What to see on oahu attractions. Oahu in Art

  • State:   Hawaii pacific island
  • Area:   222 km2
  • Population:   905,000 people
  • Timezone:   GMT - 10 hours, from Moscow - 14 hours
  • Telephone code: 808
  • Average temperature:   in summer 31 ° С, in winter 27 ° С
  • An airport:
    • Honolulu International Airport
         Address: 300 Rodgers Boulevard No 4, Honolulu, Hawaii (HI), 96819-1897, USA

general information

   Oahu is a fantastically beautiful island - golden beaches and turquoise lagoons, green hills and flowering gardens, pineapple plantations and fertile meadows, stunning coral reefs and a wide variety of exotic plants, vibrant tropical birds and fish. There are about 50 beaches on the island, many of which have suitable conditions for practicing water sports, especially surfing.
   Spacious, fairly wide beaches, picturesque landscapes, catchy sunsets, colorful sunrises - all this you can see in the north coast and central part of Oahu. In the summer months, a calm and measured pace of life prevails. The north coast comes to life in winter, when fans of windsurfing flock to the beaches of Sunset Beach & Banzai Pineline and it becomes noisy and crowded thanks to the windsurfing and bikini competitions.
   South Oahu is an industrial paradise for divers. The scarcity of the coral world is replaced by impressions of excellent expeditions to the sunken ships - the visibility here is excellent. In addition, all dive points are very easy to reach.
   Oahu is the most populated island of Hawaii. Here is the state capital and the largest city of the archipelago - the city of Honolulu.
   The main part of the island - the slopes of two ridges of extinct volcanoes Waianae and Koolau. In the south is Pearl Harbor - the famous base of the US Navy.
   Honolulu stretches along the coast of the ocean. Here, next to the skyscrapers, the white beach of Waikiki is located - one of the most prestigious in the world. Nearby are the world-famous hotels and crater of the Blilliantovaya Volcano volcano, from the top of which a magnificent panorama of the city opens.
The symbol of the city and until recently the tallest building in Hawaii is the “Tower of Desires” or “Tower of Aloha”. The word "Aloha" is also a peculiar symbol of the islands. In Hawaiian, it has many meanings: "hello," "goodbye," "welcome," "I love you." It has a word and philosophical meaning - life in harmony, the exchange of positive emotions.
   In the central part of the city is the former residence of the king - the magnificent Iolani Palace with luxuriously decorated interiors. The design of the Hawaii State Capitol reflects the nature of the archipelago: the dome is in the form of a crater of a volcano, the columns are in the form of palm trees. In this building during the ceremony on August 12, 1898. Hawaii officially became the state of the USA. Nowadays, the Capitol is often used as a backdrop for making films ..
   The Windward Coast area is teeming with peddlers and roadside restaurants designed to serve customers in cars.
   In the north of the island is Wainea Beach Park, where locals jump from a high cliff into the sea.

  Climate

   The climate is tropical, marine. It is warm and sunny all year round. The difference between winter and summer average air temperatures on the island does not exceed four to eight degrees. Air temperature ranges from +29 - + 32 ° C in the summer and +18 - + 21 ° C in the winter. Most precipitation falls in the winter months.
   The Hawaiian Hurricane season lasts from about June to November, when hurricanes and tropical storms are most likely in the North Pacific. Hawaii is protected by the expanses of the Pacific Ocean from direct impacts of hurricanes, as a hurricane loses its destructive power if it moves northward, meeting colder waters.

Average annual air temperature:

  Geography

   Oahu, along with the adjacent small islands, covers an area of \u200b\u200b1,545 km ?. The longest river of the archipelago - Kaukonahua flows through the island.

  How to get there

Honolulu International Airport is 15 km from Waikiki.

