Hang Ten In Hawaii

If you’re dreaming of a holiday to somewhere tropical, Hawaii could be just the destination you’re looking for! Have a look at our pick of activities on Oahu.

HIKE A CRATER IN HAWAII

The seriously impressive crater at Diamond Head is often first seen on a flight into Honolulu – but the best way to see it is by hiking the 175 step staircase to the top. It takes around an hour and the views are well worth the effort.

LEARN TO HANG 10

Hawaii’s Waikiki Beach is one of the best known beaches in the world, with wide, white sands framed by the volcanic cone of Diamond Head in the background.

Surfing here is a must – even if you don’t know how. You can either rent a board, or join a two hour surf school.

HOMESTYLE KITCHEN BOOTS AND KIMO

Hawaiians know how to do pancakes, and no one does them better than Boots & Kimo’s in Kailua.

The small homestyle restaurant is popular with locals and tourists alike, so be prepared for a wait. Their signature dish is the banana macadamia nut pancake stack – but why stop there?

HOLE IN ONE

The Aloha State offers around 90 golf courses on six islands, and golfing remains one of the biggest drawcards for US and Japanese tourists.

Even if you’re a novice, it may be the most spectacular golf setting in the world – the combination of incredible views in seaside locations, favourable climate and immaculately maintained greens keeps golf junkies coming back for more.

HIT THE PALI HIGHWAY

The valleys above Honolulu have lush forest reserves and often-empty hiking trails. Hiring a vehicle and heading over the mountain ranges for a completely different outlook on the island should be compulsory.

The Pali Highway is the most spectacular vantage point and it’s very easy to find. At the top, the Pali Lookout is a favourite picnic stop.

HELICOPTER TOUR

With much of Hawaii’s beautiful rainforests, white sand beaches and waterfalls inaccessible by car, the best way to see the islands is by helicopter.

In a two and a half hour flight you can cover the vivid turquoise coral reefs to the extinct volcano of Diamond Head.

HAGGLE AT THE INTERNATIONAL MARKET PLACE

The International Market Place is the best place to start a Hawaii shopping experience.

It is unashamedly a tourist trap located in busy Waikiki, but you simply can’t leave Hawaii without some type of clothing with Hawaiian print or floral design jewellery.

HISTORIC PEARL HARBOUR

One of America’s great defining moments occurred in 1941 with the surprise attack on Pearl Harbour by Japanese forces, killing 1,100 men.

Today the naval base has three significant memorials: the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the USS Bowfin Museum. Make sure you book before you leave to avoid missing out!

HANG OUT WITH TURTLES ON THE NORTH SHORE

Laniakea Beach is also referred to as “Turtle beach” because this natural sanctuary attracts so many of the endangered Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle or “Honu”.

With so many spectacular sights and a near perfect climate, all set within that distinctive American culture, Hawaii makes a great family or couples escape.