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Getting Scholastic with Your Oahu Honeymoon

March 16, 2011 By

The USS Missouri was built in three years and required over 3 million man-days to complete the job.

Oahu is by far the most popular Hawaiian island to visit, and not just because of its namesake The Gathering Place. The history itself is a major attraction to this Hawaiian destination. Oahu’s local history is that of monarchy, beginning with the Ali’i and followed by powerful Kings like Mailikukahi and Kaumualii.

It was also the first Hawaiian island ever discovered by Europeans in 1778 by Captain James Cook and the crew of HMS Resolution. James Cook was later killed on Valentine’s Day at Kealakekua Bay.  As you probably know, it’s also the site of the surprise attack from The Imperial Japanese Navy during World War 2 and the final resting place of the USS Arizona.

If you and your fiancé enjoy leisurely browsing through historical museums to learn more about Hawaii’s pivotal role in American History, then you just may want to think about booking a tour. Chances are, you aren’t staying for more than a couple weeks, and the history is so expansive it would be impossible to do it all and relax.

Here’s a little break-down of some popular tours in Oahu, courtesy Discover Hawaii Tours.

Oahu’s Ultimate Eco Circle Island Tour

This popular Oahu guided tour starts at Pearl Harbor, where you can board a shuttle boat to visit the USS Arizona. Next, it’s on to the Dole’s Pineapple Plantation at the North Shore. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view as the staff tells stories and Hawaiian folktales.  From there, you venture on over to the Polynesian Culture Center, a museum experience that includes a full BBQ lunch buffet.

A Day at Pearl Harbor

This deal is perfect for WW2 history buffs, craving to see first-hand one of the most memorable and tragic events of American history. This includes a complete Pearl Harbor tour featuring USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine, USS Missouri Battleship, Pacific Aviation Museum as well as an exploration of downtown Honolulu.

Oahu Dolphin Swim and Snorkel

Okay, so we know this departs from the historical theme of the previous tours, but this activity is perfect for the honeymooners who are looking for something a little more adventurous and a little less observatory. Your boat leaves before sunrise from Waikiki, and the rest of the day will be spent with music, food, dolphins, swimming & laughter. After the crew guides you towards the local wildlife, don’t be afraid to get close. Dolphins are known for their intelligence, affectionate demeanors and playful spirits. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Filed Under: Activities, Hawaiian Culture, Oahu, Tours Tagged With: ,

Drink Only the Best During Your Honeymoon – Kona Coffee!

March 12, 2011 By
Kona Coffee Plantation

Kona Coffee Plantation

You’re going to Hawaii for your honeymoon, and you love coffee (who doesn’t??) so you must be looking forward to having some delicious Kona coffee!  If you’ve never had Kona coffee, you’re in for a treat; Kona coffee is smooth, a medium dark roast, with balanced flavor, and is absolutely delicious!

You don’t have to actually stay in Kona or even anywhere on the Big Island to enjoy a cup; coffee bars abound throughout the islands.  Let us guide you through the best shops and bars on each island.

Oahu

Island Vintage Coffee – Located in the heart of Honolulu, in the Ala Moana Mall, this shop serves the finest 100% Kona coffee.  You’ll probably be shopping in this mall anyway, so be sure to stop by and partake!

Happy Cake Cafe – Nope, this isn’t a coffee shop per say, but they do sell some yummy Kona coffee!  Try their iced coffee while nibbling on a Happy Cake, a delectable cake made with pineapple, coconut and macadamia nuts – all which sound very “Hawaiian” but it’s actually quite a unique cake-eating experience!

Maui

Hawaiian Village Coffee – Located in Lahaina, there are lots of different varieties of 100% Kona coffee to choose from.  Sip some Kona Peaberry while lounging in their internet cafe.  They of course also serve baked goodies to much on while you browse.

Bad Ass Coffee Company – Yes, this is a chain, but it’s a small chain that serves 100% Kona coffee and that can sometimes be a little hard to find on Maui.  This location is right by the airport, so take advantage after landing or right before heading home – or both!

Kauai

Java Kai – Serving Kona coffee, but lots of other varieties of coffee, food and baked goods as well.  They even serve some deliciosu breakfast!  This is a small chain with about a dozen locations throughout the islands and Southern California.  Located in the quiet town of Hanalei, on the northern coast of Kauai.

