Oahu] Enjoy your trip to Oahu! About Oahu's Attractions, Sightseeing Spots, and Recommended Activities

When you are tired of your daily life, you would like to get away from your daily routine and spend some relaxing time somewhere far away. Where would you like to go?

You want to forget your busy life and have fun in a foreign country that is completely different from your everyday life! But if you are not confident in your ability to speak the language, Hawaii is probably the first place that comes to mind, as it is easy to travel to even in Japan.

In this issue, we will introduce the most popular island of Hawaii, Oahu, and its many attractions and recommended activities!

 

Oahu, Hawaii's most popular resort island

There are so many things you want to do when you go to Hawaii.

Swimming and marine activities at the beach, hiking in the great outdoors, shopping at a shopping mall, or visiting a place where you can feel the history of Hawaii...! Just thinking about it is enough to make you excited.

Oahu is the most popular resort area in Hawaii that offers everything you want to do!

Although the data is a bit old, 1,042,999 tourists visited Hawaii in 2019 worldwide. Of these, 1,535,806 were Japanese. That is a very large number!

Most of these Japanese tourists use Honolulu Airport and base themselves on Oahu to enjoy their Hawaiian vacation.

 

What is Oahu like?

The Hawaiian Islands include several islands. Among them, Oahu is the bustling island where the Hawaiian state capital, Honolulu, is located.

Although it is the third largest island in Hawaii in terms of size, 80% of the people of the state live on Oahu.

Honolulu, the state capital, is home to the Honolulu Airport, which attracts passengers from all over the world. There are a whopping 25 international flights!

From Japan, you can go directly to Oahu from six major airports. This is another reason for Oahu's popularity.

In addition, the world-famous Waikiki Beach, Ala Moana Center, the world's largest shopping center, Diamond Head where you can enjoy hiking in the lush nature, Iolani Palace and the Statue of King Kamehameha the Great where you can learn about the Hawaiian Kingdom, and many other sightseeing, activities, shopping, culture, and history. Oahu is a place where you can experience everything from sightseeing, activities, shopping, culture, and history.

 

How to get to Oahu

To get to Oahu from Japan, it is convenient to take a direct flight to Honolulu Airport.

 

Honolulu-Haneda

the time required

Approx. 6 hours 40 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes

Approx. 8 hours 15 minutes to 9 hours 55 minutes

 

Honolulu-Narita

the time required

Approx. 6 hours 35 min. to 7 hours 45 min.

Approx. 8 hours 15 minutes to 10 hours 0 minutes

 

Honolulu-Chubu

the time required

Approx. 6 hours 45 min. to 7 hours 50 min.

Approx. 8 hours 25 minutes to 9 hours 50 minutes

 

Honolulu-Kansai

the time required

approx. 7 hours 5 min. to 8 hours 20 min.

Approx. 8 hours 45 minutes to 10 hours 40 minutes

 

Honolulu-Fukuoka

the time required

approx. 7 hours 25 min. to 8 hours 55 min.

Approx. 9 hours 40 minutes to 11 hours 10 minutes

 

Honolulu-New Chitose

the time required

Approx. 6 hours 55 min. to 7 hours 40 min.

Approx. 8 hours 25 minutes to 9 hours 45 minutes

 

In this way, the time required for the return trip is longer. The reason is said to be the jet stream.

Depending on the direction the plane is headed, it will slow down when it is going against the airflow and speed up when it is going into the airflow.

When returning to Japan from Hawaii, the time required is longer than on the way to Japan because the flight is against the air currents.

 

Attractions of Oahu

The island of Oahu attracts many people. Let us introduce you to the three main attractions of the island!

 

Beautiful beaches and vast wilderness

Oahu is all about the ocean! With its pure white sandy beaches and calm, beautiful emerald green ocean, it is always crowded with people regardless of the season.

The most famous of all is Waikiki Beach! Most tourists use this as a base to enjoy their vacation on Oahu.

Diamond Head, where you can view magnificent nature and scenery, is also a famous tourist spot.

While tourism thrives in the area and many people come and go, one of the main attractions of the area is its unwavering natural beauty, which remains unaffected.

Oahu has many tourist spots where you can enjoy nature to the fullest.

 

One of the world's leading resorts

Why is Oahu so loved and visited by so many tourists? It is because it is one of the world's leading resort destinations.

There are resorts all over the world, but the main reasons why there are so many Japanese tourists among them are the easy accessibility of direct flights from major Japanese airports and the ease of living there.

Because of the bustling tourism industry in the area, many guides are available in Japanese, making it difficult to feel a language barrier. Furthermore, there are no cultural differences that are too great to make it difficult to spend time in the city.

It is truly the perfect place to relax and enjoy leisure time, forgetting about everyday life!

 

Shopping and restaurants are also recommended

In addition to tourist attractions, Oahu has many commercial facilities where you can enjoy shopping and dining to your heart's content.

As one of the largest shopping centers in the world, it is no exaggeration to say that Ala Moana Center is the place to get all your souvenirs in Hawaii.

In addition, there are many restaurants in the Waikiki area, where you can enjoy food unique to Hawaii.

 

Transportation on the island

There are several modes of transportation available on Oahu, but the following four are recommended for sightseeing!

