Oahu] Kapolei's 10 best places to visit! Enjoy shopping and the beach in Kapolei!

Oahu, Hawaii's most popular resort island

Have you ever heard of Oahu, the most popular island in Hawaii?

Honolulu, the capital of the state of Hawaii, is located on the island of Oahu and serves as an important community center for the entire Hawaiian Islands.

Oahu is the center of Hawaii in terms of tourism, and most of the familiar sights you tend to see on TV and in magazines are also from Oahu.

Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, which are particularly well known, are both on Oahu.

This time, I would like to introduce the land of Kapolei from the island of Oahu, which has many attractions!

 

What is Oahu like?

First, let's get some basic information about Oahu.

With an area of 1,545 square kilometers and a population of approximately 980,000, Oahu is the size of the island.

You can see that it is a very large scale for one island, both in size and number of inhabitants.

The Hawaiian Islands, including Oahu, are now considered the 50th state of the United States, but until 1893 they formed their own culture as the Kingdom of Hawaii.

Oahu is also a land of deep history, with many spots associated with Hawaiian royalty still remaining today.

 

How to get to Oahu

Oahu is an island far from Japan and must be accessed by air.

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, commonly known as Honolulu Airport, is the gateway to the island, and there are direct flights to this airport from six airports: Haneda, Narita, Kansai International, Chubu International, Fukuoka, and Shin-Chitose.

In addition to major airlines such as ANA and JAL, there are many flight options, including inexpensive LCCs and Hawaiian Airlines, a local company, so air routes for access are relatively plentiful.
The flight time is approximately 7 hours for the trip to and 9 hours for the return.

It is important to note that there is a time difference of approximately 19 hours, and it is important to be aware that this is a land where jet lag can easily occur.

 

Attractions of Oahu

Oahu is an island with too many attractions to list, but one of the most attractive is its mild climate.

There are many hot places in the world, but the warmth of Oahu and Hawaii remains in the very comfortable range.

The average annual temperature is around 24 degrees Celsius, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxing resort in a pleasantly warm climate.

Even in winter, the average maximum temperature reaches 25°C, so even in January, the coldest month of the year, you can still enjoy playing in the ocean.

The climate, in which one can wear short sleeves at any time of the year, makes it the best resort destination for tourism.

 

Beautiful beaches and vast wilderness

Oahu's natural scenic beauty is also a major attraction.

In addition to Waikiki Beach, there are several beaches that boast spectacular views, including Kailua Beach, Lanikai Beach, and a cluster of beaches scattered along the northern North Shore.

One feature of a good environment is that coral inhabits the sea, and a virtuous cycle is created in which the water quality is purified by the photosynthesis of coral in the sea, and the sea becomes bluer and clearer.

Numerous tropical fish, sea turtles, and other creatures can also be seen, creating a gorgeous environment that resembles a natural aquarium.

In addition, many tourists enjoy swimming, marine leisure and marine activities on Oahu.

Another major attraction is that a wide variety of activities, such as snorkeling, diving, SUP, kayaking, etc., are actively held and liven up the seashore.

It is also home to many of the world's best surf points, and the North Shore area in particular hosts many large-scale world championships during the peak season.

Oahu is interesting not only for its oceans, but also for its land, where numerous unusual landforms and wonderful scenic spots can be found.

Diamond Head, the island's landmark, is famous, but there are many other attractions such as Manoa Valley, known for its many rainbows, and Kualoa Ranch, with its vast expanse of nature.

The island offers such a rich tourist environment that it is difficult to cover everything no matter how long you stay.

 

One of the world's leading resorts

People from all over the world are eager to visit this charming island of Oahu.

The year-round tourist-friendly climate also helps, and the number of visitors to the island exceeds 10 million in most years.

Over the years, Oahu's tourist environment has reached an extremely high level of sophistication due to the large number of people it has hosted over the years.

The area around Waikiki Beach is home to a number of prestigious hotels, all with elaborate buildings that welcome visitors and provide high quality service.

The other accommodations on the property are also generally of high quality and will provide the best resort experience in conjunction with the excellent location.

In addition, some facilities, including hotels and other tourist facilities, often have staff who speak Japanese, making it easy for Japanese to visit.

 

Shopping and restaurants are also recommended

Even more noteworthy is the excellent shopping environment.

Oahu has a number of shopping centers, with Ala Moana Center and International Marketplace clustered throughout the island.

This is a form of commerce that is only possible because of the large number of tourists who visit and shop here, and it is an environment unique to Oahu and rare anywhere in the world.

With a wide range of products from luxury brands to local fashion, books, sundries, and other daily necessities, as well as inexpensive supermarkets, there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping on Oahu is a kind of entertainment, as you can never get tired of just window shopping and looking around.

