Subscribe to Oahu Guide and Information HawaiiNews FeedSubscribe to Oahu Guide and Information HawaiiComments

FAMILY FUN ON OAHU

August 31, 2008 by  
Filed under Featured

Comments Off on FAMILY FUN ON OAHU

Oahu is fast becoming a favorite holiday destination for families because of the wide options that it offers. From cultural activities to adventurous sports, your visit to Oahu will be unique. From exploring the natural beauty of this tropical island to learning about its history, Oahu gives you a vacation where you have diverse experiences.

                   Built in 1849, the Queen Emma Summer Palace in the Nu’uanu Valley was once the country house of King Kamehameha IV & his queen. Tourists visit this palace today to take a look at their personal artifacts. The North Shore Surf & Cultural Museum guides you to a history of surfing. The Mission Houses Museum including the Frame House, the New England-style saltbox houses take you through a tour of history. You can also see the replica of the Ramage hand press that was used to print the first Hawaiian laws, newspapers, bibles, school texts & other things. Echoing the grandeur of the Hawaiian royalty, the Iolani Palace is the only of its kind existing in the United States. The different exhibitions & art programs at the Honolulu Academy of Arts is amazing. Established in 1967, the Hawaii State Art Museum is one of the few museums sponsored by the state. It houses some of the best collections by the Hawaiian artists. The Hawaii Plantation Village transports you to the historic period of Hawaii when the first sugar plantation transformed the life, culture & economy of Hawaii forever. Hawaii Maritime Centre, Bishop Museum & the Hawaiian Arts & Cultural Center are other places that can guide through the rich history of Hawaii.

                       Several sightseeing tours & cruises such as Duck Tours, Discover Hidden Hawaii Tours, Navatek Sunset Dinner Cruise, Star of Honolulu Hawaiian Cultural Cruise, the Mauka Makai Excursions Inc., Martin & MacArthur Factory Tour & the KoAloha Ukulele Factory Tour are developed to help tourists explore the island. Other activities include the Atlantis Submarine Adventures, a trip to the Battleship Missouri Memorial, Honolulu Zoo & a plethora of other specialty tours to adventure parks & pineapple plantations give you a clear knowledge of this Hawaiian Island. 

Tags:

DISCOVER DIVING ON OAHU

August 31, 2008 by  
Filed under Sport Activities

Comments Off on DISCOVER DIVING ON OAHU

DIVING ON OAHU

The island of Oahu offers diverse opportunities for diving. Whether it be shore dives or boat dives, the turquoise waters of the Hawaiian Islands offer some of the best spots for diving. The rich marine life comprising of reef fish, coral beds, starfish, turtles, octopuses, lobsters are a treat to the eyes of any diver. In fact, Oahu is the only island in Hawaii that offer opportunity for wreck diving. Over 650 species of reef fish, 38 types of moray eels, and 9 different species of the anglerfish, apart from the numerous varieties of scorpion fish, shrimps, flat worms, nudibranchs & giant sea turtles will mesmerize everybody into the waters of Oahu.

                   There are some fine diving spots in Oahu. In fact, several dive shops have been strategically set up to cater to the different needs of the divers. The southern side boasts of a number of well-known diving sites, like the Corsair wreck. It was in 1946, the pilot of Corsair who was on a training mission, ran out of fuel & landed the plane on the shores of Hawaii Kai. It is known that rare species of crocodiles, garden eels, horned helmet conch shells, apart from the large pelagic fish like jacks & stingrays. The Mahi shipwreck on the western shore of Oahu is another interesting diving spot. It was here that the U.S. Navy vessel sunk as an artificial reef in 1982. Located just a mile away from the Waianae Boat Harbor, the Mahi wreck dive attracts eagle rays around them. Situated 500 yards off the Mokapu Point, the Moku Manu diving spot attract many divers for its rich aquatic life. It includes eels, turtles, reef fish & lobsters. Shark’s Cove is a fantastic diving spot in the northern shore. A plethora of reef fishes with caves, lava tubes & ledges make Mokapu point an ideal place for scuba training.

                    It is pertinent to remember that there are many training schools, where you can brush your skills. The numerous dive shops are also equipped with trained professionals to help visitors. 

