The island of Oahu (Hawaii): the best approximation of paradise on earth

Opt for surfing, snorkeling, or hiking around Manoa Falls. Enjoy the local museums, excellent cuisine and the hospitality of the locals. There are endless reasons to visit Hawaii. Then there's the island's plethora of World War II-related attractions, including the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. But no trip to Oahu would be complete without a visit to one of its world-famous beaches.

When on Oahu?

The best time to visit the island of Oahu is between April and the beginning of June. between September and mid-December. At this time, there are far fewer tourists on the island, and the smaller showers that hit Hawaii during this rainy season are not as pronounced.

What should I see on Oahu?

The island of Oahu boasts a wide variety of activities, especially in Honolulu. The first attractive activity is definitely the beautiful beaches, one of the most popular is Kailua Beach, where there is also a water park dedicated to water sports. At the top of the list are Lanikai Beach and Waikiki Beach, dotted with resorts. But when you get tired of sunbathing and soft sand, pick up a map and explore the island. The most visited monument in all of Hawaii is the Visitor Center USS Arizona on the northeastern outskirts of Honolulu.

If people hadn't heard of Hawaii before, the name was surely etched in their memory on December 7, 1941, when the naval base here, Pearl Harbor, was attacked by Japanese planes and submarines. With this, America also entered the Second World War. Located among the sunken wrecks of the US battleship of the same name, the museum can only be accessed by boat and offers travelers a glimpse of the devastation that Japanese attacks caused to the US naval fleet. Inside, the exhibition and memorial space is divided into three separate sections. One section, the assembly room, offers a bird's-eye view of the sunken deck, while the other is a thoughtful memorial to both the dead and the survivors.

Battleship Missouri Memorial is the monument where on September 2, 1945, a delegation of Japanese politicians and generals led by Foreign Minister Mamoru Shigemitsu came to sign the official documents on surrender and the end of World War II. Tragic battleships are a reminder that history does not repeat itself. If you feel sad after visiting the mentioned monuments, pick up a surfboard on the waves. The southern coastal areas of Oahu are home to countless surf spots, many of which are world famous.

From the exciting Bowls of Ala Moana and the popular Waikiki, which is a great place for beginners, to the huge waves of Sunset Beach. If you are in a hurry in the city, then do not miss Chinatown, which is one of the largest and most authentic oriental districts in the United States. Feel the pulse of Maunakea Market, marked by a red-painted tower of smells and sights amid endless piles of tropical fruit and tofu. There are also stunning temples such as the Japanese Shinto shrine Izumo Taishakyo or the dragon-topped Kuan Yin, not to mention the tempting flavors of Chinese restaurants.

It lies in the center of the city home of the Kalakaua dynasty. Judging by the terraces, this 19th-century palace radiates francophone, Italian charm, while the baroque comes from classic nooks and crannies. The palace was built by monarch David Kalakaua, who traveled Europe, Asia and Africa in search of inspiration for his grand project. Later, the palace became the site where American troops raised the flag for the first time to mark the annexation of Hawaii to the United States.

Even nature lovers will find something to their liking on Oahu. In addition to wild and unspoilt nature, there is also a national monument Diamond Head, rising in rugged volcanic ridges high above downtown Honolulu's bustling coastal strip. This recognizable landmark is believed to have formed when a large cinder cone on the edge of the Koʻolau Mountains erupted 200,000 years ago, spewing magma and rock to create the jagged ridges and craters we see today. So put on your walking shoes and set off on a well-maintained path that will lead you through tunnels and up stairs until you reach the top, where you can enjoy a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean.

How to explore Oahu?

The city's public transport system is a reliable and easy way to get around, and ticket prices are very affordable. If you like to be more free when it comes to transport, rent a car. This is especially suitable for exploring the countryside, regional parks and beaches around Honolulu.

How much is a plane ticket to Honolulu?

Return air tickets from Budapest to Hawaii with the airline Lufthansa can be found from 670 euros. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.

Covid-19 restrictions in Hawaii

You must have a vaccination certificate to enter the US. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.

Accommodations on Oahu

Accommodations in Hawaii are extremely expensive, so a word of caution before buying a plane ticket.

White Sands Hotel

The hotel is located just two blocks away from Waikiki Beach and offers its visitors a large outdoor pool and a luxurious green garden. Each room boasts a private balcony with garden or city views. The hotel also has a restaurant and a bar.

 

Hotel Renew

Just a few steps away from Waikiki Beach is the Renew Hotel with modern rooms. All have private balconies and are also equipped with air conditioning and a TV. Free newspapers are available to guests, as well as all beach equipment.