Oahu also offers the best environment for gourmet food, which is one of the pleasures of a sightseeing trip.

In addition to B-class Hawaiian gourmet foods such as loco moco and garlic shrimp, there are also a variety of stores offering Hawaiian-style sweets such as Hawaiian pancakes and acai bowls, which are well-known in Japan.

The variety of restaurant locations, from moody upscale restaurants to casual style restaurants and photogenic cafes that are sure to be a hit with the ladies, is also an attractive feature.

If you don't want to spend a lot of money on a meal, you can rest assured that there are many gourmet takeout items available for a reasonable price.

 

What is Kapolei like?

The city I'm going to focus on this time is Kapolei, a newly developed city located in the western part of the island.

Formerly an agricultural area where sugarcane and pineapple cultivation flourished, it is rapidly developing into the second largest city after Honolulu, along with Ko Olina, located a little to the west.

It is recommended to visit the area together with the resort area of Ko Olina, which is full of the charm and vigor of a new city.

 

Origin of the name Kapolei

Kapolei is officially called Puʻu o Kapolei, and the name is derived from the topography of the volcanic cone.

In Hawaiian, Pu'u means hill and Kapolei means "beloved Kapo," and Kapo is the sister of Pele, the volcano goddess in ancient Hawaiian mythology.

When I hear that the place is named after one of the mythical goddesses, I feel that I can sense the great power hidden in the land.

 

About Access

A rental car is recommended for access to Kapolei from Honolulu and Waikiki.

First, take the H1 Freeway (West) toward Pearl City and then toward Wai'anae.

When you get off at Exit 1, "Campbell Industrial Park," turn onto Kapolei Parkway and continue on to reach Kapolei.

Also, when using the bus, go to Ala Moana Center first.

From here, you can take the Express C to Kapolei.

 

Caporei Attraction

One of the main reasons Kapolei was chosen as an area for new development is its favorable climate.

In fact, due to its topography, Oahu's environment varies greatly from region to region.

While mild temperatures are common throughout, there are significant differences in humidity and rainfall from region to region.

Specifically, the northeastern part of the country, known as Windward, is humid and rainy, while the western part, known as Leeward, is dry and dry and has a less rainy climate.

Kapolei is the leeward area of the island, which means that there is very little rainfall throughout the year, which is a big plus when it comes to feeling the comfort of Oahu's sunny weather.

 

Shopping is popular

As is the case throughout Oahu, the suburbs of Kapolei have an excellent shopping environment, including shopping centers.

Ka Makana Ali'i, a large shopping center, is the face of Kapolei, and a visit here is sure to provide plenty of shopping fun.

Other big-scale shopping destinations include Kapolei Commons, Kapolei Marketplace, Costco, and Target.

One of Kapolei's appealing points is that it offers a perfect shopping environment where one can easily shop more than expected.

 

Enjoy the beautiful beaches!

Of course, you can also enjoy a tour of the beaches, which is a must if you come to Oahu.

There are several beautifully landscaped beaches scattered throughout the area, each with a different location that will satisfy your desire to view and play in the ocean.

Kapolei's beaches offer something for every tourist need, from well-maintained, busy tourist beaches to quiet, private beaches.
Its location in the western part of the island makes it an unmissable place to watch the sunset as it sinks into the horizon.

It is also perfect for spending a moody time with your loved ones.

 

Enjoy the local atmosphere!

Another attraction of Kapolei is its developed yet local atmosphere.

Although the city is suitable for sightseeing, it is not bothered by the hustle and bustle characteristic of resort areas because the city is basically based on the cityscape to support the lives of residents, with the city hall standing there.

It is a place where you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the out-of-the-way O'ahu and the real O'ahu.

If you blend in with the local atmosphere as you walk the streets, you will feel as if you have truly moved to Oahu, and not just for sightseeing!

 

10 recommended attractions in Kapolei

Let's check out some of Kapolei's most popular attractions in person.

We have selected 10 of the most attractive spots that you should visit, in order!

 

Wet and Wild Hawaii

First of all, let me introduce you to Wet and Wild Hawaii, one of Kapolei's most popular tourist attractions.

This tourist facility boasts an area the size of three Tokyo Domes, and is a water park with 25 rides and attractions using plenty of water.

 

Recommendations

Among the many attractions, the signature attraction is a large swimming pool that flows 260 meters long through the tropical park, which is planted with jungle-like tropical plants.

The area around it has a large area for water slides and water activities, allowing visitors to enjoy the best of water fun under Leeward's mild climate.

In addition, an area for mini-golf in a favorable environment and a restaurant are also located in the park, making it a place where adults and children alike can enjoy playing all day long until they are exhausted.

 

Access

Accessibility from Waikiki to Wet 'n Wild Hawaii is very good.

If you are renting a car, take the H1 Freeway (West) and exit at Exit 1E.

