Trip Moments Recommendations
🎅🏼Santa’s Top 3 Spots for a Sunset in Oahu! Ho Ho Ho!
#magicalxmastrip #hawaii #oahu
1. Waikiki Beach
Oh, my jolly elves, Waikiki Beach is like the North Pole’s version of sunset magic—but with sand instead of snow! Picture this: the sky turning golden and pink while Diamond Head stands proudly in the distance. Mrs. Claus would call it a postcard-perfect moment! Grab a seat on the sand, wiggle your toes, and let the tropical breeze tickle your cheeks.
2. Tantalus Lookout (Pu’u Ualaka’a State Park)
Ho Ho Holy moly, the view from here is spectacular! At Tantalus Lookout, you get a bird’s-eye view of Honolulu with the sun painting the horizon in fiery hues. It’s so peaceful, even my reindeer would stop to enjoy the view! As the city lights start to twinkle, you might just think it’s Christmas all over again. Don’t forget to bring a cozy sweater—it can get as brisk as the sleigh ride here!
3. Kaena Point
For the adventurers on my nice list, Kaena Point is a gift straight from Mother Nature! This remote spot at Oahu’s westernmost edge offers sunsets so magical, even Rudolph would be in awe. The waves crash, the colors dazzle, and the horizon stretches as far as the eye can see. It’s pure Christmas spirit, Hawaiian style!
So pack up your sack of snacks, bring a blanket, and chase those Oahu sunsets, my friends. You’ll treasure the memories as much as I love milk and cookies! 🌅 Ho ho ho!
3 Reasons Santa Loves Oahu🎅🏼
#magicalxmastrip
#oahu #hawaii #usa
Ho ho ho! If there’s one place that gets me feeling extra jolly, it’s Oahu, my dear friends! Here’s why this island is on my “Nice List” year after year:
1. Adventure for the Naughty and Nice!
Whether you’ve been extra good or a little mischievous, Oahu’s got something for everyone! If you’re the adventurous type, surf the big waves on the North Shore, or take a hike up Diamond Head—the views are simply magical! But if you prefer some peace and quiet (like me after a long sleigh ride), you can relax on the soft sand at Waikiki Beach or enjoy the calm waters of Lanikai.
2. Culture and History That Warm Your Heart
Oahu isn’t just about fun in the sun, my friends—it’s full of history and culture that’ll make your heart grow three sizes! Pearl Harbor is a must-see for anyone who wants to honor the past, and don’t forget to check out the Iolani Palace and Byodo-In Temple to experience Hawaii’s royal heritage and peaceful traditions.
3. Scenery That’s the True Meaning of “Beautiful”
From the majestic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast to the crystal-clear waters of Hanauma Bay, Oahu’s landscapes are like the most beautiful Christmas card you’ve ever received. The colors are so vibrant, even Rudolph would be jealous of the view!
So, whether you’re naughty or nice, Oahu is sure to bring you holiday cheer all year long! Ho ho ho!
Aloha Time!
#travellerswonderland
I often hear that people didn't enjoy Waikiki Beach because of the crowds. As a little known secret, there's still a great way to enjoy this pristine stretch of beach!
If you follow the shore towards Diamond head, you will find things are much quieter the closer you get to the Aquarium. I grew up in Oahu and this area of the beach has always been my favorite.
It's very quiet, less crowded, and far more comfortable for single beach goers!
Next time you find yourself in Waikiki, head down to Queen Kapiolani Park area and enjoy the peace of Hawaiian nature.
#hawaii #oahu #oahuhawaiibeaches #hawaiitourism #waikiki #waikikibeach
Stroll in a royal garden
A few minutes from Waikiki beach you can enjoy a beautiful park that was originally designed for a queen. The Queen Kapi’olani Garden has beautiful colorful trees, and flowers. My favorite is the white hibiscus.
Definitely, a nice green space to enjoy a takeaway or shadow, more quietly than the crowded beach. You might take a small detour here if you are on your way/coming back from Diamond Head crater.
📍 3698 Paki Ave #3672, Honolulu
#gooutside #passionpassport #solotravel #waikiki #beachlife #hawaii #hawaiitourism #stroll #walking #walkingaround #park #naturalpark #landmark #honolulu #oahu
Diamond Head Crater park
Perfect one-day trip in Honolulu! The Diamond Head Crater, or Lē’ahi, is a volcanic cone located few minutes from Waikiki beach in Oahu. This crater is part of a system of cones and vents, known as Honolulu volcanic series, much younger that the Ko’olau range. This crater was the first military reservation in Hawaii, named Fort Ruger. Since 1986, has been a highly visited natural landmark.
