DK Travel : Honolulu & O’ahu

O’ahu is the most populous of the Hawaiian islands, and its conjoined hubs are the city of Honolulu and the world-famous Waikīkī Beach. The vast majority of visitors make Waikīkī their base, venturing out on day trips to take in Honolulu’s many cultural attractions, Pearl Harbor, and other parts of the island. The family-friendly beaches and parks of the South hore and Kāne’ohe District are in striking distance of Honolulu, while diehard surfers head for the North Coast. The Polynesian Cultural Center is also an easy day trip from the city.

Hale’iwa Town

Plan your day to allow a couple of hours exploring historic Hale’iwa Town – the touristy top layer is built on a genuine base of community, made up of an eclectic mix of surfers, characters, and families who have lived in “the house of the ’iwa bird” for generations. Once a gracious retreat for wealthy summer visitors, the place has a certain timelessness. To get a feel for it, park at either end of town and walk, poking into shops and lingering on the Anahulu River Bridge to watch the water flow by.

Hale’iwa

Hale’iwa Town harbor
Hālona Blow Hole

A lava tube that funnels geysers of sea water high into the air, this dramatic feature is one to observe with care, preferably from the scenic pullout above it. Many who have hazarded too near have been injured or killed. From November through March, watch for spouting whales out to sea, as well as spouting water.
Hanauma Bay

This keyhole-shaped Nature Preserve is too beautiful and popular for its own good; the state has had to restrict access to protect it. You enter through a $13 million Marine Education Center, where you view an introductory video before venturing down to the bay via tram for snorkeling and sunning.
Hanauma Bay

Keyhole-shaped Hanauma Bay is one of the most spectacular sights in the islands, and highly recommended for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a good idea to go early in the day because the bay is so well used that access and parking can be difficult. Call ahead on 396 4229 to check for periodic closures.
Hard Rock Café

Check out the surfing memorabilia and rock mementoes that cover the walls. There’s a live DJ and dancing every Friday night.
Hau Tree Lanai

Reasonably priced East-West food beneath the spreading branches of a hau tree.
Hau’ula Trails

Hau’ula (“red hau tree”) is the starting point for three easy to moderate rambles. (A fourth hike, Sacred Falls is closed indefinitely due to landslide danger.) The two most worthwhile treks are Maka’aua Loop and Maka’aua Ridge Loop (aka Papali Trail); both offer good views, interesting plants, and guavas in their late summer and fall season.
Hawaii Ecotourism Association

For commercial operations offering guided hikes, consult this association.
Hawaiian Monarch

Located on the Ala Wai Canal, this moderate hotel is a short walk from the Hawai’i Convention Center and Ala Moana Shopping Center, and in close proximity to all of Waikīkī.
Hawaiian Parasail

This is the recognized expert, offering daily flights lasting eight to 10 minutes for around $40. Flights depart from Kewalo Basin with free pickup from Waikīkī Hotels.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $100
- $100–$200
- $200–$300
- $300–$400
- over $400
Restaurant price categories

Price categories include a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
- under $20
- $20–$30
- $30–$45
- $45–$60
- $over $60