Visit Oahu, Hawaii

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Oahu is the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands in land area while the most populated. The island is home to the majority of the inhabitants of the USA’s 50th state. The island presents real contrasts of the modern and the ancient, of eastern and western cultures and houses a busy metropolitan city surrounded by pristine landscapes. The island has earned the nickname “The Gathering Place” which is appropriate given that more than 900,000 people inhabit the island, nearly 65% of the entire population of Hawaii. Oahu is home to the major international airport serving Hawaii, Honolulu International Airport and is the state’s capital. Oahu is home to many of Hawaii’s most famous beaches and landmarks. Diamond Head crater towers above the world-famous beach of Waikiki on the island’s south east corner. Diamond Head (known as Leahi in the Hawaiian language which means “Tuna’s Brow” as a nod to its shape) is a large volcanic crater formed more than 100,000 years ago. In addition to the spectacular views from the crater's rim, Diamond Head is a favored hiking destination. One of the best snorkeling beaches in the world is located north of Diamond Head at Hanauma Bay where crystal clear water and healthy reef systems provide shelter for countless colorful tropical fish. The north shore area of Oahu is home to a number of the world’s most famous surfing, kiteboarding and windsurfing beaches. Waimea Bay, Pipeline (Ejukai Beach) and Sunset Beach are instantly recognizable names for board riders around the globe. Oahu is also home to Lanikai Beach and Kailua, frequently on the lists of the top beaches in the world. The north shore beaches are separated from the primary resort area of Waikiki by the Koolau Mountains and the Nuuanu Pali Lookout which offers some dramatic views of the Koolau sheer cliffs and the luxuriant vegetation of the windward coast. The state's capital city of Honolulu contains numerous historic landmarks such as Iolani Palace (the only official state residence of royalty in the United States), the King Kamehameha Statue, Aloha Tower, Pearl Harbor and USS Missouri and USS Arizona memorials and the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii. The world famous neighborhood of Waikiki serves as the main hotel and resort area with abundant shopping, dining and entertainment options as well as access to activities of every type. Other resort areas have developed around the island of Oahu at places like Ko’Olina with its modern facilities and arid climate, secluded Turtle Bay on the north shore and Kahala where beachfront mansions and a world class shopping mall compete for attention with fine dining restaurants and unspoiled beaches. Oahu offers 112 miles of shoreline which provides for endless opportunities for water activities. Boating, diving, fishing, kayaking, whale watching and parasailing compete with snorkeling and board riding for visitors’ attention. Hiking, golfing, mountain biking and off-roading in ATVs are among the land- based activities that are favorites of visitors. The local food culture offers something for everyone with a wide variety of options. Accommodations on Oahu range from luxury hotels to condominium rentals and efficiency apartments that appeal to the entire spectrum of tastes and budgets.

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