Oahu attracts more tourists than any other island in Hawaii. About 6 million tourists (mostly from the American mainland and Japan) come here every year to enjoy a typical beach holiday. WITH with total area At 1,545 km2 (71 km long and 48 km wide at its widest point), Oahu is the 20th largest island of the United States. From a bird's eye view, two mountain ranges on each side of the island are clearly visible: Waianae on west coast and Koolau on the east.

Mother Nature carved green valleys, decorated the island sandy beaches all spectrums of colors, from white to black, there is even green and red. With colorful sunsets, beautiful pristine nature, a huge variety of golden beaches and weather that fluctuates between ideal and perfect, Oahu has a lot to offer vacationers. The island attracts visitors incredible beauty nature and developed tourism infrastructure. The island is home to almost 1 million inhabitants, but the number of visitors is approximately 6 times the island's population.

Oahu Island Map

Interesting places in Oahu

Beaches

Oahu is a mecca of sun and sand, revered by beach lovers and aquatic species sports Oahu has over 125 beaches to suit every taste, the very name of the island is identified with beaches and the ocean. With an average annual water temperature of 25˚C, it is easy to see why millions of visitors from all over the world regularly come here on holiday. Each of the beaches has its own unique features that make it stand out from the rest. Some of them are popular among surfers, others are suitable for sailing, and others are ideal for a comfortable family holiday.

Hanauma Bay(Hanauma Bay). Just 16 km from Waikiki is Hanauma Bay, one of the best places for snorkeling on the island of Oahu. A small beach surrounded by palm trees is located in a crater extinct volcano, on one side destroyed by the ocean. The sheltered cove provides protection from strong currents and large waves - ideal conditions for swimmers and divers.

Since 1967, Hanauma Bay has received the status of a nature reserve (Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve). In the 1990s, an excessive influx of vacationers (about 3 million per year) posed a serious problem for the fragile ecosystem of the bay. Paid access since 1998 has led to a decline in the number of holidaymakers. In 2002, the Maritime Education Center was opened; visitors are required to first watch a short film and become familiar with the rules of caring for the nature of the bay. Today, Hanauma Bay receives an average of 3,000 visitors per day, or about a million per year.

Some tips:

If you rent a car, try to come here early in the morning, the parking lot fills up quickly and leaving your car is a big problem.
There is a fee to visit the reserve; all visitors must watch a short film. If you arrive before 7 am, you will avoid paying and will not watch the video.
Bring your own drinks and snacks because they don't sell anything down on the beach.
The shallow beach has soft sand and calm waves. But sometimes the waves can be very strong; on such days, swimming is recommended only for good swimmers.
There is a path leading down from the mountain. If you don't want to pay private company for transportation, you can walk there and back.
The beach is closed to the public on Tuesdays.
It's easily accessible by bus from Waikiki.
Fish feeding is prohibited in order to maintain a more natural balance of fish in the ecosystem.

Address: 7455 Kalaniana"ole Hwy., Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96825, website www.hanauma-bay-hawaii.com

Halona Beach Cove. Next to Hanauma Bay is Halona Beach Cove, a small but very beautiful cove. The film From Here to Eternity was filmed here.

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

Lanikai Beach

A one and a half kilometer long beach on the east side of Oahu, rarely visited by tourists. Since the morning, photography enthusiasts have been trying to capture the famous sunrise. The beach looks beautiful with the Koolau Mountains in the background. When the trade wind blows, sailing and windsurfing are practiced on the beach. Calm waves, white sand, beautiful panorama in all directions. There are no toilets, showers, or even parking for cars, but the beautiful beach with white sand and calm turquoise water completely compensates for these shortcomings. Address: Mokulua Drive, Kailua, Oahu, HI 96734.

Kailua Beach. Oahu has more spectacular beaches with better swimming conditions, but none offer as many options as Kailua Beach. Fishing, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, diving, snorkeling, kiteboarding, sale and rental of water sports equipment. Popular place kayaking - Popoi Island, located about 400 m from the coast. Condé Nast magazine named Kailua Beach the best beach in the USA in 1998. On weekends, the beach is visited by many locals; on weekdays there are practically no vacationers. Address: 526 Kawailoa Road, Kailua, Oahu, HI 96734.

Laniakea Beach is located about 4 km south of Waimea Bay. Laniakea Beach is most often referred to as "Turtle Beach" because endangered green sea turtles have been basking on the beach's warm sand since 2000. The turtles were attracted to the abundance of seaweed in the area. Volunteers are on duty on the beach, they stretch a red rope around the turtles in order to limit them from beach visitors. Bring your snorkel and mask and enjoy swimming with the turtles. And don't waste money on a tour. To see turtles, rent a car, spend a day here and you won't be disappointed. Never touch turtles, otherwise you may receive a heavy fine. Address: Haleiwa, Oahu, HI 96712.

Malaekahana Beach. If you want to be in Hawaii before the moment when jet planes brought millions of vacationers here, then Malaekahana Beach is your place. Surprisingly, very few visitors visit Malaekahana - one of best beaches on the island of Oahu.