  Attractions

   Iolani Palace is the former residence of the Hawaiian kings and the only royal palace in the United States. This is a fabulously beautiful palace, which presents a rich collection of inlaid furniture.
The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the most interesting places on the island. Here you can get acquainted not only with the culture and traditions of the Hawaiian Islands, but many other parts of Polynesia - the islands of Tahiti, Samoa, the kingdom of Tonga in New Zealand. Each region has its own pavilion. Here fascinating shows are held in national color almost every hour - national costumes, musical instruments, incendiary dances. And most importantly, tourists also participate in what is happening: weave wreaths, learn to dance local dances, open a coconut, climb trees.
   Pearl Harbor and Arizona Memorial. Pearl Habor is a naval base where, on October 7, 1941, most of the US Pacific Fleet was destroyed in one day by Japanese aircraft. Thus began the Second World War. On this day, the ship Arizona was killed, on board of which there were more than 3,000 people. He still lies at the bottom. Now the Arizona Memorial rises above the sunken hull. The memorial is a concrete structure with a transparent bottom. Its visitors can see the remains of the ship through the water column.
   Valley of the Temples - Valley of the Temples. This is one of the most picturesque places on the island. The Valley of the Temples, spread amid high cliffs, is decorated with traditional Japanese gardens with a tea house and ponds with goldfish. In the territory of the ancient burial place, surrounded by tropical gardens, with a three-ton copper bell, the beautiful Byodo-In Temple Buddhist temple is serene. Inside the temple is stored a 3-meter statue of Buddha, and outside it you can see a 3-ton copper bell of Peace. The temple is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset.
   Waikiki Aquarium. The aquarium, located on the ocean, owns a world famous collection of tropical fish. Exhibitions, programs and studies focus on the fauna and flora of the tropical Pacific. There are more than 2500 inhabitants of the deep sea. The aquarium is especially interesting for visitors in that it gives you the opportunity to see all the beauty of the aquatic inhabitants very close by - a real coral reef with live corals, brightly colored fish, jellyfish and even reef sharks.
Bishop Museum. The museum was originally opened as an exhibition of an impressive collection of Hawaiian art and relics of the royal family, owned by the princess, the last representative of the royal family of Kamehameha, in whose memory the museum was founded. Since then, the collection has grown many times: exhibits from various islands of the Pacific Ocean are presented in it. The Bishop Museum has the world's largest collection of Hawaiian and Polynesian antiquities.
   Aloha Tower - Aloha Tower - this tower was once the tallest building on the islands, its height is 56 meters plus a 12-meter spire. Now around it is one of the best shopping areas of the city - Aloha Tower Market.
   Hanauma Bay - Hanauma Bay is the main attraction of the Windward Coast. The bay is divided in half by a beautiful coral reef and is a real paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. Numerous species of fish live here, painted in all kinds of tropical bright colors. The bay is part of the Coco Head Regional Park.

For children

   A park
   Sea world with more than 2000 species of fish in a giant aquarium and dolphinarium.

Sport

   Swimming -
   Kailua Beach Park, Ala Moana, and Kualoa Point, Waimanalo Bay.
   Surfing - Sunset Beach, Banzai Pipeline, Makaha Beach, Kualoa Point, Diamond Head Beach, Laie Bay, Mokuleia Beach Park, DeRussy Beach, Backyards, Fort.
   Tennis - Ala Moana Beach Park, Diamond Head Beach, Turtle Bay Resort, Kapiolani Park.
   5 municipal golf courses - Ala Wai Golf Course, Pali Golf Course, Ted Makalena Golf Course, West Loch Golf Course, Ewa Villages Golf Course.
   Also common are kayaking on the river, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.

Hawaii is the most remote inhabited place on Earth after Easter Island. The archipelago is located in the central Pacific Ocean, 3850 km from California and 6195 km from Japan. Oahu is the third largest and most populated island in the Hawaiian archipelago. On the southeast coast of the island is the capital of Hawaii, the city of Honolulu.

For Europeans, the islands were discovered by the English captain James Cook in 1778, who named them Sandwich Islands. There, in Hawaii in Kealakekua Bay in 1779, Cook died at the hands (or spears) of the natives.

1. Pearl Harbor is the name of the harbor, most of which is occupied by the central base of the Pacific Fleet of the US Navy.

In 1875, the United States and the Kingdom of Hawaii entered into a cooperation agreement under which the US Navy gained access to Pearl Harbor in exchange for special conditions for the import of Hawaiian sugar into the United States. Later, following the results of the Spanish-American War of 1898, the United States finally captured Hawaii. After the annexation, the harbor was expanded, which made it possible to accept more ships.

2. The deck of the battleship Missouri.

The attack on Pearl Harbor was the reason for the US entry into World War II. So they write in textbooks. On the morning of December 7, aircraft from Japanese aircraft carriers attacked the airfields on Oahu and the ships anchored in the harbor.

On September 2, 1945, the Japan Surrender Act was signed aboard the battleship Missouri, ending the Second World War.

During the attacks of the Japanese, 4 battleships, 2 destroyers and a mine layer were sunk. 4 more battleships, 3 light cruisers and 1 destroyer were seriously damaged. The losses of American aviation amounted to 188 aircraft destroyed, another 159 were seriously damaged. The Americans lost 2,403 people killed (of whom more than 1,000 died on board the exploding battleship Arizona, which is pictured) and 1,178 wounded. The Japanese lost 29 aircraft - 15 dive bombers, 5 torpedo bombers and 9 fighters. 5 submarines were sunk. Losses in people amounted to 55 people.

3. A self-propelled surface-based sea-based X-band radar system designed for operations in the open ocean to detect enemy warheads and track them accurately.

4.August 21, 1959, Hawaii received the status of the US state, the 50th in a row. In the same year, Hawaii was given the official nickname "Aloha State" (the state of hospitality).

More than 70,000 people visit the famous Waikiki Beach in central Honolulu every day, accounting for 44% of the state’s total visitors.