 

trolleybus

Trolley buses are recommended for beginners on Oahu.

The bus is a double-decker bus, so passengers can ride on the second floor and enjoy the view of Oahu.

Although The Bus is less expensive, it is recommended for beginners on Oahu because you can easily get on and off the bus by purchasing tickets in advance, and because it specializes in transportation to tourist spots.

There are also some aspects of savings, such as free fares when you show your JCB card, or discounts for advance purchases!

 

The Bus

The Bus is used not only by tourists but also by locals. It is characterized by low fares and a large number of routes!

While the trolley buses are geared toward tourists and are ideal for visiting famous tourist spots, The Bus is a great way to get to some of the more minor attractions.

With a one-day pass, you can ride with ease without worrying about the fee! It is the author's experience that if you try to ride without a pass, you will be in trouble if you do not keep the rules in mind!

 

Fees paid in advance

No change.

Separate bills and coins.

 

Here are the general rules! Once you have this down, you don't need a pass.

You can also buy a pass from the driver on the bus. If you get on the bus and don't know what to do! You can also buy a pass if you think you are not sure.

 

cab

Cabs are just so convenient! They can take you directly to the sights you want to see, and since credit cards are accepted, payment is very easy!

However, cabs on Oahu are not as plentiful as they are in Japan. Of course, if you go to a cab stand, you will find a line of cabs, but other than that, you basically have to call them by phone.

The fare is basically about $3 per 160 meters for the first ride, and $0.4 is added for every 160 meters thereafter.

Some famous tourist spots offer fixed rates, so we would like to use them wisely!

Charters and rentals are also available, often at hourly rates.

The key point to keep in mind is tipping. You may be confused because this is a culture that does not exist in Japan, but you may be required to pay a tip to the driver.

When paying with a credit card, you can also choose to tip, so don't forget to pay.

 

rent-a-car

You can go directly to your destination and don't have to worry about time and fees! Then, the convenience of a rental car is still very high.

Oahu itself is not a very large island, and in fact, a round-the-island trip can be completed in about two hours by car.

We recommend the use of a rental car, especially for those who want to enjoy Oahu beyond those driving and sightseeing areas. There is a Nippon Rent-A-Car office, so you can rest assured that Japanese staff will be available to assist you.

It is also easy to drive with a Japanese driver's license. Japanese cars are also deployed in the area, so you will not have to worry about driving itself, but the problem will be the traffic rules.

 

Left-hand drive, right-hand drive

Signal locations are different from Japan.

Signs are in English

 

It's just a little different! If you get on the train suddenly thinking, "It's just a little different," you will find that it is completely different from what you are used to! You may panic.

It is advisable to make sure you are familiar with the traffic rules and maps of the places you want to visit.

 

Popular Attractions on Oahu

There are many tourist spots on Oahu. All of them are always crowded with tourists.

In this issue, we will introduce 15 of the main tourist attractions that you should not miss and that are definitely included in guidebooks!

 

Waikiki Beach

The most popular tourist spot on Oahu is still Waikiki Beach! Many Japanese tourists use hotels near this beach. Waikiki is a Hawaiian word meaning "where the water springs".

Waikiki Beach began to attract attention in 1901.

Walter Peacock, a landowner in the Waikiki Beach area, planned the construction of a resort hotel, and the "Moana Hotel" opened that year.

This was the beginning of the Waikiki Beach area on Oahu Island, which became known as a resort area.

It is located in the southern part of Oahu and includes a number of beaches, which are about 3 km apart.

 

<Beaches included in Waikiki Beach

0 Duke Kahanmoku Beach

0Fort de Russy Beach

0Gray's Beach

0Kahaluu & Ulukou Beach

0 Prince Kuhio Beach

0 Queen's Surf Beach

0 Kaimana Beach

0 Outrigger Canoe Club Beach

 

Recommendations

There are many recommendations for Waikiki Beach, but I still want you to try marine activities!

As we will see later, Waikiki Beach offers a variety of marine activities.

SUP, in particular, is a recommended activity because it is easy for anyone to try and allows you to enjoy the best of Waikiki's ocean.

Also, sea turtles sometimes swim to very shallow areas of Waikiki Beach.

While playing with SUP, a sea turtle came along! It often happens.

 

Access

It is accessible on foot from anywhere in the Waikiki area.

Buses are recommended for access from outside Waikiki.

 

<How to get there by bus

Access from Hilton Hawaiian Village Ala Moana・・・・No. 8, 19, 20

 

diamond head

Diamond Head is a large pyroclastic cone on Oahu.

When the volcano erupted long ago, the pyroclastic debris that flowed out of the volcano piled up and formed a large hill, giving it the majestic shape it has today.

The volcanoes that have formed Diamond Head are considered extinct volcanoes, but the possibility of new eruptions in the future is not zero.

 

Recommendations

The reason why Diamond Head is so popular among tourists is, without a doubt, its ease of climbing!

When you think of mountain climbing, you have the image of carrying heavy equipment and gear, and it looks quite painful, doesn't it?

Diamond Head is such a majestic sight, but the round trip takes only about two hours. Even those who are not confident in their physical strength can complete the climb with a little effort.

The trails are well maintained and the stairs are clean, so it can be enjoyed at a strolling level.