Kahana Bay Beach Park . A crescent-shaped beach with a lush valley as a backdrop high cliffs. Kahana Beach has good fishing and ideal kayaking conditions. Add in picnic areas, camping areas, and forested walking trails and you have some of the best beaches on the island.

Ko"Olina lagoons. Owner of a huge resort complex Ko"Olina Resort created four artificial sandy lagoons, turning them into convenient places for beach holiday in any season. The almost completely round lagoons are surrounded by white sandy beaches bordered by grassy lawns. The generally calm waters are ideal for swimming, and snorkelling can be enjoyed around the boulders at the entrance to the lagoons. Ko"Olina lagoons are located next to Kapolei, but public transport does not come here. The nearest bus stop located on Farrington Highway, more than 6 km from the resort. Address: Kapolei, Oahu, HI.

North Shore of Oahu(North Shore) is considered the surfing capital of the world. Every winter, the northern coast of the Hawaiian Islands is hit by swells - long sea waves formed as a result of storms and storms thousands of kilometers to the north in the area Bering Sea. Such waves are much more stable in their direction and periodicity than ordinary waves formed by the wind, and therefore more favorable for surfing. The North Shore, in the context of Oahu's geography, refers to the northern coastal area of ​​the island between Kaʻena Point and Kahuku Point. Biggest locality in this area - Haleiwa. Every December it hosts the Triple Crown of Surfing, a series of three world-famous competitions. The most famous beaches are described below.

Ehukai Beach Park stretches continuously as a continuous strip of sand with only one sign - EHUKAI BEACH PARK. Most people think of it as one beach, but in reality there are three separate beaches following each other. Long, wide, white sand, Ehukai Beach is famous for its winter surfing. Swimming is safe during the spring and summer months, but rip currents offshore and strong waves make swimming unsafe during the winter. Access to Pipeline and Banzai beaches via Ehukai Beach Park.

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, the waves are so steep that the crest of the wave, falling forward, forms an almost perfect pipe ("pipeline" means "pipe"). For years, masters struggled to ride these waves, many of them falling, suffering lacerations and broken bones on the shallow reefs.

Pipeline is the most famous spot for huge waves on Oahu's North Shore and is often called the deadliest wave in the world (average wave height is almost 4 meters). More surfers have been killed or seriously injured at Pipeline Beach than anywhere else in the world. The most important competitions in the world of professional surfing take place here.

Banzai Beach West of Pipeline is a strip of beach that surfers call Banzai. The Japanese word "banzai" means the battle cry of "hurray" or "forward." In the late 1950s, director Bruce Brown was making one of the first surfing films, Surf Safari, and saw a surfer riding a huge wave. Brown shouted, "Banzai!" and from then on the name stuck. IN winter time this is a very popular beach among surfers, curious locals and visiting holidaymakers. During the summer months there are not very many people here. Again, access to the beach is through Ehukai Beach Park. TheBus number 52 (Circle Island) stops on the highway near Ehukai Beach Park.

Waimea Bay- one of the most beautiful beaches islands of Oahu. From October to April, huge waves roll onto the beach, creating a strong rip current. Even professional surfers are at risk when high waves, up to 5 meters high, crash violently onto the shore. It's hard to believe that in summer this same bay is quiet and calm - a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. On the right side of the beach, turtles swim very close to the shore. The most interesting moment of the visit is the jump from the famous lava rock. Address: 61-031 Kamehameha Highway, Oahu, HI.

Sunset Beach. One of the most popular beaches on the island of Oahu. During the season (September-April) swimming is very dangerous due to high waves (5 meters and above) and strong reverse flow near the shore. The only safe period for swimming is summer. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays. The beach is located near Kamehameha Highway. Bus number 52 (Circle Island) will take you there if you don't want to take a taxi or rent a car.

Interesting places on Oahu island

Polynesian Cultural Center (Polynesian Cultural Center) - a theme park and museum under open air at the same time, located on the northern coast of the island of Oahu. The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the most visited tourist places in Hawaii. A competition is held annually on its territory in which participants demonstrate their mastery of fire knives. The park has a showroom (IMAX theater), a lagoon, and visitors can go canoeing.

Hawaii Sea Life Park (Sea Life Park Hawaii) is 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 houses a bird sanctuary and an aquarium. The most interesting attractions of the park:

Sea Lion Discovery- allows visitors to swim in the water with sea lions.
Sea Trek Adventure- an underwater walk in a reef pond inhabited by eels, stingrays, sea turtles, and a wide variety of tropical fish.
Hawaiian Reef Aquarium– a huge body of water home to more than 2,000 marine reef creatures, including sharks, rays, turtles and schools of tropical fish.
Hawaiian Ocean Theater- home to the main show featuring dolphins, penguins and sea lions. During the show, a story about the latest methods education and the park's efforts to preserve the wealth of the underwater world.
Penguin Habitat– habitat of the park’s penguins.
Dolphin Show Cove– an outdoor theater where dolphin shows are shown twice a day.
The Bird Sanctuary– This bird sanctuary is home to many wild seabirds, including frigate birds, gannets, petrels, albatrosses, most of which arrived here sick or injured.
Hawaiian Monk Seal Habitat- habitat of Hawaiian monk seals, shows with the participation of these animals.
Programs Dolphin Royal Swim, Dolphin Adventure Swim, Dolphin Encounter and Dolphin Aloha allow visitors to interact with dolphins in the water.