5. About one million people live in Oahu, representing approximately 75% of the total population of Hawaii.

7. Eh, I would go there at night with a camera and flashlights ...

8. Training military base at the former airfield at Waimanalo. You can enlarge the photo and search for people.



Enlarge image

9. Honolulu International Airport is the most important transportation hub in the North Pacific through which the routes connect the United States and Canada with East Asia, the Philippines, Australia and New Zealand.

10. Runway 4R / 22L.

11. US Air Force Wheeler Airbase.

12. Marine base Kaneohe Bay.

13. Container terminal on Sand Island.

14. Tourists admire the Honolulu panorama from the observation deck on the crater of the Coco volcano.

15. And these are the island's famous pineapple plantations. In the 1960s, 80% of all sold pineapples in the world were grown in Hawaii. Today, however, only 2% of the world's pineapples are produced here, about 320,000 tons of pineapples per year.

16. The harvesting process.

17. Labyrinth in the territory of Dole Pineapple Plantation. In 2001, listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest in the world.

18. Bizarre forms of coral reefs.

24. Brave surfer.

28. The observation deck of Lanai. They say that there are great views of the ocean.

29. Ganauma Bay Nature Reserve with an excellent beach, huge turtles, a paid entrance and a mandatory viewing of a 20-minute film.

33. All Hawaiian Islands have arisen due to volcanic activity. This means that the islands are actually the top of the huge seamounts formed during the process of the strongest volcanic eruptions. The largest of them - Big Island (Big Island) above Everest for more than a kilometer. That's just the main part of the mountain is under water.

34. Kahana Valley State Park.

35. Tunnels on the H-3 Tetsuo Harano.

37. The island was the location of the famous television series "Lost" and the film "Jurassic Park."

43. And finally, a few funny facts:
The Hawaiian alphabet consists of only 12 letters.
Hawaii is the only state whose territory is constantly increasing (due to volcanic eruptions).
Hawaii is the only US state where white people are in the minority.
The average life expectancy in Hawaii is the longest in the United States: for men it is 75 years old, for women - 80 years.
Hawaii has the smallest number of overweight people in all US states.
Hawaii is the only state where coffee is grown.

Thanks for attention!

Other reports from the USA.

We invite you to see the main attractions of Oahu. Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head Volcano are the island's trademark. Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii and the heart of Pacific Paradise. Luxury combined with the brightest beaches. Here the best beach holiday in Hawaii is the dream of every traveler. Eden for hearts in love.

Excursions to Oahu and entertainment for all tastes is designed to explore the beauty and diversity of the island. The most popular destinations on Oahu include the historic city center and Waikiki Beach. It is better to pre-order - whose show is among the top 10 best in America. Be sure to visit the world famous Kailua beach and if you are lucky to find free space at the table, in President Obama's favorite restaurant. The best snorkeling in Hawaii is unambiguously in the flooded crater of the volcano Hanauma Bay, and if you do not want to pee, you can see the underwater world of Hawaii even from the bathyscaphe. The famous capital of surfing on the North Shore (North Shore) with 12 meter waves and other best Oahu beaches, which are more than 120, cruises and romantic sunsets in the ocean, flying in Hawaii by helicopter (you can even without doors) and of course walks will make your Holidays in Oahu unforgettable.

Oahu island   It attracts more tourists than any other island in Hawaii. About 6 million tourists (mainly from the American mainland and Japan) come here every year to enjoy a typical beach holiday. With a total area of \u200b\u200b1,545 km2, Oahu is a bird's-eye view of two mountain ranges on each side of the island: Waianae on the west coast and Koolau on the east.

Mother Nature carved green valleys, decorated the island with sandy beaches. With colorful sunsets, beautiful virgin nature, a huge variety of golden beaches and the weather, fluctuating between perfect and perfect, Oahu has something to offer vacationers. The island attracts visitors with the incredible beauty of nature and developed tourist infrastructure. The island is home to almost 1 million inhabitants, but the number of visitors by approximately 100,000 increases the population of the island.

CRATER DIAMOND HEAD

Interesting places Oahu

Beaches

Oahu   - A mecca of sun and sand, revered by fans of beaches and water sports. Oahu has over 125 beaches for every taste, the name of the island is associated with beaches and the ocean. With an average annual water temperature of 25 ° C, it is easy to understand why millions of visitors from all over the world regularly come here on vacation. Each of the beaches has its own unique features that set it apart from the rest. Some of them are popular among surf lovers, others are suitable for sailing, and others are ideally suited to a comfortable family vacation.