The view of the city of Honolulu from Diamond Head, the sunrise over the city, and the beautiful beach that wraps around the island of Oahu are breathtaking.

Even though it is a casual hike, you should wear sneakers and comfortable clothes for hiking, not flip-flops.

 

Access

Take a trolleybus or bus!

 

<Trolleybus

The "Green Line" is recommended for sightseeing in Diamond Head

You can take a bus to the crater inside Diamond Head.

 

<The Bus

Board the "No. 23" train bound for Kuhio Avenue and Diamond Head.

 

Manoa Valley

Known as the "Rainbow City," Manoa Valley attracts many tourists. The town of Manoa Town, north of Waikiki, is a quiet residential area slightly removed from the tourist areas and surrounded by the natural beauty of Oahu.

This place is designated as a forest reserve. It is popularly known as the "Rainbow City" because it rains often and rainbows can be seen frequently.

Recommended for those who want to enjoy the quiet and slow flow of time while enjoying the unique nature of Oahu, which can never be seen in Japan.

 

Recommendations

There are hiking trails throughout Oahu, but the Manoa Valley Trail is the most popular.

The goal is to reach "Manoa Falls," which flows at the end of the canyon and can be reached after about an hour and a bit of walking.

In fact, this is also the location where the famous "Jurassic Park" was filmed, so many movie fans visit here.

Take a walk in the forest and feel the natural beauty of Oahu. A good walk will tire you out and wash away the stress that has built up in your body and mind.

 

Access

<The Bus

Take "Bus No. 5" from Ala Moana Center. The last stop is "Manoa Valley" and it takes about 30 minutes.

Please note that you cannot get there by trolley bus!

 

Ala Moana Center

Ala Moana Center, one of the world's largest shopping centers with approximately 350 stores and restaurants, is a familiar sightseeing spot to anyone visiting Oahu!

This is the place to go if you want to shop for all kinds of popular Hawaiian souvenirs and brand-name products that you can't find in Japan! It is such a well-stocked shopping center that you can find everything you need.

 

Recommendations

Ala Moana Center has so many different stores that it is fun just to check them out. Shopping and dining are of course a must, but the best part is the shows that take place on the center stage!

Here, visitors to the center can enjoy free, daily shows of Hawaiian culture.

This spot is definitely recommended for those who want to experience the local culture that can only be seen in Hawaii, such as fireworks shows and hula dance shows!

 

Access

<Trolleybus

Pink Line from Waikiki

 

<The Bus

From Waikiki, take No. 8, No. 19, No. 20, No. 23, No. 24, or No. 42. 15 to 20 minutes

 

North Shore

The North Shore refers to the coastal area in the northern part of Oahu. It is located on the opposite side of Waikiki Beach.

Although it has a lesser-known image than Waikiki Beach, this has recently become a tourist attraction that attracts many visitors.

 

Recommendations

Surfers gather at Efukai Beach Park.

There are a number of beaches on the North Shore, but this beach has become a very popular surfing spot with surfers from all over the world visiting the waves. It is definitely recommended for those who are familiar with surfing.

But I've never surfed before! I'm sure there are many people who have. For those who have, trekking on the trail course near this beach is recommended.

This nature-filled trail course offers a relaxing stroll in the shade of the trees while feeling cool. The one-way course takes about 20 minutes, so even children can enjoy it all the way to the end!

 

Access

Because of the distance to the North Shore, the least expensive and most recommended option is to use The Bus.

You can also take a cab, but keep in mind that it will cost about 15,000 yen.

 

<The Bus

Direct from Ala Moana Center via "No. 52" Travel time: 1.5 to 2 hours

 

Moanalua Garden

You may not have heard much about this spot, but one shot and you'll be like, "Oh, there it is! There it is! You may not have heard of this spot, but there is a certain thing in Moanalua Gardens that you can recognize at once.

One thing is the "Hitachi tree," well known by the phrase "What kind of tree is this?

That big, broccoli-like tree is actually on Oahu.

In fact, there are many other kinds of plants here besides the Hitachi Trees. It is also a collection of plants from all over the world, so you can see rare plants along with those that can only be found in Hawaii.

 

Recommendations

Did you know that this garden, overflowing with plants, is also a very popular and famous power spot?

Long before we became aware of power spots, Hawaiians believed in the existence of a sacred energy called "mana" and valued places where mana gathered.

Moanalua Garden is one of them. Near the Garden is a food court called Moanalua 99.

Take out some delicious food here and have a picnic in the garden! You can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Oahu.

 

Access

Trolley buses cannot go to Moanalua Gardens.

 

<The Bus

From Ala Moana Center: "No. 3" Travel time: 20-30 minutes

 

Sandbar (Sea of Heaven)

Sandbar is known as the Sea of Heaven or the Sea of Angels. It is located on Kaneohe Bay, about a 40-minute drive northeast of Waikiki.

Sand in a sandbar is sand, right? What do you mean it's on the ocean? You may be thinking, "What does it mean to be on the ocean? When Kaneohe Bay is at low tide, a pure white sandy beach emerges.

The water does not completely recede, so you are knee-deep in the water, but you can see the contrast between the white sandy beach and the blue of the ocean in the bay, and witness a very strange and beautiful scene.