Location: Makapuu Point, 24 km from downtown Honolulu. How to get there: Bus number 22 or 23 from Waikiki. Website www.sealifeparkhawaii.com

Buddhist Temple Byodo-In Temple located in the Valley of the Temples and is a replica of a 900-year-old temple in the city of Uji, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. Inside is a 3m gold-plated wooden Buddha figure. With the Ko'olau Mountains as a backdrop, 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 services, the temple grounds are often used for weddings and official events. Address: 47-200 Kahekili Highway, Kaneohe, Oahu, HI, website www.byodo-in.com

Sacred Falls State Park . Sacred Falls State Park is located on the north coast of Oahu. The park encompasses the Kaluanui Canyon and the waterfall at its very end, after which it is named. The falls have been closed to the public indefinitely since a fatal rock collapse occurred on May 9, 1999, in the canyon. Eight tourists were killed and many were injured. The only way to see this beautiful natural creation is by helicopter.

Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside Observation Deck opens panoramic view to the Nuʻuanu Valley and the northeast side of Oahu. Nuʻuanu Pali was the site of one of the bloodiest battles in , during which Kamehameha captured the island of Oahu and united it under his rule.

What to do, tours from local tour operators

Swim with dolphins in the ocean from Dolphin Excursions Snorkel Adventure. From Waianae Bay, tour participants set off along the west coast of Oahu in search of dolphins (get the chance to see humpback whales in the winter). After spotting dolphins, snorkel tour participants dive into the water and watch the dolphins swim past them. Then a short cruise to the sea turtle habitat, snorkeling with tropical fish and sea turtles. At the end of the tour, lunch. The photographer will take your photos underwater along with dolphins and turtles, and send them on CD anywhere in the world. Address: Waianae, Oahu, HI, website www.dolphinexcursions.com

Horseback Riding by Happy Trails Hawaii . Horseback riding along the north coast of Oahu through forest, fern-lined valleys and tropical orchards. Tours are focused on family holiday. The only ranch on Oahu that allows children as young as 6 years old to ride their own horses. Address: 59-231 Pupukea Road, Haleiwa, Oahu, HI, website www.happytrailshawaii.com

Macadamia Nut Farm. Educational and very interesting tour on a farm specializing in growing Macadamia nuts. Macadamia is a very tasty Australian nut with a kernel that is difficult to separate from the shell; their harvest is very difficult to harvest, which is why macadamia nuts are the most expensive nuts in the world. The tour lasts about an hour. First, a bus ride to the tea plantations, learning about how the ancient Hawaiians used tea leaves, made a fire, and collected coconuts. Then a boat ride in a small lake, during which the guide will point out the filming locations of famous Hollywood films.

There is a good store on the farm where you can buy different kinds macadamia nuts, souvenirs, jewelry, arts and crafts, creams, aromatic oils, coffee, even fresh coconut. Interestingly, in the store you can eat macadamia nuts and enjoy the famous Kona coffee for free. Tours are available 7 days a week, from 10:45 am to 6:00 pm (except Tuesdays when there is only one tour at 10:45 am). Address: 49-227A Kamehameha Hwy., Kaneohe, Oahu, HI 96744, website www.macnutfarm.com

Swimming with sharks from North Shore Shark Adventures. The two-hour tour departs from Haleiwa Pier. Having sailed 4 - 6 km from the coast, a metal cage is placed in the water and held at the level of the water surface. Armed with snorkels and masks, tour participants watch the whales swim centimeters from the cage from the cage. Water in an area with visibility of 70 meters or more. During this tour you will have the opportunity to see Hawaiian green sea turtles, dolphins and even humpback whales during the migration season. Be sure to bring underwater cameras with you to take photos of sharks. Tour departure times: 6:00, 7:00 am, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00 (6 am tour available from May 1st to August 15). Address: slip 35 of the Haleiwa Small Boat Harbor, Haleiwa, Oahu, HI, website www.sharktourshawaii.com

Kualoa Ranch (Kualoa Ranch) has become known for the wide variety and quality of its tours. The most popular are described below:

Movie Sites & Ranch Tour. Visit the famous Kaʻaʻawa Valley, often called the film set of Hawaii. Famous Hollywood films and television shows were filmed here (Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates, Windtalkers, Hawaii Five-0 and others), the duration of the tour is 1 hour.
Jungle Expedition Tour. Adventure tour to the beautiful Kaaawa Valley. Tour participants travel in off-road vehicles in the middle of the jungle along east coast islands of Oahu. Tour duration 1 hour
Ancient Fishing Grounds & Tropical Gardens Tour. A trip to an ancient Hawaiian fish pond, a visit to a tropical garden of fruit trees and flowers.
Hakipu'u Hike. Hiking along the Hakipuʻu Valley, the length of the trail is just over 2 km. Two tours per day: from 09:00 to 11:00 and from 12:00 to 14:00.
ATV tour(ATV Tour). Visit the famous Kaaawa Valley by ATV, filming location for many Hollywood films and television shows. During the tour, observe the beautiful panorama of the Pacific coast from the observation deck. Tours last one and two hours.
Horse riding tour(Horseback Tour), during the tour see Mokolii island and an 800-year-old Hawaiian fishing pond. The ranch is located at 49-560 Kamehameha Highway, Kaneohe, Oahu, HI, www.kualoa.com/tours

