Today I’m writing about the Island of Oahu, the third largest island in the state of Hawaii and home to Honolulu, Pearl Harbour, and the North Shore. Oahu, or O’ahu in Hawai’ian, is known for its nightlife and shopping at Waikiki, and its famous surf break, Pipeline. But there’s so much more to this lush island! I, unfortunately, didn’t get to explore too much since I was there for a conference. Whether you’re in Hawaii for a long weekend or spending a bit longer in the Aloha State, it’s possible to enjoy Oahu’s many different sides while staying in superb luxury properties. From the high rises of Waikiki Beach to the secluded Turtle Bay, there’s something for everyone on Oahu.
O’ahu, Hawai’i
O’ahu has long been known as “the gathering place” to Hawaiians. The island was ruled by generations of warlike kings, ending with Kamehameha the Great, who created the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1795, and Kaumualii, who unified the islands in 1810. The crew of the HMS Resolution and HMS Discovery spotted the island in January 1778, but did not set foot on Oahu until February 1779, which is after Captain Cook died (was murdered) on the Island of Hawaii.
The introduction of English visitors to O’ahu (and Hawai’i in general) brought disease, invasive pests, and mosquitoes. The royal family built Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, in the late 1800s. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction.
On December 7, 1941, the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbour, a large natural harbour just west of Honolulu. 2,403 died in the attack, and another 1,178 injured. This was the impetus for the US to enter World War II. While the area is still an active US military base, it is also a memorial and museum dedicated to the disaster. Find Pearl Harbour tickets here.
Where to go on Oahu
Today, O’ahu and it’s stunning beaches are a popular tourist destination. From the sun-baked Waikiki Beach just east of Honolulu to the secluded Ko Olina and further afield to the hidden beaches along the North Shore, you’ll find a great beach no matter where you are.
Waikiki Beach is obviously the most famous. I spotted a lot of old tourism posters that hark back to the early days of Waikiki’s tourism industry. These faded posters featured the surf girls (think Gidget) alongside classic cars, wooden surfboards, and tanned men. Low key colours and mid-century modern meet 21st century technology and style in the latest eateries and hotels. Do not miss the updated International Market – no longer home to the cheap trinkets market. Mainstays Moana Surfrider (a Westin hotel) and Royal Hawaiian (the Pink Palace) are great places to stay, although newcomers Laylow and The Modern are a new take on the old style. There are five Virtuoso properties on O’ahu.
Diamond Head, a now-extinct volcano, is just east of Waikiki Beach. While it used to signify the end of the tourism drag, there are now some great enclaves beyond it. Kahala, a luxury resort, is a great place to stay if you want to be near the city but a world away. And don’t miss a visit to the eclectic Kaimuki neighbourhood for a step back in time (and great food).
About 45 minutes from Honolulu, west past the airport and Pearl Harbour, is the popular Ko Olina. This new little niche neighbourhood is home to the Four Seasons Resort, the Aulani Disney Resort, and some great beaches. Ko Olina is sheltered by the headland so it doesn’t get heavy waves into the lagoon, yet the famous surf beaches are a short drive away.
Off the beaten track on Oahu
Oahu’s North Shore has long been in the history books as a surfing mecca. The seven mile stretch of shore boasts famous waves like Pipeline at beaches like Waimea Bay and Ehukai Beach. The nearby town of Haleiwa is the place to base, although you could also stay at the exclusive Turtle Bay Resort. Haleiwa is the perfect place to try the ever-popular shaved ice. You’ll also find little coffee shops and local shops in Haleiwa.
Movie fans might want to visit Kualoa Ranch. This vast property is about 40 minutes from both Haleiwa and Honolulu. The lush valleys that make up the ranch can be seen in iconic movies like Jurassic Park, Pearl Harbor, and 50 First Dates. (Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore are totally iconic 90s stars, right?) The ranch is open for tours and activities, including ziplining, ATVing, raptor tours, and horseback riding.
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