skills the Polynesian ancestors used to travel the seas, and wayfinding by reading the stars, wind & ocean. Hawaiian ancient history at its best with a 57” all-wood carved double-hulled voyaging canoe, originally carved and launched in Laie, Hawaii.

When the Iosepa is not in use, it is a centerpiece in the Iosepa discovery center at PCC. (Tip: If the kids loved the movie Moana and her voyage, they would love to see this)

Aotearoa, New Zealand: Culture built on strength of family. Experience firsthand the Maori culture and the powerful Haka (Maori war dance), try if you dare or watch in awe. Watch skilled artists carve lethal-looking weapons, discover the wonder of cooking & food preservation systems, and learn about the fascinating facial tattoos.

Fiji: Most famous for their skill in battle, be enchanted by the Fijian singers and feel the beat, enjoy clay pottery being made, honor the chief, and learn why their Warriors are so mighty and feared.

Feel the power as you get an enthusiastic welcome by the warriors while the women delight you with traditional dance. Learn to make coconut oil, get a temporary tattoo, and look up in awe at the inspiring 6-story temple.

Samoa: ready to laugh your socks off, then get excited Samoans are known as the ‘happy people’ and relish in Samoan song and dance, be amazed by the strong young men climb 40-foot coconut trees in their bare feet.

Need some survival skills to learn how to start a fire using two sticks, and open a coconut with a rock. weave a fish and cook bananas, learn how to twirl a fire knife, don’t let it go unnoticed have a look at the domed shape building that is built with no nails, that’s right no nails, and how they create their own natural air-conditioning.

Tonga: full of joy and laughter, learn to dance sitting down, become a mighty drummer, throw a spear, paddle a canoe, and enjoy some island music, get your feet stomping and watch the Tonga action packed presentation, you will in fits of laughter.

Tahiti: WOW can Tahitians move their hips, you will enjoy learning how to shake your hips like a Tahitian, with the rich culture of love & marriage, fishing & cooking, and dancing.

Try some mouth-watering coconut bread, snag a fish with some pole fishing from a little pier, and practice throwing a spear at a coconut.

Learn about the underwater pearl farms, full-body tattoos & Tahitian royalty. Visit the Marae (Tahitian temple) a sacred place. Do not miss the traditional Tahitian wedding ceremony at 3:30 pm daily, feel the love in the air.

Rapa Nui: (Easter Island) an exhibit in the center of the village features seven hand-carved Moai or stone statues created on-site by artists from Rapa Nui.

The PCC packages include the Ha: Breath of life show and Luau buffet, depending on which package you buy, you can choose between the Island dinner with general seating being the cheapest package or the Al’ii or Ambassador Luau buffet and Ali’I or Ambassador seating.

The Buffet offers a wide selection of delicious food ranging from Polynesian-inspired to Asian & American cuisine. The show has over 100 Polynesian natives and is a Pacific island story of birth, death, love and family, tragedy & success.

Be known: NO alcohol is permitted. Check out their packages PCC packages

Getting there: Driving is at least 60-75 minutes and parking is free, you can book a shuttle with PCC.

Location: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy Laie, Hawaii 96762

Hours: Mon-Sat 12 noon- 9 pm, closed Sundays & Wednesdays.

Visit The Dole Plantation

The Dole Plantation is great for families with activities including the Pineapple Express Train Tour, the Plantation Garden Tour, and the Pineapple Garden Maze. The Dole Plantation was stunning, the staff are friendly and helpful, the plantation was much more than I expected, and it surprisingly had plenty of activities and history to keep us busy.

After enjoying getting lost in the maze (never through I would say that) and a train ride, it was time to enjoy some DoleWhip, if you check their website they can have deals like buy 2 get 1 free, or if your feeling more hungry they have a dining area that has meals, there are other options for snacks but at the hub of pineapple it was only fair to try out the world-famous DoleWhip and it didn’t disappoint.

Gifts and treats: After a busy day, come in, cool down, and enjoy some original world-famous DoleWhip or some other island favorite snacks. Here you will also find some clothing, gifts, souvenirs, and many unique pineapples and Hawaiian products.

