If you decide to vacation in Honolulu you will be joined by millions of others from Japan and America that do each year, flying into the International Airport. Once they have made their way through the airport they will catch a cab and make their way past downtown Honolulu towards Waikiki. The lure of Waikiki is nearly instant. This area is so full of things to do that many visitors never discover any other part of the island, contained as they are within Waikiki’s imaginary confines. About 6 million visitors never get to see the sights, which the locals find unforgettable all lying with in 2 square miles of Waikiki.
Visitors who would like to experience Oahu through the eyes of its residents, kindly read on.
Magic Island Beach Park – If you reach Ala Moana Shopping Center, this much loved park is situated across the street, on the west of Waikiki. What are the points of attraction in this park? It has two beaches, a jogging path stretching up to 3 miles, tennis courts and much more. This is a favorite spot for locals too and it is quite usual to see large families gather to eat with each other, enjoying the beautiful weather and their own company. Magic Island beaches are unlike many, un-crowded so it can be a relaxing experience and many people decide to have a barbecue while they are there.
The Contemporary Museum - This beautiful museum is not very large by museum standards and is situated high up on a ridge that offers spectacular vistas - it can be found on Makiki Heights drive. It may not be large but there is enough space to house 5 galleries and after a tour they can relax in the extensive gardens. Although many people visit the museum, it is the wonderful gardens that offer the exquisite views of the island and set in three and a half acres, they are open to everyone.
Leong’s Cafe - A lu’au is a must-do on any trip here and along with the fantastic entertainment they can also offer great native Hawaiian food. However, if you are looking out to taste some delectable foods cooked in typical Hawaiian style, then you can never miss out on Leong’s Cafe located at 2343 North King Street. Some of the dishes, which keep the customers coming back, include kalua pig, lu’au stew, lomi lomi and more and as incredible as it may sound, this place is visited both by locals as well as tourists, for over 50 years.
Champion Malasadas – A local preparation by the name of Malasadas are such hot favorites with the people that they decided to rename Fat Tuesday as Malasadas Day throughout the Hawaiian Islands. You can find Champion Malasadas, which is a famous bakery, along South Beretania Street. Worth every penny that you spend on it, these Portuguese donuts do not have a hole and you can have it with or without fillings and they are extremely lightweight.
Honolulu Chinatown - A walk through the streets of Chinatown in like a walk into another time and place. Chinatown has them all – dim sum, fresh produce, handmade leis or the ultra modern lounges. The streets and shops are exotic, offering items not found in a typical American grocery. Guided walking tours are available for this historic district, but often the best way is to simply meander through the streets, stopping whenever your interest has been piqued.
In case you are keen to enjoy Oahu the way a local does, spend more time outside Waikiki. There are many places to visit but those mentioned above are well worth the effort even though there is so much that makes Hawaii a special destination.
