Destination Guides > Hawaii > Oahu

Around Oahu

Because Honolulu features as a stopover on so many trans-Pacific flights, Oahu is by far the most visited of the Hawaiian islands. Outside the Pearl Harbor-Honolulu-Waikiki urban sprawl, Oahu has plenty of attractions from green valleys to the spectacular Diamond Head. The best surfing and windsurfing spots are on the north shore.

Best of all, everywhere on Oahu is easily accessible from Honolulu by cheap and frequent bus services.

Diamond Head State Monument

This instantly recognisable volcanic cone occupies a prime position overlooking the highrises of Waikiki. The steep trek to the summit takes a little over 30 minutes and is possibly the most popular hike on the island. At the top you are rewarded with an excellent view over Waikiki. Bus 22 and 58 connect the park with Waikiki.

Hanauma Bay Beach Park

Situated at the south-eastern corner of Oahu, Hanauma Bay Beach Park is the island's best and most popular spot for snorkelling. If you don't have your own snorkelling gear, you can rent some there. There are also hiking trails to the interestingly named Toilet Bowl and Witches Brew. Bus 22 connects Hanauma Bay with Waikiki.

Kailua

This city on the north-eastern coast of Oahu has the best windsurfing on the island. Kailua has a suburban feel to it and some people prefer to stay here rather than in Honolulu or Waikiki, however there is no longer any backpackers accommodation in Kailua.

North Shore

Most people visit Oahu's north shore for its world class surfing. Some of the worlds top surf beaches located here include Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach. The main towns on the north shore include Waialua, Waimea and Haleiwa. The North Shore Surf & Cultural Museum can be found in Haleiwa.

Accommodation

Backpackers Vacation Inn

59-788 Kamehameha Highway, Haleiwa, Hawaii 96712

Bus 52

Tel (808) 638 7838

Paumalu Hale

59-222 B Kamehameha Highway, Haleiwa, HI 96712

Bus 52