 

Recommendations

After all, the best way to enjoy the fantastic scenery is to capture it in your eyes and photographs.

To get to the sandbar, you must take a tour somewhere.

Some tours also offer snorkeling in combination with other services.

Sandbars cannot be seen at all times, and the time of low tide and weather conditions must match.

So, of course, there are times when you go all the way but can't see the sandbar! Of course, there are cases where this is not the case.

 

Access

Basically, you will be on a tour, so if you go to the meeting place, you will be taken by bus to the site.

Tour meeting places are often in the Waikiki area or at the Ala Moana Center.

Incidentally, to see the heavenly sea on your own without taking a tour, you must first go to Kaneohe Bay and then use a canoe or boat to go through the bay.

It would be safer and more reliable to arrive there by taking a tour.

 

Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is located in the southeast of Oahu. In fact, it is also a nature preserve. Therefore, visitors must pay an entrance fee and may enter under various restrictions.

For example, boating and fishing are prohibited, as is the use of water-soluble sun oil.

It is also forbidden to fly up the sand on the ocean floor while wearing the fins, or to touch anything other than the underwater sandbox.

 

Recommendations

With all these restrictions, why do so many tourists visit?

The reason for this was the most beautiful ocean. Hanauma Bay has been ranked number one twice in the past for the best beaches in the United States.

Because the sea is protected under strict restrictions, it boasts outstanding transparency, and in shallow waters, you can clearly see the inside of the sea.

Many tourists take Hanauma Bay tours to catch a glimpse of this ocean.

 

Access

<The Bus

From Waikiki, "No. 22" takes about 20 to 50 minutes.

You can also go by *"No. 55", but it takes 2 hours.

<Trolleybus

blue line

*Trolley buses go to Hanauma Bay, but you are not allowed to get off the bus, just to take pictures! If you want to play at Hanauma Bay, do not take the trolley bus.

 

Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach, located on the North Shore of northern Oahu, is, as its name suggests, a spectacular place to watch beautiful sunsets.

The waves are calm in the summer, but the winter months bring more rough surf. For this reason, surfers like to gather at this beach.

From around November to February, when the winter season begins, the area is crowded with athletes and fans as major competitions such as the World Cup of Surfing are held.

 

Recommendations

It's a great surfing spot, so by all means surf! I'd like to say "surfing", but not all of us are surfing enthusiasts.

The sunset is a must-see.

The time of day when the sunset can be seen particularly beautifully at Sunset Beach depends on the month: the earliest in November is before 6:00 p.m., and the latest is after 7:00 p.m. around June and July. The slowest time is after 7:00 p.m. in June and July.

If you visit Sunset Beach at sunset, you will encounter a view you will never forget.

 

Access

<The Bus

From Ala Moana Center, take No. 52.

*There is a bus stop in front of Sunset Beach.

 

Lanikai Beach

The most major and popular beach on Oahu is Waikiki Beach, but Lanikai Beach is actually considered the most beautiful!

Lanikai means "heavenly ocean" in Hawaiian. As the name suggests, it is a beach that combines heavenly beauty.

The beauty of the ocean and the gradation of the sparkling white sands are so beautiful that it has been recognized in the past as the number one beach in the United States.

 

Recommendations

Of course, swimming at Lanikai Beach is highly recommended, but you should definitely visit the twin islands floating in the ocean!

A small twin island called Mokulua, it has a kind of cute and smiling appearance. I hope you will enjoy swimming and take pictures of these islands.

Incidentally, Lanikai Beach does not have toilets or showers. Rather than being a crowded beach with tourists, it is a quieter, less crowded, and more relaxed beach.

Recommended for those who want to enjoy Oahu in secret.

 

Access

<The Bus

From Ala Moana Center, take No. 67, about 40 minutes.

*Get off at Kailua Town and walk about 5 minutes to the beach.

 

Haleiwa (islands)

Haleiwa Town, a town located near the North Shore, is one of the main reasons people are attracted to the North Shore.

Haleiwa Town is not bright and bustling like a tourist town, but has a nostalgic atmosphere that makes you feel like you are in good old Oahu!

The distance from Waikiki to Haleiwa Town is about 51 kilometers, so if you have visited Oahu many times, you may want to use Haleiwa Town as a base for sightseeing, as it has a different atmosphere.

 

Recommendations

It is no exaggeration to say that Haleiwa Town has most of the recommended stores on the North Shore.

One of the best is Coffee Gallery, a coffee shop rumored to have the best coffee on Oahu!

Coffee beans are sold in the store, but you can also enjoy coffee in the attached cafe.

When it comes to Hawaii, one of the most popular souvenirs is coffee! We recommend that you enjoy a relaxing coffee break here and choose a souvenir coffee.

 

Access

Because of the distance to Haleiwa Town, the least expensive and most recommended option is to use The Bus.

You can also take a cab, but keep in mind that it will cost about 15,000 yen.

 

<The Bus

Direct from Ala Moana Center via "No. 52" Travel time: 1.5 to 2 hours

 

Laniakea Beach

A small beach next to Haleiwa Town, a popular town on the North Shore with a nostalgic atmosphere. This is Laniakea Beach.

There are numerous beaches on Oahu that are not well known to those who want to enjoy swimming and activities.

But did you know that it has become a tourist attraction that attracts tourists for one purpose?

