Tropical weather, exotic beaches, happy people strolling around in their bathing suits…

Is this what you think when you hear the name Hawaii?

Indeed! Welcome to Hawaii, the most distant island in the world but one of the most beautiful and popular tropical destinations!

To begin with, Hawaii is not just one island. It’s actually 137 islands; 8 of them are the most known, and they all form the state of Hawaii.

Hawaii is a US state and is situated practically in the middle of the Pacific Ocean! The 5 counties are Hawai'i, Honolulu, Kauai, Maui, and Kalawao.

Today, we are going to talk about O’ahu, the island where the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu, is located. Oahu is known as "The Gathering Place" and is one of the most visited islands in Hawaii. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure. From the bustling streets of Honolulu to the serene beaches of the North Shore, Oahu has something for every traveler.

You can enjoy in Oahu a pleasant climate year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically runs from April to October. December through March can bring occasional rain, but it's still a great time to visit for surfers as the North Shore experiences massive waves.

I personally visited Hawaii late August, and I can definitely say that I experienced a full tropical climate with random, very brief rainfalls and a lot of sun in between.

What to see

Oahu offers a lot of attractions and, of course, magnificent beaches where you can enjoy unbelievable views of the ocean. If you think about it, you are right in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, with nothing around you! Quite impressive, don’t you think?

Waikiki Beach

Start your Oahu adventure in the heart of Honolulu at Waikiki Beach. This iconic stretch of sand is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and learning to surf. The nearby Kalakaua Avenue offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Pearl Harbor

Pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial and explore the history of World War II at Pearl Harbor. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center provides informative exhibits and guided tours. The visitor center serves as the gateway to Pearl Harbor and provides essential context for understanding the December 7, 1941 events. Here, you'll find informative exhibits, artifacts, photographs, and documentary films that recount the history and impact of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Be sure to allocate some time to explore the exhibits, as they offer a comprehensive overview of the events leading up to and following the attack.

Hanauma Bay

If you are a fan of snorkeling, don’t miss the chance to visit Hanauma Bay, where you can snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, home to a vibrant coral reef and a variety of marine life. It's an excellent spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Lanikai Beach

Nestled on the windward side of Oahu, Lanikai Beach is a hidden gem that epitomizes the sheer beauty of the Hawaiian coastline. Discover the breathtaking beauty of the beach with its powdery white sand and calm, turquoise waters that make it perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

Iolani Palace

Explore the history of Hawaiian monarchy with a visit to Iolani Palace, located in downtown Honolulu. It's the only royal palace in the United States and offers guided tours where you will get insights into the lives of Hawaiian royalty, the palace's construction, and the events leading up to the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893.

Luau

Don’t miss the opportunity to attend a traditional Hawaiian luau, where you can enjoy delicious food, live music, hula dancing, and Polynesian culture. The vibe and the atmosphere are breathtaking, and if you are in the mood, the extremely talented dancers will invite you to dance with them!

North Shore

If you only want to stay in a quiet, peaceful place with amazing sceneries and enjoy nature, venture to the North Shore for some of the world's best surf breaks, including the Banzai Pipeline. The laid-back towns of Haleiwa and Waialua offer a peek at the local life and excellent food trucks.

The North Shore of Oahu is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, surfers, and those seeking a more relaxed, laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling city life of Honolulu. There, you can relax under a palm tree, letting yourself sleep with the sound of the ocean waves as a background, or you can enjoy some surfing and horseback riding moments since several ranches offer guided horseback riding tours through scenic trails and lush landscapes.

What to eat

Hawaii can offer everything you need on your vacation, and food is one of those things. You can find a diverse culinary scene. Be sure to try traditional Hawaiian dishes like poi, laulau, and kalua pig -all delicious. Don't forget to try fresh seafood, shave ice, and the famous Dole Whip at the Dole Plantation.

Oahu is a tropical paradise with a rich cultural heritage, making it a destination that caters to all types of travelers. Whatever you wish for, you can find it in Hawaii for sure!

Aloha!