Oahu, HI Summary

photo by LoyallyLOST

“The Gathering Place island,” Oahu, is the third largest in the chain. It covers a vast 600 square miles. The island is 44 miles long, 30 miles wide, and 112 miles in circumference. It is cooled by constant trade winds and has a favorable climate. The great Koolau Range covers most of its eastern half, and the lesser Waianae Range covers part of the west. In between is a wide plain used for growing pineapple and sugarcane.

Oahu has three signature landmarks, the extinct volcanic craters of Punch Bowl, Diamond Head, and Koko Head. Honolulu is the state capital and Oahu is the commercial center of the state, serving as the US Defense Base for the Pacific. Tourism supports the economy. Population is estimated at 1.1 million.

Honolulu is Hawaii’s only major urban center. As a result, Oahu offers some of the best nightlife, restaurants, and cultural attractions in the state.

Tourists congregate at Waikiki Beach. This is “the strip” and is considered one of the most famous beaches in the world. Continuing along the south coast via Hwy 72, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay at Koko Head, and the Halona Blowhole are popular stops.

Just past Sandy Beach Park the coast juts out at Makapuu Point and then up to Waimanalo Bay and Kailua Bay. This is the windward coast, where water sports and fishing are especially good. Attractions include a rock formation called Crouching Lion, and the touristy Polynesian Cultural Center, which holds luaus and shows. The North Shore is remote and offers local color; the Banzai Pipeline is considered one of the best surf spots in the world. For the most part, the leeward coast is not recommended, as unfortunately the locals have been known to hassle visitors. In central Oahu you can learn about pineapple diversity at the Pineapple Variety Garden, discover commercial pineapple cultivation at the Dole Plantation, or see native flora at the Wahiawa Botanical Garden.

Lodging is plentiful, and dining options are many, including Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, and Korean eateries. Oahu is served by Honolulu International Airport; buses and shuttles offer services downtown, Waikiki, and most of Honolulu. Walking and cycling are good ways to explore.