WAYKIKI

Hanauma Bay . Hanauma Bay, one of the best snorkelling spots on Oahu, is located just 16 km from Waikiki. A small beach surrounded by palm trees is located in the crater of an extinct volcano, on one side destroyed by the ocean. Sheltered bay provides protection from strong currents and big waves - ideal conditions for swimmers and divers. Since 1967, Hanauma Bay received the status of the reserve (Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve). Paid access since 1998 has led to a reduction in the number of vacationers. In 2002, the Maritime Education Center was opened, visitors are obligated to first watch a short film and familiarize themselves with the rules of caring for the nature of the bay. Today, Hanauma Bay receives an average of 3,000 visitors a day, or about a million a year.

HANAUMA BAY

Halona Beach Cove   . Near Hanauma Bay is Halona Beach Cove, a small but very beautiful bay. Here were filming the film “From Here to Eternity”.

Eternity Bay

Waimanalo - Waimānalo Beach   with a total length of almost 9 km - the longest sandy beach on the island of Oahu. The beach escaped commercial development (there are no hotels nearby), it is notable for its local flavor and proximity to Hawaii's Sea Life Park.

MACAPUU BEACH

Lanikai - Lanikai Beach   - A beach that is hardly visited by tourists on the eastern side of Oahu, a length of one and a half kilometers. In the morning, photography enthusiasts are trying to capture the famous sunrise. The beach looks beautiful against the backdrop of Mount Koolau (Koolau Mountains). When the trade wind blows, people practice sailing and windsurfing on the beach. Calm waves, white sand, beautiful panorama in all directions. There are no toilets, showers, even parking for cars, but a beautiful beach with white sand and calm turquoise water fully compensates for these shortcomings.

Kailua - Kailua Beach   Oahu has more spectacular beaches, with better swimming conditions, but none of them offer as many relaxation options as Kailua Beach. Fishing, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, diving, snorkelling, kiteboarding, sale and rental of equipment for water sports. A popular kayaking spot is Popoi’a Island, located about 400 meters from the coast. Condé Nast magazine named Kailua Beach the best US beach in 1998. On weekends, the beach is visited by many locals, on weekdays there are practically no vacationers.

Laniakea - Laniakea Beach   located about 4 km south of Waimea Bay. Laniakea is most often called Turtle Beach because endangered green sea turtles have been constantly warming on the warm sand of the beach since 2000. Turtles were attracted by the abundance of algae in the area. Volunteers are on duty at the beach, they stretch a red rope around the turtles in order to limit them from visitors to the beach. Take snorkel and mask with you and enjoy swimming with turtles. Never touch turtles, otherwise you may receive a high fine.

PLAZA LANIAKEA

Malaekahana - Malaekahana Beach   If you want to be in Hawaii until the moment when jet planes delivered millions of vacationers here, then you are on Malaekahana Beach. Surprisingly, very few visitors visit Malaekahana - one of the best beaches on Oahu.

Kahana - Kahana Bay Beach Park   A crescent-shaped beach amid a lush valley with high cliffs. Kahana beach has good fishing and ideal conditions for kayaking. Add here picnic, camping, walking trails in the forest, and you will get some of the best beaches on the island.

Koolina - Ko’Olina Lagoons. The owner of the huge resort complex Ko’Olina Resort has created four artificial sand lagoons, turning them convenient places for a beach holiday at any time of the year. Almost completely rounded lagoons are surrounded by white sandy beaches bordering grassy lawns. In general, calm waters are ideal for swimming, you can snorkel around the boulders at the entrance to the lagoons.

  Oahu's North Shore   consider the world capital of surfing. Every winter, swells are rolled on the northern coast of the Hawaiian Islands - long sea waves formed as a result of storms and storms thousands of kilometers to the north in the Bering Sea. Such waves are much more stable in their direction and frequency than ordinary waves formed by the wind, and therefore more favorable for surfing. The northern coast, in the context of Oahu's geography, refers to the northern coastal zone of the island between Ka'ena Point and Kahuku Point. The largest settlement in the area is Haleiwa. In December of each year, the Triple Crown of Surfing competition is held here - a series of three world-famous competitions. The most famous beaches are described below.

SURFING ON NORS SHOR

Ehukai - Ehukai Beach Park stretches continuously with a continuous strip of sand with only one sign - EHUKAI BEACH PARK. Most believe that this is one beach, but in fact, three separate beaches follow one after another. The long, wide, white sand beach of Ehukai Beach is known for its winter surfing. Swimming is safe during the spring and summer months, but the reverse flow along the coast and strong waves make swimming unsafe in the winter. Access to Pipeline and Banzai beaches through Ehukai Beach Park.

Pipeline - Pipeline Beach   located next to Ehukai Beach Park near the small town of Pupukea on the north coast of Oahu. When the surf reaches the shallow coral coast in winter, waves are so steep that the crest of the wave, falling forward, forms an almost perfect pipe (“pipeline” in translation means “pipe”). For many years, the masters tried to control these waves, many of them fell, getting lacerations and bone fractures in shallow reefs.