Diving. Many tourists visit the island of Oahu solely for the opportunity to plunge into the Pacific Ocean and look at the richness of the underwater world. Hawaii is one of the top ten diving destinations in the world. Home to over 100 endemic species (found nowhere else on the planet), explore sea caves, swim with sea turtles and monk seals. Trade winds often produce high waves in the afternoon, so most operators schedule their dives early in the morning and end their tours at midday. Dive sites in Oahu:

Hiking to Coco Crater (Koko Head Crater Trail Hike). Coco Crater is one of the most popular places hiking on the island of Oahu. A path leads to its top along railway sleepers. The trail is about 1 km long and rises to an altitude of 366 m. The top observation deck of Coco Crater offers panoramic views of eastern Oahu and the coast. Rise early in the morning to avoid the heat and bring plenty of water. If you have climbed to the top of Diamond Head, this hike is many times more difficult.

Bike is a popular way to explore the island of Oahu. For information about cycling routes, participating in bicycle tours, contact Bike Hawaii (www.bikehawaii.com); this company offers a variety of group tours, including "Rainforest to Reef". The tour includes a 8 km drive down a paved road with panoramic views of Waikiki, Honolulu and the Manoa Valley. During the tour you will learn more about the flora and geology of the Hawaiian Islands. Afterwards, leave the bikes for a 3km round trip hike to the 80m high waterfall, followed by a sailing catamaran cruise.

Hawaii's Plantation Village . A one-hour tour of this restored village takes you back to the era when sugar plantations made up Hawaii's economy. From the arrival of the first workers in 1852 until 1947, when the era of sugar cane farming ended, more than 400,000 men, women and children from China, Japan, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Korea, the Philippines and other countries migrated to work the sugar cane fields. On the territory of the village, each ethnic group is represented by a house, decorated in accordance with the traditions and customs of that time. The houses contain period clothing, linens, ceramics, toys and games, photographs, books and other memorabilia. Open: Mon-Sat from 10:00 to 14:00. Address Waipahu Cultural Garden Park, at Waipahu Depot Rd, Waipahu, website: www.hawaiiplantationvillage.org www.hawaiiskydiving.com

Surf school Sunset Suratt Surf Academy's teaches surfing lessons from beginner surfers to pros, and also provides equipment for rent. Sunset Suratt Surf Academy's lessons are held on the beach in the village of Haleiwa. Classes last two hours. Tour participants are provided with videos and photographs of the learning process. Address: North Shore, Sunset Beach, Haleiwa, Oahu, HI 96712, website www.surfnorthshore. com

North Shore Surf Girls surf school only women work. All female instructors are former professional surfers. Private or group surf lessons at 9am, 12pm and 3pm daily near Haleiwa. Two popular types of tours:

North Shore surf lesson and Turtle Tour includes a 2-hour surf lesson, the opportunity to see sea turtles live, a visit famous beaches for surfing Pipeline and Sunset Beach, seafood dinner prepared by the girls. The end of the tour is watching the sunset.
Surf Lesson and Sunset Barbecue includes a 2-hour surf lesson and a girl-cooked BBQ on the beach. The end of the tour is watching the sunset. Address: 66-031 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, Oahu, HI 96712 website www.northshoresurfgirls.com

Swimming lessons on a board from Rainbow Watersports Adventures. Instructors will teach standing board swimming skills. All groups are private or individual (one instructor - one student). Duration of tours: from 2 to 4 hours, upon completion all participants are provided with free photographs. Address: Haleiwa, Oahu, HI 96712, website www.rainbowwatersports.com, more about

Entertainment

Attending a luau (traditional Hawaiian party) is part of the cultural program of most vacationers in Hawaii. Through luau, Hawaiians traditionally celebrated memorable events (birthdays, harvest, won a battle, etc.).

Luaus are different from each other, but the celebration is always accompanied by cooking pork in underground oven imu, all participants are given leis (garlands of flowers) and treated to cocktails. Upon arrival at the luau, guests are invited to participate in a variety of activities: canoeing, spear throwing, lei making, tattoo lessons, hula dancing, beach fishing with tackle, and the like. Then dinner and a cultural show of the peoples of Polynesia (dances of the peoples of Samoa, Tahiti, New Zealand, Fiji, Hawaii). Luau provides an opportunity to better understand the culture and traditions of Hawaii and Polynesia. Each luau ends with watching the sunset, which is unusually beautiful in Hawaii.

