Many millions of visitors each year land at Honolulu International Airport expecting a holiday of a lifetime on these islands. After they have made their way through the airport, the vast majority will be heading towards the Waikiki area of the island. The sights and sounds of busy street, rushing waves of the ocean and all of this backed by a rich historical background, visitors can hardly stay indoors. The excitement of discovering Waikiki is so intense that most visitors never escape its imaginary borders. With six million visitors annually, you would expect them to want to see the island but most remain within Waikiki’s two square miles.
If you are thinking of visiting Oahu then you should find this interesting.
Magic Island Beach Park – Located just opposite to the Ala Moana Shopping Center, this is a very popular attraction lying west of Waikiki. The things that you would find in this park include two beaches, a 3-mile stretch of jogging path and tennis courts, and more. This is a favorite spot for locals too and it is quite usual to see large families gather to eat with each other, enjoying the beautiful weather and their own company. Since the beaches are comparatively empty, to get the maximum of your holiday, simply organize a barbecue and move on to the beaches of Magic Island.
The Contemporary Museum Honolulu – This is situated on a ridge at Makiki Heights Drive and when you drive up to the destination along the ridge the magnificent view of Oahu could be breathtaking, which unfortunately most visitors never get to see. It may not be large but there is enough space to house 5 galleries and after a tour they can relax in the extensive gardens. This is the place where you appreciate the museum most because the garden stretches for about 3.
Leong’s Café – Visitors who are hunting for some unforgettable Hawaiian cuisine, treat a lu’au as something more than just entertainment. However, if you are looking out to taste some delectable foods cooked in typical Hawaiian style, then you can never miss out on Leong’s Cafe located at 2343 North King Street. Here they have been serving the Hawaiian population for in excess of five decades with traditional dishes enjoyed by many.
Champion Malasadas – A local preparation by the name of Malasadas are such hot favorites with the people that they decided to rename Fat Tuesday as Malasadas Day throughout the Hawaiian Islands. You can find Champion Malasadas, which is a famous bakery, along South Beretania Street. Anyone that enjoys donuts will like these (even though they do not have a hole) and they come with a variety of fillings or if you prefer, you can eat them without any type of filling.
Honolulu Chinatown - A walk through the streets of Chinatown in like a walk into another time and place. Chinatown has them all – dim sum, fresh produce, handmade leis or the ultra modern lounges. The shops and streets are unforgettable, offering goods, which you would never find in an average American store. Although guided walks are popular, if you are of a mind, why not try looking around unaided, exploring the historic areas taking your time - go on, be adventurous.
If you are interested in seeing Oahu through a locals eyes, be sure to spend some time outside of Waikiki. The places mentioned here are only a few but they are a good place to start but just embrace the island and you will not want to leave.