Pipeline - Pipeline   - the most famous place of huge waves on the north coast of Oahu, it is often called the deadliest wave in the world (the average wave height is almost 4 meters). More surfers have died or seriously injured at Pipeline Beach than anywhere else in the world. Here the most important competitions in the world of professional surfing take place.

Banzai - Banzai Beach   To the west of Pipeline stretches a strip of beach, which surfers call Banzai. The Japanese word "banzai" means the battle cry "hooray" or "forward." In the late 1950s, director Bruce Brown made one of Surf Safari's first surfing films and saw a surfer riding a huge wave. Brown shouted: “Banzai!” And since then the name has taken root. In winter, it is a very popular beach among surfers, curious locals and visiting tourists. There are not many people here in the summer months. Again, access to the beach through Ehukai Beach Park.

Waimea - Waimea Bay   - one of the most beautiful beaches of Oahu. From October to April, huge waves roll onto the beach, creating a strong backward flow. Even professional surfers are in danger when high waves of up to 5 meters crash against the shore. It is hard to believe that in the summer the same bay is quiet and calm - a great place for swimming, snorkelling, diving. On the right side of the beach, turtles swim very close to the shore. The most interesting moment of the visit is a jump from the famous lava rock.

WIMEA BAY

Sunset - Sunset Beach One of the most popular beaches on Oahu. In the season (September-April), swimming is very dangerous due to high waves (5 meters and above) and a strong backward flow off the coast. The only safe period for swimming is summer. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays.

The main attractions of the island of Oahu

Polynesian Cultural Center   - An open-air theme park at the same time, located on the north coast of Oahu. The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the most visited tourist spots in Hawaii. A competition is held annually on its territory, in which participants demonstrate the skill of owning fire knives. There is an IMAX cinema in the park where you will see 15 minutes. film about Hawaii. There is also a lagoon where visitors can canoe. On the territory of the Polynesian Cultural Center, villages of the peoples of Polynesia were built, including the traditional houses of Hawaii, Samoa, Aotearoa (now New Zealand), Fiji, Tahiti, Tonga, Marquesas Islands. In addition to the villages, the Polynesian Cultural Center has a special exposition dedicated to Rapa Nui (Easter Island). Each village shows a show at certain times of the day. We highly recommend visiting a Polynesian center with an experienced guide. Our guide carefully plans your time at the Polynesian Culture Center. this way you can see all the most interesting and not miss anything. You will be introduced to the characteristics of each culture of Polynesia. Visitors are invited to attend the luau (a traditional Hawaiian party).

Hawaii Sea Life Park   - One of the main attractions of the island of Oahu. Opened in 1964, the park allows visitors to interact with marine animals, swim with dolphins, sea lions and stingrays, and feed turtles. The park also has a bird sanctuary and an aquarium.

  Buddhist temple Byodo-In Temple   located in the Valley of the Temples and is an exact copy of the 900-year-old temple of Uji, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. Inside is a 3 meter gold-plated figure of a wooden Buddha. Against the backdrop of the Koolau Mountains, the temple is surrounded by ponds and Japanese gardens. Byodo-In Temple is visited by thousands of tourists from all over the world. People of all faiths take part in his services. In addition to the service, the temple grounds are often used for weddings and formal occasions.

Buddhist Temple Biodo-eun

Sacred Falls State Park located on the north coast of Oahu. The park covers the Kaluanui Canyon and the waterfall at its very end, in whose honor it is named. The waterfall is closed to the public for an indefinite period after the fatal collapse of the rock on May 9, 1999 in the canyon. Then eight tourists were killed, and many were injured. The only way to see this beautiful natural creation is by helicopter.

Observation deck Nuʻuanu Pali   It offers panoramic views of the Nuʻuanu Valley and the northeast side of Oahu. Nu'uanu Pali was the site of one of the bloodiest battles in Hawaiian history, during which Kamehameha captured the island of Oahu in 1795 and united it under his authority

OAHU ISLAND
















Information

In 2015 Honolulu was visited by 240.00 passengers. In the capital of Hawaii, 2 mooring places for cruise ships:

  • Cruise terminal Pier 11known as Aloha Tower is located almost in the center of Honolulu. Waikiki's most popular beach is 5 km away.
  • Pier 2   located even closer to Waikiki.

On the most visited island of Hawaii Oahu many different attractions   for every taste. It is difficult to have time to inspect everything during the liner’s parking. Therefore, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with and before the cruise interesting places   Islands and decide what you are most interested in.

Main Attractions:

The city of Honolulu itself. It is considered one of the best cities in the world. Compact enough.

Many bass tourists from different companies travel around Honolulu. For example, Waikiki Trolley. The cost of the ticket in the center is $ 18, to the Diamond Head caldera - $ 30. Honestly, not recommended. The city center is only 5 km from the pier. Better to walk to Waikiki Beach on foot. There are many interesting buildings along the way. Many coastal hotels have a green and picturesque area. Free admission.

