Oahu, HI

Best time to go

According to the tourism authority in the islands, July continues to be the month with the most visitor arrivals. To me, this makes sense because this is when most families visit the island, as a lot of people are out of school. The same is true for local people; this is their summer and they often frequent the same beaches, trails, and places you’ll be visiting, too.

The summer months are always the warmest on the island, and temperatures can reach as high as the 90’s under the right conditions. Combined with the high humidity, the heat can occasionally be unpleasant for some travelers not accustomed to it. Surf is at its lowest during the summer, and the rain clouds are few and far between, except on the windward coast.

Christmas in Hawaii is also a great time to visit.  The different cultures and ethnic groups that have settled in the islands celebrate the Christmas traditions of Hawaii in their own unique ways, so make sure to visit Honolulu City Lights! This is a month long Christmas lights and decorations display at Honolulu Hale including the large outdoor tree, Shaka Santa and Mrs. Claus, the indoor tree display and the corridor of wreaths.

What to do

First things first, get to know our culture! Visit the Polynesian Culture Center

Spend the day exploring the rich heritage of the Pacific Islands. Wander through 42 acres of tropical splendor and enjoy the adventure of traditional hands-on activities. Dine like royalty at an authentic Polynesian luau and top it off with the most spectactular evening show in the islands. All of Polynesia in one exciting place!

Next, take a hike! Literally. There are many beautiful hikes that lead you to waterfalls, and ones where you can see the entire city of Honolulu. Visit Unreal Hawaiii, where you can find the best hikes on Oahu, the details of the type of hike, length, and time it will take.

If you’re in need for some souvenirs, do not go to an ABC store in Waikiki, or any other stores downtown for souvenirs to bring back home. Visit The Aloha Stadium! Just 20 minutes away from Waikiki, discover unique treasures at Hawaii’s largest open air flea market where the locals shop for the best deals in town.O pen three days a week, they offer endless rows of over 400 local merchants offering the best value on imported merchandise, hand made items, eclectic art pieces, popular local snacks, and other made in Hawaii products. This is sure to be your one stop destination to find that special gift or souvenir for everyone on your list.

After exploring the island, I’m sure you’ll be hungry.

Dining Guide

You can’t go wrong in eating at Zippy’s, whether its for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll be able to enjoy Hawaii’s best authentic food. & I mean nothing like you’ll get in the mainland.

If you’e up for some breakfast, visit Boots & Kimos, this place is a round out family owned-and-run restaurant, Rick and Jesse’s mom Mary Ann, “Grandma,” is there with her friendly smile to keep everyone in line! Of course, the breakfast recipes at Boots and Kimos are closely guarded family secrets, but here is a great breakfast treat that’s fast and delicious! One tip to visiting this place for breakfast, make sure to come early! Wait time and lines build up fairly quick.

Fun Fact

Hawaii’s nickname is the “Aloha State.” The word aloha is derived from the Proto-Polynesian, alofa, and its meanings include “love,” “compassion,” and “mercy.” Aloha is used both as “hello” and “goodbye.”