You need to book in advance to enter the park area, and only access is through the tunnel. Within the park, it’s a very short hike (~20 minutes), but the view totally worth it. Don’t forget a cap and sunblock, you get easily sunburn here.
#solotravel #gooutside #staycation #beachlife #hawaii #nationalpark #hawai #oahu #hikingtrails #hiking #outdoors #hikes #passionpassport
Pineapple 🍍 Cafe
On your way to Le’ahi park you can enjoy the Aloha Pineapple Cafe. This cute coffee shop is located in Monsarrat Avenue, same street to Diamond Head Crater Park. Iced coffee during a hot afternoon was a delight. Ambience is nice, service also good. One of the few places that offers free wifi in Honolulu.
During my trip to Hawaii, my favorite was the coconut ice coffee. They have a matcha option that is promising too.
☕️ Closed by 3pm
📍 3212 Monsarrat Ave. Honolulu, HI 96815
#staycation #themepark #beachlife #coffeeshop #cafe #criskotsu #hawaii #hawaiitourism #honolulu #oahu #coffee #hiking #icecoffee
Unchrasing waves beach: Kahanamoku
The Kahanamoku beach is located near the marina and has a small salty water lagoon ideal to enjoy if you bring small kids. Or you dislike the feeling of crashing waves. This beach has more coarser sand than Waikiki beach, although is quieter and nicer for families.
It’s also located near Waikiki downtown, you can either reach there from the marina or the Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Park. This beach has a underwater wall to reduce the waves into the beach area, although has caused a lot of seaweed to accumulate near the sand.
#beachlife #beach #hawaii #hawaiitourism #honolulu #staycation #amazingplace #waikiki #criskotsu #oahu #summervacation #themepark #swimming #familytrip
Waikiki’s Walls
Waikiki beach “Walls” area are a big concrete pool that reduces the crashing waves over the beach, good place to stay if you are scare of the sea or bring little kids with you. It’s a safe zone. A small gap in the walls allows the sea flow. This wall viewpoint allows you to enter the sea and enjoy a gorgeous full view of the beach. Very popular location for local kids, to jump into the sea from the high wall, or take gorgeous pictures.
#staycation #beachlife #summervacation #historicallandmarks #culture #hawai #hawaii #beach #waikiki #criskotsu #oahu #honolulu #waikikibeach #summertrip #summerdays
A bridge with history
Kalākaua Avenue is well-known as the main shopping center of Honolulu. Located just behind the Hawaii Convention Center the street starts with a bridge that originates from 1929 over Ala Wai canal.
The Ala Wai canal was artificially created in 1928 to drain rice paddies and swamps, to give birth to Waikiki area. Kalākaua Avenue bridge has an amazing view, a great location for morning walk or just wondering around Waikiki. Gives you a great view of the marina on one side and the mountains on the other side. You can even take a walk next to the canal under the trees shadow to get closer to the beach.
#staycation #beachlife #honolulu #oahu #waikiki #hawaii #hawaiitourism #criskotsu #bridge #historicculture #historicallandmarks #kalakaua #architecture #beach #canal #boats #marina
A sustainable building for high level events
The Hawai’i Convention Center is one the most beautiful buildings I have ever been. It’s designed allows air flow from third floor to be distributed along the infrastructure to reduce the use of energy and maintain a fresh breeze along the meeting rooms and halls.
Located in Oahu, it is just few minutes away from Kalākaua street, main shopping/restaurants street in Waikiki. Building was built in 1998, but still looks quite cutting-edge. Along the building it’s possible to see art/cultural Hawaiian exhibits.
So far, I’ll say this is one of the most beautiful convention centers in the world. If you love architecture, this is a must visit in Oahu.
#staycation #beachlife #conference #convention #hawai #hawaiitourism #oahu #waikiki #criskotsu #infraestructure #architecture #architecturalphotos #architecturedesign
Have a coffee by the beach
Hawaiian Aroma Caffe is a very popular franchise in the Hawaiian islands. This cafe has an international recognition on their roasting (traditional Italian style). They have lots of options for brunch, cocktails and coffees. Every dish looks super cute, even waffles served over leaves to feel that Hawaiian style in every pore.
Everything is about location. The ambience is nice, it was crowded so I took my coffee and walked to the beach. Which is literally 70 meters away from the cafe!