 

Recommendations

Laniakea Beach, also known as "Turtle Beach," is known for attracting sea turtles.

No matter what season you visit, you can always see sea turtles, making it a popular tourist spot for visitors who come for the turtles.

You can see sea turtles all year round, but the best time to see them is from April to October.

Afternoon is the best time to visit, as they come out to the beach to sunbathe.

 

Access

Direct from Ala Moana Center to Haleiwa Town by "No. 52" Travel time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Haleiwa Town to Lakenia Beach "No. 60" Approx. 10 minutes (20-30 minutes depending on the time of day)

 

Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch, a sacred land that was once only accessible to Hawaiian royalty.

Kualoa Ranch is a popular filming location for famous movies and commercials, such as Jurassic Park, where you can see the true grandeur of Oahu's nature away from the tourist areas.

 

Recommendations

To enjoy the magnificent nature to the fullest, we recommend participating in activity tours such as horseback riding, ziplining, and jungle expeditions!

There are a real variety of activities, some of which are designed to get you moving, and others, like the Raptor Tour, where you can enjoy the scenery on a vehicle.

The best part is that it is so well-developed that even those who are not confident in their physical strength can enjoy it!

 

Access

<The Bus

From Ala Moana Center [No. 60] about 1 hour and 45 minutes

 

pink pillbox

The Pink Pillbox is a tourist attraction that has recently become a hot topic on social networking sites! As the name suggests, it refers to a pink concrete box-like building.

The secret of its popularity lay in its location. It is built on top of a mountain with a magnificent view of Oahu's magnificent nature. The beauty of the ocean and sky can be seen far away, and the true pink color of the building is Instagram-worthy as it stands in the midst of nature.

The location is between a place called Nanakuli and Mairi on western Oahu.

 

Recommendations

The view is just great, but an Instagram photo shoot with the pink pillbox is still recommended here!

You can get on top of the box or even get inside, so you can leave your best memories in a pose that looks great!

However, this spot is located about two hours one way from Waikiki, and one must be careful about security just because it is away from the tourist area.

Especially if you are going alone with young women, we recommend that you go on a tour for fun.

Please be careful with rental cars as well, as there is also car vandalism!

 

Access

The Bus is a cheap way to get to the Pink Pillbox, but it cannot guarantee safety and takes about 2 hours.

We encourage you to take an optional tour to visit!

 

Pearl Harbor

We who live today must never forget the war. The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 (local time) was the catalyst for World War II.

Oahu is also an important place that retains a strong sense of such history. Pearl Harbor, located in a cove on Oahu, is where the U.S. Navy is based.

The battleships Arizona and Missouri remain at Pearl Harbor, and the Pacific Aviation Museum and Arizona Memorial Museum are located nearby.

 

Recommendations

Sightseeing here is not so much about enjoying Oahu's natural beauty and vacationing, but rather about reflecting on our daily lives and history, which is a different kind of fulfillment.

There are also tours available, and you can actually board a battleship while listening to episodes and scenes from those days in Japanese. This is a valuable experience and highly recommended.

Of course, since it is a sightseeing spot, you can also have a good time buying original goods and eating delicious gourmet food!

If you visit Oahu, you should definitely visit this tourist spot.

 

Access

<Trolleybus

Purple Line, about 1 hour one way

 

<The Bus

From Waikiki to Pearl Harbor "No. 20" "No. 42" The journey time is about 1 hour 10 to 20 minutes.

 

Kakaako

Kakaako, a tourist spot that has been rapidly gaining popularity in recent years, has captured the hearts of tourists with its super Instagrammable image.

As for location, it is located between Ala Moana and downtown, about a 20-minute walk from Ala Moana Center.

Originally, this area was lined with maintenance shops, warehouses, and other facilities, but the "Kakaako Redevelopment Project" has successfully captured the hearts of tourists! The area has grown into a splendid tourist destination.

 

Recommendations

What makes Kakaako so popular is the "wall art" that adorns the streets! The murals here are painted by artists from all over the world.

In fact, every year in February, an art event is held, and the town is left with the masterpieces written at that time.

The interesting thing about this wall art is that it is overwritten by the annual event, so that new pictures are updated each year!

If you visit Oahu every year, you will always find something new to see here.

While enjoying the wall art, you can also enjoy a meal at a stylish café or restaurant, or go shopping at a unique store!

 

Access

Approximately 20 minutes walk from Ala Moana Center

 

<Trolleybus

Red Line from Ala Moana Center

*To get there from Waikiki, you must exit once to Ala Moana Center.

<The Bus

Waikiki to Kakaako "No. 13", "No. 19", "No. 20", "No. 42" Travel time: about 15 minutes

Ala Moana Center to Kakaako The above buses, "No. 3", "No. 6", "No. 9", "No. 55

 

Recommended Restaurants

The best place to enjoy food on Oahu! Here are three recommended restaurants!

 

Giovanni

Giovanni's is a very popular restaurant among the B-grade gourmet food that can be enjoyed on the North Shore! There is always a long line of people waiting in front of the restaurant, which is marked by a white truck.

You may have to wait up to an hour, but you will be rewarded with delicious garlic shrimp!