The most popular luau dishes:

Lomi salmon- salted salmon with tomatoes, onions and peppers;
Kalua pig- pork wrapped in banana leaves and cooked inside an underground oven (imu);
Pipi kāula- Hawaiian style beef jerky;
Poi- ground and cooked taro tuber;
Laulau, pork and butterfish steamed in wrapped leaves;
Lū‘au- taro leaves baked with coconut cream and, usually, octopus (from this dish came modern name holiday);
Haupia- gelatin made from condensed coconut milk.

Paradise Cove is the most famous luau on the island of Oahu (www.paradisecovehawaii.com).

Slightly less popular Germaine's(venue near the small town of Kopolei, www.germainesluau.com).

But the most famous lualu does not mean the best. I would recommend you Chief's Luau at the Hawaii Sea Life Park. It's smaller than other luaus on Oahu, but the most fun and memorable. If you are looking for a luau that is family-oriented and fun, try Chief's Luau at Sea Life Park Hawaii and you will not regret it. A showman named Sielu is rightfully considered the best and most interesting host in Hawaii, which sets this luau apart about other similar parties Address: 41-202 Kalanianaole Hwy, Waimanalo, Oahu, HI 96795, website www.chiefsluau.com

This attraction ranks first in the number of visitors in Hawaii. Many tourists consider it their duty to visit this sacred place, where World War II began for the United States.

FAQ:

IN: Will we be visiting a naval base?
ABOUT: Yes and no. Entry to the territory of the base is only with passes. The entire water area of ​​the bay is a restricted zone. The Navy allocated a piece of land on which the visitor center was built. Delivery to the memorial, built over the sunken battleship, is carried out by fleet boats.

IN: Is photography allowed?
ABOUT: Photography and video filming are permitted without restrictions. Due to increased security measures at airports and public places, bags of any type and size are prohibited at the memorial, including waist bags and for video cameras. If desired, things can be left in the car or put in a storage room.

IN: They say that to visit the memorial you need to wait 2-3 hours for your turn.
ABOUT: Our experience allows us to solve problems of any complexity.

IN: Will it be possible to inspect warships?
ABOUT: Yes, if you enlist in the US Navy, but otherwise, no.

IN: Will it be possible to see a modern American fleet?
ABOUT: In general, yes, but from afar. The main purpose of Pearl Harbor is a shipyard. Gives an excellent picture of the bay, ships, boats, etc. helicopter tour.
(mandatory - for spies!)

IN: Does the tour include a visit to the Battleship Missouri?
ABOUT: The tour includes a visit to the Arizona Memorial. For individual excursions and target groups, it is possible to replace or visit both places. Ticketed visit to the Battleship Missouri Museum, ticket price is $30. Visit to the Bowfin submarine $15.

IN: Why didn't they raise the battleship?
ABOUT: In 1941, with the beginning of the war, there were completely different tasks to restore the combat capability of the fleet, and later, the scale of the work and the impossibility of identifying each sailor made such work meaningless and even blasphemous.

IN: How did it happen that the Americans missed the approach of the Japanese squadron?
ABOUT: They were looking in the wrong direction. It was necessary to go north, and they - to the west or south. In general, war between the USA and Japan has not yet been declared, especially on Sunday... in Hawaii...

IN: Can we consider that the atomic bombing of the Japanese cities of Nagasaki and Hiroshima is a kind of retribution for the attack on Pearl Harbor?
ABOUT: Maybe yes. It is worth noting that the Japanese only bombed military targets, and Nagasaki was a city with a civilian population.

It turns out that in a tropical forest, tropical rain can be very, very wet...

Hiking: Manoa Falls Trail, 3.2 km, easy

Early this morning we returned from the Big Island of Hawaii back to Honolulu on the island of Oahu. We booked the same hotel in the Waikiki area as before our trip to Big Island. One BUT: you could check into the hotel starting at 2 pm and not earlier.

We had almost 6 hours at our disposal. Today we got up in the middle of the night, which is why our little eyes became somewhat crowded. But we are in Hawaii, and there are so many interesting things all around that we have not yet explored, so there was no time to ruminate despite the lack of sleep.

Therefore, we quickly left our things in the trunk of the Mustang we rented, went for breakfast and, invigorated by aromatic strong coffee from Starbucks, set off to look for Manoa Valley and with it the same name waterfall (Manoa Falls).

While the Waikiki area was flooded with warm rays of the sun, basking in which was a real pleasure, the Manoa Valley was generously watered by tropical rain. In one of our previous posts about a vacation here on Oahu, we already mentioned the fact that the island runs Mountain chain. Clouds coming from the east rest against these low mountains, accumulate, turn into heavy gray whining clouds, and all this “joy” pours out of a bucket onto the surrounding area.

From a distance these mountains look shaggy and green. There are real thick tropical forests there, it is always wet and very humid.

And from sunny beach From Waikiki to the start of the trail leading to Manoa Falls, it’s just about 9 kilometers away by car, and the difference in weather is significant.

And the closer we got to the parking lot, which is almost at the end of Manoa Road, the heavier the rain began to fall. Well, yes, but “we rock them like that” on a Mustang drop-top... Well, that’s not the point.

