Being a self proclaimed beach lover, it was a natural choice to sign on for the Honolulu Marathon when a friend asked if I wanted to run one and this event was an option. Let’s go for it, I said without first doing my homework on the weather and other important tourists’ to do’s. It rained the entire time and I saw the beach all of maybe… an hour over 4 days.
Now I know my experience in terms of the weather was not the best, however as any seasoned traveler should know, sometimes you have to make the best out of any situation no matter where you are. And so I did.
The state of Hawaii has six islands to visit: Kaui, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and the Big Island. Each offers its own flavor and local feel that captures the hearts of its visitors. My visit was on the Oahu which, in my opinion, is very much like the “mainland” as they say. Although I was expecting something different, I still enjoyed the water and scenery and can see why people keep coming back for more.
I love mixing business with pleasure so in between preparing for my marathon, I made time to get out and take in some sites. We stayed on Waikiki Beach at the Hilton Hawaiian Village which was beautiful. A slow walk up and back delivered a sense of peace and tranquility. A mental break needed before the big day.
As a very modern place that at times often seems like I never left California, shopping was continuous with stores that didn’t seem to end for miles. I do have to say that for some reason I was surprised to see so many retailers that I would see at home. I guess I was looking for them to be more on the local side. But then again, I can see why they were not.
The food was great and there were so many different types of cuisines to select from: American, Chinese, Filipino, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean and more thanks to the fusion of cultures from the immigrants that have make the islands their home. I had a little of this and little of that, but my favorite as Korean beef short ribs. I did my best to stay away from many Hawaiians’ favorite, Spam. No thank you.
In terms of sights to see and things to do, here are my recommendations:
- The beach – I know you are not surprised. The beaches of Hawaii are some of the best in the world. The blueness of the water and the calmness of the waves just make you want to stay there all day. Throw in a sunset and you’ve just found a new home.
- Lolani Palace – Spend a day with royalty or at least its history and tour the restored buildings once occupied by King Kalakuau and his sister Queen Liliuokalani before the monarchy was overthrowned.
- USS Arizona National Memorial in Pearl Harbor - If you love learning about history, then this site is for you. Be sure to bring a box of tissue to pass around.
- Diamond Head – Plan for a great day of hiking and beautiful scenery. The historic trail was built back in 1908 and remains a major attraction to this day. It is a short trail but due to the elevation can be a little tricky. I should know since it was part our marathon path.
- Horizons Show - I didn’t have a chance to see this show at the Polynesian Cultural Center but when my parents went they said it was amazing. So I wanted to add this so that if you plan to go, you’ll be sure to add to your travel agenda.
Oahu is definitely one of the least expensive islands to visits, but that doesn’t take away from its history, culture and beauty. Living in California, I take it for granted that at the end of a four hour plan ride, I will be there. I am surprised that I don’t go often.
This list is small but there is so much more to do. So whether you are going to this island or another, the main thing to look at is why are you going and the type of activities you would like to do. Since each is known for their beaches, they all work for me. But whether you want more luxury, golfing, helicopter rides or to watch a volcano erupt, you have six to choose from which always produce a winner.
For more trip planning ideas, visit www.govisithawaii.com.