The Honolulu International Airport every year receives millions of eager visitors who are keen to start their much-awaited vacation. Normally, their hotel will arrange pick-up and the majority will head off towards the Waikiki area of the island. The attraction of Waikiki is nearly magnetic – the bustle of the busy streets, the long and extended beaches and the rich history of the land soon make the visitors hit the streets. The excitement of discovering Waikiki is so intense that most visitors never escape its imaginary borders.Approximately 6 million of these visitors miss the very sites that locals find so endearing, remaining within the two square miles of Waikiki.
If you are thinking of visiting Oahu then you should find this interesting.
Firstly there is the Magic Island Beach Park, which can be found a short distance from the Ala Moana Shopping Center, and is a very popular Waikiki destination. The things that you would find in this park include two beaches, a 3-mile stretch of jogging path and tennis courts, and more. A leisurely stroll around the park would bring you closer to the essence of Hawaiian culture – where a large family with all the members spends a lively day together amidst delicious food and lots of sun. Magic Island beaches are unlike many, un-crowded so it can be a relaxing experience and many people decide to have a barbecue while they are there.
The Contemporary Museum Honolulu – This small museum is located high on a ridge at Makiki Heights Drive and the drive up the ridge offers amazing vistas that would otherwise be missed by most Oahu visitors. 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. 5 acres and offer visitors unparalleled views of Honolulu.
Leong’s Cafe – Many visitors look to a lu’au for more than entertainment especially when they are after some great Hawaiian food.However, if you’re interested in real local style Hawaiian food, you can’t beat 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 – there is a local treat that originated in portugal called Malasadas which has become so popular that they even renamed Fat Tuesday to Malasadas day. The location details, where this venerated and most popular bakery is Champion Malasadas, 1926 South Beretania Street. Although a Hawaiian treat, they are in fact Portuguese and are donuts without the hole and they are served with or without your favorite filling.
Honolulu Chinatown – A walk through the streets of Chinatown in like a walk into another time and place. This is like being in a small part of China where you can obtain anything you would expect to find in the mainland Country. 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.
The best way to experience Oahu is to allocate enough time to see outside Waikiki for that is the way locals see it. Stop by some or all of the spots listed above and see some of what truly makes Hawaii special. If you like this article you should check out Forbidden City Photos.