Oahu] Winter Fun & Recommended Activities on Oahu
Table of Contents
Oahu, Hawaii's most popular resort island
Oahu is the gateway to Hawaii!
As it is called "Gathering Place" (a place where people gather), in terms of everything from politics, economics, tourism, etc.Central HawaiiIt is.
It is also a resort area where marine sports can be enjoyed year-round due to its mild year-round climate.
In this issue, we will provide information about Oahu in winter.
What is Oahu like?
On Oahu,Natural beauty and urban resortIt is a place where you can enjoy both
From the blue waters of Waikiki to the powerful wilderness, from nostalgic suburban towns to trendy dinners to local eateries, you will find what you desire in any situation.
While it is appealing to be active in the bustling hustle and bustle of the city, Oahu's charm lies in the fact that there are places for healing all around you once you get out into the suburbs.
You will be able to experience the spiritual world that has been carefully guarded by the Hawaiian people since ancient times.
How to get to Oahu
There are direct flights from major cities in Japan to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.
The flight time depends on the departure airport, but is approximately 6.5 to 8 hours, with the return trip taking about 1 hour more than the outbound trip due to prevailing westerly winds.
There are also flights via, but they take more than 12 hours if transit time is included, so direct flights are recommended.
If you take an evening flight, you will arrive in the local morning.
You will be able to use your time effectively, as you can start sightseeing as soon as you arrive.
Attractions of Oahu
Many people probably think of the beaches when they think of Oahu's attractions.
The beaches, of course, have many other attractions.
I would like to tell you more about the charms of Oahu.
Beautiful beaches and vast wilderness
Oahu is the island of everlasting summer, white beaches, and a view of the ocean beyond.diamond headSome people may think that this is a good idea.
However, one of the attractions of the area is that there is a wide expanse of nature besides the sea.
Hawaii has seasons, although it is warm throughout the year.
Therefore, the expression of the sea changes depending on the time of year and location, and the vast nature has its own seasons for plants and flowers.
Oahu is a place where you can experience new natural attractions every time you visit.
One of the world's leading resorts
Oahu is one of the world's most popular resort destinations that you will want to visit at least once in your lifetime.
It has been the top overseas travel destination for Japanese people for many years, but it is the one that remains the most popular.Well-appointed resortsThis is the reason why.
The hospitality that makes people feel at ease even when traveling abroad for the first time will probably win the hearts of many people.
Shopping and restaurants are also recommended
Both shopping and eating at restaurants are essential to the enjoyment of international travel.
Oahu is home to Hawaii's largest shopping mall, "Ala Moana CenterThere is a "+".
It is also fun to look for collaborations and limited-edition products that are only available in Hawaii.
You can also give Hawaiian jewelry with a long history as a gift to a loved one.
Restaurants can be enjoyed according to the occasion, from special occasion dinners to gourmet meals frequented by locals.
Winter on Oahu
The average annual temperature on Oahu is 25°C (77°F), and the climate is pleasant with little humidity.
There are some climatic differences when viewed throughout the year.
Here is a look at the weather and other aspects of Oahu in winter.
Winter weather, temperature, water temperature, and precautions
Oahu is divided into a wet season (October to March) and a dry season (April to September).
The summer months are from April to November, and the winter months are from December to March.
The winter and rainy seasons usually coincide.
Even in the rainy season, there will not be constant rain, but only light showers, which often return to clear skies soon after.
The highest winter temperaturesThe average is 27.4°C and the average minimum temperature is 18.6°CIt is.
Although it gets as hot as midsummer during the day, it is better to have long sleeves in the morning and evening.
The waters of Hawaii are basically accessible in any month of the year, and the water temperature is relatively warm.
However, mornings and evenings are cold, so the best time to enter the ocean or pool is during the daytime.
Advantages of traveling in winter
One of the advantages of traveling to Oahu in the winter is that travel costs are less expensive.
First week of January through March, excluding year-end and New Year holidaysto about a year.Cheapest SeasonThe settings are often set to
If you can plan your itinerary flexibly, the winter season is recommended in terms of price.
Winter Fun
The waves are calm on Waikiki Beach in winter.
Therefore, if you want to play on Waikiki Beach with young children,Definitely safer in winter.It is.
It also has the advantage of being comfortable because the temperature is not too hot.
Other,The sunrise from the top of Diamond Head can only be seen in winter.The view is spectacular.
The Diamond Head trailhead opens at 6:00 AM, so reaching the summit before sunrise is only possible during winter sunrise hours (after 6:30-7:00 AM).
whale watchingcan also be done only in winter.
This is the time of year when whales gather in the Hawaiian Islands during the whale breeding season.
As you can see, Oahu in winter has many attractions that are only possible during the winter season.
Recommended winter activities
Here are some activities you can enjoy in winter on Oahu.
cruising
The most popular cruises are those that depart during the daytime and those that offer sunset and dinner.
Daytime cruises are characterized by the natural beauty of Hawaii and the opportunity to enjoy the ocean.
