Taking On Hawaii

November 11, 2018

Alooooha!

Like many, you probably have Hawaii on your bucket list. You know you desire to go but have the slightest idea of where to start or what island to visit.

All of Hawaii’s islands are breathtaking. Of the ones that are open to tourists, the best one to visit simply boils down to what you’re looking to experience during your vacation. If your vacation goal is diversity (i.e. beautiful beaches, city life, nightlife, shopping, surfing, stunning views, popular tours & attractions, etc.), the popular island of Oahu is a wise choice.

When visiting the island of Oahu, there is just so much to do and see and the desire to do and see it all can easily become overwhelming. You have to pace yourself so you don’t end needing a vacation after a vacation. There is a method to not losing yourself while on vacation… have a plan . It is so easy to become distracted once you are there, so sticking with a plan is best. Surely, you will still veer a little off course here and there, but adhering to your plan for the most part will save you time and frustration. There are tons of resources out there to assist you with pre-travel research in order to ensure a smooth and stress-free vacation. A good place to start is with your trusted travel agent… ME of course !

Once you arrive on the island with your plan, let loose and do your thing! ALOOOOOOHAA ! One of the first things you have to do before you leave the airport is get you a Lei. That’s right, you’re in Hawaii, so immerse yourself in the culture immediately by donning an authentic Lei . While there are Leis all throughout the island and they are very plentiful, it’s just something about getting one upon arrival.

Once you settle into your accommodations, the real fun begins. Some popular ideas for capturing the what beautiful Oahu has to offer are:

1. If you’re feeling eventful, rent a convertible and drive the perimeter of the island. With stops along the way, this can easily turn into a full day’s event. However, taking this “ scenic route ” will provide you the opportunity of stunning views. Take advantage of picturesque observations by stopping at the designated Lookouts . Of course, you can’t resist making occasional pit stops at some of the beaches to dip your toes in the sand or water from different ends of the island. There’s no doubt that you will enjoy the tranquility each stop brings. This perimeter trip in itself will yield countless pictures that portray some of the Hawaiian culture.



2. Visit the Dole Plantation to experience a pretty cool Maze along other things. Take to the fields and indulge in a little history of the pineapple (specifically how they’re grown and how they tie to the Hawaiian culture). Don’t leave the plantation without trying some of the famous Pineapple Ice Cream, stopping by the gift store for gifts, souvenirs and iconic goodies and purchasing a pineapple or two to take home with you.

3. For the adventure in you, take an adrenaline wrenching hike up Diamond Head.

4. Plan a day of shopping at the Swap Meet located at Aloha Stadium. This is where you are sure to find all kinds of bargains and unique cultural gifts, souvenirs or just a little something for yourself. Be sure though to put some very comfortable walking shoes.

5. Paint the town in Waikiki. Go shopping, enjoy the barrage of eateries, enjoy the nightlife, etc..

6. Paying a visit to Pearl Harbor is a must. There are several tours and activities that you can partake in including the coveted USS Arizona Memorial, which pays tribute to all the brave military members who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor.

7. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center to immerse in the rich culture of Polynesia through various activities and individual island experiences all I one location. Hang out with the local island natives and learn about their culture through music, dance and traditions.

8. And of course, a visit to Hawaii would not be complete without a Luau , so be sure to catch one either at the Polynesian Cultural Center or at one of the various locations around the island.

The likelihood of all or some of these attractions/activities being on your list is high, but if all of them aren’t, it’s ok, you can always return for future visits. Because there is so much more to do in addition to the attractions/activities mentioned here, you just can’t pay them ALL a visit in one trip.

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