The Honolulu International Airport every year receives millions of eager visitors who are keen to start their much-awaited vacation. Once they have made their way through the airport they will catch a cab and make their way past downtown Honolulu towards Waikiki. 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. This area is only approximately two square miles but it is amazing how it captures visitors attention so that most miss parts of the island that the locals find so wonderful.
If you would prefer to see Oahu through the eyes of it’s local population then you need to continue reading this article.
Magic Island Beach Park - Located West of Waikiki this can be found not to far from the popular Ala Moana Shopping Mall. Although it is called a park, it does in fact, contain three beeches, a substantial (3 miles) jogging path, plus tennis courts and many other attractions. The Hawaiians love this area too and it is quite normal to see their extended families enjoying a meal together in the 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 is located on a ridge at Makiki Heights Drive, and as you drive up the ridge, you see some panoramic views of Oahu, which most visitors usually miss. The exquisite exhibits in this somewhat small museum keep changing in the 5 galleries and when you have finished viewing these, you could go outdoors for a walk in to the sculpture gardens. This is where the true glory of the museum is revealed within this 3.
Leong’s Café – When tourists are particularly keen to relish some authentic Hawaiian cuisine, they take lu’au as something, which is much more than just fun. 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. The bakery that goes by the name ‘Champion Malasadas’ can be found along South Berertania Street, it is the most famous throughout the island. These light Portuguese hole-less donuts come with and without filling and are absolutely worth the effort in getting them!
Honolulu Chinatown - This is a strange and fascinating place where you can believe you are not only in another country but a different time period. Whether you are looking for dim sum, fresh produce, handmade leis, or the new hip lounge, you are sure to find it in Chinatown. 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.
You will only truly enjoy Oahu as the locals do if you leave the Waikiki area and explore this beautiful island for yourself. 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.