Evening cruises depart at sunset time,Sumptuous food and showsThey also enjoy the
Recommendations
Recommended daytime cruises include an hour-long cruise along the Waikiki coast or sailing on a boat designed for racing.
Cruises to places that can only be reached by boat, such as the shoals in the middle of the ocean called sandbars, are also a good option.
Also, if you come to Hawaii, you should definitely take a sunset cruise.
You can enjoy an elegant moment while watching the sunset on the horizon, Diamond Head changing its expression as the sun sets, and Waikiki from the boat.
skydiving
Did you know that skydiving is available on Oahu?
Skydiving on Oahu is said to be the most beautiful drop zone in the world, and is actually a famous destination for skydivers.
Recommendations
There are three skydiving companies on Oahu, all of which fly out of Dillingham Airfield on the western end of Oahu's northern North Shore.
Just barely able to get by without an oxygen tank.Maximum altitude 4,000 metersIt goes up to
Although the fall speed is as high as 200 km/h, you probably feel more like you are flying than falling.
At the moment of falling, it feels like free-fall, but after the parachute opens, you will descend slowly and enjoy the nature of Hawaii from above.
In winter, you may be able to see whales near the shoreline.
riding horse
In Hawaii, there are about four famous ranches where horseback riding is available.
Where you can experience horseback riding by the sea on the North Shore and,Kaneohe Bayand ... andChinaman's hatThere are also places where you can enjoy spectacular views such as
Each horse has its own characteristics.
For example, you can choose a farm that has horses bred as thoroughbreds for polo consultations.
Forgetting the hustle and bustle of the city and strolling through nature on a horse is a healing experience.
Recommendations
If this is your first time riding a horse, we recommend the horseback riding experience at Kualoa Ranch.
The horses at Kualoa Ranch, which is about 450 times the size of the Tokyo Dome, are well trained and will go along the route just by riding.
As we walk slowly in the queue,Even beginners in horseback riding are welcome.It is.
Horseback riding is also available at Gunstock Ranch in Laie, a town northeast of Oahu.
The ranch is about 35 times the size of the Tokyo Dome, where rodeo competitions are held and about 80 horses are bred.
Experience horseback riding course for beginners, riding while enjoying the sunset,Keiki (children) horseback riding for childrenThe courses are designed to meet the needs and preferences of each individual, including courses for advanced students.
Other horseback riding is also available at Turtle Bay Resort, the largest resort facility on the North Shore of northern Oahu.
The key point here is the location, which allows horseback riding with a view of the North Shore ocean.
Horseback riding is also available at Happy Trails Hawaii, a ranch located in the hills of Pupukea on the North Shore.
Horses bred as thoroughbreds for polo competitions live on the ranch here.
The key is that many of the horses are gentle and patient.
zipline
The zipline is a series of paths between the trees.wire ropecalled pulleys.Sliding with pulleysThis is an activity that can be enjoyed only in Hawaii's spectacular natural environment.
Originating in France, it is rapidly gaining popularity, especially in the United States and Canada.
Recently, more and more places in Japan are offering this experience, but on Oahu, you can enjoy powerful ziplines in the great outdoors.
Recommendations
The zipline is the best part of the ride on pulleys, but there is also a lot of fun to be had while ziplining.Various attractionsis available, so it is characterized by great adventures in nature.
There are several well-known places to zip line on Oahu.
Keana Farm is the first zipline on the North Shore.
A total of seven zip lines have been installed, each with different plants and heights, so you will never get bored.
And don't forget the zip line at Kualoa Ranch.
The longest zip line isApproximately 400 meters, with a maximum height difference of approximately 30 meters.Yes, there is.
It is a thrilling experience as it crosses the majestic Kaava Valley.
If you want to enjoy the real zipline, please challenge yourself.
golf
If you are a golfer, you may want to play golf in Hawaii at least once.
Oahu hasNearly 40 golf coursesand many of the courses are flatter and have wider fairways than Japanese golf courses.
Would you like to make your golf debut, even if you have no experience?
Recommendations
Each golf course has its own unique characteristics, but we will introduce two of the most unique golf courses in Hawaii.
It is famous as a golf course with a great view,Royal Kunia Country ClubIt is.
From any hall,Panoramic views of Waikiki, Diamond Head, and Pearl HarborIt is popular among debutant golfers because it is possible, scenic, and not too difficult.
It has a high reputation as a resort golf course.Koorina Golf ClubIt is.
The course was designed by Ted Robinson, known as the "Wizard of Water," and has a famous restaurant attached, so you can enjoy a relaxing meal after a round of golf.
The facilities are well equipped, golf carts are equipped with cooler boxes, and rental clubs are always the latest models.
."The 100 Best Resort Golf Shops in the U.S.The golf club has been selected many times by the "World's Best Golf Clubs".
Recommended Winter Tourist Spots
Here are some of the sights you can enjoy in winter.
diamond head
Diamond Head was once referred to in Hawaiian as "leechIt is a sacred place called
Today, it is a state park and a tourist destination where many people enjoy hiking every day, and its majestic view from Waikiki is a popular symbol of Hawaii.