Originally, the truck store had two locations, one in the Kahuku area and one on the North Shore, but due to its popularity, a shrimp truck has recently started popping up in Waikiki. This is good news.

Also, a new store opened last year in the Kaka'ako area, making it easier to access from Waikiki.

 

Recommendations

The garlic shrimp is the best choice here! The garlic-laden, punchy Shrimp Scampi and the hot and pungent Hot & Spicy Shrimp are very popular.

Garlic shrimp is one of the most popular seafood dishes you must try when visiting Oahu! This is the place to eat it.

 

Store Information

<North Shore Haleiwa Store

Business hours: 10:30-18:30

Official website: http://www.giovannisshrimptruck.com/

*You can also check the menu on the official website!

 

Access

<The Bus

From Ala Moana Center to Haleiwa Town "No. 52" Travel time: approx. 1 hr. 30 min. to 2 hrs.

Bus stop nearest Giovanni

Kamehameha Hwy + 66-520

Kamehameha Hwy Opp PaalaaRd

 

Ruth's Chris.

When you go to Oahu, you must eat at Lucy's Chris! It is a "steak" restaurant.

Widely known as one of Hawaii's leading steakhouses, this long-established restaurant boasts a history of more than 50 years.

There are two stores, one in Honolulu and one in Waikiki! If you are staying in the Waikiki area, it is very easy to get to. Incidentally, it is one of the stores you can also taste in Japan!

Our specialty steak meat is USDA-certified prime beef, aged in a proprietary process!

This slow-cooked steak is different from the steaks you can find anywhere else.

 

Recommendations

Do you have an image of American steak as big and hard?

Because the steaks at Ruth's Chris are made from aged meat, they are recommended for being hearty yet extremely tender!

Although it is safe to make reservations in advance, the relatively high probability of getting into the restaurant even if you visit without a reservation is one of the reasons for its popularity.

It is a bit pricey, but if you want to try a Hawaiian steak, you should definitely visit this restaurant.

 

Store Information

Business hours: 16:30-22:00 *No regular closing days

Official site:http://jp.ruthschrishawaii.com/

Credit card payment accepted, Japanese menu available, official website also in Japanese

 

Access

Waikiki Store -> Located on the Waikiki Beach Walk, so you can walk to it if you are in the Waikiki area.

Honolulu Store → Located in the Kakaako district, about 15 minutes by car from Waikiki.

 

<The Bus

Waikiki to Kakaako "No. 13", "No. 19", "No. 20", "No. 42" Travel time: about 15 minutes

Ala Moana Center to Kakaako The above buses, "No. 3", "No. 6", "No. 9", "No. 55

 

Boots & Kimo's Homestyle Kitchen

Boots & Kimos is a restaurant that specializes in breads and sandwiches! People line up every day for the pancakes filled with macadamia nut sauce, which can only be found here.

This is a breakfast restaurant and is very popular in the morning! It would be nice to spend lunch here.

It has recently moved, so be sure to check out the new location!

 

Recommendations

The restaurant is famous for its pancakes, but we recommend the omelette!

The best part is that you can enjoy more than enough food to fill your stomach as well as sweets.

This omelette is actually the most popular in the restaurant! The omelette is filled with large shrimp and is melt-in-your-mouth fluffy, bringing you happiness.

 

Store Information

Business hours: 8:30-13:00 weekdays, 8:00-14:00 weekends *No regular closing days

Official site:https://bootsnkimos.com/

 

Access

Boots & Kimos relocated in April 2021. The location will be in the Enchanted Lake Shopping Center.

Here is how to get here.

 

<The Bus

Ala Moana Center to Kailua District

Kapiolani Bl + Piikoi St → S Beretania St + Pali Hwy + Bishop St Approx. 10 min.

Alakea St + S Hotel St → Keolu Dr + Opp Hele St Approx. 40 min.

One minute walk from here to the shopping center

 

20 Popular Activities to Enjoy on Oahu

The island of Oahu is full of nature, whether it be the ocean, mountains, or sky. There are plenty of activities to enjoy the great outdoors!

Here are 20 activities to try when you visit Oahu.

 

snorkeling

Snorkeling can be enjoyed with relatively light equipment! You can enjoy snorkeling in shallow water on clear beaches such as Hanauma Bay.

 

How to enjoy

If you want to see many fish swimming, Hanauma Bay is definitely the place to go.

The waves are calm and the clarity of the water is high enough to enjoy snorkeling even when you are only 1 to 2 meters ahead.

 

diving

Hawaii's waters are perfect for diving, and Oahu's waters are home to many of the most popular dive sites!

Many tours are available, so even beginners can easily try it.

 

How to enjoy

The majority of tourists base themselves in Waikiki to enjoy Oahu.

In fact, you can enjoy diving right on Waikiki Beach! You can see seals swimming, sea turtles, and of course, colorful tropical tropical fish up close!

We hope you will enjoy the completely different appearance of the sea from that of Japan.

 

SUP

SUP is a marine activity that has been rapidly gaining popularity in recent years, and while it is nice to look at the ocean from the beach, SUP allows you to view the land from the water.

The great thing about SUP is that you can enjoy such extraordinary scenery while enjoying the activity!

 

How to enjoy

There are different ways to enjoy the tour! In addition to leisurely paddling on the ocean, some tours offer yoga and fishing on the board.