As you exit onto Farrington Highway, Wet and Wild Hawaii is immediately on your right.

Also, if you sign up for a package plan that includes transportation, a shuttle bus will pick you up at your hotel in the Waikiki area.

If you want to avoid driving in anticipation of fatigue, you can make good use of this option.

 

Ka Makana Ali'i.

Next, I would like to introduce you to Ka Makana Ali'i, the large shopping center I mentioned above.

Opened in 2017, this facility is an important part of the Kapolei neighborhood's fabric of life and a much-enjoyed shopping destination for visitors.

 

Recommendations

Ka makana alii is a Hawaiian word meaning "gift to royalty.

The name "Royal" is derived from the fact that this area is closely associated with Hawaiian royalty, and the product lineup is quite upscale, living up to the Royal name.

With Macy's, a major department store in the U.S., at its core, there are more than 100 popular stores and restaurants.

The facility is not only for shopping, but also for entertainment, with a fountain area where children can play in the water and facilities where they can enjoy hands-on games.

 

Access

If you are renting a car from Waikiki, take the H1 Freeway (West) toward Waianae.

Take Exit 3 down Palehua Road to Kuala Kai Parkway.

Follow the road and you will find Ka Makana Ali'i at the corner of Kapolei Parkway and Kualakai Parkway.

If by bus, take the C bus from Ala Moana Center.

You can reach Ka Makana Ali'i by changing to the 416 or 41 at Kapolei TC.

 

Kahe Point Beach Park

Then check out one of the popular beaches in the Kapolei area.

Kahe Point Beach Park, sometimes called Electric Beach because of its location across the street from the power company, is one of the best places for marine activities in Kapolei.

Visitors are constantly seen here with their activity equipment.

 

Recommendations

This beach has a good marine environment and is ideal for diving activities such as snorkeling and diving.

Divers will be able to enjoy the beauty of Oahu's ocean with their whole body.

It is also characterized by intermittent good waves on the ocean surface and a large number of people enjoying bodyboarding.

Bodyboarding is one of the most popular activities on Oahu, so you may want to try it when you visit here.

 

Access

Take the H1 Freeway (West) to the Farrington Highway and head further west past Ko Olina.

The beach stretches across the road in front of the Hawaiian Electric Company, and if you look for the chimneys of the power company, you will not get lost.

If you are taking a bus, take the number 40 from Ala Moana Center and get off in front of Hawaiian Electric Company as well.

 

Ko Olina Lagoon

Next to natural beaches, we would like to introduce an artificial lagoon from Ko Olina near Kapolei, which is typical of Ko Olina developed as a resort area.

The Ko Olina Lagoon is a row of four beautiful man-made lagoons, built as a highlight of the Ko Olina Resort when it opened.

 

Recommendations

Each of the four lagoons is named after a sea creature in Hawaiian: kohola (whale), honu (sea turtle), nai'a (dolphin), and ulua (gurnard).

Both lagoons are characterized by their beautifully arched topography, and visitors can enjoy swimming in a tranquil mood reminiscent of a private beach.

This spot boasts a wonderful view that is the face of the resort area, so if you are visiting the Kapolei area, you should definitely extend your visit to this spot as well.

 

Access

This spot is not suitable for buses and is basically accessible by rental car.

From Waikiki, take the H1 Freeway (West) to the end of the road, and follow the road straight to Farington Highway.

Eventually you will see the Ko Olina Resort and tell them at the security gate that you want to enter the lagoon.

You will be allowed to enter the area, and you can then follow the path to the lagoon.

 

Ko Olina Marina

Another place to check out, also within Ko Olina Resort, is Ko Olina Marina, where you will find an excellent location.

This is a resort area where marine sports are popular, and you can witness one of the most beautiful beaches in the entire island of Oahu.

 

 

Recommendations

Ko Olina Marina has a shopping center, a golf course, and many other attractions, but one of its most notable features is the large number of boats moored there.

Vessels of all sizes are parked in the marina, and the view seen in conjunction with the blue waters of Oahu and the clear skies unique to Kapolei is quite spectacular.

You will encounter extremely photogenic locations and feel the richness of travel that only an Oahu resort can offer.

 

Access

Ko Olina Marina, like Ko Olina Lagoon, is a facility within the Ko Olina Resort area.

Access is the same as for the lagoon, so please refer to that section.

 

Ko Olina Beach Park

In addition, we would like to introduce one more location from Ko Olina Resort, Ko Olina Beach Park.

Ko Olina Beach Park is a beautiful park located in a resort area with a seaside location.

Located between the Ulua Lagoon and Ko Olina Marina mentioned above, this spot offers a pleasant grassy area to stroll and picnic.

 

Recommendations

Many of Oahu's popular beaches have park areas near them, but this one, a beach park in an upscale resort area, looks especially well maintained and beautiful.

