Set in the picturesque environs of Laie, the Laie Hawaii Temple - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints offers peace and calm to all visitors. The church also conducts programs for the youth.
When the water is calm, Sunset Beach Park is a lovely swimming spot. The tide pools, located in a sheltered spot on the point of the beach, are great for snorkeling during calm days. It should be mentioned that, as with most beaches on the North Shore, the surf here gets dangerously high during the wintertime. It also "cranks" sometimes during the summer. If you are not a strong swimmer or avid surfer, definitely check the local surf report before driving to this North Shore park.
At the base of the Ko'olau Mountains stands a replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist temple from Uji, Japan. The graceful vermilion complex is surrounded by the largest Japanese garden outside Japan. At the temple entrance hangs a sobering three-ton bronze bell—ring it before entering the sanctuary to purify the mind of evil and temptation, then meditate to to the nine-foot-tall statue of the Buddha. More than 10,000 carp live in a two-acre reflecting pool and wild peacocks stroll the grounds freely.
One of the finest diving sites in the area, Shark Cove is famous for its underwater lava rock formations. It is also known for its abundant marine life. Navigate through its undersea caves to explore the marine world. Snorkelers and scuba divers throng here for its aquatic life. These include the likes of parrot fish, sea turtles, mullet, damsel fish and butterfly fish. Since its a rocky area, it is advisable to wear appropriate footwear.
This 4000-acre, former working ranch in Windward Oahu has been turned into a giant outdoor activities park. Facilities include horseback riding, jet skiing, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, freshwater fishing and a shooting range. You can tour the movie sets used in filming Jurassic Park and Godzilla, or relax on Secret Island, a secluded fantasy beach. There's even a petting zoo for the kids. Reservations are required.
A pistine islet ensconced in the Pacific Ocean, Goat Island is one of O'ahu's most visited regions. Spanning across more than 13 acres (5.2 hectares), the island is home to some of Hawaii beautiful avian species and hence has earned the designation of a Seabird Sanctuary. Endowed with serenity, the island is a living canvas of tropical colors, that's sure to make a long lasting impression on one's memory.
Oahu's balmy weather makes it the perfect place for an evening stroll, or better yet a romantic carriage ride. This company offers carriage rides through Waikiki nightly, from 6:30p-11p. Each ride is approximately 20 minutes and passengers may choose to be dropped off anywhere they choose (as long as it is convenient to the route). All day rentals are also available for special occasions; contact the office for details. The location for the rides change in December.
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
A canvas of awe-inspiring beauty, Mamala Bay is a large inlet on which Honolulu is set. Scintillating turquoise-hued waters gently lap against the shore is a captivating sight and Mamala Bay is especially an arresting sight when the sun goes down. It is dotted with several beachfront restaurants and cafes and a host of activities, from surfing to jet skiing, await here. This scenic bay also contains the historic Pearl Harbor site.
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.