OAHU VACATION INFORMATION

TOP 10 ON OAHU FOR UNDER $10

1. PEARL HARBOR
December 7th, 1941, the day the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, was a day that dramatically changed the course of history. Go visit the site of the devastating attack. Tours include a ferry ride out to the solemn USS Arizona Memorial, which is located on top of the sunken ship. You will then visit the museum aboard the battleship USS Missouri, which was decommissioned after receiving a total of eleven battle stars for service in World War II, Korea, and the Persian Gulf. There is also a film of the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack at the visitor's center that you can watch to get a sense of the historical and political context in which the attack took place. This is definitely an experience to remember.

• Free Tickets (limited---arrive early)
• Free Parking
• Open Sunday through Saturday 7:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M
• Address:
  1 Arizona Memorial Place Honolulu, Hawaii 96818

*The Swap Meet at Aloha Stadium is near by and open on Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday. (The best place on island to buy souvenirs!)
Book a guided Pearl Harbor Tour.
Book a Pearl Harbor & Swap Meet Combo Tour.

2. HANAUMA BAY SNORKELING & BEACH
Two of the best things about Hawaii are the spectacular oceans and the amazing wildlife. At Hanauma Bay, you get both. It is world-famous for its stunning crystal clear water and the beautiful reefs teeming with colorful fish and other exciting creatures. Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is an unforgettable experience for the whole family to enjoy. Not only can you snorkel and swim, but also simply relax on the sand and take in the sun. It really does not get much better than that. Rent snorkel gear at the Bay or bring your own. Just make sure you don't plan on going on a Tuesday, as Hanauma Bay is a state park and will be closed.

• $7.50 Entrance Fee (Children under 13 free)
• $1 Parking (limited—arrive early)
• Open Wednesday through Monday 6 A.M. to 6 P.M
• Address:
  100 Hanauma Bay Road
  Honolulu, HI 96825

3. SEA TURTLES BASKING at LANIAKEA BEACH, NORTH SHORE
Laniakea, Oahu, Hawaii, can be considered the best place in the world to see marine turtles up close. Hawaiian green turtles come ashore almost daily to bask among crowds of people and surfers. This provides a unique turtle experience and unlimited photo opportunities. Hawaiian green turtles have become accustomed to seeing humans who won't harm them. Look for the turtles on land as well as in the water. If you are feeling more adventurous snorkeling and scuba are also permitted. Just remember that touching or harassing the turtles is a considered a federal offense.

• Open Beach
• Free Parking
• Open all day everyday
• Stop in nearby Haleiwa Town for world famous shave ice at Matsumoto's
• Address:
  Kamehameha Hwy and Pohaku Loa Way
  Haleiwa, Hawaii 96712

4. NUUANU PALI LOOKOUT
The Nuuanu Pali Lookout at an elevation of 1200 feet overlooks cliffs of the Koolau Mountain Range, one of the best panoramic views on O'ahu. In 1795, it was here that King Kamehameha's army defeated the O'ahu warriors by forcing them the cliffs and claimed his victory, thus uniting the Hawaiian Islands. This is one breathtaking view you won't want to miss.

• Free Entrance
• Free Parking
• Open daily during daylight hours
• Services/Facilities: Portable toilets, trash cans, food concession, no drinking water.
• Directions:
  Take H1 east fromWaikiki to the Pali Highway, Route 61, via Nu'uanu Pali Drive.
  Follow the signs to the Pali Lookout.

5. DOLE PLANTATION
The Dole Plantation began as a small roadside fruit stand and has grown into one of the most visited Hawaii attractions. Learn more about how pineapple is grown and catch it in the act. For a small fee take a ride on the Pineapple Express or wander through the worlds largest maze. Make sure you don't leave without trying the Dole Whip pineapple ice cream. This is the place to get the Hawaiian grown delight shipped home so you can enjoy the islands even when your gone.