Tags:

SURFING ON OAHU

August 31, 2008 by  
Filed under Sport Activities

Comments Off on SURFING ON OAHU

Oahu attracts many tourists on account of the fact that the Pacific Ocean surrounding this tropical island serves as an ideal surfing destination. Oahu has brought about many changes into this adventurous water sport by introducing many new styles. The long boards, short boards, paddleboards, wake riding boards, boogie boards, wind surfing, kite surfing, body surfing, surfing spas & various lessons on surfing aim to serve one sole purpose. That is having lots of fun in water. Visitors from all over the world travel to Oahu to nurture their surfing experiences. During the winters, waves rise up to a height of even 40ft along Oahu’s north shore. A courageous few ride those mammoth waves become a part of this natural phenomenon.

                         The focus shifts to the south shore in the summer season. While the shores close to Waikiki & Honolulu have many breaks & is therefore more accessible by the beginners. Waikiki attracts more novice surfers on account of the fact that there are many hostels so that they learn in a group while sharing each other’s experiences. The windward shore of Oahu is more renowned for the opportunities of different types of surfing like kite surfing, wind surfing & wake boarding.

                           In wind surfing, a sail is attached to a surfboard, whereupon the wind is used as the motor & the sail determines the direction to which he or she moves. Wake boarding is another way of enjoying yourselves. It is a mix of water skiing & snow boarding, where the whitecaps formed on the upper surface of the water by the wind. These caps act as water parks. Kite surfing, a fusion of wake boarding & wind surfing, is the latest rage among all surfers.

                           Historically surfing originated in the Hawaiian Islands & it was a symbol of their status & power. The royalty & the elite class used a superior quality board & certain other materials that distinguished them from the common people. This sport was immortalized by Duke Kahanamoku. However, it is pertinent to note that there are certain etiquettes & styles that are to be maintained

Tags:

Golf Resort And Spa

August 31, 2008 by  
Filed under Sport Activities

Comments Off on Golf Resort And Spa

Relaxing in the sun while on vacation is about as good as it gets. In Oahu you have so many things to experience that you will never have time to be bored. There are many activities that you can involve yourself in including surfing, swimming, horseback riding, parasailing, windsurfing, and many other ocean or beach activities. What would you guess is one of the most popular activities found in Oahu? While there may be many answers to this question golf is the one I am referring to. There are individuals who come from all over to stay and play at the Oahu Golf Resorts and Spas.
 
One of the more popular resorts is the JW Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa. They have amazing golf courses for beginners as well as the more advanced. You can spend your day on the green taking lessons or playing like pros. To stay at this resort the price will vary depending on what type of room you are looking for. But you can be sure that the golf courses found here will be impressive. Along with an exceptional golfing experience you can spend the rest of your day at their spa being pampered. Their spa services including personal fitness training, massage therapies, face and skin care, scrub bar, body wraps, hair salons, or enjoy a manicure.
 
The Turtle Bay Resort with its beauty, charm and class will be sure to impress you with their two championship golf courses. They have private swimming pools, surfing schools, horseback riding, and many other desired activities.
 
This is just a couple of the many Golf Resorts & Spas that can be found in Oahu. Each hold their own charm and offer a tranquility that will differ from the next. The price will vary depending on the type of room or suite that your looking to purchase. Many of these places offer a discount for extended stays or reservations that start at a week or longer.
 

Tags:

Oahu’s Finest Beaches

August 31, 2008 by  
Filed under Hotels & Vacation Packs

Comments Off on Oahu’s Finest Beaches

THE BEACHES OF OAHU

Oahu is the paradise of beaches. There are as many as 125 beaches on this Hawaiian island. The white sands of Oahu attract tourists & locals for activities like surfing, snorkeling, swimming & relaxation by taking a sunbath or going on a family picnic on the beaches where the warm rays of sun keeps the mercury between 75 & 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

                     The beaches along the southern shore are popular as family beaches & out o them the Ala Moana Beach is the most popular one. During summers, weekends & other holidays, you will find this park bustling with life. Different kinds of activities like sunbathers, surfers, etc. The Waikiki beach is actually a compilation of several small beaches out of which, again, the Kuhio beach is the most popular. The Waikiki beach is a great place for adventures like snorkeling, swimming & sunbathing. The white beaches of the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve are a favorite spot for beginners with its crescent shaped bay. The 1200 ft long, Sandy beach of Oahu is the best one to go snorkeling. The extremely big waves during the summers that break along the shore that drops suddenly about 8-10 ft offer good food for adventure.

                     Some of the fantastic beaches of Oahu are found along the leeward side, which is more popular for the fishing spots. The Makaha beach provides opportunities for some of the most daredevil surfing in the world. You can also go in for snorkeling & swimming. Divided by a small Hawaiian homestead into two parts, the Nanakuli beach attracts many tourists every year. While the Piliokahe section is a great hangout for swimming, snorkeling & diving, Kalanianaole is a calm area & a popular spot for novices. Again, the Yokohama Bay is a great place for picnicking, hiking & other activities.