Waikiki video from above

Diamond Head goes to # 23 bus. The fare is $ 2.5. Please note that you will have to climb to the observation deck on foot for about 30 minutes. In the heat, this walk is not for everyone.

At the end of Waikiki Beach is a zoo. Tickets cost $ 14. Near the shore is a small aquarium. Entrance - $ 12

The Pearl Harbor Memorial. The most important cult place for Americans in memory of World War II. The complex has separate museums:

  • a memorial to the sunken battleship Arizona.
  • battleship Missouri. It was built in 1944.
  • submarine "Bowfin" 1942 the buildings.
  • museum of aviation. A total of 43 aircraft, including the Soviet MIG-15 and MIG-21.

Entrance to the complex itself is free, but a ticket to all museums costs $ 63. You can visit to choose from.

Pearl Harbor Video Review

Pearl Harbor can be reached from the cruise pier by bus number 20.42.62 in 45 minutes. Tickets cost $ 2.5. The memorial is more interesting to lovers of history and technology.

  • ethnographic center Polynesian Cultural Center, which presents 6 cultures of the peoples of Polynesia. A very interesting place. Located 50km from the cruise pier in the north-east of the island. For an hour and a half, you can take bus number 55 ($ 2.5) along the picturesque coast. If parking time permits, we recommend taking a ticket with an evening show and dinner Admission and Show w / Free Dinner for $ 70. It runs from 7 to 9 pm.
  • sea Life Park. Tickets cost $ 30. You can get on buses number 22.23 from Waikiki Beach in 45 minutes.
  • Buddhist temple Byodo-In Temple.
  • dole pineapple plantation. Feel free to skip, nothing interesting.

Excursions of cruise companies to Oahu, as usual, are expensive. Cost on the example of the Princess company.

The island has more than 100 beaches. The most beautiful are on the east coast. The beaches are divided into 2 categories - for swimming and for surfing. More about them.

All beaches are free except Hanauma Bay. Admission is $ 7.5. According to many cruisers, the beach in the photographs looks better than it actually is. Snorkeling is mediocre enough, a lot of people, not always a good entrance to the sea.

The most famous beach of course Waikiki Beach in the center of Honolulu. Protective moles do not allow waves to crash ashore. There are locker rooms and toilets on the beach. Umbrellas and sunbeds are expensive. All vacationers are located on towels or mats.

When traveling north of the island along the east coast, the order of beaches worthy of attention starting with Hanauma Bay is as follows:

  • Sandy Beach. Beach for surfers with big waves.
  • Makapuu Beach. With big and treacherous waves - be careful.
  • Waimanalo Beach is 9 km long.
  • Lanikai Beach - 1st place among US beaches in 2014. according to Tripadvisor.


  • Kailua Beach. Continuation of Lanikai Beach.
  • beach in the bay of Kahana Bay. Secluded, small, with beautiful mountains around.

In northern Oahu, the beaches are not so picturesque, but there is a romantic surfing atmosphere. Recommended to go there. On the way, you can have a bite to eat in roadside cafe-vans, where shrimp is a specialty. The cost of lunch is from $ 8 to $ 14.

In the northwest, Waimea Bay beach is interesting.

The island has good roads and developed bus services. Using Google maps, you can calculate the route to any point on the island by public transport.

The company-lovers of organized excursions can book an individual excursion around the island with local Russian-speaking travel agencies Marina Hawaii Travel, Russia Hawaii Tours or HIKCI.

We’re going, looking ... We have been to many megacities. Honestly, Honolulu is the most tropical city, it is just surrounded by greenery! After some time, we ended up in the Waikiki area, where I had to catch another bus of the same company in order to get to Diamond Head.
And here is the little beach shining through! Well, how good it is there! It's so great that there is an opportunity to quickly get to the beach while we are waiting for the next bus. Warm water!!! I didn’t want at all the negativity on this magical island and therefore decided to refuse to visit Pearl Harbor. Although probably he is also worth attention, still a story. We decided to spend the time saved after an excursion here on this wonderful beach.

Our bus came up and we go further, admiring the most beautiful view of the island. On the way to the crater, we drove through the beautiful Queen Kapi "olani Park, where many people like to relax. Opposite this park is one of the oldest aquariums in the USA, founded back in 1904. The guide stopped the bus at another beautiful viewpoint, which opens ocean view.

Finally we arrived at the foot of the crater of the extinct Diamond Head volcano. The bus dropped us off the road and then we had to get to the park itself, where it starts to climb to the observation deck. I had to go for about 15 minutes in the heat ... Then, through the tunnel through the walls of the crater, where in the shade it is very pleasant after such hell. Entrance to the park is paid - they charge $ 5 per car to the parking lot, $ 1 per person. Cash only (CASH ONLY).

