9 Awesome Things About Oahu

Quick getaway? Easy. Hawaii. Okay, it's not that quick, but for us west coasters it's only about a five hour flight away to arrive at the land of flip flops and simple pleasures. Has there ever been a more simple and beautiful idea than making necklaces and head adornments out of flowers and leaves? Oahu gets flak because of touristy Waikiki, but it's still a fun place to visit.

Here are my Top 9 Reasons Why Oahu Still Rocks:

1. Beaches

So many beaches, so little time. From Kailua Beach, a gorgeous stretch of white sand with calm waters, to the shores of Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach where monster surf can break during winter months, there's no shortage of beaches for swimming, surfing,  kayaking, para sailing, wind surfing, paddle boarding, snorkling or just watching the day go by. 

Hanama Bay is a great snorkling beach if you arrive early and go beyond the first breakwater. Crowds through the years have diminished the abundance of fish, but there is still an incredible, beautiful variety. 

Waikiki, despite the crowds, is still a kick. The outrigger rides, one of the most fun tourist trappy things to do, are a hoot for only $15. I dare anyone to take a ride and not howl with joy when the outrigger catches a wave. 

2. Manoa Valley Rain Forest

The rain forest wonder of Manoa Valley and the Manoa Falls will quench anyone's thirst for the natural world, and it's not far from the center of Honolulu. Hike the path and be rewarded with a waterfall at the

end of the trail.

Be forewarned about crossing the rope to get to the water though. No one's there to stop you, but signs advise against it because it's a landslide area.    

3. Byodo-in Temple

It's like being in Japan, without the jet lag. The temple is located at the foot of the Ko'olau Mountains in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. It's a smaller scale replica of the over 950 year old Byodo-in Temple in Uji, Japan. A peaceful paradise where visitors are welcome to stroll, mediate, or just take in the lush and soothing grounds.  

4. Lunchtime Hula

Where else but Waikiki can you enjoy a lunchtime hula break with locals? Hundreds join in. To make it easy and comfortable for the participants, there's a table where you can dump your purse and bags so your arms will be free to speak the language of hula. 

5. Chinatown 

Honolulu's Chinatown is one of the oldest such districts in the US. The 15 block area is a colorful blend of Southeast Asian cultures and bustles with intrigue and joys for the senses. Wandering the streets, you might find a herbalist, art exhibit, or Buddhist Temple. There's a fascinating variety of merchants and products, including the expected fruit and vegetable stands and inexpensive restaurants.

Plus, it's a great place to buy leis directly from the women who make them. They might even let you sit down and make your own.  

6. Magnificent Diamond Head

Stairs on the Diamond Head trail

Just look at it. 
Not only is it picture perfect beautiful, hiking it is a boot camp experience. The round trip trail to the summit is only about 1-1/2 miles long, but it feels longer. The ascent has many switchbacks and is uneven in sections. The trail includes steep stairs and a lighted 225 foot tunnel. Sometimes there's a ranger at the top handing out "I Hiked Diamond Head!" certificates to those who make it. The view from the top is worth the sweat and fret of getting up there, and during the winter months, if you're lucky, you might see humpback whales passing by. 

7. Ridiculously Amazing Botanical Wonders

Hawaiian tropical flowers are the punk rockers of flowers. They live by their own rules and refuse to be confined to conventional wisdom about the look, feel, and smell of flowers. The island has the largest collection of tropical plants in the United States.

The flowers are everywhere, but if you want a better look, there are several botanical gardens. Some of the best places to go include Foster Botanic Garden, Lyon Aboretum, Wahiawa Botanical Garden, Koko Crater, and Waimea Botanical Garden which is across the way from Waimea Bay beach. 

8. Honolulu 

When you've had enough swimming and lounging, a high rise city filled with arts, culture, shopping, nightlife, and all you desire is right there.

9. The "Other Side" of Oahu

When you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu and Waikiki, or skip it altogether, hop over to the other side of the island and enjoy Hawaii country-style - at least for now. Development proposals are brewing.