The Big Island – Hilo

Hilo Sharks Coffee – Located right in Hilo, this shop not only serves kona coffee, but other Hawaii-grown coffees and even homemade ice cream!

Bayfront Coffee, Kava & Tea – While this shop is more about the kava experience, it’s another option if you want to check out some delicious Kona coffee while in Hilo.

The Big Island – Kona

It almost seems silly listing a Kona coffee shop in Kona when there are so many farms you could visit directly.  Or you could just walk into any coffee shop in Kona and guarantee yourself some 100% Kona coffee!  But we did our research and found a couple that you may want to check out:

Hula Daddy Kona Coffee – Your trip to Kona will not be complete without taking a tour of one of their many Kona coffee farms.  It would be like visiting Napa Valley in California without taking a wine tour!  Hula Daddy is perched atop a hill along Mamalahoa Highway, with out of this world views.  The staff is super friendly and will give you a tour of their coffee growing and roasting process.  And, of course, you’ll need to try their amazing coffee and will likely even buy a pound for yourselves!

Kona Blue Sky Coffee – Yet another coffee plantation that you may want to check out.  They serve some amazing coffee from beans grown right on their plantation on the side of Mt. Hualalai.

Molokai

After lots of research, it seems that we just can’t find any Kona coffee in Molokai!  Honeymooners to Molokai, don’t despair, for this small peaceful island grows its own coffee that you’ll easily be able to sample at restaurants, the airports and of course, coffee shops.

Filed Under: Hawaiian Culture, Kauai, Maui, Molokai, Oahu, The Big Island, Tours Tagged With: ,

Valentine’s Day in Honolulu Hawaii: Picture Perfect

February 11, 2011 By

You may have been so busy planning your February wedding that you may have forgotten that you’ll be in Honolulu on the most romantic day of the year – Valentine’s Day! We know your honeymoon is already special and ultra-romantic, or at least that’s what you’re planning on, but taking some extra time and perhaps some extra dough to have a doubly romantic evening on this special day can make your honeymoon all that more exciting.

We’ve looked into lots of different options for Valentine’s Day, and don’t worry, they’re not all for the non-budget-conscious!

Star of Honolulu Valentine’s Dinner (with a show or jazz)

Star of Honolulu is a popular dinner cruising choice for any night you spend on Honolulu, but for Valentine’s Day they make it extra special with a  few different options.  Their least expensive option for about $115 per person includes a three course crab and sirloin steak dinner, Mai Tai, a show, a table with a view and a photo to capture your night’s memories.  Their most elegant dining choice for $200 per person includes a seven course French-style dinner, drinks, live jazz, a private window table and of course a photo.

Get Creative!

For those who simply can’t stand the thought of splurging $400 for one night at sea, think about a sweet, intimate, creative evening lounging on a blanket on a gorgeous Honolulu shore.  Crowded Waikiki is certainly not the only choice on this island!  Perhaps today is the day you decide to rent a car and explore Oahu.  While shopping earlier in the week, invest in a blanket, a bottle of wine and some goodies to snack on.  Drive along Highway 83 (Kamehameha Highway) and stop at any of the numerous beaches on the way.  Try to time it so that you’ll arrive at your sandy locale by sunset; it may be cliche but there is nothing more romantic than sitting with the one you love staring into a gorgeous sunset.  And it really does seem more beautiful in Hawaii!

Michel’s at the Colony Surf

We could write hundreds of articles about places to dine in Honolulu as the list never seems to end, but while we’re on the topic of Valentine’s Day, you may simply be looking for a memorable dinner for that special night.  If so, look no farther than Michel’s.  This is five star dining at its best. You’ll never forget your picture-perfect Valentine’s Day on your honeymoon, seated with a prime view of the sunset, eating possibly the best meal of your life, with live soft music in the background, impeccable service, all while seated with your Valentine.  Just don’t forget to pack your cocktail dress!

If you find that Michel’s is booked, don’t hesitate to use Yelp to find a restaurant that suits you best!

Live like the locals do!

For some unique Valentine’s Day ideas, many of which are geared toward locals, check out this article.  Ideas include hiring a musical valentine, concerts, flower shows, fundraisers and lots more!

Filed Under: Oahu, Romantic Attractions Tagged With: , , ,

Looking for Luxury? Look no further than Halekulani Hotel

October 27, 2010 By

Don't overlook the House Befitting Heaven. This resort has everything you need for a blissful honeymoon.