That's where you need a good physical shape. The path is designed for 2 hours on the mountain to the top and back. We "took off" in half an hour (specially timed), and under the bright tropical sun. The people are moving at a different pace, some are faster, and some are relaxing and relaxing. All around you can hear: "After that I want only beach!"

Well, here we are at the very top. Wow how much we walked! In reward for such a journey, a panorama of the fabulous coast opens. This climb is definitely worth it. Breathtaking! But only if you are in good shape!

Many people know that Hawaii is home to surfing. The largest waves on Oahu occur on the north coast in November or December. There, on the Banzai Pipeline beach, they host the world famous Triple Crown of Surfing competition, which is attended by the best surfers in the world. Imagine, the waves in winter reach 6, and even sometimes 12 meters! An impressive sight. You can see. In general, the coolest waves called Jaws   18m high (!!!) are on the island of Maui.

After climbing Diamond Head, we again took the bus to get back. On the road we passed another interesting place on the island - the zoo. Due to lack of time, they didn’t go, and I fully admired the animals in full later at the Sydney Zoo.

After lunch, the ship decided to return to the enchanting Waikiki beach. Actually, there are 139 beaches on Oahu and they are all luxurious. We went to Waikiki, because there are still many different shops, small and large shopping centers, where I also wanted to go for a walk. And besides, you don’t need to pay anything extra for the trip, because the same bus that we already had tickets for the whole day goes there.

Here is such a nice little beach pleased us. Around there are many hotels with vacationers from all countries. A lot of Japanese. The sun is tender, the water is warm, warm, artificial breakwaters "calm" them and you can even swim for children. And on the horizon are dozens of surfers that are very interesting to watch. Mesmerizing.

Marik and I really liked everything! We were there almost until sunset, did not want to go anywhere. And life on Waikiki can be filmed endlessly!

After the beach, we walked to the nearest shops. The shopping center overlooks one of the most beautiful hotels in Royal Hawaiian 5 *, which opened on February 1, 1927.

Meanwhile, it got dark and began to light gas torches. Very hawaiian

Well, here it is time to return home to our ship. Had a great time! And this hand gesture, the famous sign “shaka, brah!”, Means “relax” and says that Hawaii is not a place to worry and strain, it says that everything is fine! As I already wrote, “aloha” here means love, greeting, farewell, affection, wishes, tenderness, and the gesture of “shaka” also expresses all this. We can see that in Hawaii everything is just fine!

Oahu, also known as the "Meeting Point", is the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands. At the same time, about 2/3 of the Hawaiian population lives on the island. Honolulu International Airport is also located here. The state capital, Honolulu, is located on the southeast coast of the island. The area of \u200b\u200bthe island is 1545.4 sq. Km. In addition, Oahu is one of the largest islands of Polynesia.

The maximum length of the island is 71 km, and the width is 48 km. The coastline of Oahu is as much as 365 km. The island appeared on the basis of two extinct volcanoes. The highest point of Oahi is 1220 m above sea level.

Currently, the island is the headquarters of the NSA.

Geography, population and territorial division of the island

In 2010, there were 953,207 people on Oahu, of which 72% of the resident population and 81% of the population live in the urban area of \u200b\u200bthe island. Presumably the name of the island translates as "Meeting Point". According to one legend, the island was named the Hawaiian navigator in honor of his son.

On the island of Oahu is the capital of Hawaii, Mount Honolulu. It is also the largest port of the islands. Honolulu is located in the southeastern part of the island.

Oahu is shaped like a rhombus. It does not have a traditional description of north-west-east-south. Instead, the names of the locals are accepted. Eva means west. Diamond Head - East. Mamuka is the mountains. Makai - the sea.

Among local residents, it is customary to divide the island into various areas. So there is the “urban” part of the island, East Oahu, which runs from Pearl Harbor to Capolea. Eva includes Makahu and Waiʻanae. Also, Oahu residents distinguish the Windward Side (northeast), East Side (east of the island) and the Valley (central part of the island).

Oahu is also known as the place where it was the longest rain - for 200 days it was continuous, and in one of the rainfall areas it was already 247 days. Oahu is also called a rainbow state due to the fact that this natural phenomenon is very common here. The average daily temperature in the summer is 26-28, in the winter 23-25 \u200b\u200bdegrees. The warmest period on the island is from June to October.

It is believed that on the Windward side and on the East Side are some of the best beaches in the world. One of Oahi's famous beaches is Lanikai Beach.
  Island history

The kingdom of Oahu has existed for about 300 years. First, one dynasty ruled, then in 1773 it was overthrown and a new dynasty reigned, which turned out to be belligerent and actively conquered neighboring islands. Longer than the others resisted and. Kamehamehi III made Honolulu the capital, built a palace and actively developed the city.

Another page in Oahu's story was the Japanese attack on the American base of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. As a result of the attack, 188 aircraft were destroyed and 2,335 American soldiers and 68 civilians were killed.

