Resources, Oahu

Flights
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is Hawaii's major airport, serving as the entry point for most of the Islands' visitors. Twenty three domestic and international carriers serve Oahu, so you can get here from just about anywhere. The Honolulu International Airport is also Hawaii's hub for interisland flights. The USDA enforces strict rules regarding the importation of uninspected plants and animals that can severely change out fragile environment. Before landing in Hawaii, you'll be asked to declare any such items. Department of Agriculture agents will inspect and likely confiscate them before allowing you to continue on your way.

Climate
Weather can vary from one part of the Island to another. It is generally drier on the leeward side, wetter windward. Generally speaking, there are two seasons. Winter (November to April), when temperatures typically range in the low-70s to mid 80s, and summer when the high can run into the low-90s. Trade winds keep you comfortable year-round.

Dress Code
Attire is "resort wear" even at the most luxurious resorts and restaurants. There's no need to bring a coat or tie unless you want to dress up. Dress for comfort. T-shirts, tanks tops, polo shirts, shorts, jeans, sundresses, sneakers and sandals are all good choices. Temperatures are cooler in the evening, making a sweater and slacks a good idea. It is custom in Hawaii to slip off your shoes when entering a home.

Transportation
You'll find it very easy to get around Oahu. Rental cars are the most popular option and they are available at all airports and at some hotel and off-airport locations. In addition, there are resort and destination airport shuttles, shopping express shuttles, guide tours and taxicabs.

Time Zone
Hawaii Standard Time is GMT-10 (Pacific Standard Time-2, Eastern Standard Time-5). Since Hawaii doesnt observe daylight savings time, add one hour to the time difference when in effect (March through November).

Area Code 808
The area code for the entire state is 808. For long distance calls between Islands, dial 1-808 and then the number. When placing calls to the US Mainland from Hawaii, dial 1, the area code and the local. Hawaii's cell phone law requires the of a hands-free device when using a mobile electronic device while driving. Many of O'ahu larger hotels and condominium resorts have high-speed Internet access, including wireless in some public areas.

Sun Sense
You'll want to show off a nice tan when you go home, but please use common sense when sunbathing in the tropics. A sunburn will develop faster than you thought possible, so be sure to use sunscreen. Remember, it's usually hottest between 11:00am and 2:00pm and the sun is stronger here than you're probably used to.

Safety
The Ocean is Oahu's playground but there are precautions to observe. Offshore winds and currents can be powerful and change suddenly. That means don't stray far from shore or head out to kayak, windsurf or sail if warning signs are posted or if conditions warrant caution. If you're unsure about conditions, as a lifeguard. If you're hiking into the wilderness, observe all warning sighs and, if possible, carry a cell phone. Few places are as safe as Oahu, but that doesnt mean you should abandon all care as you travel about. Lock your car doors and dont leave any personal belongings in your unattended vehicle.

Environment
The natural beauty of Hawaii's fragile environment comes from its geographical isolation from other ecosystems. The Department of Agriculture enforces strict rules regarding the exportation of uninspected plants and animals. when departing, luggage must pass a pre-flight check at the airport to ensure that no plant insects or diseases are hitching a ride back with you. You're welcome to take inspected fresh flowers and fruits home. Many items purchased at the airport or mailed home from local vendors are already inspected.

Useful Phone Numbers
Ambulance, Fire, Police 911
American Red Cross (808) 734-2101
Camping Permits County Parks (808) 768-3440
State Parks (808) 587-0300
Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau (800) GoHawaii
Honolulu Airport
Visitor Information (808) 836-6413
Lifeguard Services  (808) 922-3888
Marine Forecast     (808) 586-4545
O'ahu Visitors Bureau (877) 525-OAHU
Poison Center (800) 586-4545
State civil Defense (808) 733-4300
State Dept. of Agriculture (808) 832-0566
State Division of Forestry & Wildlife (808) 587-0166
TheBus (808) 848-5555
TheHandi-Van (808) 538-0033
Time of Day (808) 643-TIME
U.S Coast Guard (808) 842-2600
Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii (808) 926-8274
Weather Forecast (808) 973-5286

Read More

History & Museums, Oahu

Long before Captain Cook stopped here on his seafaring ventures, or the Waikiki skyline glittered into the night, a group of Polynesians sailed across the Pacific to the Hawaiian Islands.