#staycation #beachlife #foodie #criskotsu #summervacation #cafe #coffee #coffeeshop #waikiki #oahu #waikikibeach
Breathtaking Views in Hawaii: Waikiki 🌴🌺
Experience the most beautiful sunset you will ever see on the island of Oahu, Hawaii in the district of Waikiki inside Honolulu 🌅
The palm trees are absolutely gorgeous and you will feel as if you are in a scene from a movie.
You can go on hike to Diamond Head to get the whole view of Waikiki Beach.
The difficulty level differs by person but overall it’s fairly easy because it’s a very short hike, however, it does get steep, especially towards the end.
Once you get up there, the view of Waikiki is phenomenal.
In my photos, I’ve captured views of Waikiki during golden hour while at the bottom and also views at the top of Diamond Head, overlooking Waikiki from the top.
I can’t wait to go back again 🌺
#hawaii #honolulu #oahu #waikiki #diamondhead #hiking #sunset #beach #beachlife #naturalwonders #beaches
Oahu is a magical place I hope to return to in the future. Wonderful charm and world class beauty! We travelled all around the island and there was not one spot that was disappointing. #oahu #newyearstrip #couplestrip #instagramworthydestinations #unforgettableexperiences #merrychristmas #travelinspiration
#wintergetaway
Disney Magic in blissful Paradise
Aloha and welcome to a touch of Disney Magic in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Welcome to Aulani. Located in the Ko’Olina resort area of Oahu, you can visit a magical hideaway for Mickey and all of his enchanting friends. Local Hawaiian culture is woven into every aspect of this resort from the architecture, service, food and atmosphere.
#Paradise #Hawaii #oahu #Disney #Aulani
🩵 Family Vacation with a little one 🩵
🩵 Our family vacation in Lanikai Beach, Hawaii was an unforgettable experience, especially with our energetic and curious one-year-old baby. The breathtaking white sandy beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and gentle ocean breeze provided the perfect backdrop for our adventures. We spent our days building sandcastles, splashing in the shallow waves, and exploring the vibrant coral reefs with our little one. The baby's giggles filled the air as we strolled along the shoreline, enjoying the stunning views of the Mokulua Islands. The warm Hawaiian sun embraced us as we shared precious moments as a family, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
🩵
#localescapes #hawaii #lanikaibeach #oahu #littleboy #beachlife #familyvacation #baby
Tropical island fun
Oahu is the main island of the state of Hawaii. Here, you'll also find Hawaii's largest and most famous city, Honolulu. This being said, you'll find something for everyone here.
First and foremost, you cannot miss Honolulu and it's famous Waikiki beach. Here you'll be rewarded with blue lagoon colored waters and countless hotels and restaurants along the strip. Although the shops are quite touristy and pricey, you'll find everything you need here.
Honolulu is also site to many historic attractions such as Pearl Harbor. At this historic memorial you can take a boat to the site where the USS Arizona lies sunk in the harbor. The memorial is sombre and is important to the the remembrance for those who died during the war.
In a more upbeat note, take a stroll around the downtown area for quirky and contrasting architecture styles and discover a bit of the important Asian community at Honolulu's Chinatown.
There's countless wonderful beaches all along the coasts of Oahu. Some that come to mind are Hanauma Bay and Lanikai beach, the latter of which is home to rich turquoise colored calm waters; simply paradisical !
There are also great hiking opportunities on Oahu. Diamond Head is an inactive volcano and lovely hiking trail right outside of Waikiki. It offers wonderful views of the city below. Koko Head is also a challenging but rewarding hiking trail that is less busy.
Overall, Oahu is an extremely fun place to visit. You'll find historic memorials, a cosmopolitan city, beautiful beaches and great hiking trails; you'll definitely find something for everyone! I also forgot to mention the delicious and fresh Hawaiian cuisine the state offers! You're definitely in for a (or many) treat(s)!
#island #travel #oahu #honolulu #hawaii #usa
#hawaii #awesomepic #oahu
#awesomepic
Hawaii is more than a romantic location. if you are seeking adventure then Hawaii is truly a place for you! The scenery in Hawaii is something out of a movie! It's lush, green and beautiful!
One of the most popular hikes is called Stairway to Heaven. You can hike to the top using the back route. The only issue is that it takes about 4-6 hours to do it but it is perfectly legal. Trying to hike mountain using the stairs is actually illegal and there is police in the area looking out for tourists trying to do this hike. You could be fined up to $1000 as well. So be careful and have fun!
#oahu #hawaii #stairwaytoheaven #hawaiiHikes
This is one of the most beautiful views in the world -- driving along the road into the Hawaiian Botanical Gardens after some rain. #oahu #hi #hawaii #seeyourcity