Known as ‘The Gathering Place,’ Oahu is Hawaii’s third largest inhabited island, home to the state capital, Honolulu, as well as more than 80% of the Hawaii’s total population. The island is of volcanic origin and is comprised of two mountain ranges, Koolau Range and Waianae Range. Most people who visit Oahu never get past the city of Honolulu and the beaches of Waikiki which really is a shame because the island is truly stunning and has so much more to offer. When you decide to venture out and explore the other sides of Oahu here is a general overview of the areas: Waikiki is where you will find most of the major resorts, restaurants and entertainment venues; Central Oahu is a blend of suburban communities like Pearl City and Mililani as well as vast expanses of pineapple plantations; North Shore is where you will find some of the biggest waves in the world (an expert surfer’s nirvana, especially during the winter), one major hotel and the town of Haleiwa; Windward Coast is home to an abundance of secluded, pristine beaches, the Polynesian Cultural Centre (a must see attraction), a large Marine Corps base and some picturesque villages; Leeward Coast at the moment is comprised of a few rural villages and the beginnings of some pretty big resort developments.

Most people come to Oahu with nothing more in mind than spending time on the beach and soaking up the sun. Oahu will certainly not disappoint with nearly 40 fabulous tourist beaches. Waikiki Beach is Oahu’s most famous beach and therefore almost always crowded with tourists. Don’t let that deter you though. You will always find yourself a spot and the calm surf is perfect for swimming, boogie boarding and beginner surf lessons. Ala Moana Beach Park is a great place to enjoy a day in the sun, especially if you brought the little ones. This park has more than 70 acres of park land, beach, a yacht harbour, tennis courts, an outdoor music venue and much more. Unlike many of Oahu’s beaches, the beach here is protected by giant off shore rocks which keep the water calm year round. If you are looking for more secluded beaches try Kualoa Regional Park, Kahana Bay Beach Park or Lanikai Beach. Surfing enthusiasts will want to seek out Waimea Bay Beach on the North Shore and Ehukai Beach Park home to the famous Bonzai Pipeline.

Oahu isn’t just beaches though. There are so many things to see and do here. Nature lovers will not want to pass up the opportunity to hike to Kaena Point. Kaena Point is surrounded by legend, it is said that this is where the souls of the dead leapt into the eternal darkness. Here you can witness breathtaking views, native flora and fauna, or whale watch during the winter. Another outstanding experience, hike to the peak of Diamond Head Crater for a 360˚ view of the whole island. Kanealole Trail and Makiki-Manoa Cliffs are great hikes as well. No matter which you choose, don’t forget your camera because you will never want to forget these moments. If sight seeing and museums are more your thing, there are a few on island that you cannot miss. The USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbour is a somber reminder of that tragic bombing back in 1941 but is a place that everyone should visit. Other places to visit include the Polynesian Cultural Centre to experience traditional Hawaiian culture; Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on US soil built in 1882 by King David Kalakaua; and the Bishop Museum (the Hawaii State Museum of Natural and Cultural History) with a collection of over 24 million items depicting the complete story of the Hawaiian islands. Come discover why millions of visitors choose to make Oahu there vacation destination of choice year after year. Oahu enjoys summer like temperatures year round and experiences two seasons. December to March is rainy season or winter with an average high temperature of 26˚C. The rest of the year constitutes dry season or summer with average daily highs frequently reaching 30˚C.