Recommendations
If you travel to Oahu in the winter, you can see Diamond Head from the top of the mountain.Sunrise is a must-seeIt is.
The trailhead opens at 6:00 a.m., at which time you should hike to the top.
The 360° view from the summit is breathtaking.
Even if you don't make it in time, you can still see the sunrise on the way up, so please don't be in a hurry.
After hiking, it is fun to think about where to have breakfast.
Also,KCC Farmers Market(held on Tuesdays and Saturdays).
Access
How to get to Diamond Head,Car rentals, public buses, tourist trolleys, cabsIt is.
Driving time from Waikiki is approximately 15 minutes.
If you want to go at sunrise, we recommend getting there early, as lines can form as early as 5:30 a.m., 30 minutes before the parking lot opens.
If you want to go without worrying about sunrise, the tourist trolley is a convenient way to get there.
It will take you close to the trailhead, which is not accessible by local buses, and it stops at major tourist attractions.
If you are going by local bus, you can take bus No. 2 or No. 23, which leave from Kuhio Street.
Bus 23 goes to the nearest bus stop to Diamond Head, but there is only one service every 30 minutes or so.
The No. 2 bus has a frequency of one every 10-15 minutes, but its last stop is at KCC (Farmer's Market), one stop before the nearest bus stop.
The walking distance is one bus stop more than the No. 23 bus.
Moanalua Garden
Moanalua Garden is famous for its 130-year-old "Hitachi Tree.
It is a 30-minute drive from Waikiki, on the way to Waikele Premium Outlets.
The park is home to a variety of plants from around the world, including the monkeypod, a Hitachi tree.
Recommendations
There are several monkeypods in the park, and the "Hitachi treeThere is a sign by the "I'm sorry, but I can't help it.
A pamphlet introducing the "Hitachi Tree" is available at a nearby gift store and is written in both English and Japanese.
Moanalua Gardenwas once owned by royalty.
The owner of the park, who was given the park by the royal family, inherited the will of the royal family and began to create a park loved by all, which has continued to this day.
Admission is $5 for adults.
Access
The easiest way to get there isTourist TrolleyIt is.
There are travel agencies that operate trolleys to the Waikele Premium Outlets Mall, so it would be easiest to take one of those trolleys.
For those who rent a car, it is about 30 minutes from Waikiki.
It can also be reached by bus.
Take the #3 bus (3 Salt Lake) from Kapiolani Avenue by Ala Moana Center.
Get off at the first bus stop off the freeway (Kaua St + Ala Mahamoe St) and walk along the road for about 5 minutes to the back entrance of the park.
Ala Moana Center
Ala Moana Center is home to more than 350 stores, including 160 dining options.
It houses department stores such as Macy's, Target, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, and Neiman Marcus.
world's largestThe open air of theshopping centerIt is.
Recommendations
You can shop for a wide range of products from luxury brands at famous department stores to reasonably priced Hawaii exclusive products.
High-end department stores and other retailers are also attracted to the product lineup that blends cutting-edge trends with Hawaiian island style.
It will be fun to walk around looking for items unique to Hawaii.
Visitors can also enjoy a hula dance show on the center stage from 1 p.m. daily.
Access
Walking distance from Waikikiindicates certainty, emphasis, etc.You can also go to
Of course, you can also get there by public bus,Waikiki Trolley's Pink Lineis a route between Waikiki and Ala Moana Center, and is so convenient that even locals use it.
You can also ride for free by presenting your JCB card.
The free ride is limited to the individual, one adult, and up to two children, and anyone can ride for $2 each way (free for children under 2 years old).
3 recommended tours in winter
Here are three recommended tours to enjoy during the winter season.
Hawaii Skydiving
The operator is Pacific International Skydiving Center, a reliable company that has never had any serious accidents.
Skydive from 4,267 meters, the highest altitude you can ascend without supplemental oxygen.
The freefall lasts approximately one minute!
Once the parachute is opened, visitors can enjoy the spectacular views of Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, and other Hawaiian sights as if they were walking in the air for about five minutes.
Horseback Riding Experience
Horseback riding tour at Kualoa Ranch.
This tour takes about 2 hours and is a great way to see the film locations and the mountains and ocean.
movieLocation of "Jurassic Park"The horseback ride through the Ka'aava Valley, with its spectacular Hawaiian wilderness, takes you to a high point between the Pacific Ocean and the Ko'olau Mountains.
Enjoy the 180° view of the Pacific Ocean from there.
Zipline North Shore Keana Farm
This tour is a challenge of 7 ziplines at Keana Farm on the North Shore.
whatThe longest on Oahu at 800 metersOh my god!!!
Enjoy 7 ziplines with a wide variety.
Glide through the wilderness on the North Shore and feel the exhilaration and the occasional thrill.
You can enjoy nature at attractions other than ziplines.
summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on Oahu in winter.
There are many points of interest that can be enjoyed only in winter, such as sunrise from the top of Diamond Head.
We are also happy to offer off-season rates for travel costs.
Many repeat visitors take advantage of this time of year to visit Oahu in the winter.