The point is that when we finally found parking, paid $5, parked the car and before we even had time to get out of it, it started pouring rain. It poured like buckets. Warm tropical rain.

Where to go, we decided to wait it out. After half an hour we realized that we could wait here for days on end. The rain subsided and then increased again. And still he walked.

“Come on, not sugar ones!...” - we thought, took out raincoats, took with us only an iPhone and walked along the walking track leading to Manoa Falls.

For the first hundred meters we jumped like goats, trying to get around, step over, and jump over the puddles that came across at every step.

Then the path somehow imperceptibly turned into one continuous long puddle, it was useless to jump along it, and my sneakers were already squelching with all their might (Temik had sandals on his bare feet, he was generally deep purple).

The views in the rainforest were magnificent. And of course, I would like to look at them in more detail in dry weather, but this tropical rain, no matter how you look at it, added a special zest to our trip. And even though we ended up getting wet to the very last thread, still this walking route we really liked it.

The walking track itself is not that long - the round trip is about 3-odd kilometers. But it is not easy in the sense that the path is mostly undeveloped. Heavy rains regularly wash it away, and along the way there were many areas in the form of the most ordinary soggy clay.

Imagine, you also had to crawl up and down on this slippery mess. After some time, our legs were just like grimy piglets. I was already a little upset, whatever one may say, I could forget about my white sneakers.

But on the trail several times there were streams that were impossible to jump over; they were quite wide. I just had to walk through the water, and sometimes it was ankle-deep, so the sneakers washed themselves “naturally” and I returned to the car with almost clean shoes. True, the sneakers could be squeezed out; they were completely damp and full of water.

Along the way we tried to take pictures of the nature around us with our iPhone. But the rain poured so much that they began to worry not only that the iPhone would get wet in the rain, but that there was even nowhere to hide it; all clothes (even with a raincoat) right down to their panties were soaked through.

Quietly we crawled (and in some places we had to really crawl so as not to fall off the slippery stones and clay path and roots sticking out of the ground) to the waterfall.

Manoa Falls impressed with its stormy, very noisy stream. Its height is 46 meters, the water falls into a small lake, but you cannot approach it. Due to constant heavy rains, landslides often occur here, which is unsafe for people.

The feeling at the waterfall was very original. Imagine a powerful cascade of water falling from above, all this violence creates a large cloud of moisture, and add to this the pouring rain. It felt something like stepping into the shower with your clothes on and turning it on at almost full power.

In general, there at the waterfall I couldn’t see anything even through my glasses, which significantly complicated my orientation on the ground, because... Without glasses I can't see anything at all.

What was pleasing was that we weren’t the only weirdos who trooped here, people kept coming and coming to meet us, all just as damp and wet and incredibly happy with this “attraction” of local nature.

On the way back we were already deeply purple - we were wet to the last thread. We returned to the car, and at first we didn’t even know how to get into it, because... the water just flowed off us. And there was no place to change clothes in the parking lot. We covered ourselves with bags and went to check into the hotel, laughing heartily at the same time, because... At the reception we had to explain where we came from so damp.

Overall, lovely! Experienced real tropical rain in a real tropical forest. We liked.

And after a hot shower at the hotel and a hearty lunch in a cozy restaurant, we were waiting for surfing on the world famous Hawaiian beach of Waikiki and riding a Mustang in the evening in Honolulu.

The picturesque island of Oahu is the most densely populated of the islands of the Hawaiian archipelago. Here is the capital of the Hawaiian Islands - the city of Honolulu, as well as the most famous attractions and cultural centers of the archipelago. Oahu has a developed tourist infrastructure, thanks to which adherents of the most different types recreation. The capital of the archipelago is the starting point of many excursion programs; here is the legendary historical monument– Iolani Palace. It is the only one surviving in the United States Royal Palace, construction architectural complex took place at the end of the 19th century. The palace has recently undergone a complete reconstruction; a huge number of tourists visit it every day.

In close proximity to the beautiful palace is the main religious attraction of the island - Kavaiahao Church. Its construction was completed in 1842. The church is the oldest on the island and has been perfectly preserved to this day. Honolulu Chinatown, which is usually considered as a single attraction, deserves special attention. This is one of the best places on the island for walking. At every step in Chinatown you can find interesting shops and restaurants decorated in national style, as well as colorful markets and temples.

The capital also has interesting natural attractions, including the Fosters Botanical Garden. The park was founded in 1850 and today bears the name of its founder, a famous German botanist. In the southern part of the island of Oahu there is a world famous landmark that is known to literally everyone. We are talking about the Pearl Harbor naval base, a unique historical monument that reminds local residents and visitors to the island of the tragic events of 1941. In honor of the sailors who died during the battle with the Japanese troops, a beautiful memorial was opened. Visitors to the historical complex can see ancient warships and get acquainted with the collection of historical exhibits presented in the local gallery.

