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.

King David Kalākaua

Affectionately known as the Merrie Monarch, David Kalākaua became king in 1874 and is credited with the revival of hula.
King Kamehameha Day Celebration

The highlight of the June events marking the King’s birthday is O’ahu’s colorful Floral Parade, which wends its way through Honolulu and Waikīkī, ending at Kapi’olani Park. Other activities include concerts, a Folklife Festival and an international hula competition.
King Kamehameha I

The ali’i (chief) who in 1809 united the islands into the Kingdom of Hawai’i, after defeating Maui’s ali’i, Kahekili.
King Kamehameha I Unites the Islands

An accomplished warrior chief from the island of Hawai’i, Kamehameha I waged war to conquer O’ahu and Maui, then forced the island of Kaua’i to cede to his dominion. Thus the islands were unified into the Kingdom of Hawai’i in 1809.
Kīpu’u

Short lengths of vines or long-stemmed leaves are knotted together.
Ko Olina Golf Course

This emerald oasis carved out of a dusty plain by designer Ted Robinson is considered one of O’ahu’s most beautiful and challenging courses. It is also equipped with gorgeous distractions, including waterfalls and black swans. Expensive, but lots of discounts available.
Koa Café

Bring the paper on a Sunday morning and read it while you wait in line for stacks of light, fluffy pancakes with home-made orange syrup, Portuguese pickled pork, and amazing omelets.
Koko Head

Not the most impressive peak on O’ahu, but its homely bulk is a landmark. Nearby, Koko Crater rises to 1,200 ft. A panoramic two-mile hike is reached through a botanical park – the trail is wind-swept, narrow, and crumbly.
Koko Marina Center

Another shopping center, with a vast supermarket, theater complex, many eateries, and places to rent water gear or arrange excursions along the coast.
Kona Brewing Co.

The first O’ahu brewpub by Big Island-based Kona Brewing is located right on one of Hawai’i Kai’s man-made canals. Burgers, salads, casual fare, and, of course, beer!

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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