                      The beaches along the northern shore are great spots for surfing. The Ehukai beach, the Pupukea beach, the Sunset beach & the Waimea Bay are some of the beaches. The eastern shore boasts of some very good beaches like the Kailua, Lanikai, Waimanalo & the Makapuu beach. 

Tags:

Oahu Oceanfront Views

August 31, 2008 by  
Filed under Hotels & Vacation Packs

Comments Off on Oahu Oceanfront Views

When visiting any tropical location one of the most important things that you will always remember is the views that capture your heart. If possible its best to rent a hotel room that has either a beach front or ocean view. While they may be a bit more expensive they are definitely worth every cent. Oahu offers a wide variety of beachfront and oceanfront hotels with a wide array of prices.
For those who enjoy the scenery around them its an absolute must have when visiting here. Many of these properties are free from any major obstructions such as other buildings, roadways, or construction that may interfere with your views. Most hotels in Oahu offer hotel rooms that will provide you with some type of beach or ocean view.
 
A few of the hotels that offer oceanfront views are the Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Halekulani, Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki, Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort & Spa, The Kahala Hotel & Resort, and the Marc Diamond Head Beach Hotel. This is just a few of the many hotels and resorts that are able to accommodate you with oceanfront views. Many tourists who visit the area often have specific choices that they prefer but it depends on your own personal choices.
 
Some of the older more popular choices include the Outrigger Waikiki, Outrigger Reef, Royal Hawaiian, The Ilikai, Sheraton Moana Surfrider, Castle Waikiki Shore Resort, and the Miramar at Waikiki.
One of the most well known hotels which is loved by not only tourists but locals as well is the Diamond Head Beach Hotel. Its close to the Waikiki Aquarium which receives numerous visits a day.
 
No matter where you choose to stay if you have the option to rent a room with an oceanfront view it will create memories that will last you a life time. The views seen on Oahu is a natural majestic beauty that can only be appreciated first hand.

Tags:

ROMANTIC IDEAS ON OAHU

August 31, 2008 by  
Filed under Hotels & Vacation Packs

Comments Off on ROMANTIC IDEAS ON OAHU

Popularly known as the “heart of Hawaii’, the very name of Oahu brings to mind images of romance in the midst of the beauty of nature & adventure. The bustling shopping stores, the beautiful resorts & hotels & the nightlife brimming with energy amazes everyone. A tropical island located right in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Oahu has as many as 139 white sandy beaches that add to the quiet beauty of this place.

         The scenic beauty of the island not only transports you to a different world but also proves to be a perfect setting for candle-night dinner with your spouse. The Mokulai beach is a perfect place to go for picnic or even go kayaking. The scenic beauty from Mount Tantalus tantalizes you indeed. The view from the summit of Diamond Head also mesmerizes you. The 140 years old collection of plants at the Botanical Garden will leave you speechless.

                      Incorporating Hawaiian, Asian, Western & even Polynesian relaxation & beauty concepts, the spas of Oahu are run by professionals who provide wonderful massages to couples. The Kahala Mandarin Oriental Spa Suites, SpaHalekulani, Mandara Spa & Spa Olakina Salon are some of them that pamper couples to no ends. In fact, the chocolate treatment of the Mandarin Spa & Champagne & Cavier treatment at JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa is worth mentioning. The music & dance that Oahu’s nightlife organizes only enhance the romantic feeling further. Lewer’s Lounge at Halekulani Hotel, Espirit Night Club at the Sheraton Waikiki, and Wonder Lounge at West Honolulu & Aaron’s Top at Ala Maona Hotel are some of the most popular nightclubs of Oahu.

                     Fabulous food offered by most of the restaurants of Oahu will leave you craving for more. The drinks at Banyan Tree Veranda, Mai Tai Bar, and House without a Key & Tiki’s Grill & Bar are such that lovers are lost in their own thoughts. One can also rent the Movie Museum exclusively for them & watch their all time favourite movies. The diverse cuisine & wonderful ambience of the restaurants transport you to the world of love. 