Early voyagers crossed thousands of miles of ocean, bringing with them food provisions, plants and domestic animals, as well as knowledge of ocean navigation based on the stars.

Here the Polynesians developed a new culture while maintaining the social and political structure of their homeland. The Islands were divided into small kingdoms, each ruled by its own high chief who received guidance from a council of ali'i (chiefs) and a kahuna (high priest). The distinction between those with power and the maka'ainana (commoners) was maintained through the stringent enforcement of kapu (taboos, rules).

Captain Cook
Until the late 1700s, the Hawaiians had known of people only from neighboring Pacific kingdoms. But with the arrival of Captain James Cook in 1778, the lives of the Hawaiian people were altered forever. Captain Cook happened upon the Hawaiian Islands during an expedition in search of the Northwest Passage and named them the Sandwich Islands for his patron, the Earl of Sandwich.

Hawaiian Monarchy
At about the same time, Island ali'i were battling for supremacy. In a series of decisive battles, King Kamehameha I became the first of Hawaii's great monarchs. OVer the next century, each ruler-kings and queens-added to the vibrant traditions of Hawaiian culture. Their contributions are visible today in palaces, museums and other landmarks throughout the Island.

Plantations
The Hawaiian Islands were recognized for their prime agricultural land, but agriculture also impacted the Islands' political and social structure. Plantation owners imported workers from China, Japan, Russia, Korea, Puerto Rico, Portugal, the Philippines and Europe, many of whom settled permanently and the appealing blend of Island culture (and cuisine!).

Statehood
The Islands have played a strategic role as a U.S military command center, and have offered an ever-tempting allure to visitors from all parts of the world. The Islands were formally annexed in 1898 and Hawaii became the 50th state on August 21, 1959.

Museums

From royal riches to military monuments, O'ahu's museums offer a tantalizing window through time.

The Bishop Museum
The principal museum of the Pacific and one of the world's leading scientific institutions.

Then Damien Museum
A fascinating memorial to Saint Damien de Veuster the "Martyr of Moloka'i".

Hawaii State Art Museum
One of only a few state sponsored art museums in the country, this museum presents the largest and fines collection of work by Hawaii's artists.

Hawaii's Plantation Village
The village offers a glimpse of the time when sugar cane transformed Hawaii.

Honolulu Museum of Art
The academy has outstanding collections of Asian, European, Pacific, American and African art.

Honolulu Museum of Art Spalding House
Displays imaginative works of art by celebrated international and local artists.

Iolani Palace
This historic landmark in Downtown Honolulu is one of the most precise historic restorations about Hawaiian history and heritage and remains the only royal palace on American soil.

The Mission Houses Museum
Includes the oldest existing house in Hawaii, plus Living History Program.

North Shore Surf & Cultural Museum
Promotes appreciation and preservation of surfing.

Pacific Aviation Museum
Aircraft from WWI on display plus educational interpretations of the Pearl Harbor attack.

Queen Emma Summer Palace
Once the country home of King Kamehameha IV and his wife, Queen Emma.

Read More

Shopping in O'ahu

Whatever's on your shopping list, from local crafts to international designer labels, you'll find it on O'ahu. Shop in an atmosphere of Island culture that includes great food and entertainment, and enjoy scores of new stores, thanks to the renovations that are transforming the retail profile of O'ahu.

Across from the famous Ala Moana Beach Park, Ward Centers includes fashion forward boutiques, one of a kind shops and a variety of full service and fast food restaurants. A block away, the Ala Moana Center (the world's largest outdoor mall) has added a third level. With the 290 stores and dining options, there's always something going on!

Bargain-hunters will be richly rewarded at Waikele Premium Outlets, with its 50 stores, including A/X Armani Exchange, Barneys New York, Coach, Calvin Klein, Polo Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger, as well as a huge assortment of shopping for shoes, kids , gifts, fine leather, accessories and jewelry.

For dazzling day and night elegance, nothing compares to 2100 Kalakaua --a collection of upscale retail, including Chanel, Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Coach, Tiffany & Co., Bottega Veneta, Hugo Boss and Tod's.

Set among splashing waterfalls, tropical foliage and exotic birds, The Hyatt Shops at the Hyatt Regency offer three floors of shopping, from jewelry and sporting good to art galleries and Hawaiian gifts.

