Although an International destination, Honolulu is frequented by mainly Americans and Japanese and each year millions visit here. After they have made their way through the airport, the vast majority will be heading towards the Waikiki area of the island. The attraction of Waikiki is nearly magnetic - the bustle of the busy streets, the long and extended beaches and the rich history of the land soon make the visitors hit the streets. 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.
If you are thinking of visiting Oahu then you should find this interesting.
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. It may sound like a theme park but in actual fact it has two beaches, areas to run and play sports like tennis and much more. A leisurely stroll around the park would bring you closer to the essence of Hawaiian culture – where a large family with all the members spends a lively day together amidst delicious food and lots of sun. 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 Honolulu - This small museum is located high on a ridge at Makiki Heights Drive and the drive up the ridge offers amazing vistas that would otherwise be missed by most Oahu visitors. This small museum is still large enough to contain five galleries and beautifully sculpted gardens to enjoy. 5 acres of meditative gardens which are open to the public and offer some of the most amazing views of Honolulu.
Leong’s Cafe - Many visitors look to a lu’au for more than entertainment especially when they are after some great Hawaiian food. Food lovers will appreciate Leong’s cafe which can be found easily as it is situated at 2343 North King Street. Here they have been serving the Hawaiian population for in excess of five decades with traditional dishes enjoyed by many.
Champion Malasadas - Hawaii has a local dish called Malasadas which have become so entrenched in the everyday lives of Hawaiins that they renamed Fat Tuesday and called it Malasadas Day. You can find Champion Malasadas, which is a famous bakery, along South Beretania Street. Although a Hawaiian treat, they are in fact Portuguese and are donuts without the hole and they are served with or without your favorite filling.
Honolulu Chinatown – when you take a stroll down Chinatown, you would be transported to another era in terms of space and time. Everything from dim sum to fresh produce can be found here but it also has more modern treats to like the new Hip Lounge. The shops and streets are unforgettable, offering goods, which you would never find in an average American store. While many visitors take guided tours, it is just as easy (if not more so) to wander through the streets, taking in the atmosphere and stopping whenever you feel the need.
If you are interested in seeing Oahu through a locals eyes, be sure to spend some time outside of Waikiki. Move around all or some of the destinations mentioned above and soon you would realize why Hawaii is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.