An earthquake struck Oahu in 2006, damaging the island by more than $ 200,000,000, leaving the island without power.

Each year, Oahu is visited by more than 5 million tourists. The main flow of tourists goes to the island from the USA and Japan.

Recreation and Tourism in Oahu

Top 10 places of the island

  1. Pearl Harbor

    The most important part of Oahu is located in the capital. This port is definitely worth a look because of the Monument of Valor to the sailors of the Arizona USS. They were attacked by the Japanese by the Japanese on December 7, 1941. One way or another, we fought for one idea and we must pay tribute to the fallen on this disastrous day.

    Pearl Harbor also offers the Missouri Navy Memorial and the Pacific National Cemetery, where 25,000 soldiers bravely fought in the war lie. This is definitely a good time!

  2. Honolulu

    Being the state capital, this beautiful city has something to offer. From state buildings, the Iolani Palace (the residence of the Hawaiian Monarchs), Diamond Head to Waikiki Beach, the capital has a lot of entertainment, including outstanding tourist attractions.

  3. Honolulu: Diamond Head

    A special attraction for tourists to Oahu is the 350-acre Diamond Head Crater, which can even be seen from Honolulu Airport. From this point of observation, several incredible panoramas of Honolulu, which you can not find anywhere else, open. Two staircases lead to this magnificent dream of amateur photographers, one of 75 steps and the other of 99, as well as a 225-foot tunnel.

  4. Honolulu: trail to the head of Coco Crater

    This magnificent crater is a must see. Located in the eastern part of Oahu, the crater provides an opportunity to view the surrounding area by almost 360 degrees including the Pacific Ocean. Coco's head is an ancient cone composed of tuff (a type of rock consisting of volcanic ash ejected from the vent of an erupting volcano) and is insignificant compared to the ancient volcano Coco.

  5. Lagoon Ko Olina

    Despite the fact that they are not natural, these 4 man-made lagoons are perfect for scuba diving and sunbathing. Numerous resorts around this beautiful place will surely entertain you and your children.

  6. Iolani Palace

    Being the only palace in the USA, it really is different from everything else. This beautiful building is actually the second building on this side. Finished in November 1882, it became the great residence of the kingdom. This national historical site and museum is definitely worth a visit.

  7. North Shore

    On the north side of Oahu is the well-known North Shore. Home to world-class surfing, beautiful beaches, Dole Plantation, Kualoa Ranch, Waimea Valley and more. Do not sit on one Waikiki beach, be sure to make a trip to other parts of the northern coast of Oahu; do not forget to take surfing lessons!

  8. Cape Macapu.

    Cape Macapu is a beautiful, picturesque place overlooking the Macapu Peninsula. This destination is a popular place for hiking, offering a magnificent view on one side of Macapa and Waimanalo Bay, and on the other side of the Kalvi Canal.
      In winter, it is a key place for whale watching, as well as a departure point for smaller islands and. This is a really beautiful destination.

  9. Waimea Valley

    Waimea Valley is an area of \u200b\u200bhistorical and cultural significance on the north coast of Oahu. An important site in the Hawaiian religion, the valley has some historic buildings, including stone terraces and walls built under the Hawaiian monarchy. With its amazing botanical garden and numerous waterfalls, this valley stands out among others.

  10. Valley of the Temples

    Located at the foot of the mountain at 2,000 feet. In the Kulau Mountains in the Valley of the Temples in the Ohau Kano region, there is a beautiful Budo-In Temple. The Budo-In Temple was built in the 1960s to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first Japanese immigrant workers who came to work on sugarcane plantations. The temple is a replica of the 950-year-old Budoin Temple, which is located in Uji in Japan, on the southern outskirts of Kyoto.

    When you cross the wooden bridge at the entrance to the temple grounds, you will surely feel like you are traveling to a place very different from any other in Hawaii, which makes it a destination far beyond all expectations.

The most popular beaches

  • Ala moana beach
  • Hanauma bay
  • Kaneohe bay
  • Ko olina beach park
  • Kailua
  • Lanikai beach
  • Sandy beach
  • Sunset beach
  • Waikīkī beach
  • Waimanalo beach
  • Waimea bay

Oahu in Art

Oahu at the cinema

The following films were shot in Oahu: “50 First Kisses”, “Jaws”, “In Flight”, “Jurassic Park”, “Sea Battle”, “Pearl Harbor”, “Mighty Joe Young”, “Talking with the Wind”, “ The Hunger Games! And the flame breaks out, the series Lost and many others.

Oahu in video games

In the game Test Drive Unlimited b Test Drive Unlimited 2 Oahu is one of the game locations.

Oahu is a location in the multiplayer game War Thunder

You can also fly over Oahu in Microsoft Flight Simulator and Microsoft Flight games.

Oahu in Literature