For Hawaiian antiques and collectibles, visit Bailey's, where you'll find thousands of vintage aloha shirts and other Island collectibles. For men's wear, don't miss Aloha Rag, selected as one of the "GQ100," GQ magazine's list of the best men's stores nationwide.

Beneath the century-old banyan tree, the historic International Marketplace features over 130 carts, shops and artisan stands offering a lavish assortment of local products and an International Food Court with free Hawaiian entertainment daily.

Read More

Romantic Escapes

From the dizzying moment of our first crush to the tender touch of our mature love, romance sweeps us into its warming embrace. Now imagine a place for lovers. Time seems to stop here. A few days on the island and you've never felt closer. O'ahu is the Heart of Hawaii.

A jewel box of sensual pleasures and romantic activities to reward your imagination and spark your passion, O'ahu is made for lovers. Meaningful and picturesque traditions make O'ahu an ideal place to propose, get married, honeymoon or renew your vows. From a barefoot gathering on the sand to a formal affair in one of the Island's elegant hotel, you can create the event of your dreams.

There are gardens, parks, waterfalls, private estates, hotels and boats. Whatever your choice, O'ahu is a wedding-friendly Island, with skilled planners available to assist you.

From dawn to dusk, and far beyond, O'ahu sets the stage for romance. Perhaps your day together will begin with a leisurely run on the sand, coffee and fresh fruit at poolside, or sunrise meditation on the Windward shore. Your days will be filled with delicious choices: hike to a waterfall or take a tandem surfing lesson? Snorkel in a crystal clear bay or luxuriate at a spa? Hire a private limousine for a circle tour of the island or rent a motor scooter and explore on your own?

Your romantic evening begins as you sip a cocktail and listen to the waves lapping at the shore. The air is warm. You feel refreshed by the many pleasures of your day. Tonight perhaps you'll attend one of O'ahus traditional luau or staturate your senses with the intoxicating flavors and aromas of Hawaii Regional Cuisine at one of the islands award winning restaurants. The night is young  and so full of opportunity. You can choose from soothing. Hawaiian music, dance clubs, raves, jazz bars, magic shows, perfoming arts, concerts, movies, mai tais or microbrews. Whatever you and your sweetheart decide to do today -- and tonight -- there's always more awaiting you tomorrow.

Best Places to Propose

• Take your sweetie on a sunset dinner cruise on a private luxury yacht, complete with limousine pick up award-winning cuisine and premium bar.
• Pop the question as you're riding tandem on a surfboard--or just after you reach shore.
• Gazing at the constellations, grab one of the sky and hand it to your sweetheart.
• Propose on horseback on the beach at Turtle Bay or at Kualoa Ranch.
• Ask your hotel to put your proposal in their daily newsletter.
• Shop for matching aloha and slip the ring box in your honey's pocket.
• Fly along the coastline on a motorcycle and stop at a scheduled beach.

Hawaii Marriage License

A marriage license agent for the state of Hawaii will issue your license. The bride and the groom must be present when the license is issued and both must be at least 18 years old. There is no waiting period, no residency requirement and no blood tests or shots required. The license is good for 30 days. Your birthplace, the names of parents and final divorce decree information, if applicable, will be required on the license application. For more information on Hawaii marriage license, call 1-877-433-7222

Read More

Rejuvenation and Wellness

From the moment you step off the plane, take a deep breath of the world's most wonderful air and feel the weightless tingle of tropical breezes on your skin. Slow down. Leave the chaos behind and submit to the intoxicating pleasure of relaxation, Island-style.

Spas
O'ahu nourishes body, soul and spirit. Here the finest of traditional and modern healing techniques are combined and refined for your pleasure in world-class spas and resorts. No expense has been spared in creating the most deliciously indulgent atmosphere for your care.

Talented health professionals and exquisite facilities contribute to your well-being. Rediscover relaxation. Experience energy. Let the warm culture of aloha, the natural beauty and the remarkable diversity of Eastern and Western life philosophies work together to help you feel sensational.

Enrich heart and soul through yoga, sacred healing and Hawaiian spirituality. Cultivate spiritual and emotional awareness through meaningful encounters with nature like dolphins swims and nature meditations.

Soothe your cares away with unique healing therapies such as lomilomi(massage) or Hawaiian seaweed wrap. Consult skilled healers who provide herbal therapies, preventive medical screening and traditional Chinese medicine.