SUP Yoga is especially recommended! The yoga while feeling the unique Hawaiian air and being swayed by the waves is exceptional.

 

Canoe/Kayak

Canoes and kayaks allow visitors to enjoy the scenery above the ocean while also seeing the occasional sea turtle and cute tropical fish swimming in the shallows.

It's hard rowing, but the view of Oahu makes it feel good, too.

 

How to enjoy

We especially recommend guided tours to uninhabited islands! With a Japanese-speaking guide, you can enjoy the tour without feeling the language barrier!

If you are confident in your physical strength, why not try a distant uninhabited island!

 

surfing

Surfing is a marine sport that allows people to ride even the wildest waves!

It's very cool to see, but it looks difficult, doesn't it? If you are inexperienced or a beginner, it is interesting to try a trial lesson!

 

How to enjoy

Recommended surfing spots change depending on the time of year. The South Shore around Waikiki is recommended in the summer, and the North Shore in the winter.

However, the Waikiki area is still lined with tourist stores, so it is easy to rent equipment, and the waves are calm enough for beginners to enjoy.

 

whale watching

Humpback whales visit Oahu from December to March!

During the winter season, whale-watching tours are a popular choice.

 

How to enjoy

Cruising-type whale watching is the best way to see the powerful swimming whales up close!

As you look for whales, sea turtles, dolphins, and other energetic sea creatures show their faces, making you feel like you are visiting a marine zoo.

 

Dolphin Tour

Dolphin tours, where you can swim and play with the cute dolphins of Oahu, are already a staple of the island!

Because of the high probability of encountering dolphins in Oahu's waters, these dolphin tours are in high demand and are renowned for their high level of satisfaction.

 

How to enjoy

If you are going to take a tour, you want to try not only dolphins but also other sea creatures and various activities!

Many of the plans include a cruise ship ride to look for dolphins, swim with them, try snorkeling or SUP, and much more, so you will never get bored.

 

cruising

It is also a nice and relaxing way to view Oahu from the ocean on a cruise ship.

It is popular among those who do not like to go into the ocean and want to have a calm time.

 

How to enjoy

Particularly recommended is the sunset cruise, where you can watch the sunset over the ocean!

In the evening, dinner served on board while watching the sea turn red is a special treat. It will be a page of wonderful memories!

 

glass boat

A glass boat is a boat with a glass bottom.

A boat is not something you row by hand, but more like a submarine. It does not dive.

 

How to enjoy

Floating on this boat in the waters of Oahu, you can enjoy a walk on the ocean while observing the ocean floor.

There are also many glass boat tours, which are popular with children because they include a guide on marine life.

 

yoga

Yoga is very popular in Japan! It is very effective for mental and physical health, isn't it?

Oahu offers a wide variety of hands-on yoga classes on beautiful sandy beaches and in the ocean.

 

How to enjoy

Free yoga classes are offered on the Waikiki Beach lawn, and everyone is welcome to attend every Wednesday at 4:30 pm.

If you want to experience yoga by the sea, we recommend a yoga experience on the beach! If so, we recommend experiencing yoga on the beach.

There is also yoga at sea, using SUP, which is a fun and unique yoga experience on Oahu.

 

skydiving

Skydiving is a parachute descent from about 4,000 meters above the ground. At this height, it takes about 6 to 7 minutes to land.

Of course, there are also plans that allow you to fly from a lower altitude, so you can enjoy the view of Oahu from above!

 

How to enjoy

Skydiving is an experience that allows you to experience the long-cherished dream of mankind: to fly!

Flying in the sky with a view of Oahu's natural beauty is exhilarating! There is a sense of speed! You will want to try it again.

Basically, you descend with an instructor, so you can enjoy yourself safely and securely!

 

parasailing

Parasailing is a marine sport that uses a motorboat to float a parachute high into the sky. You can experience the feeling of a kite floating high in the sky.

Basically, there is little to do on your own, as the boat is driven and operated by a guide.

 

How to enjoy

The altitude is usually about 50 to 150 meters! It is not as high as skydiving, so even children can participate safely. It is also nice that multiple people can fly together.

On a fine day, feeling the wind blowing on the sea is so refreshing that you can forget about unpleasant things!

 

zipline

Zip line, where visitors glide on a wire that passes between trees to experience the feeling of Tarzan!

This is a popular activity for those who want to experience the thrill and exhilaration of a one-body experience.

 

How to enjoy

Anyway, it's the best way to experience the thrill! Many are zipline tours on the North Shore.

I want you to enjoy yourself to the fullest while experiencing the great nature of Oahu.

 

golf

Did you know that golf is actually very popular on Oahu, and that it is a sport that anyone can play easily?

There are many golf courses, especially on the island, which is rich in nature. It is great to be able to enjoy golf all year round in a warmer climate!

 

How to enjoy

Optional tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off, club and shoe rental! There are also some optional tours that can be easily enjoyed by beginners, such as

Why not take this opportunity to try golf?

 

trekking

Trekking is an outdoor activity designed to explore the mountains.

Unlike mountain climbing, it is not about reaching the summit. It is a popular activity for beginners, as anyone can enjoy it, even if they are inexperienced.

 

How to enjoy

Oahu is full of well-maintained trekking trails.