The Waterfront area is rich in interesting excursion sites; among the local attractions, beautiful skyscrapers are of particular importance. Once upon a time, the most high buildings archipelago, many of them have retained their former grandeur to the present day. After admiring the monuments of modern architecture, it is worth visiting the Hawaiian Maritime Center. It is one of the largest maritime museums in the country; many of the exhibits displayed within its walls are unique. Near the museum, the beautiful Kapiolani Park begins, it is considered one of the country's outstanding natural sites.

What to see

So, you have arrived in Hawaii! The first day in Paradise we get high on the very (sooo!) beautiful and world famous Waikiki beach, swim in Pacific Ocean and just believe in your luck! And when the question “What to see in Hawaii?” or “I want to see the main attractions of Oahu!” awakens desire active rest, You will understand that Waikiki is not yet Paradise. You haven't seen Paradise yet.

What you need to know

The Diamond Head volcano, which you have been admiring all this time in the distance, is called the hallmark of the island. Honolulu (remember, that was the name of the airport) is the capital of Hawaii and the heart of Pacific Grace. Travel in luxury that matches the most vibrant shores. Over 125 beaches! Oahu has the best beach holidays and concentration of attractions in Hawaii. Everyone's dream. Eden for hearts in love.

Excursions to Oahu
“Where are my miracles!” – you say. This is where you will need a Russian guide.

There are excursions and activities in Honolulu to suit all tastes. Getting to know the beauty and diversity of the Hawaiian Islands in 6 days of vacation is not an easy task. After all, it is necessary that upon arrival in Hawaii, without wasting time, your vacation will be of high quality from the first day!

Don't worry. Excursions will take place exclusively at your pace, and most importantly, within the framework of your interests. You have found good guide– consider yourself doubly lucky!

Russia Hawaii Tours - Your reliable insurance, complete information about your vacation destination, non-boring, interesting guides and the only licensed travel agency in Hawaii.

Most Popular Places on Oahu include, historical Center city, Waikiki beach and irreplaceable. Also, it makes sense to book tickets in advance for a show whose show is among the top 10 best in America. Be sure to visit the world famous Kailua Beach and, if you're lucky, find an empty seat at a table at President Obama's favorite restaurant. The best snorkeling in Hawaii is definitely in the flooded crater of the Hanauma Bay volcano, and if you don’t feel like swimming today, you can see the underwater world of Hawaii even from a bathyscaphe. The famous surfing capital on the North Shore with 12-meter waves and other best beaches of Oahu, cruises and romantic sunsets in the ocean, helicopter flights in Hawaii (even without doors) and of course walks will make your vacation on Oahu unforgettable.

Oahu Island attracts more tourists than any other island in Hawaii. About 6 million tourists (mostly from the American mainland and Japan) come here every year to enjoy a typical beach holiday. With a total area of ​​1,545 km2, Oahu's bird's eye view reveals two mountain ranges on each side of the island: Waianae on the west coast and Ko'olau on the east.

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

DIAMOND HEAD CRATER

Oahu– A mecca of sun and sand, revered by fans of beaches and water sports. Oahu has over 125 beaches to suit every taste; the very name of the island is synonymous with the beaches and the ocean. With an average annual water temperature of 25˚C, it is easy to see why millions of visitors from all over the world regularly come here on holiday. Each of the beaches has its own unique features that make it stand out from the rest. Some of them are popular among surfers, others are suitable for sailing, and others are ideal for a comfortable family holiday.

WAIKIKI

Popular beaches

Hanauma Bay. Just 10 miles from Waikiki, Hanauma Bay is one of the best snorkeling spots on Oahu. The small beach, surrounded by palm trees, is located in the crater of an extinct volcano, destroyed on one side by the ocean. The sheltered cove provides protection from strong currents and large waves - ideal conditions for swimmers and divers. Since 1967, Hanauma Bay has received the status of a nature reserve (Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve). Paid access since 1998 has led to a decline in the number of holidaymakers. In 2002, the Maritime Education Center was opened; visitors are required to first watch a short film and become familiar with the rules of caring for the nature of the bay. Today, Hanauma Bay receives an average of 3,000 visitors per day, or about a million per year.

HANAUMA BAY

Halona Beach Cove. Next to Hanauma Bay is Halona Beach Cove, a small but very beautiful cove. The film “From Here to Eternity” was filmed here.

BAY OF ETERNITY

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

MAKAPUU BEACH

Lanikai Beach– A one and a half kilometer long beach on the east side of Oahu, rarely visited by tourists. Since the morning, photography enthusiasts have been trying to capture the famous sunrise. The beach looks beautiful with the Koolau Mountains in the background. When the trade wind blows, sailing and windsurfing are practiced on the beach. Calm waves, white sand, beautiful panorama in all directions. There are no toilets, showers, or even parking for cars, but the beautiful beach with white sand and calm turquoise water completely compensates for these shortcomings.

Kailua – Kailua Beach Oahu has more spectacular beaches with better swimming conditions, but none offer as many options as Kailua Beach. Fishing, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, diving, snorkeling, kiteboarding, water sports equipment sales and rental. A popular kayaking destination is Popoi'a Island, located approximately 400 m from the shore. Condé Nast magazine named Kailua Beach the best beach in the United States in 1998. On weekends, the beach is visited by many locals; on weekdays there are practically no vacationers.