Take a barefoot walk in the sand at sunrise. Practice Tai Chi weekday mornings at Kapi'olani Park. Nourish your body with freshly grown Island produce and natural resources from the Pacific Ocean that are incorporated into the cuisine.

Experience the healing power of the deep resonating sound of Hawaiian chant under the direction of a Hawaiian healer. Meet with a life coach and develop a nutrition and fitness plan.

The possibilities are limitless. A wellness vacation on O'ahu promotes well-being on all four levels of wisdom: mind, heart, body and spirit. Your experience here will enhance not only your time on the island, but your whole life.

Read More

Land Activities - O'ahu

Whether you prefer a vigorous hike or a leisurely stroll, exploring on foot is a great way to see the sights. From a walk in the park to a climb up Le'ahi (Diamond Head), discover for yourself all the incredible sights and scenery that O'ahu has to offer.

The Great Outdoors
Team up with a naturalist/guide for an introduction to O'ahu's rugged and wild interior, with over 35 trails to choose from. Here you'll find lush tropical rainforest foliage, winding streams, cascading waterfalls and spectacular scenic views. You'll learn to identify some of the local plants as well as the offshore Islands visible from the trail. You'll also see (and hear) the industrious activity of Hawaii's birds. Even if you're not an experienced birder, a bird walk is a great way to learn about the unique evolution of Island species. You'll soon recognize the raucous call of the mynah and be dazzled by the brilliance of the red-crested cardinal. Coastal trails, mountain valleys, stream beds and preciptous ridges present challenges to more experienced hikers, but O'ahu welcomes foot travelers of every skill level.

To learn more about Island flora, take a stroll through one of the exquisite gardens or arboretums. The 20-acre Botanical Garden is just minutes from Downtown Honolulu, while the 124-acre Lyon Arboretum is nearby in Manoa Valley. Here you'll see flowering plants, mature palms and an abundance of other lush foliage.

Strolling the City's Neighborhoods and Parks
Whatever you choose to do on O'ahu, you'll see more if you walk. In addition to O'ahu's many parks, gardens, museums, bustling Chinatown, Pearl Harbor and other historic sites, you can also wander through the Island's residential neighborhoods. Discover more about O'ahu's unique geography and geology on guided walking tours on various themes: archeology, history, mythology, night scenery and even ghost!

Memorable Hikes
One of the Island's most rewarding hikes is the trek to the crest of Le'ahi (Diamond Head). You'll pass through World War II fortifications before reaching the 763-foot summit and a breathtaking view of Waikiki, Honolulu, the southern coast and the blue Pacific. Brind water and don't forget your camera! Close to Waikiki you'll also find Manoa Falls, Waikahalulu Falls and Round Top Forest Reserve. Or venture further afield to Makapu'u Head or the 'Aiea Loop Trail.

Horseback Riding
For a slightly elevated perspective, let someone else do the walking and spend a morning or afternoon exploring on horseback. There are riding trails throughout the Island and horses available for every size rider and every level of experience. Most trails combine mountain sceney and forested solitude with panoramic coastal views. Some of the better-known riding areas are: Windward O'ahu at Correa Ranch and Kualoa Ranch, and on the North Shore with Happy Trails Hawaii. Beach rinding is prohibited except at the Turtle Bay Resort.

Biking

What could be better than to feel the fragrant tropical breeze against your face as you bicycle along the roads and trails most people never get to see? Rentals and guided tours are available on the bus, you can throw your bike on the rack between touring stops. (Whether you're on foot or on a bike, remember that our Island ecosystem is fragile. Please stay on the trail.)

Read More

O'ahu Family Adventure

While its gentle lagoons, miles and miles of sparkling sand, fun-loaded parks and fascinating history, O'ahu is world in itself. Your entire family will find loads to enjoy all day long, from the first rays of the rising sun until late into the star-swept night. Everywhere you go, your family will be greeted with the warm welcome of aloha. Packed with variety, this year-round paradise is the perfect place to build memories that will last a lifetime.

Surf
Take a family surfing lesson in the gentle waters off Waikiki.

Atlantis Submarines
Get eye-to-eye with fish and turtles as Atlantis Submarines dives to view sunken ships, airliners and reef structures that are homes to exotic marine life.

Wet n Wild Hawaii
Float lanquidly along a river on an inner tube at 29-acre Wet n Wild Hawaii.