Can you really even call this place a hotel? Hotel doesn’t seem to adequately describe the experience this resort offers. So if you decide to honeymoon at Halekulani, keep in mind it’s more accurate description, (the actual meaning of Halekulani), the House Befitting Heaven. There is no darting cost on this experience, either.

Located on Oahu, this hotel offers all-inclusive packages that don’t involve airfare and transportation. However, all transportation can be arranged through the hotel and their packages do offer food and activities which make the investment worth it’s price. The smallest Romance Remembered package is $2500 if you go for the Ocean View, and covers four nights, at $580 per extra night. Their choice of themed suites cater to different tastes as well, everything from ocean front to a designated Vera Wang suite.

“The luxurious 453-room hotel is situated on five prime oceanfront acres on the beach at Waikiki and comprised of five, low-density buildings ranging in height from two to 17 stories, all surrounded by open courtyards, serene gardens and breathtaking views of Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean.
–Halekulani Hotel Fact Sheet

The view is spectacular, the grounds provide a soothing ambiance and all your needs are anticipated at this elite luxury resort. You’ll never run out of things to do. If you’re the kind of couple who expects that they will enjoy the local luxuries, then you’ll be amazed at what this place can offer. Exclusive cuisine, for one, which includes three award-winning restaurants:

La Mer: This restaurant features food that can be described as a French-Hawaiian fusion like the dish Bouillabaisse La Mer Style.

Orchids: Elegance reigns supreme at this restaurant which is situated on the ocean front. As is its namesake, orchids are expertly arranged throughout the dining hall.

House without a Key: This informal dining spot triples as a cocktail lounge and a venue for live entertainment; although it is specifically known for its beverages such as the signature Halekulani Mai Tai.

Hopefully you won’t need to check your work email, but if you just can’t escape the beast, the Halekulani has an elite business room at your disposal. There is also a fitness room, the Orchid Pool (there’s an Orchid etched into the bottom of the pool, visible through clear and well-maintained water) and beach access. You can even have your activities arranged by the hotel concierge. And don’t worry about amenities like dry cleaning or laundry—they have it covered.

Now, this hotel wasn’t always so luxurious. Ownership has exchanged many hands, since the founding in 1907 as the Hau Hotel. But as it stands currently, Halekulani Hotel in Oahu is the epitome of honeymooning bliss.

Filed Under: Hotels & Resorts, Oahu, Oahu Hotels Tagged With: , ,

Sail, Cruise and Dine on Your Honolulu Honeymoon

October 13, 2010 By

Leave the Waikiki area to enjoy some scenery off-shore!

For most newlyweds, a honeymoon to Honolulu will likely mean relaxing on Waikiki,  taking in the sights, renting a car to explore the island, and of course, shopping.  But these are all land activities!  You’re on an island, and your trip won’t be complete without venturing off the sandy shores onto a ship or catamaran, even if just for a couple hours.  Honolulu has got you covered with a multitude of options for day cruising on a catamaran, sunset booze cruises and romantic dinner cruises.

Each link provided below will lead you to even more options with each company, such as high-speed sailing, watching fireworks from your boat, (Hilton lights up the skies every Friday night) and Dolphin tours.  Browse before you book!

Catamaran – Snorkeling

There are quite a few companies that offer sailing for a couple hours, whisking you away from Waikiki and into the ocean, stopping for an hour’s worth of snorkeling, then taking some time to sail around the coastline for some sightseeing and some great photo opportunities.  If you’ve never done this type of sail before, you’ll find some of the best catamaran snorkeling adventures in Honolulu.

Outrigger Catamaran has sailing and snorkeling in the morning every day of the week.  Reservations are required in advance.  The cost isn’t too bad, either: for $47 per person, you’ll get to sail for 2-1/2 hours, with snorkeling in between.   The crew of Outrigger make sure that you’ll have a great time with drinks for a few bucks and a visit to a cove filled with sea turtles.

Another fantastic option is the Maita’i Catamaran offering the Underwater Adventure Sail.  For just $45, you’ll board with their entertaining crew for two hours, eat an included lunch and snorkel at some of the best spots they can find.  This only sails on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, so plan in advance.

