Also known as Lēʻahi, this crater of an extinct volcano got its name when Western explorers mistook calcite crystals they found there for diamonds. Framing the fabric of the island, the crater is riddled with a tracery of vents and volcanic remnants. The historic trail to the 761-foot (231.9 meter) summit starts inside the crater and is an easy, but steep, 0.8 mile (1.3 kilometers) hike to the top. Adorned with craggy corrugations and tufts of sun-bleached grass, Diamond Head affords astounding views of Oʻahu's charming landscape, including some exceptional views of its beaches and locales.
Famed for its beautiful horseshoe-shaped sandy beach and clear, calm turquoise waters, this natural marine sanctuary is home to thousands of colorful tropical fish. The waist-deep water inside the reef is perfect for novice snorkelers to explore. More experienced snorkelers might want to check with the lifeguard before venturing beyond to deeper waters to see sea turtles and other marine life. The Bay is least crowded in the early morning or late afternoon.
On December 7, 1941, the battleship USS Arizona was sunk, taking 1100 sailors with it. In 1961, a solemn white monument was erected above the midsection of the ship. The deck of the Arizona lies now six feet (1.83 meters) below the surface of Pearl Harbor and is clearly visible from the monument. Take the shuttle launch from shore to the monument and view the dark shape of a once-great ship with its silent crew. Free guided tours are offered 8a-1p daily. Visit the Battleship Missouri Memorial afterward.
Built in 1882 by Hawaiʻi's last king, David Kalākaua, this stately three-story building is a real treat to explore. After the overthrow of the King's sister Queen Liliʻuokalani in 1893, the structure served as the territorial and state capitol until 1969. The Palace Galleries showcase jewels and regalia from the days of Hawaiʻian royalty. Guided tours are offered every 30 minutes and reservations are suggested.
Stand on the deck of this imposing old structure that has been painstakingly cared for and extensively renovated. The "Mighty Mo" is where General Douglas MacArthur proclaimed the end of World War II in September of 1945 in Tokyo Bay. The great vintage battleship now sits at permanent anchor across from the Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor. Visit the Arizona Memorial first to get a sense of the complete story.
Tucked in the back of lush Mānoa Valley is Mānoa waterfall, which is commonly thought to be one of the most beautiful sights of O'ahu. It rushes over a precipice and drops 100 feet to the pool below. The briskly cold water makes a refreshing change from the sticky Hawaiʻian air. The hike to the waterfall takes approximately an hour and is not particularly difficult. The trail can get slippery during the rain, but on sunny days, it's clearly marked and easy to follow.
Wedged between the Hawaii State Library and the Iolani Palace, the original archives building was the first building in the USA to be solely dedicated to archival purposes. Designed by architect Oliver Green Traphagen and completed in August 1906, it still is the repository dedicated to collecting and preserving government records that include many documents from the Hawaiian monarchy to present legislative sessions. There is an invaluable collection that includes photographs, documents on Hawaiian history, royal documents and even logs of Pacific Ocean voyages. The building is a reflection of Hawaiian renaissance revival architecture that includes a 30x40 foot fireproof steel vault. - Lottie Tagupa
Located near Kalanianaole Highway, the Koko Crater is a beautiful crater that offers picturesque views and covers a major area of the Koko Head. There are many well marked trails that pass through this crater, making it accessible to locals and tourists alike. It is quite popular among hiking and climbing enthusiasts. The Koko Crater is home to the Koko Crater Botanical Garden which is known for its cactus collections.
This gallery is a co-op of some of the island chain's best inexpensive artwork. Unlike many of the other galleries in Waikiki, amazingly beautiful works of art can be obtained at a very reasonable price. The gallery is large, airy and tropical, displaying numerous two- and three-dimensional artworks.
Established in 1981, this non-profit organization has the sole purpose of spreading the environmental gospel to residents and visitors of the Hawaiian Islands. Almost entirely volunteer-operated, the center facilitates hands-on environmental education for school children, families and the general public. Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of educating children. Hopefully, with a change in the attitudes of youth toward nature, the future of the environment stands a chance. There is a gift shop on-site.
Located at the edge of her fabulous and favorite estate, the statue of Princess Kaiulani pays homage to the aloha she has for her subjects. Historically, several Hawaiian royals maintained homes in Waikiki. None was more elaborate than that of Hawaii's beloved Princess Kaiulani. Her estate encompassed 10 acres as well as being filled with coconut groves ponds, gardens and the islands first Banyan tree. Moreover, there were many peacocks, descendants of which still roam through the Honolulu Zoo just blocks away. Ainahau was demolished to make way for the Princess Kaiulani hotel in 1955, but Hawaii's love for the young Princess still endures. - Lottie Tagupa
A quite community park located just off Lunalilo Freeway, the Pu'u o Kaimuki Mini Park offers an ideal downtime spot to the locals of Kaimuki. Well-maintained by local initiative, the often secluded park offers spectacular views of the bay. Be sure to bring your mats as there are no benches here. Perfect for picnics or simply laying on the grass, reading your favorite novel, this mini park is perfect for a fun day out, with or without company.