A walking trail stretches approximately 7.5 kilometers along the seashore, offering the best views of the area.

It is especially popular during the evening hours, and walking while overlooking the ocean glistening in the sunset is a wonderful experience.

 

Access

This spot is also located in Ko Olina Resort.

Please refer to the Lagoon section for access.

 

Barbers Point Beach Park

Barbers Point Beach Park is a beach located adjacent to the industrial area of Kapolei, and the Barbers Point Lighthouse is the symbol of the beach.

The rough waves and rocky terrain make it not the best place for a rough swim, but the charm of the spot more than makes up for the bad conditions.

 

Recommendations

This beach has a reputation for beautiful sunsets, and the panoramic view of the orange-tinted ocean landscape is worthy of special mention.

Although it is not well maintained, it features a large grass area and a laid-back atmosphere.

It is not often listed in tourist guides, so if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of tourists and enjoy the ocean location, this is a good place to go.

However, there is some concern about security due to the presence of a rough scrap yard in the vicinity and the fact that the area is not very popular.

Therefore, it may be best not to visit too late in the day when it is dark.

 

Access

Exit the H1 freeway and go straight down the street called Kalaeroa Boulevard in the direction of the ocean.

If you continue to follow the road, you will eventually reach the beach.

 

Paradise Cove Beach

Following the secluded beaches, let me now introduce you to a very well-known resort beach.

Paradise Cove Beach is one of Ko Olina's most popular beaches and a spot with great character.

 

Recommendations

Paradise Cove Beach features not only beautiful scenery, but also the chance to meet adorable sea turtles.

Also known as Paradise Turtle Bay, it is said to be the place on Oahu with the highest probability of seeing sea turtles.

In Hawaii, sea turtles are considered to be guardian gods and are so important that they are protected by law.

To get a deeper taste of sightseeing on Oahu, you should definitely visit here and enjoy the encounters with sea turtles.

 

Access

There is no parking at Paradise Cove Beach and it is not suitable for bus transportation, so it is often difficult to find a means of access.

However, since it is located right next to Ko Olina Resort, many people park their cars in the Ko Olina Resort parking lot and walk to this location.

 

Naval Air Museum Barbers Point

Kapolei, with its rich variety of tourist attractions, also has spots where visitors can enjoy indoor sightseeing.

The Naval Air Museum Barbers Point is a museum located in the Kala'eloa Airport that offers visitors a fascinating history of Hawaiian Navy and Marine Corps aviation.

 

Recommendations

This is not just an academic facility, but a hands-on experience.

If you make an advance reservation before visiting, you can take a flight tour accompanied by a guide.

You can also ride in a military jeep and actually touch the cockpit of an airplane, which is an experience you would never get to do in everyday life.

It is a great place to visit with adults as well as children.

 

Access

Access to this facility is by rental car.

Take the H1 Freeway via Kalaeroa Boulevard, Kapolei Parkway, and Franklin D. Roosevelt Avenue.

By entering and continuing on Hornet Avenue on the way, you will eventually reach the museum in the airport.

 

chief zulu

Last but not least, Chief's Luau is a traditional Hawaiian entertainment show.

Luaus mean "feast," and seeing a powerful and lively show with dinner is sure to end your day of sightseeing on Oahu on a high note.

 

Recommendations

Various luaus are held throughout Oahu, but what makes this place unique is that you can see a fire knife show performed by a performer who has once been crowned a world champion.

In addition, the program is unique in its exposure to traditional cultures, such as tattooing and fire-making, and provides knowledge of cultures that span the breadth of Polynesia.

The buffet-style dinners are also carefully selected for their taste, and you are guaranteed to be surprised by the uncompromising deliciousness of each dish!

 

Access

Chief's Luau will be held next to Wet and Wild Hawaii, the first one I mentioned.

You can access the site in the same way, so please refer to the access instructions there.

 

Recommended Tours

To enjoy sightseeing on Oahu, it is very convenient to make good use of various sightseeing tours.

Please take a look at some of the most popular tours in Kapolei.

 

Wet and Wild Hawaii Enjoy the screaming waterslides!

If you would like to visit Wet and Wild Hawaii, which we have introduced to you, we recommend that you use this package tour.
If you take the tour, you will be able to enjoy more than 25 attractions to your heart's content, including a huge flowing swimming pool.

Various plans are available, including those with transportation and lunch, so please take advantage of the plan that best suits your needs.

 

summary

In this issue, we have introduced you to Kapolei, a popular area in the western part of Oahu.

It is an area full of many attractions, so it is good to extend your visit from Waikiki, or stay overnight if you have the chance.

You will receive attentive service in a brand new and beautiful building that is unique to the new area!

We hope you find this information useful when traveling to Oahu.