Catamaran – Booze Cruise – Daytime & Sunset

If you love to drink, meet new people, watch the sunset, drink, dance to some Hawaiian music, and drink some more, then you need to go on a “booze cruise.”  If you’ve never heard that term before, well, it’s pretty self-explanatory…cruise while you drink all you can handle!  Keep in mind that these types of cruises typically don’t offer food.

The wildly popular, colorful ship Na Hoku II departs five times daily (four daytime, one in the evening) for 1-1/2 hour cruises.  For just $25 ($30 for sunset cruise), you’ll get music, entertainment from the lively crew, and all you can drink.   This is a serious good deal!   The sunset sail is definitely more popular, so you’ll want to book ahead of time.

Outrigger Catamaran offers different packages for different folks, but their sunset cruise is one of the best booze cruises out there.  For $39, you’ll get to watch the sunset while sipping unlimited drinks served by Captain Rabbit (yes, Rabbit!).  If you want to ride the Outrigger other times of the day, you will have to pay for drinks.  For all you can drink, take the sunset cruise and book it well in advance.

Sunset Dinner Cruises

The Star of Honolulu offers a variety of options for every budget.  However, if you’re willing to splurge a little (it is your honeymoon, after all), we highly recommend the Five Star Sunset Dining and Jazz.  For $172 per person, your three hour cruise includes a welcome reception, a 7-course gourmet French style dinner (menu changes quarterly), three alcoholic beverages and live entertainment (jazz, Hawaiian musicians and hula).  For an extra $10 per person, a motorcoach can transport you from Waikiki.  For extra luxury, spend an additional $60 per person for a limousine to take you both to the ship.  In my opinion, this seems a bit frivolous; you won’t be spending much time in the limo!

For those on a tighter budget, Star of Honolulu offers more casual options, such as the Star Sunset Dinner and Show for $88 per person and the Three Star Sunset Dinner and Show for $128 per person.

An even less expensive option is the Ali’i Kai Sunset Dinner Cruise for $66 per person.  This much more casual option offers a buffet dinner (versus a sit-down dinner with Star of Honolulu), Polynesian dancers and live music.

Whichever option you choose, you’ll still experience a Hawaiian sunset from the deck of a cruise ship.  It doesn’t get much more romantic than that!

Filed Under: Cruises, Cruises By Style, Oahu, Romantic Attractions, Travel Packages Tagged With: ,

Shopping During Your Honeymoon in Honolulu

September 22, 2010 By

No vacation is complete without spending some time (and money) at local shops  for souvenirs for yourselves, friends and family.  In Honolulu, you won’t run out of places to shop.  Here’s a list of some of the popular tourist locations and malls, but we’ll also highlight some niche shops that aren’t as easy to find or are mostly populated by locals to get your fix for clothing, book shopping and even sake!  This of course is nowhere close to an exhaustive list, just a list of ideas and recommendations to get you started.  Just don’t ever hesitate to stop by a shop as you walk past it; supporting local small businesses is always a good idea!

Aloha Tower:   The most popular, by far, is Aloha Tower; guaranteed to satisfy all your shopping needs and easily accessible by bus from Waikiki.  Aloha Tower is basically a large outdoor shopping mall filled with specialty shops, restaurants and clothing stores.  Live entertainment is another hallmark of Aloha Tower; try to plan your shopping day ahead of time so that you can be part of that day’s event.

Hilo Hattie: The most popular store in the state of Hawaii, with locations in Maui, Kauai, the Big Island of Hawaii, and of course Oahu.  There are two store locations in Honolulu: one by the airport and the other on North Nimitz Highway.  Stop by Hilo Hattie to shop for a variety of goods made in Hawaii, including clothing, gourmet foods, gifts and more.

Ala Moana Center: This is a very large mall; there are over 290 stores compared to Aloha Tower’s 75 stores and is very easily accessible by bus or trolley.  Daily entertainment is provided, similar to what you’ll find at Aloha Tower .  If you’re staying in Waikiki, you may be more likely to shop here compared to Aloha Tower due to its ease of access; Ala Moana provides Waikiki with ten trolley locations for only two bucks each way.  Ala Moana is not for those on a budget, however; many of the shops are high-end and sales are hard to come by.  However, one store in Ala Moana of note is two-story Shirokiya for all your Japanese needs, from shopping for Japanese goods to eating some outstanding sushi.