In particular, the trekking course at Diamond Head, a popular tourist attraction, is satisfying even for beginners.

If you go all the way to Oahu to do trekking, Diamond Head is the place to go!

 

riding horse

In Japan, a horseback riding experience is little more than a short walk on a horse around a farm or neighborhood.

However, horseback riding on Oahu has become a very popular activity because it allows visitors to walk with horses in the lush natural forests and on the sandy beaches of beautiful beaches.

 

How to enjoy

For horseback riding, the best place to go is the North Shore!

Away from the tourist areas, you can feel nature as it is and spend very precious time with it.

 

baby carriage

Baby carriage may not be a very familiar activity in Japan. Car-like go-cart-like vehicles are called baby carriages.

This activity is mainly designed for sand and stone paths, and is a fun way to glide over slightly rough terrain.

 

How to enjoy

ATV rides through the wilderness at Kualoa Ranch are a great way to enjoy a different kind of wildness and thrill!

Enjoy a course unique to nature that you cannot experience in Japan!

 

Segway (motorized personal vehicle)

Segways, as you know! You can explore the well-maintained paths on a machine with two tires.

With a top speed of 25 km/h and a cruising range of 65 km, it is capable of more than you would expect.

 

How to enjoy

Did you know that you can actually ride a Segway on public roads in Hawaii?

A Segway tour is a different experience from a bus tour, and is a great way to explore the city of Honolulu.

 

bus tour

When it comes to sightseeing, bus tours are the best way to see the sights!

If it is your first time on Oahu, it is often more economical and convenient to take a tour than to go to the places you want to go by yourself because you don't know the area well.

 

How to enjoy

Tours such as the one that circles the entire island of Oahu are a great way to get away from the tourist areas and still enjoy the safety and security of the island.

This tour is recommended for those who want to spend a full day sightseeing, as it allows you to visit spots that are a bit too far away to visit on your own.

 

starry sky viewing

Oahu is one of the world's great stargazing destinations! At night, beautiful stars twinkle in the sky.

When you relax and gaze at the night sky of Oahu, you can completely forget the hustle and bustle of daily life and feel yourself existing in nature as you are.

 

How to enjoy

If you want to enjoy the starry sky of Oahu to the fullest, I recommend Tantalus Hill.

From Tantalus Hill, you can see not only the stars but also the entire Honolulu cityscape, so I hope you will visit before sunset and spend a relaxing time!

 

Five recommended tours

We have introduced many sights, gourmet foods, and activities, but if there are so many choices, you may feel lost! I'm sure some of you are thinking, "With so many choices, I can't decide what to do!

I'm wondering if there are any tours that are easy to join and don't require individual reservations."

For those people, we recommend a sightseeing tour! Local guides who are fluent in Japanese will take you around the island, so you can enjoy Oahu in a safe and secure environment.

In this issue, we will introduce five of the best tours in various forms!

 

Hanauma Bay Snorkeling

Hanauma Bay boasts some of the clearest water not only in Hawaii, but in the entire United States. We encourage you to try snorkeling here with a tour.

The high transparency of the water allows you to see cute tropical fish even in shallow water, and the waves are calm, so you can relax and enjoy yourself.

Some plans include a wetsuit and box lunch, so you can enjoy the whole day!

 

Experience Diving

This tour allows you to experience diving at the diving spots around the sandbar!

Because it is a creation of natural forces, the sandbar is well known as a beautiful sightseeing spot that is hard to find, but it is also an excellent diving spot with countless colorful tropical fish swimming around it.

The fact that the instructor is Japanese is also a welcome addition to the plan!

 

Diamond Head Sunrise Hiking Tour

This is a hiking tour that allows you to see the sunrise at Diamond Head, one of the must-visit tourist spots on Oahu.

If you want to see the Diamond Head sunrise properly, the winter season is recommended.

It will be an early morning tour, but it will be over in a short time, so you can be back in time for breakfast at your hotel when you return!

It takes about 40 minutes. How about a morning walk?

 

Kualoa Ranch Package Tour

If you want to enjoy the great outdoors at Kualoa Ranch to the fullest, we recommend a package tour that allows you to enjoy a variety of activities!

While it would be tremendous to try to enjoy Kualoa Ranch, which covers approximately 5 million square meters, on your own, it is a great spot to spend time with a guide or instructor and try various activities!

On this tour, you can enjoy horseback riding, baby carriage riding, and ziplining, as well as visit filming locations.

 

Segway Sightseeing Tour

This is a tour of sightseeing spots on Oahu on a Segway, which is not easily available in Japan!

It is great to feel the breeze of Oahu, which you cannot feel if you take a bus!

No special skills or equipment are required, and anyone can easily get on board without worry.

There are also plans that take you to Kakaako to see wall art! This tour is recommended for those who want to see wall art.

 

summary

So many people come to Oahu to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax, because it is a very popular tourist spot, but also a place that has retained a strong sense of wilderness.

Anyway, the island of Oahu is full of tourist attractions such as tours with many activities and resort hotels for those who want to spend a relaxing time!

There are so many things I want to do that I may not be able to accomplish them all in one trip.

Many stores and tours are currently changing their opening hours and styles due to the new corona virus.

In some cases, tours may not be available, so be sure to do your homework.