Laniakea – Laniakea Beach is located about 4 km south of Waimea Bay. Laniakea Beach is most commonly referred to as “Turtle Beach” because endangered green sea turtles have been basking on the beach's warm sand since 2000. The turtles were attracted to the abundance of seaweed in the area. Volunteers are on duty on the beach, they stretch a red rope around the turtles in order to limit them from beach visitors. Bring your snorkel and mask and enjoy swimming with the turtles. Never touch turtles, otherwise you may receive a heavy fine.

LANIAKEA BEACH

Malaekahana Beach If you want to be in Hawaii before jet planes brought millions of vacationers here, then Malaekahana Beach is your place. Surprisingly, very few visitors visit Malaekahana, one of the best beaches on Oahu.

Kahana – Kahana Bay Beach Park The crescent-shaped beach is set against the backdrop of a lush valley with towering cliffs. Kahana Beach has good fishing and ideal kayaking conditions. Add in picnic areas, camping areas, and forested walking trails and you have some of the best beaches on the island.

Ko'Olina Lagoons. The owner of the huge Ko’Olina Resort complex created four artificial sandy lagoons, turning them into convenient places for a beach holiday at any time of the year. The almost completely round lagoons are surrounded by white sandy beaches bordered by grassy lawns. The generally calm waters are ideal for swimming, and snorkelling can be enjoyed around the boulders at the entrance to the lagoons.

North Shore of Oahu Considered the surfing capital of the world. Every winter, the northern coast of the Hawaiian Islands is hit by swells - long sea waves formed as a result of storms thousands of kilometers to the north in the Bering Sea region. Such waves are much more stable in their direction and periodicity than ordinary waves formed by the wind, and therefore more favorable for surfing. The North Shore, in the context of Oahu's geography, refers to the northern coastal area of ​​the island between Kaʻena Point and Kahuku Point. The largest settlement in the area is Haleiwa. Every December it hosts the Triple Crown of Surfing, a series of three world-famous competitions. The most famous beaches are described below.

SURFING ON NORTH SHORE

Ehukai – Ehukai Beach Park stretches continuously as a continuous strip of sand with only one sign - EHUKAI BEACH PARK. Most people think of it as one beach, but in reality there are three separate beaches following each other. Long, wide, white sand, Ehukai Beach is famous for its winter surfing. Swimming is safe during the spring and summer months, but rip currents offshore and strong waves make swimming unsafe during the winter. Access to Pipeline and Banzai beaches via 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, the waves are so steep that the crest of the wave, falling forward, forms an almost perfect pipe (“pipeline” means “pipe”). For years, masters struggled to ride these waves, many of them falling, suffering lacerations and broken bones on the shallow reefs.

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

Banzai – Banzai Beach West of Pipeline is a strip of beach that surfers call Banzai. The Japanese word “banzai” means the battle cry “hurray” or “forward.” In the late 1950s, director Bruce Brown was making one of the first surfing films, Surf Safari, and saw a surfer riding a huge wave. Brown shouted, “Banzai!” and from then on the name stuck. In winter, this is a very popular beach among surfers, curious locals and visiting holidaymakers. During the summer months there are not very many people here. Again, access to the beach is through Ehukai Beach Park.

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

WAIMEA BAY

Sunset – Sunset Beach One of the most popular beaches on the island of Oahu. During the season (September-April) swimming is very dangerous due to high waves (5 meters and above) and strong rip currents off the coast. The only safe period for swimming is summer. To avoid the 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 northern coast of the island of Oahu. The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the most visited tourist sites in Hawaii. A competition is held annually on its territory in which participants demonstrate their mastery of fire knives. The park has an IMAX cinema where you will see 15 min. 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 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 exhibit on Rapa Nui (Easter Island). Every village in certain time shows the day. We highly recommend visiting the center of Polynesia with an experienced guide. Our guide will carefully plan your time at the Polynesian Cultural Center. this way you can see all the most interesting things and not miss anything. You will be introduced to the characteristics of each Polynesian culture. Visitors are invited to participate in a luau (traditional Hawaiian party).

Sea Life Park Hawaii- 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 houses a bird sanctuary and an aquarium.

Buddhist Temple Byodo-In Temple located in the Valley of the Temples and is a replica of a 900-year-old temple in the city of Uji, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. Inside is a 3m gold-plated wooden Buddha figure. With the Ko'olau Mountains as a backdrop, 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 services, the temple grounds are often used for weddings and official events.

BUDDHIST TEMPLE BIODO-EUN

Sacred Falls State Park located on the north coast of Oahu. The park encompasses the Kaluanui Canyon and the waterfall at its very end, after which it is named. The falls have been closed to the public indefinitely since a fatal rock collapse occurred on May 9, 1999, in the canyon. Eight tourists were killed and many were injured. The only way to see this beautiful natural creation is by helicopter.

Nuʻuanu Pali observation deck offers panoramic views of the Nuʻuanu Valley and the northeast side of Oahu. Nuʻuanu 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 rule.

ISLAND OF OAHU