We recently had the opportunity to travel to Hawaii, specifically the island of Oahu. We spent several months planning, deciding where to stay and what to do. Of course, we wanted to see key features of the island, but we were on our own and were also looking forward to exploring the island away from the tourist-centric areas.
First, Oahu is a relatively small island—you can easily drive around the perimeter of the island in a day, and still get in some very enjoyable sightseeing—especially beaches. But there are several recommended “don’t miss” experiences for any first-time visitor.
I am frequently chided for an almost anal approach to planning and list making, but it served us well. We had a prioritized “must see and do” list. Note: driving around Honolulu is much like driving in any busy city. Once out of the city, it is mostly like rural driving. Before leaving, study a map for street names, routes, etc.
We were able to complete our “Oahu Bucket List” within a week, and actually add some bonus experiences. From our point of view, here are the top five things you should not miss:
A Hike up Diamond Head
Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center
Visit the USS Arizona Memorial
Visit Punch Bowl Cemetery
Hawaii Beaches
As I mentioned, Oahu is small enough that you can drive to almost any destination within 45 minutes, and usually much less. We stayed in a hotel on Waikiki Beach within walking distance of the beach and a clear view of Diamond Head Mountain. Anywhere in southeastern Honolulu is within easy walking distance of a beach. The beaches are clean, white sand, and, on almost any day you will see surfers out trying to “catch a wave.”
Here are our top five “must see” destinations. I have posted each of these experiences separately so that I can include more photos and you can read about each in smaller “chunks.”
About the Photography
My professional career has included much photography. When I first started, we used film cameras and were always worrying about the cost of film and processing. With modern digital photography, and especially with cell phone cameras, there is little need to skimp on photos. You do not want to come home as say, “I should have gotten a photo of …!”
Diamond Head from Waikiki Beach
- Sunrise from Diamond Head
Timing is important if you want to catch sunrise from atop the Diamond Head Crater ring. This is an extremely popular hike, and the crowds gather in the early twilight of dawn—or earlier. We arrived right at 6:00 a.m.—official opening time at the park—and started the climb in the dark. Our goal was to be at the top in time to see the sunrise over the ocean. It is an easy-to-moderate 40-minute climb to reach the top of the 760-ft. extinct volcano. Note, comfortable, well-fitting walking/hiking shoes are recommended.
The climb includes rocky paths, a tunnel, many switchbacks, sections of concrete walkway, as well as a 225-foot tunnel with steps.
By the time we were halfway up, a glimmer of morning twilight began to illuminate the trail. Near the top there are viewing areas where you can stop and look down into the crater or get a better view of the Diamond Head beach below.
At the very top of the trail, there is a beautiful view of the ocean—especially awe-inspiring during the early morning sunrise–and no two sunrises are ever alike. Once the sun is above the horizon, you will have an excellent view of beaches below as well as clear view of the Diamond Head Light House at the base of the mountain.
Sunrise from Diamond Head – No two are the same!
Linger as long as you like, but after 20 or 30 minutes, you will have seen everything there is to see, and it will be time to start back down the same path you followed climbing this craggy extinct volcano.
Lighthouse at the Foot of Diamond Head – From atop Diamond Head
Things to know: There is a $10 parking fee for autos and a hiking fee of $5.00 per person. Note that fees are collected only by credit card—no cash is accepted. You can also purchase a guided tour package that will provide transportation to Diamond Head, and a guided tour up to the summit, but we recommend the “self-guided” tour. Plan two to three hours.
If you can, be at the park at opening time—when it is still dark—so you can see the sunrise from the top of the mountain. After sunrise, there is a food truck waiting in the auto parking area that offers snacks and beverages (but no coffee!).
Next: The Polynesian Cultural Center
Renaissance Musings 
Making me jealous!!
It only took 20 years of “planning” to get there!