Royal Hawaiian Center:  If you’re staying at Waikiki, you won’t be able to avoid the Royal Hawaiian Center located in the heart of Waikiki on Kalakaua Avenue across the street from Waikiki Shopping Plaza.  This mall has over 100 shops, nightclubs, dining and entertainment.

Waikiki Shopping Plaza:  Waikiki and Honolulu just don’t seem to run out of malls!  We’ll just be repetitive by listing what you’ll find at this mall, but here’s one thing you and your new spouse should definitely do together: 3D Glow in the Dark Mini Golf for just $8.50 per person per round (18 holes)!

Gecko Books and Comics:  For a great well-rounded selection rivaling those found in the states, visit this shop so that you don’t miss out on the newest comics, even while on your honeymoon!

Fashionista’s Market:  This is for the ladies!  This is a must for women who are into finding trendy, stylish clothing that you won’t find in the states.  Even better, you’ll spend a fraction of what you would spend in any nearby malls!

Second Skin:  Another trendy clothing boutique, but it’s not just for the ladies…it’s for guys, too!  Don’t go here if you’re into shopping on a tight budget, though!

The Sake Shop:  Yes, there actually is a store that specializes in sake, and it’s right in the heart of Honolulu.  If you love (or even like) sake you must visit this store!

Red Pineapple:  This store has become more popular in recent years due to its items being featured by Oprah and other celebrities, and for good reason!  They truly have some unique gifts and items that you just have to see for yourself.  Definitely take some time out to spend some time in Red Pineapple, located down the street from Ala Moana Center.

Farmer’s Markets: If you’re renting a place in Honolulu, or just trying to save money while staying at your hotel and are looking for some fresh local foods, you won’t find any place better than a farmer’s market.  One popular market is the Kapiolani Community College’s (KCC) Farmer’s Market open Saturday mornings.  Beware, it gets very crowded!  On Wednesday evenings, try out Honolulu’s Wednesday Farmer’s Market.  For a full list of farmer’s markets in Honolulu visit here and here.


Filed Under: Activities, Oahu, Popular Articles Tagged With: , , , ,

Helicopter Tours in Honolulu

September 19, 2010 By
View of the ocean and Molokai from a helicopter

View of the ocean and Molokai from a helicopter

As newlyweds in Hawaii, nothing says romance and adventure like a helicopter tour over Oahu.  Or any island, for that matter.  But if you’re staying in Honolulu, you will run in to many companies offering helicopter tours over Honolulu alone, along a single coast of Oahu, or perhaps around the entire island.  It can be difficult deciding upon a tour, especially since they don’t come cheap, so allow us to guide you with your search!

General Tips

Wear comfortable clothing: You’ll be strapped in and wearing a headset along with four other passengers plus the pilot.  Meaning, don’t be worried about your personal appearance for this adventure!

Wear dark clothing: If you’ll be taking pictures (and really, who wouldn’t?), wear darker clothing to diminish glare from the flash on your camera off the window you’ll be peering through.

Book in advance:  By advance we mean a week or two.  There are online specials you won’t find in person!

Cancel in advance:  If your plans change or your wallet has had a sudden change of heart, most companies require at least three days notice in order to give a full refund.

If you’re the type who gets motion sickness be sure to take motion sickness medication (such as Dramamine) before you embark.  Meaning, an hour or two before you step onto the helicopter.  Or, try picking up a patch from your doctor prior to your honeymoon.

You may not need your camera.  Most companies offer a DVD of your personalized tour, audio included (those tour guide pilots can be quite witty), for an extra cost.  Sure, you could always do both, but if you’d rather not fuss with a camera and would like to relax and enjoy the amazing sights, don’t bother with it; buy a DVD afterward!

Do Your Research:  This is an expensive endeavor, so make sure you picked the best tour for you both!  And with that, here’s some research of our own:

The Ali’i Sacred Falls Tour, Makani Kai Helicopters, 60 minute flight, $236/person or $276/person for first-class (fly alone as a couple)

Makani Kai offers many different tours in Oahu, but this one is by far the most appealing as it is a combination of the other tours and more.  You’ll get a phenomenal view of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, the Dole Plantation, Sacred Falls, the Polynesian Cultural Center, Turtle Bay, the North Shore and more.  Makani Kai also offers combination tours, meaning that they package together a helicopter tour and either a submarine tour or dinner cruise.  Honestly, avoid these “packages” as you are likely to save money by booking activities separately.  Lastly, if you’re like us, you’re probably going to go straight to Yelp.com to do some research on your own (always a good idea!).  Don’t be swayed by their single one-star review; they have outstanding five-star reviews on reliable sites like tripadvisor.com and hawaiiactivites.com.