Pineapple Express – The pineapple express is a 2-mile (20-minute) narrated train ride that is full of information, you will learn about the history of pineapple. $12 for Adults, $10 for Children (4-12), a child under 4 free

Pineapple Maze At nearly 2.5 miles of paths and over 138,000 square feet in size, in 2008 this maze was called the world’s largest maze. prices: $8.25 Adults, $6.25 Children (4-12) child under 4 free

Plantation Garden Tour – On the garden tour you can view an amazing range of native species and crops grown on the North Shore of Oahu, such as pineapple, coffee, banana, cacao, papaya, mango, and many others.  Tour prices: $7.25 for Adults, $6.50 for Children (4-12), under 4 free

The plantation is open daily from 9 am to 5:30 pm- closed on Christmas Day.

Getting here: From Waikiki, it is a 40-minute drive heading towards Wahiawa. You can take the bus, you will need to change bus #13 and then #52 which takes just under 2 hours. If coming from the North Shore it’s 30 minutes and bus # 52.

Shake you hips at Germaine’s Lūʻau

I Love Luaus, I have been to Germaines Luau two times, it was so enjoyable the first time I had to go back, the bright colors, the traditional Hawaiian & Polynesian dancing taking you from the islands of Samoa, Fiji, Tahiti & New Zealand, the beautiful people, the music, activities, the laughs and the sound of the ocean behind you and far too much food and enjoyable cocktails, its true paradise and such a unique experience, one I highly recommend for the Hawaiian bucket list.

On arrival you will be greeted with a Traditional Hawaiian shell Lei, now time to fill your bellies, watch the traditional ceremony where the kalua pig (roasted pig), is cooked in an IMU (under-ground oven) then uncovered, cut, and served.

There is a large selection of All-you-can-eat Hawaiian/American side dishes that include poi (Taro potato), Lomilomi Salmon, Sauteed Island Fish, Hawaiian Pulehu Chicken, chicken & rice, Pineapple Coleslaw + more, and a selection of desserts like Haupia (Coconut Pudding), Vanilla Coconut Cake, Fresh Fruit Salad, Chocolate Cake, Fresh Pineapple. Enjoy unlimited complimentary soft drinks, hot coffee & tea.

After you have overindulged in the mouth-watering feast and some delicious cocktails the entertainment begins, hold on to your seats for a fun night, or better yet get up and dance a little. The night will finish up with a spectacular Polynesian Revue with a Samoan fire knife Dancer.

Prices: Packages start from $94 for adults, child $84 (ages 13-20), and child $74 (ages 4-12) Free for 3 and under, the packages include unlimited soft drinks, coffee & tea, 1-3 alcohol beverage coupons (depending on your package).

Note: transport is not included but can add a return trip for $20 per person.

Getting there: Germaine’s luau is located in Kapolei on the beach it is about a 45-minute drive from Waikiki or book a shuttle with your package.

When: Tuesday – Sunday, Lūʻau begins at 5:30 pm and finished approx. 8:30 pm

Discover History at Iolani Palace

Explore Hawaii’s royal past, the official state residence of royalty in the US. Here tells a story of the Hawaiian people, see the luxurious furniture, and decorative architecture, and learn the history of the building and its former occupants.

Iolani Palace was home to the Hawaiian’s 2 final monarchs, King Kalakaua, his wife Queen Kapiʻolani & his sister & successor, Queen Lili’uokalani. Many of Iolani Palace’s pieces were lost or stolen during the overthrow of the government in 1983.

Walk around and explore the main room and halls and the grand hall, the throne room, state dining room and the King & Queens private suites the museum is 7,000 square feet in size, you can do a guided tour or self-guided audio tour.

Hours & cost: Lecturer-led tours, are available Thursday only- 9am to 2:30pm. Costs:  $27 (adult), $6 (child, ages 5-12), children 0-4 years not permitted.

Self-led tours are available Fridays & Saturdays from 9 am to 3 pm. Costs: $20 (adult) $6 (child, ages 5-12) children 0-4 years permitted in child carriers or Palace strollers.

Laie Hawaii Temple is a temple of The Church of Jesus Christ, it is located on the northeast shore of Oahu; on the grounds of the temple is a visitor center, which makes it a well-visited site, it is not far from the Polynesian Cultural Center, so worth a look. The temple sits on a small hill, surrounded by lush flora and cascading pools, and a large fountain.

Bucket list for my next trip to Oahu.

I did not get a chance on either of my trips to explore many other beautiful places the island has to offer like: Kualoa Ranch, Sharks Cove, Bishops museum, try my hand at some surfing, explore more of Waimea valley, voyage on a catamaran, the list goes on So here’s to my next To-do list for Oahu.