Tags:

Oahu’s Finest Properties

August 31, 2008 by  
Filed under Uncategorized

Comments Off on Oahu’s Finest Properties

There are many areas throughout Hawaii that offers buyers the ability to buy into a luxury neighborhood. There are several areas that are sought after by not only locals but investors, Hawaii real estate companies and individuals who are interested in eventually moving to the area.
Kahala is an area that is very well known for the extravagant multimillion dollar homes found here. You will find a variety of mansions, private homes, and estates here. Many wealthy well known celebrities, chefs, politicians, and sportsmen reside here.
Decades ago when the housing divisions were first built construction costed approximately 35 cents per square foot. The subdivision eventually grew and homes averaged between $10,000 and $40,000 depending on the particular area that you purchased in. Now years later those same houses and newer luxury homes start out in the lower millions. Oceanfront properties located in Kahala are higher priced due to the views and waterfront access.
Located on a different part of Oahu, Lanikai is also know for its costly real estate properties. You will find many locals and individuals seeking to purchase beachfront property. They offer cool trade winds, majestic views of not only the water but the mountain ranges as well. There is a bit over 200 oceanfront homes found along the shores. With the demand being so high for beachfront properties the value of these houses will on increase over time from their already costly price tag.
The Lanikai and Kailua Beach areas offer gorgeous views, peaceful serene tranquility, wonderful swimming, kayaking, golfing, kite-surfing, sailing, biking, and even horseback riding. Most houses in this area will go for no less than 1 million dollars and this is on the lower end.
The price ranges can go well beyond this depending on the particular beachfront location, condition of the house, the views, and the cost of houses in surrounding areas.

Tags:

Vacation Rentals On Oahu

August 31, 2008 by  
Filed under Uncategorized

Comments Off on Vacation Rentals On Oahu

Oahu,Hawaii is a vacation spot like you no other. At one moment you may be peeking over a cliff viewing panoramic surroundings, and the next minute you could be lying on the beach soaking up the sun. Golfing, snorkeling, parasailing, hiking, fishing, swimming, horseback riding, scuba diving, cruises, helicopter rides, land tours, and many other activities could become a part of your vacation in Oahu.
The restaurants and eateries that’s available in Oahu is spectacular and will always leave your taste buds in awe. There are a wide array of places to eat depending on what your looking for as well as your budget. Shopping is another huge part of the vacationing experience in Oahu. There are many shops that cater to almost anything you could possibly want or need.
 
For those who are looking to spend some quality time vacationing in Oahu you may look into renting a vacation home instead of staying in a hotel. There are several to choose from and can range from $400 a week to as much as into the thousands a month.
 
Some vacation rental homes may be leased through real estate companies, mortgage brokers, property managements, and individuals. There are hundreds of individuals who list property each day for your convenience. For those who are looking for private accommodations with more freedom to do as they please vacation home rentals would be an excellent choice. On average Oahu has hundreds of different rentals to choose from.
 
The homes themselves vary depending on the prices. You will find small homes with a single bedroom and 1 bath while others have several bedrooms with 2 or more baths and a swimming pool. You could easily find something to suit the needs of you and your family. For those who are traveling as a group it may be a huge savings to swing for a vacation rental home versus paying for individual hotel rooms.

Tags:

Time Share Properties On Oahu

August 31, 2008 by  
Filed under Uncategorized

Comments Off on Time Share Properties On Oahu

For those who have visited Oahu, Hawaii they often return due to the memories created there. With its beautiful surroundings, crystal clear waters, many activities to participate in, several restaurants to dine at, and just the natural beauty that Oahu has to offer its the perfect travel destination. For those who enjoy traveling to the area for more than just a vacation a timeshare may be an option that should be looked into.
 
Timeshare rentals allow vacationers to stay an extended period of time at some of Oahu’s most luxurious condominiums or most popular vacation properties without actually buying the property. Tourists will also say a great amount of money on resort rental fees that most resorts require. You can find many places that allow you to search for timeshares by resales, city, specific resort, exchanges, or location. If you have a set  budget you can often find great deals during different periods of the year.
 
There is a high demand for timeshares on Oahu, especially near the resort area of Waikiki. Since Waikiki has some of Hawaii’s finest shopping and dining areas it increases the desire for tourist to be there. Oahu holds over 20 percent of the timeshare market throughout all of Hawaii which is relatively impressive. The demand for timeshares in Waikiki actually exceeds the supply available which in return means that any Oahu timeshares will receive the maximum trading value available.
 
Due to the limited inventory available on Oahu, and Hawaii in general it makes it a highly sought- after timeshare destination. Oahu holds a reputation for its world class international resort areas. Its ranked in the top five throughout the world for timeshares.
 
For those who are looking for options to possess a dream vacation home without spending the money to actually buy one then purchasing a timeshare property could be the solution to your problem.

Tags:

Next Page »