Oahu is the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands and it is colloquially known as The Gathering Place. Honolulu, the state capital, is located on the island. As well as for Honolulu, this island is famous for its beautiful volcanic scenery and vibrant cultural heritage. Many holidaymakers keen for a taste of the aloha spirit travel to Oahu. The island is awash with things to do and experience. Here is a very brief guide to some of the best things to get up to during a stay on the famous Gathering Place Island.
A Trip To Hanauma Bay
No trip to Hawaii would be complete without a trip to one of the archipelago’s famous pristine beaches. Pacific island beaches are famous for their crystalline white sand and azure blue waters. Hanauma Bay is one of the best beaches in the world. A cove formed by an ancient volcanic cone, the bay contains a reef that houses a complex marine ecosystem. This ecosystem is now protected as part of a natural park.
The bay was the favorite fishing and recreation ground for the short lived Hawaiian royal line. Visitors need to take care not to damage the wildlife. In particular, they should refrain from going near the beautiful sea turtles that call the bay home. A day of snorkeling is recommended if you want to see the reef yourself. In an effort to preserve the beach, the local wildlife conservation group has instigated a new reservation system. You need to book in advance to enter this unforgettable zone.
Waikiki Aquarium
If you are spending your stay at one of the many Waikiki beach hotels, you should make some time to visit the area’s amazing aquarium. The Waikiki aquarium is the second oldest in the United States.
The aquarium is dedicated to the sea life surrounding Hawaii, which is famously abundant. It contains 3500 marine animals, all of which are to be found around the island. Reef sharks, monk seals and seahorses are amongst the most popular creatures housed in this historical sea zoo.
The Polynesian Cultural Center
Polynesian culture is integral to Hawaiian life. The islands were first inhabited by Polynesian travelers from Fiji, Tonga and Samoa in ancient times. Traditionally, Hawaiians have attributed the discovery of the archipelago to the legendary fisherman Hawai’iloa. Polynesian culture evolved and became unique on the islands, and Hawaiian culture is completely distinct from other forms of Polynesian heritage. The Polynesian cultural center is a sprawling 42-acre complex that gives visitors the opportunity to experience Hawaiian culture first hand through demonstrations and activities.
Visitors can experience a Luau, eat traditional foods and can learn about the seafaring story of the pacific island peoples.
Lyon Arboretum
The Lyon Arboretum is a 200-acre rainforest environment maintained by the University of Hawaii – primarily for research purposes. It contains over 15,000 kinds of trees, many of which are extremely important to the ecosystem of the island archipelago.
Photo Credit: Polynesian Cultural Center – Canoe Pageant by Daniel Ramirez from Honolulu, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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