Welcome to Oahu Hawaii, the third largest island in Hawaii. From the bustling capital of Honolulu to the bucolic countryside where sugarcane plantations and tropical rainforests can be found, there is a myriad of activities for visitors and locals alike. There are a lot of tours you can book on Oahu, such as Circle Island Tours, North Shore Tours, Dole Plantation Tours, there are even Spanish Tours Hawaii on Spanish. Here are some of the top places worth exploring during your stay in Oahu.
Aloha Tower
Standing at 56 meters, the Aloha Tower used to be the tallest building in Hawaii when it was established in 1926 as a harbor control tower for cruise traffic. Nevertheless, it still remains a tourist landmark today. The four clock faces and a giant ‘Aloha’ greeting welcome visitors from every direction. There is even a free observation deck on the 10th floor, where people can enjoy spectacular views of the island’s waterfront.
Pearl Harbor Museum
Step back in time to the tragic day on 30 October, 1941 when Japanese war planes conducted a surprise attack at Pearl Harbor, destroying the U.S. naval base and killing many soldiers. The Pearl Harbor Museum in Oahu offers a tour around the historical site where you will be able to see the place where the Japanese surrender documents were signed. You will also be able to see and take photos of the USS Bowfin, the only World War II submarine existing today.
St Andrew’s Cathedral
As the oldest Episcopal Church in Hawaii, St Andrew’s cathedral boasts amazing historic architecture. It was built in 1867 to honor the aspirations of King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma, who attempted to bring Anglicanism to the Hawaiian Islands. Like other churches, St Andrew’s cathedral celebrates the Holy Week, which includes Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil. Over the years, the locals in Honolulu as well as tourists have been drawn to the cathedral as the most prominent downtown place of worship and a venue for celebration in times of joy.
Diamond Head
Poised in the heart of Honolulu, Diamond Head is a 231-meter extinct volcanic peak that is popular with hikers. The famous landform is shaped like a tuna’s fin, and can be seen anywhere from the beaches in Waikiki. As you follow the path and ascend to the top of this volcano, you will enjoy breathtaking, panoramic views of the city.
Ala Moana Beach Park
One of Oahu’s most beautiful and serene beaches is Ala Moana Beach. Situated just across the Ala Moana Shopping Centre, the 76-hectare park with its large, sloping beach offers full facilities and even lifeguards. The popular tourist spot is ideal for jogging and family picnics, and is a great alternative to the crowded Waikiki beach. Visitors will be glad to know that waters are safe for swimming and surfing. There is also a small lagoon at the tip of the park where the calmer waters are more suited for younger children.
Chinatown
Step through the twin marble lions and enter the bustling district of Chinatown. Besides trendy art galleries and restaurants, you can visit the various shrines and temples within the vicinity. These include the Lum Sai Ho Tong Temple, Kuan Yin Temple, and Izumo Taisha Shrine. In addition, you may want to explore the 5.5-hectare Foster Botanical Gardens where tropical flowers and trees can be found. You may also notice Dr Sun Yat-sen’s statue nearby.
