O'ahu Family Adventure

While its gentle lagoons, miles and miles of sparkling sand, fun-loaded parks and fascinating history, O'ahu is world in itself. Your entire family will find loads to enjoy all day long, from the first rays of the rising sun until late into the star-swept night. Everywhere you go, your family will be greeted with the warm welcome of aloha. Packed with variety, this year-round paradise is the perfect place to build memories that will last a lifetime.

Surf
Take a family surfing lesson in the gentle waters off Waikiki.

Atlantis Submarines
Get eye-to-eye with fish and turtles as Atlantis Submarines dives to view sunken ships, airliners and reef structures that are homes to exotic marine life.

Wet n Wild Hawaii
Float lanquidly along a river on an inner tube at 29-acre Wet n Wild Hawaii.

Star of Honolulu
Hawaii's award-winning cruise ship offer whale watching tours during the season, and sunset dinner cruises.

Honolulu Zoo
See the African Savanna, Tropical Forest, Pacific Islands and Children's Petting Zoo.

Dole Plantation
Wander through the three acres of tropical plants at the Dole Plantation's World's Largest Maze-amazing!

Bishop Museum
Introduce the family to the true history and Culture of Hawaii Closed Tuesdays.

Hawaii Nature Center
Over 15 trails and nature programs of all ages let you experience O'ahu's rainforests.

Sea Life Park Hawaii
Go nose-to-nose with exotic Hawaiian marine life at Sea Life Park, where programs include Sea Trek, Hawaiian Ray Encounter, Dolphin Royal Swim and more!

Polynesian Cultural Center
Immerse yourself in a true Polynesian experience at the 42-acre attraction.

Pearl Harbor
Walk along the massive deck of the USS Missouri, "Mighty Mo," and see the spot where Japan unconditionally surrendered, marking the end of WWII.

Historic Makaha Valley Riding Stables
Enjoy scenic horseback rides and good ol' family fun.

Waikiki Aquarium
Say hello to the 3,500 aquatic animals and plants that call this aquarium home.

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O'ahu Water Adventures

O'ahu is the perfect destination for ocean lovers. The warm Pacific that surrounds the Island creates endless possibilities for water adventures.


Surfing
Among surfers, O'ahu is not only an international destination, but is acknowledged as the birthplace of modern surfing. It was Duke Kahanamoku, with his "mile-long" ride in Waikiki, who put modern surfing on the map. During winter, when waves can measure up to 50 feet high, there is no hotter spot on O'ahu than the legendary North Shore, where the giant surf made the names Waimea, Sunset, Pipeline and Hale'iwa famous. In the summer months, the North Shore flattens out, while the big surf hits the South. Ready to stop watching and dive in? Whatever your age, skill or interest, there is someone who can teach you to surf.

Underwater
Underwater O'ahu is every bit as lush and dramatic as the Island's topside scenery. Snorkeling is great and there are hundreds of sites around the Island where you'll find fascinating underwater life.

A hybrid of snorkeling and scuba, scuba lets you breathe under water without wearing a tank. If you're not certified, dive shops around O'ahu offer classes, equipment and information on dive sites and conditions.

Overwater
Don't want to surf or snorkel? Body surfing, body boarding and stand up paddle boarding are popular alternatives. Perhaps this is the time to try windsailing, parasailing or hang gliding! Or try windsurfing out by Le'ahi (Diamond Head) or on beautiful Kailua Beach.

There's wakeboarding (it's something like waterskiing, but wilder), kite surfing (a combination of kite-flying, wakeboarding, surfing and flying) and stand-up paddle boarding. Stand-up paddle boarding is more tranquil sport, unless you're good enough to surf! Lather on the sunscreen, pack a picnic and a towel, and paddle a kayak to one of O'ahu's nearby protected islets, or moku. Stroll the isolated beach, cool off in the water, and then paddle back in time for a refreshing shave ice or mai tai.

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O'ahu Golf Courses

Ocean breezes keep O'ahu's air clean and sweet, but they'll challenge your carefully calculated drive. The wind partly accounts for the fact that you will tend to find wide, forgiving fairways. The ground is harder here. The ball runs more off the tee, and doesn't stop as quickly on the greens.

First time golfers to the Island should also be forewarned about putting on Bermuda greens, which are grainier than traditional Bentgrass greens and more difficult to read. The grain grows in the direction of the prevailing trade winds, generally from east to west, toward the setting sun. Novice and experienced golfers looking to polish their skills will find helpful golf pros ready to provide lessons to help you make the most of your time on the courses.

Top rated resort golfing can be found at Hawaii Prince, Ko'Olina, Pearl Country Club and Turtle Bay. Tucked up against the rampart of the Ko'olau Range on Windward O'ahu, the Ko'olau Golf Club has been ranked the most challenging course on North America by the US Golf Association, but even novice will appreciate its tremendous beauty.

Golf Courses

• Coral Creek Golf Course
• Hawaii Prince Golf Club
• Ko'Olina Golf Club
• Pearl Country Club
• Turtle Bay Golf Club

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Central O'ahu

Heading north from Honolulu, the fertile central valley of O'ahu still bears remnants of its plantation past. Charming historic towns dot the landscape up through the center of the Island between bustling Honolulu and the wide sweep of the dramatic North Shore.

Dole Plantation
Dole's unique garden displays pineapple lore from all over the world.
The pineapple Garden Maze is made of 14,000 colorful Hawaii plants. After the Maze, ride the "Pineapple Express," a two-mile, 20 minute fully narrated train tour for kids and adults. You'll learn about the history of pineapple and agriculture in Hawaii, hear the fascinating story of James Dole and see some of the most beautiful scenery in Central O'ahu and the North Shore.

Hawaii's Plantation Village, Waipahu
Escape the present day and explore O'ahu plantation heritage and culture at Hawaii's Plantation Village in Waipahu. You'll learn how more than 400,000 immigrants who arrived between 1852 and 1947 to work on O'ahu plantations actually shaped Hawaii's into the vibrant multi-ethnic community it is today,.

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet
In addition to hosting events, the Aloha stadium is home to Hawaii's largest flea market on Wednesday and Saturday, 8am to 3pm and Sunday from 6:30am to 3pm.

Leilahua Plateau, Wahiawa
Leilehua Plateau's protected central location and 1,000 foot elevation has made it a rich agricultural region as well as a vital military headquarters.

Kukaniloko,Wahiawa
Kukaniloko birthing stones are a gathering of sacred stones marking the place where Hawaiian Royalty gave birth and a place much revered by Native Hawaiians today.

Wahiawa Botanical Garden
Home to tropical flora that require a cooler environment, with a special effort to develop their collection of native Hawaiian plants.


Pearl Harbor
"Yesterday, December 7, 1941 - a date which will live in infamy - the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan."
--Franklin Delano Roosevelt

The largest natural harbor in Hawaii and the only naval based in the United States to be designated a National Historical Landmark, Pearl Harbor got its name from the pearl oysters that were once harvested here. Today, Pearl Harbor is a vivid memorial to the events of December 7, 1941 --"a date which will live in infamy" -- and is also the headquarters and home base of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, which is the world's largest naval command.

The aerial attack on Pearl Harbor left thousands dead and wounded, and drove the United States into the World War II. The visitors center, museum, monuments and poignant exhibits honor those who fought as well as those who worked to restore peace. There's a lot to see, so allow several hours for your Pearl Harbor visit.

Begin your journey at the Visitors Center with a walk through the USS Arizona Memorial Museum, then watch a film with vintage newsreel footage that explains the day's events, and plaques honor those lost. Next, a short boat ride takes you to the USS Arizona Memorial, which was constructed astride the sunken battleship as a memorial to the 1,177 men who lost their lives in the attack.

The Battleship Missouri Memorial is a living museum that offers a glimpse into life on the historic "Mighty Mo". Climb aboard the last and most celebrated battleship ever built. It was aboard the 60,000 ton ships decks that the documents ending World War II were signed.

The USS bowfin Submarine Museum & Park is a National Historic Landmark featuring this restored World War II sub and fascinating information on the history of submarines and underwater warfare. The adjacent park honors submariners lost in WWII and includes interactive exhibits of guns and torpedoes.

Complete with simulators, historic exhibits and actual fighter planes and bombers, the Pacific Aviation Museum is located in the battlefield hangars on Pearl Harbor's Ford Island.

The USS Oklahoma Memorial honors the 429 crewmen who lost their lives in the Pearl Harbor attack, when the 35,000-ton battleship sank under a barrage of torpedoes in only twelve minutes.

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The North Shore

The North Shore is home to the world-famous Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, known for their epic winter waves and international surf competitions. Charming and rustic surf towns are yours to discover. O'ahu's North Shore is exciting, refreshing and at the same time infused with a laid-back country feel.

Sunset and 'Ehukai (Banzai Pipeline) Beach
Stop at these amazing surf spots that host surfers from around the world for both enjoyment and competition. Watch the spectacle of surfers catching the thrill of, at times, 20-30 foot waves during the winter months. The rest of the year these beaches are great for relaxing and swimming. Popular Big Wave Surf Contests include:

• Vans Triple Crown of Surfing (November to December)
• The Quicksilver Big Wave Invitational in Memory of Eddie Aikau (December to February)

Turtle Bay Resort: Championship Golf
The Palmer Course provides a "links" style on the front nine and a woodsy layout on hte back nine. The Fazio Course is a less demanding alternative.

Polynesian Cultural Center, La'ie
Discover the charm and beauty of the seven authentically recreated South Pacific Islands at the 42-acre Polynesian Cultural Center. Enjoy the new "Go Native" activities, lu'au, evening show and canoe ride on the freshwater lagoon that winds through typical villages of Fiji, Hawaii, New Zealand, Marquesas, Samoa, Tahiti and Tonga.

James Campbell Nature Wildlife Refuge
From October to February, enjoy a free tour to one of Hawaii's few remaining wetlands, featuring endangered native water birds and migratory birds from Alaska and Siberia.

And once you're done paddling that outrigger canoe, try climbing coconut trees, making fire by rubbing sticks, throwing spears, cooking a Samoan meal and many other activities with Polynesian natives at your side. It's authentic island life, layered with loads of fun. Top it all off with the heralded Ali'i Luau and the island's largest evening show.

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Leeward Coast

Less than 30 miles from Waikiki, nestled between the 4,000-foot Wai'anae Mountain Range and the Kaua'i Channel, the Leeward Coast is a quiet collection of towns, royal historic sites and world class beaches.

Ka'ena Point
The dramatic lava shoreline of Ka'ena Point was recognized as the sacred place where newly released souls were met by the souls were met by the souls of ancestors and friends and carried from earth. The currents at Ka'ena Point are dangerous year-round, with the largets waves in Hawaii pounding its cliffs during the winter months.

Wet n Wild Hawaii
Unique to Hawaii and only on O'ahu, Wet n Wild Hawaii is bordered by the natural cliffs of the Wai'anae Range. This 29-acre water park includes an enormous wave pool, white water rafting on the Raging River and more water adventure for the whole family.

Makaha Beach, Makaha
About an hour's drive from Waikiki, Makaha is one of Hawaii's most popular surfing spots and host to international surfing championships. The beach is steep, wide and sandy, and in summer it's the widest beach on the Leeward Shore.

Kaneana Cave, Makua
On the mu uka (inland) side of the road, this enormous lava cave was reputed to be the home of a shark-man deity known as Nanaue.

Kane'aki Heiau, Makaha Valley
This fascinating 17th century temple, deep in Makaha Valley, was dedicated to the Hawaiian God, Lono, and used as site for worship and human sacrifices.

Yokohama Bay
The last sandy stretch on the Leeward Shore, Yokohama's curving sand beach and turquoise waters offer a great spot to watch surfers and dolphins.

Paradise Cove Lu'au
Partake in unique island experiences of culture and tradition, fun and excitement! And enjoy a delicious Hawaiian feast and entertainment by Hawaii's talented performers.

Ko'olina Resort
The 43-acre Ko'olina Marina, playground under the sun, features access to seven magnificent lagoons, miles of beautiful shoreline, picnic areas, the J.W. Marriott 'Ihilani Resort & Spa, the newly opened Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, sailing, sportfishing and snorkeling excursions. The 18-hole championship course is a golfer's dream with 16 water features, multi-tiered greens and ocean view fairways. For romance or simply to admire its unique beauty, stop at the Ko'olina wedding chapel, with its prism glass windows overlooking the Pacific. And finally, celebrate Hawaiian culture with song and dance at the ocean side Paradise Cove Lu'au.

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Windward Coast of O'ahu

Less than an hour from lively Waikiki, the Windward Coast of O'ahu is home to some of America's best beaches, lush gardens and valleys, white powdery sand and crystal blue waters. Take a drive out to a perfect outdoor paradise for kayaking, horseback riding, lounging, hiking, golfing and discovering native flora.

Sea Life Park Hawaii
Immediately beyond picturesque Makapu'u Point, Sea Life Park Hawaii provides an amusing and informative assortment of programs. Participate in the Dolphin Royal Swim, Hawaiian Ray Encounter, Sea Trek Adventure and the many wildlife programs.

Makapu'u Point Lighthouse
This easternmost point on O'ahu is known for the Island's best body surfing (use caution) at the 1,000-foot long strecth of beach that lines the Makapu'u shore. Enjoy a leisurely family hike to the top of the Makapu'u sea cliff and delight in whale watching November through March.

Waimanalo Beach
Perhaps the prettiest stretch of pristine white-sand beach on O'ahu, this shoreline fronts majestic views of the Ko'olau Range and is ideal for families and perfect for picnics.

Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden
This 400-acre nature conservancy specializes in fruits, flowers and trees native to Hawaii. Its cleared and safe hiking trails showcase the scenic beauty of the Ko'olau Range and the Pacific Ocean.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Enjoy a unique snorkeling experience at one of Hawaii's premier sites. Sheltered in the curved bay of a breached volcanic crater, this marine conservatory is famous for its pristine sand beach and isolated beauty. Closed Tuesdays.

Hawaii Kai
This community located along the ocean provides a myriad of water sport adventures. Visit Koko Marina Center and choose from the wake boarding, parasailing, water skiing, jetskiing, wave runners, bumper tubes, scuba, snuba, snorkeling and more.

Byodo-In Temple, Valley of the Temples
At the base of the 2,000-foot Ko'olau Range, a replica of 900-year old Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan was built in memory of the first Japanese immigrants who came to O'ahu to work in the sugar plantations.

Kailua Town
Don't miss the chance to explore charming Kailua Town where you'll find a variety of beachwear boutiques, shops and restaurants that will satisfy all tastes. Want to soak up the sun? Head to Kailua Beach and enjoy a quiet stroll along the soft white sand, or a day of windsurfing, kayaking and swimming in the beautiful waters. Eat your delicious plate lunch on the grassy areas along the beach. You will also find outfitters that provide guided tours or rentals for kayaking and windsurfing. Come and discover why Kailua Beach has consistently earned the title Best Beach in America.

Windward Golf
Nestled below the Nu'uanu Pali Lookout, carved out of the magnificent rainforest of the Ko'olau Range, the Ko'olau Golf Course 18-hole championship course is considered the most challenging in the nation. Golf in the shadow of Olomana Mountain at Luana Hills, perhaps one of the most beautiful golf courses in Hawaii, or at Pali Municipal Golf Course, a picuresque and challenging hillside course located along the foothills of the Ko'olau mountain range.

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Waikiki

Known for its world-class hotels, vibrant nightlife, great shopping and dining, Waikiki continues to be steeped in history and its cultural roots. Live in Hawaiian entertainment, Pacific Rim cuisine, oceanfront fine dining, surf lessons, aloha wear, luau and of course the famous sands of Waikiki Beach. Immerse yourself.


Surfing Waikiki
Learn to surf at the birthplace of surfing, Waikiki, with the professional surfers sharing their love of the ocean. Join them for a surfing lesson or outrigger canoe ride and experience the thrill.

Honolulu Zoo
On the grounds of the park on Monsarrat Avenue, visit the 40-acre Honolulu Zoo, home to over 2,000 animals. On weekends, enjoy the works of local contemporary artists and craftspeople at the Honolulu Zoo Art Mart.

Discover Waikiki of Yesteryear
Hawaii's royal family enjoyed private estate living in Waikiki for more than 500 years before the arrival of outsiders in 1792. Royal estates were replaced with luxury hotels and the landscape forever changed with the building of the Ala Wai Canal, diverting rain-fed streams that once filled fishponds and pools in Waikiki, a wetland area of taro, sweet potato and banana farms. Waikikis rich history is revealed through walking tours conducted by Moana Surfrider, A westin Resort, Sheraton Waikiki's Journey Through Historic Waikiki and The Waikiki Historic Trail. Keep your eyes open for surf board markers that trace the history and cultural legacy of Waikiki, as well as several historic statues of Hawaii's Royalty, such as Prince Jonah Kalaniana'ole and Princess Ka'iulani.

War Memorial Natatorium
The War Memorial Natatorium is located adjacent to the Aquarium. With its beaux-arts style arched entry and Olympic-sized saltwater pool, it stands in memory of Hawaiian soldiers that died in World War I.

U.S. Army Museum
Located at Hale Koa Park, the U.S. Army Museum is housed in a military bunker built in 1911 to defend Pearl Harbor and displays a collection of weaponry and war memorabilia from ancient Hawaii to Vietnam.

Kapi'olani Park

A morning stroll travelling east on Kalakaua Avenue will lead you to Kapi'olani Park, 500 acres of parkland donated by King David Kalakaua and named after his wife, Queen Kapi'olani. Take in free Tai Chi exercise class Sunday and Monday mornings or a concert under the stars at the Waikiki Shell. Also in the park you'll find the Kapi'olani Bandstand in contemporary Victorian style where concerts, events and festival draw locals and visitors.

Waikiki Aquarium
Over 500 aquatic species from the Islands of Hawaii and the tropical Pacific can be found at the Waikiki Aquarium. View some of Hawaii's most beautiful fishes and corals in their natural habitat at the 'Northwestern Hawaiian Islands' exhibit. And be sure to check out Makaonaona and Ho'ailona, the aquarium's pair of rare Hawaiian monk seals!

Catarman Sailing Off Waikiki Beach
Get swept away on one of the many catamarans resting on Waikiki Beach and enjoy a pleasurable 45-minute sail toward Le'ahi (Diamond Head)

Diamond Head Theatre
Hawaii's oldest performing arts center is five minutes from central Waikiki at Le'ahi (Diamond Head). The Diamond Head Theatre presents popular plays and musicals from September through July.

Kapahulu Dining
If you're looking for local flavor, Kapahulu Avenue is the place to go, offering some of Waikiki's most delicious local food. Indulge in a massive plate of Hawaiian food at Ono Hawaiian Foods or hot malasadas at Leonard's Bakery. From fine restaurants to fast food, there is something for every appetite.

Waikiki Entertains!
There is never a dull moment in Waikiki, and here are just a few of the many events and entertainment that await you in Hawaii's playground!

• Enjoy sunset torch lighting and hula festivities select evenings at the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound.
• On scheduled weekends, watch a free movie at Sunset on the Beach at Queen's Surft.
• Listen to the Royal Hawaiian Band perform every Sunday at the Kapi'olani Park Bandstand.
• Don't miss the fireworks display every Friday at Hilton Hawaiian Village
• Feast under the evening sky every Monday at 'Aha 'Aina, a Royal Celebration at The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, and every Sunday through Thursday at the Waikiki Startlight Lu'au at Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa and every Tuesday and Thursday through Sunday at Sheraton Princess Kaiulani's Creation of Polynesian Journey.

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Honolulu

Honolulu is unique and vibrant blend of museums, art galleries, eclectic dining options, the financial district and bustling Chinatown. Historic landmarks abound within walking distance, Cuban cafes and Eurasian tantalize the taste buds, while the rich arts and culture enliven the mind. Be inspired.. Come join the scene.

'Iolani Palace
Enjoy the guided tour of one of Honolulu's most honored landmarks. Journey through the times of happiness and tragedy of King Kalakaua and Queen Lili'uokalani as you view their 2-storey American Florentine style palace. Also located in the Palace grounds are the 'Iolani Barracks, which housed as many as 125 soldiers of the Hawaiian monarchy. After extensive travels throughout the world,

King Kalakaua introduced the custom of royal coronation to Hawaii. Upon the arrival from England of two golden crowns adorned with precious jewels, King Kalakaua crowned himself as King and his wife Kapi'olani as Queen on February 12, 1883.

Statue of King Kamehameha I

Directly across from 'Iolani Palace, King Kamehameha I is immortalized in bronzed. It was King Kamehameha who unified the Hawaiian Islands under one rule, and every June 11th (Kamehameha Day) this famous Hawaii landmark is draped with dozens of 30-foot fresh flower lei in his honor.

Mission Houses Museum
Take an escorted walking tour into the life and work of the Protestant missionaries who settled in Hawaii in 1820. See three original frame homes that were built in New England and shipped to Hawaii.

Hawaii Theatre

The neoclassical Hawaii Theatre, opened in 1922, is a multi-purpose state-of-the-art performance center.

Honolulu Museum of Art
This museum is recognized for its vast collections of Asian, American and European art. Six garden courtyards surround the Academy's 30 galleries.

Aloha Tower
Located in the Aloha Tower Marketplace, the Tower was once the tallest building in the Islands. This gothic structure includes four seven-ton clocks from the Howard Clock Company in Boston, one on each of its sides.

The Royal Hawaiian Band

Founded by King Kamehameha III in 1836, the Royal Hawaiian Band has entertained audiences in Hawaii and around the world for over 175 years. Weekly public performances are held every Friday at the 'Iolani Palace.

Royal Mausoleum Nu'uanu

Visit the picturesque chapel in Nu'uanu Valley where Hawaii's Kamehameha and Kalakaua royal families were laid to rest before being removed to private vaults.

Nu'uano Pali Lookout
Nu'uano Pali Lookout offers on of O'ahu's finest views and sheer Ko'olau cliffs. Perched 3,000 feet above the O'ahu coastline is the site of the battle of Nu'uanu, where in 1795 Kamehamela I won the struggle that united the Island of O'ahu with the rest of his kingdom.

Tantalus Rainforest Makiki
Travel north of Honolulu through the 2,013-foot Tantalus Rainforest and Mountain. Enjoy the panoramic views of the Honolulu skyline below and the lush rainforest abundance surrounding you on this hillside of wildlife, flowers and exotic fruit trees.P10

Queen Emma Summer Palace
Drive into the lush, green Nu'uanu Valley and visit the secluded summer retreat of Queen Emma, King Kamehameha IV and their son, Prince Albert. ROyal antiques and furnishings stand in their original places.

Shangri La
In the late 1930s, Doris Duke built "Shangri La," her Honolulu home, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Le'ahi (Diamond Head). Today, Shangri La houses Duke's extensive collection of Islamic art and is open for guided tours.

Wai'oli Tea Room Manoa Valley
Nestled in Manoa Valley and surrounded by charming gardens, the Wai'oli Tea Room listed on the United States Register of Historic Places is the perfect setting for refreshing afternoon tea.

Chinatown
The first Chinese immigrants arrived on O'ahu in 1852 to work on the sugar plantations. As they moved into urban Honolulu, they established a community in the area now known as Chinatown. Today, enjoy open markets, noodle shops and traditional herb shops, then take a walking tour of this historic area.

Maunakea Street Lei Stands
The only way to enjoy the sites and sounds of Chinatown is on foot. Stop at one of the many lei stands on and near Maunekea Street and marvel at the varieties, intricate and artistic designs and fragrant masterpieces, then purchase a tradition of aloha.


Hip Arts Scene
Trendy bars and lounges offering live music, film screenings and art exhibitions combine for a hip and hot Downtown Honolulu (Hotel Street, Nu'uanu Avenue, Bethel Street and King Street) scene. Check out First Friday of the Month evenings, when Chinatown's galleries, museums, studios, cafes, bistros and antique stores are open and festivities include street entertainment. Third Thursdays have been added due to popularity.

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