Blue Skies of Oahu, Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, 45 minutes, $190.95/person

This is a more economical version of the Ali’i Sacred Falls Tour, as it is considerably less expensive ($190.95 compared to $236) and is a bit shorter (45 minutes compared to 60 minutes).  The only thing you’ll miss is the southwestern tip of the island around the gorgeous Ko Olina Resort.  What’s even better…the reviews!  Check out Yelp.com, TripAdvisor and more; you won’t be disappointed.  Five-star ratings abound!

Waimea Helicopter Tour Package, Genesis Aviation, 60-65 minutes, cost varies (currently ~$185/person but also advertised as $265.  Call 1-808-840-1111 for current deals)

This is essentially the same tour as the Ali’i Sacred Falls Tour described above.  Two major bonuses here: you’ll save  about $50 and their helicopters seat four people compared to six people with Makani Kai Helicopters.  Alternatively, you can fly the 40-45 minute Sacred Tour which costs considerably less (anywhere from $75 to over $100 depending on time of year and current deals).  That tour focuses on the southeastern portion of Oahu (Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, Sacred Falls, etc.).  Everything you would see on this tour is included in the Waimea tour.

Whichever company and tour you choose, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Filed Under: Oahu, Tours Tagged With: , , ,

Oahu: “The Gathering Place”

August 29, 2010 By

SurfingIf you just can’t decide which Hawaiian island to honeymoon in because you want a little bit of everything, then Oahu is for you.  And when we say everything, we mean everything: sightseeing, tourism, great food, beaches, surfing, snorkeling, shopping and visiting museums or historical points of interest.  Even though Oahu has the largest population of any of the Hawaiian islands, you don’t have to stay where all the people are!  The North Shore is about as picturesque as they come and features plenty of ways to relax and unwind.

While the North Shore may be popular (very popular) for surfing (the “Super Bowl” of surfing occurs between November and December), don’t feel like you have to be a surfer to honeymoon at the North Shore!  The seven-mile expanse of white sand beaches (such as Waimea Bay) is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, particularly during the summer months when the waves calm down.  In nearby Haleiwa you can get your art and shopping fix; this quiet laid-back town adds the ambiance of simplicity that pervades the North Shore.

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach

In stark contrast lie Waikiki and Honolulu.  Only an hour from North Shore, Honolulu, as the state capital of Hawaii, is where you’ll find it all!  You will never run out of things to do and places to visit while staying or visiting Honolulu.  Some highlights of this busy city: Pearl Harbor (technically in southern Central Oahu; plan for a full day to visit the Arizona Memorial); Hanauma Bay (for some of the most amazing snorkeling in Oahu); and Aloha Tower for dining, shopping and entertainment.  Of course, you can’t visit Honolulu without stopping by Waikiki.

It’s is one of the most popular and famous destinations in the world, and rightly so: with every hotel and resort only a couple blocks away from its picturesque waters and soft white sand beach, it’s hard to not appreciate the beauty that is Waikiki.  The beachfront is a popular spot for surfing lessons since the waters are relatively calmer compared to other beaches in Oahu.  Since Waikiki is only a little less than two square miles, it’s easy to walk along the strip and enjoy all that this area of Honolulu has to offer.

In contrast to the popular North Shore and world-famous south shore of Honolulu and Waikiki are two areas of Oahu you don’t often hear much about: Windward Coast and Leeward Coast.  The Windward Coast on the east side of Oahu offers a laid-back beach scene and lush mountains perfect for hiking and enjoying the gorgeous views this side of Oahu has to offer.  If you plan on driving between the North Shore and Honolulu, you’ll likely be passing through the Windward Coast.  Take a couple hours to enjoy the sights!

While not as lush and green as the Windward Coast, the Leeward Coast has plenty to offer, drawing quite a few visitors year-round to its picturesque white sand beaches.  The 43-acre luxurious JW Marriott Resort and Spa, in particular, is what typically brings tourists to this side of Oahu.  That and golfing; the Leeward Coast is home to nine golf courses (compared to four courses in Honolulu and three on the North Shore).

Filed Under: Islands, Oahu Tagged With: