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OAHU
FAMILY TRAVEL
Oahu
is one of the most favorite family holiday destinations. Visitors
from all over the world flock to Oahu to enjoy warm tropical
weather, world-famous white sand beaches, majestic mountains,
fascinating volcanoes, and the beautiful rainforests, not to
speak of the amazing mix of the Pacific cultures that is evident
in the Hawaiian capital Honolulu. An Oahu visit is a dream come
true for any family.
For
Hawaiians, the ‘ohana' (family) and the care for ‘keiki' (children)
are very important. There are a variety of activities designed
with the family and children in mind. Many hotels and condominiums
offer special programs and activities for children, making sure
that they are never bored.
The
world famous Waikiki Beach is the center of attraction for any
tourist. It features some of the most beautiful beaches in the
world. Among them, Kuhio Beach and Gray Beach are ideal for
family swimming and snorkeling as the gentle shallow waters
makes it safe for children. There are many other popular ocean
activities that the family can enjoy. Children love the thrill
of learning how to surf, or take a guided kayak tour, or watch
playful dolphins on a Dolphin Sail, among many other things.
Also
at Waikiki is the Waikiki Aquarium. It displays more than 300
different types of Pacific and Hawaiian marine life, with exhibits
and movies complementing the interesting creatures. Nearby is
Honolulu Zoo, which is noted for its incredible beauty. It houses
many unique mammals, birds, and reptiles that inhabit the forests
just outside Honolulu.
Pearl
Harbor is one the most visited places on the island. The Arizona
Memorial Visitor Center here is where an insight is gained into
the history of World War II. The USS Missouri is the latest
addition to Pearl Harbor and is historically very significant.
It was on this battleship that the treaty between Japan and
the U.S. was signed at the end of the WWII. Also in the area
is the USS Bowfin Park and Submarine Museum, where your family
can see one of the last World War II subs.
Another
great place and a must see on Oahu is the Polynesian Cultural
Center. The indigenous Polynesian cultures of Hawaii - Tahiti,
Samoa, Fiji, the Marquesas, New Zealand and Tonga - are all
represented in this wonderful 42-acre center. Shows, demonstrations,
IMAX films, shopping and handicrafts complete the experience.
There is also an impressive night show, the world's largest
Polynesian revue.
A
scenic drive up to the beautiful North Shore is a must. On the
way, the family would love a stop at the Dole Pineapple Plantation.
Here you can take a narrated train ride through the pineapple
fields, find your way through the world's largest maze and learn
about crops traditionally grown in the islands. Also along the
way is the lush Waimea Valley. Here you can see rare and endangered
Hawaiian flora and fauna, and enjoy hundreds of acres of strolling
paths and hiking trails, world-class botanical gardens and rich
archaeological sites.
The
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is another popular spot. This is
a sunken volcanic crater where snorkelers can enjoy a rainbow
of reef inhabitants, colorful schools of fish and other sea
life.
With
all these exciting activities of Oahu, a tour of historical
downtown Honolulu must not be forgotten. A unique historical
landmark here is the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in
the United States. Until 1893, when the Hawaiian monarchy was
overthrown, this was the official residence of Hawaii's monarchs.
Bishop Museum is nearby. It is the largest museum of natural
and cultural history in Hawaii. Its many facets include a planetarium,
traveling exhibits, guided tours, demonstrations and live performances.
There are several other sights with ethnic influences, like
the 8-feet tall statue of King Kamehameha, that downtown Honolulu
has to offer.
Oahu
also offers some great family friendly dining. There is a range
of dining choices suited for all ages. Besides burger joints
and local favorites like Malasadas (Portuguese donuts), there
are a variety of brunches and meals to choose from. To really
sample a taste of Hawaii, your family must take in a luau, which
is a local feast with an accent on fun.
Don't
forget to enjoy some great shopping in Oahu. The Ala Moana Center
is Hawaii's premier shopping center, but the International Marketplace
has been an island tradition for years. This open air Marketplace
is located in the heart of Waikiki and has over 130 carts, shops
and artisan stands. Another great shopping experience is the
Aloha Flea Market at the Aloha Stadium, which is the biggest
swap meet, garage sale, flea market and crafts fair in Hawaii.
Oahu
offers the best of Hawaii, and a family trip there is an experience
to cherish the rest your life.
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