Oahu, Hawaii

Kelly
Aug 4, 2019
3 min read

Updated: Apr 29, 2020

After enduring the long Canadian winter, the much-anticipated trip to paradise began this past Easter long weekend. Honolulu's warm and humid breeze greeted us at dusk and immediately all of us took off our hoodies and jackets. We checked into the fabulous pink Ilima Hotel and rested for the night

Day 1: Pearl Harbour, Byodo-In Temple, Waikiki Beach

We wasted no time and drove off bright and early for free entry into the Pearl Habour Visitor Centre and went on the boat tour to see the infamous USS Arizona's resting place. The remains of war, terror but also of bravery and courage are commemorated, so lest we forget current peace is not a right, but a privilege. Optimism and hard work revitalized the city to one of the most popular tourist destinations and continuing ecological investments are to be applauded for.

The next destination is the Byodo-In Temple, which was very peaceful and tranquil. The koi fish pond, the Buddhist worship hall and the temple bell released the tension and relaxed the mind.

In the afternoon, we dipped into the most crowded and picturesque beach in the world, with its warm blue water and soft white sand, Waikiki Beach. The sun-kissed feeling while in the Pacific Ocean is worth it, no matter how many people fill up space.

Day 2: Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head, Sunset at Waikiki

Snorkelling was next on the agenda, so we went to Hanauma Bay to seek out coral reefs and fishes. None of the beaches will be as warm as Waikiki but contains more to see for sure. It makes you feel liberated and alive to swim alongside wildlife.

No trip to anywhere in the world would not be complete for me if it did not include a hike- so Diamond Head Crater needed to be checked off. The hiking path is well maintained and marked, making it a family-friendly hike with just a couple of steep inclines and stairs and the reward you view is stunning.

At night, the sunset walk at Waikiki was the perfect close to a busy day.

Day 3: Blowhole, Lighthouse Hike, SeaLife Park, Kuhio Beach Hula Show

The second hike of the trip was accomplished after a quick look at the blowhole, and is an easy ascend up to the lighthouse, with 360 panoramic views from start to finish. Interesting that President Obama hiked this trail which made it famous and they paved it.

SeaLife Park contained a lot of animals to see, including sharks, turtles, birds and the spectacular dolphin show. A little bit pricey, but a good cause to support and driving wise it is close.

We finished the day by watching the free Hula Show and strolling through downtown at night. Vacations should always contain history and cultural explorations to be able to have a deeper appreciation for the place.

Day 4: Sunrise at Waikiki, Hanauma Bay

Fun and cheap, Hanauma Bay was the highlight of all the destinations, so after seeing the sunrise of Oahu in a rare state- quite and empty Waikiki Beach, we spent the day swimming at the reefs.

Day 5: Lei making, Downtown Honolulu

On the last day, we took advantage of the hotel free activities by participating in a traditional lei making session and learnt more of the local people and culture. Souvenirs were bought and green parks were explored to wrap up our trip.