Star of Honolulu
Hawaii's award-winning cruise ship offer whale watching tours during the season, and sunset dinner cruises.

Honolulu Zoo
See the African Savanna, Tropical Forest, Pacific Islands and Children's Petting Zoo.

Dole Plantation
Wander through the three acres of tropical plants at the Dole Plantation's World's Largest Maze-amazing!

Bishop Museum
Introduce the family to the true history and Culture of Hawaii Closed Tuesdays.

Hawaii Nature Center
Over 15 trails and nature programs of all ages let you experience O'ahu's rainforests.

Sea Life Park Hawaii
Go nose-to-nose with exotic Hawaiian marine life at Sea Life Park, where programs include Sea Trek, Hawaiian Ray Encounter, Dolphin Royal Swim and more!

Polynesian Cultural Center
Immerse yourself in a true Polynesian experience at the 42-acre attraction.

Pearl Harbor
Walk along the massive deck of the USS Missouri, "Mighty Mo," and see the spot where Japan unconditionally surrendered, marking the end of WWII.

Historic Makaha Valley Riding Stables
Enjoy scenic horseback rides and good ol' family fun.

Waikiki Aquarium
Say hello to the 3,500 aquatic animals and plants that call this aquarium home.

Read More

O'ahu Water Adventures

O'ahu is the perfect destination for ocean lovers. The warm Pacific that surrounds the Island creates endless possibilities for water adventures.


Surfing
Among surfers, O'ahu is not only an international destination, but is acknowledged as the birthplace of modern surfing. It was Duke Kahanamoku, with his "mile-long" ride in Waikiki, who put modern surfing on the map. During winter, when waves can measure up to 50 feet high, there is no hotter spot on O'ahu than the legendary North Shore, where the giant surf made the names Waimea, Sunset, Pipeline and Hale'iwa famous. In the summer months, the North Shore flattens out, while the big surf hits the South. Ready to stop watching and dive in? Whatever your age, skill or interest, there is someone who can teach you to surf.

Underwater
Underwater O'ahu is every bit as lush and dramatic as the Island's topside scenery. Snorkeling is great and there are hundreds of sites around the Island where you'll find fascinating underwater life.

A hybrid of snorkeling and scuba, scuba lets you breathe under water without wearing a tank. If you're not certified, dive shops around O'ahu offer classes, equipment and information on dive sites and conditions.

Overwater
Don't want to surf or snorkel? Body surfing, body boarding and stand up paddle boarding are popular alternatives. Perhaps this is the time to try windsailing, parasailing or hang gliding! Or try windsurfing out by Le'ahi (Diamond Head) or on beautiful Kailua Beach.

There's wakeboarding (it's something like waterskiing, but wilder), kite surfing (a combination of kite-flying, wakeboarding, surfing and flying) and stand-up paddle boarding. Stand-up paddle boarding is more tranquil sport, unless you're good enough to surf! Lather on the sunscreen, pack a picnic and a towel, and paddle a kayak to one of O'ahu's nearby protected islets, or moku. Stroll the isolated beach, cool off in the water, and then paddle back in time for a refreshing shave ice or mai tai.

Read More

O'ahu Golf Courses

Ocean breezes keep O'ahu's air clean and sweet, but they'll challenge your carefully calculated drive. The wind partly accounts for the fact that you will tend to find wide, forgiving fairways. The ground is harder here. The ball runs more off the tee, and doesn't stop as quickly on the greens.

First time golfers to the Island should also be forewarned about putting on Bermuda greens, which are grainier than traditional Bentgrass greens and more difficult to read. The grain grows in the direction of the prevailing trade winds, generally from east to west, toward the setting sun. Novice and experienced golfers looking to polish their skills will find helpful golf pros ready to provide lessons to help you make the most of your time on the courses.

Top rated resort golfing can be found at Hawaii Prince, Ko'Olina, Pearl Country Club and Turtle Bay. Tucked up against the rampart of the Ko'olau Range on Windward O'ahu, the Ko'olau Golf Club has been ranked the most challenging course on North America by the US Golf Association, but even novice will appreciate its tremendous beauty.

Golf Courses

• Coral Creek Golf Course
• Hawaii Prince Golf Club
• Ko'Olina Golf Club
• Pearl Country Club
• Turtle Bay Golf Club

Read More