One of the most famous beaches in the world, Waikiki Beach boasts more than four million visitors every year and breathtaking views of Leahi (Diamond Head). Located on the south shore of Honolulu, the world-famous neighborhood of Waikiki was once a playground for Hawaiian royalty. The Duke Kahanamoku statue welcomes you to Waikiki, one of the best places in Hawaii to learn how to surf or paddle a canoe thanks to its small but long-lasting wave break. Among the various things to do, high-end boutiques, shops, and restaurants can be found all along Kalakaua and Kuhio Avenues and at gathering places like the Royal Hawaiian Center, the Waikiki Beach Walk and the newly transformed International Market Place. After the Waikiki sunset, the fun continues with amazing nightlife and live music.
Kualoa is a 4,000 acre Private Nature Reserve as well as a working cattle ranch with more than 600 head of cattle, 120 horses and 200 sheep, stretching from the steep mountain cliffs to the sparkling waters of Kaneohe Bay. Located on the eastern shores of O’ahu, Kualoa is just 24 miles from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. It is truly a paradise for outdoor recreation and Kualoa offers guided tours by several forms of transportation … electric Mountain Bikes, ATV Raptors, Zipline, Horseback, Trolley, Bus, Boat, Kayak, Jungle Jeep, Catamaran or your own two feet! If the views look familiar, it’s because Kualoa has been the site of over 70 Hollywood movies since the 1950’s. Blockbuster films such as Jumanji, Kong Skull Island, Jurassic World, Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom, Jurassic Park, Windtalkers, Pearl Harbor, Godzilla, Tears of the Sun, and 50 First Dates have all been filmed at Kualoa.
"Hana" is the Hawaiian word for "Bay" and "uma" refers to the curves of the indigenous canoes. For many years Hawaiian Royalty used Hanauma bay for fishing and recreation Hanauma Bay is a must do for your Oahu island itinerary. It is one of the premier destinations on Oahu if you want to get acquainted with hundreds of tropical fish and marine life. It offers an overall great experience whether your a beginner or an avid snorkeler and it's for people of all ages.
The Byodo-In Temple is located at the foot of the Ko'olau Mountains in 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. The Byodo-In Temple in O'ahu is a smaller-scale replica of the over 950-year-old Byodo-in Temple, a United Nations World Heritage Site in Uji, Japan. The Byodo-In Temple is a non-practicing Buddhist temple which welcomes people of all faiths to worship, meditate or simply appreciate its beauty.
Strolling or driving through these lush 400 acres in windward Oʻahu, you will truly agree that Hoʻomaluhia is rightfully named "a peaceful refuge." Opened in 1982, this garden in Kāneʻohe features plantings from major tropical regions around the world grouped geographically. Geographical regions represented by our botanical collections: Philippines, Malaysia, Tropical America, India & Sri Lanka, Melanesia, Hawaii, Polynesia, and Africa. The Garden was designed and built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide flood protection for Kāneʻohe. Admission into the gardens is free.
Haleiwa Joes & Haiku Gardens offers views second to none, award-winning food infused with local flavors, and a staff full of aloha. This is our favorite date night/celebration/any reason to eat out spot on the east side! This tucked away tranquil gem has a breathtaking view that makes your dinner experience magical. On top of the lush mountains and garden, the food is incredible! It is definitely a must do. They don’t take reservations so be prepared for a little wait, but trust us, it’s worth it.