• Free Admission
• Free Parking
• Open Daily 9:30 A.M. to 5 P.M.
• Address:
  64-1150 Kamehameha Hwy
  Wahiawa, HI 96786

The Following tours include Dole Pineapple Plantation:
Grand Circle Island Tour
Circle Island With Kualoa Ranch and Dole

6. WAIAMEA FALLS PARK
This 1,800 acre historical nature park is located in the lush green Waimea Valley on the famous North Shore of Oahu. The area has been reserved as a natural and cultural park. The lush valley was once populated by Hawaiians before Western arrivals and was a rich farming area with terraced taro plantations. After a walk along a paved, forest lined trail you will arrive at the 45-foot high Waimea Falls, the focal point of the park. Swimming is allowed conditions permitting. When your adventure is complete hop across the high way to the most popular North Shore location, Waiamea Beach.

• Admission $8 Adults
• Free Parking
• Open Daily 9:30 A.M. to 5 P.M.
• Address:
  59-864 Kamehameha Highway
  Haleiwa, HI 96712

7. IOLANI PALACE
Built in 1882, the Iolani Palace is a Hawaiian treasure and the only official state residence of royalty in the United States. The palace was the official residence of the Hawaiian Kingdom's last two monarchs--King Kalakaua, and successor sister, Queen Lili'uokalani. During the monarchy period, it was the center for social and political activity Hawaii. The Palace was neglected after the overthrow of the monarchy, restoration and preservation continues now. Today, visitors can enjoy a precise historic restoration and learn all about Hawaiian heritage.

• Admission $6 Adults
• Metered Street Parking
• Open Tuesday through Saturday 9 A.M. to 5 P.M
• Address:
  364 South King Street
  Honolulu, HI 96813

The Following tours include Iolani Palace:
Waterfall and Royal History Tour
Hololulu's Hidden Treasures Tour

8. WAIKIKI AQUARIUM
Exhibits, programs, and research focus on the aquatic life of Hawaii and the tropical Pacific.

The award winning Waikiki Aquarium is located next to a living coral reef bringing guests face-to-fin with colorful tropical fish, sharks, living corals, Hawaiian monk seals, sea jellies, squid, octopus and lots more! With over 3,500 marine animals exhibits represent more than 500 species of aquatic animals and plants. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people visit. The Waikiki Aquarium has been designated as the Coastal Ecosystem Learning Center for the Pacific Island Region.

• Admission $9 Adults
• Metered Street Parking
• Open Daily 9 A.M. to 5 P.M
• Address:
  2777 Kalakaua Avenue
  Honolulu, HI 96815

9. DIAMOND HEAD CRATER
The unmistakable profile of Diamond Head (Le'ahi) sits prominently at the eastern edge of Waikiki's coastline. Hawaii's most recognized landmark is known for its hiking trail, stunning coastal views, and military history. (Humpback whales can often be seen during the season.) Diamond Head State Park covers over 475 acres, including the interior and outer slopes of the crater. The crater was formed about 300,000 years ago during a single, explosive volcanic eruption that sent ash and particles in the air. The trail to the summit was built in 1908 as part of O'ahu's coastal defense system. The 0.8 mile hike from trailhead to the summit is steep and strenuous, gaining 560 feet from the crater floor.

• Admission $5 per Car
• Parking (limited—arrive early)
• Open Daily 6 A.M. to 6 P.M
• Address:
  4200 Diamond Head Road
  Honolulu, HI 96816

10. SHARKS COVE
Don't let the name scare you away. Located on Oahu's world famous North Shore, this small rocky bay forms part of Pupukea Beach Park and illuminates blue water with an impressive array of sea life from turtles to eels and schools of fish. The bottom is made up of boulders and coral heads forming small caves and ledges for marine life to hide. The reef can only be accessed during calm seas. Wear shoes at all times due to the sharp coral and rock formations. Bring your own snorkel equipment or rent near by. Another option is to wade in the adjacent tide pools.

• Free Admission
• Free Parking
• Open Daily during daylight hours
• Address:
  59-715 Kamehameha Hwy
  Haleiwa, HI 96712