Ancient Pohaku (Wizard Stones)
On the Kalakaua Avenue side of Kuhio Beach, visit the four ancient Pohaku (stones). For hundreds of years, the rocks have provided spiritual healing and stand today as symbols of the island’s spiritual heritage.
Atlantis Submarines
Experience Hawaii's only real submarine tour! Create lifetime memories diving into the habitat of countless, exotic sea creatures in the comfortable and safe submarine. Marvel at sunken aircraft and shipwrecks, and the "new homes for fish" Atlantis creates through its impressive reef development activities. For more information please visit www.atlantisadventures.com
Diamond Head Crater (Leahi)
Diamond Head Crater is one Hawaii's most famous landmarks and one of Oahu's most popular hikes. It is such a famous landmark you may notice it is used as a direction in the islands along with Ewa, Mauka (Mountain side), and Makai (seaside). More than a navigational tool, it is a relatively easy-going hike for the family. To gain a perspective on Oahu's geology and geography, take an early morning hike to the top of Diamond Head - a 760 foot extinct volcano tuff cone and National Landmark.
Ancient Hawaiians called it Le‘ahi (brow of the tuna) but it became known as Diamond Head after 19th century British sailors thought they discovered diamonds on its slopes. In the early 1900's, it was used as a military lookout as you will discover as you pass through its underground tunnels and military bunkers. Bring a flashlight for the tunnels, good shoes and some water for the 175 steps, but most importantly, don't forget your camera because the panoramic views at the top are breathtaking.
Diamond Head Beach
Just north of the Diamond Head Lighthouse, take the long paved path down the Diamond Head sea cliff and enjoy the spectacular views and luxurious homes that circle this narrow shoreline of the crater. As you walk north along the short beach, take time to marvel at the surfers and windsurfers riding the waves past the reef. Beginners will want to take a few Waikiki surf lessons before tackling the surf.
Diamond Head Road Lookout
As you travel northeast on Diamond Head Road, take a moment to stop and observe the dramatic sweep of Oahu's scenic wonders, just ten minutes outside Waikiki or explore the extinct crater through a Diamond Head tour. At the second sightseeing lookout, don't miss the monument in memory of Amelia Earhart, which honors her successful solo flight to North America on January 15, 1935.
Diamond Head Lighthouse
On Diamond Head Road, nestled on the lower slopes of the crater is the Diamond Head Tower, a classic whitewashed landmark. As one of the best known lighthouses in the world, it remains standing as a reminder of the early attempts to modernize Hawaii's navigation. It also serves as the final marker for the Transpacific Yacht Race. The west coast's oldest and most prestigious race, the Transpacific dates to 1896 when King Kalakaua made his first attempt to attract foreign visitors to Waikiki.
For more information on hiking trails and conditions please visit www.hawaiitrails.org and go to the Oahu section.
Duke Kahanamoku Memorial Statue
Pay tribute to the legendary "Ambassador of Aloha" by draping a fresh flower lei on the outstretched arms of the Duke Kahanamoku statue. After becoming Hawaii's first Olympian, Duke continued his celebrated Olympic career for 21 years and became a symbol of aloha around the world. His 17 foot bronze statue is the most photographed attraction in Hawaii.
Honolulu Zoo
The Honolulu Zoo is open 9:00 am to 5:30 pm daily and is open every day except Christmas Day. The Zoo is 42 acres and home to 995 different animals from the tropics. Komodo Dragons, orangutans, elephants, primates, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and a variety of African animals can be seen daily. Be sure to see the wildest place in Waikiki! On weekends, enjoy the works of local contemporary artists and craftspeople at the Honolulu Zoo Art Mart. For more information please visit www.honoluluzoo.org
Kapiolani Park
A morning stroll traveling east on Kalakaua Avenue will lead you to Kapiolani Park, 500 acres of parkland donated by King David Kalakaua and named after his wife, Queen Kapiolani. Enjoy a jog or stroll around the perimeter of the park and imagine seeing the King's niece and heiress to the throne, Princess Kaiulani, as she rode her pony, Fairy, along these same paths in the 1800's. Take in a free Tai Chi exercise class Sunday and Monday mornings, an afternoon game of tennis, or a concert under the stars at the Waikiki Shell.
Shangri La
In the late 1930s, heiress Doris Duke built Shangri La on the five acres of property overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head. Inspired by travels through the Islamic world and her love of Hawaii, Duke designed her home to evoke the beauty and character of each. Shangri La features an extensive collection of Islamic art and architectural elements from many regions in the Islamic world blended with Hawaii's sweeping ocean views, exotic gardens and water features. Today, Shangri La offers small, guided tours that give visitors a glimpse of the small beauty and diversity of the arts of the Islamic world and the dynamic exchange of cultural influences and traditions. Tours originate from the Honolulu Academy of Arts. For more information please visit www.shangrilahawaii.org
Waikiki Historical Trail
Late author and historian, Dr. George Kanahele designed the Waikiki Historic Trail to tell the story of Waikiki and its historic and cultural legacy. The 2-mile route is designed to give interested explorers a narrative of the history and significance of certain areas of Waikiki. To download the map and historical information for the self-guided tour please visit www.waikikihistorictrail.com. Guided tours are available for a fee and reservations are required. Please contact www.nahha.com for more details on guided tours.
Waikiki Aquarium
Don’t miss a chance to see Hawaii’s State Fish, the humuhumunukunukuapuaa. Founded in 1904 and administered by the University of Hawaii since 1919, the Waikiki Aquarium is located on the shoreline of Waikiki Beach next to a living reef and across from Kapiolani Park. The Aquarium - third oldest in the U.S. - showcases more than 500 marine species, and maintains more than 3,000 marine specimens. Family-friendly and interactive exhibits and education programs celebrate the unique aquatic life of Hawaii and the tropical Pacific. The Aquarium is also home to two endangered Hawaii Monk Seals. The Aquarium is open daily. For more information please visit http://waquarium.org
