The wealthy steamship cruisers of the
‘20s and ‘30s found a paradise and,
later, The Brady Bunch and Don Ho put
Honolulu on the map. It’s much busier
today, and Waikiki is now lined with
malls and hotels. But the attraction is
that they are on one of the world’s great
stretches of sand with the Diamond
Head Crater looming beyond.
The island is Oahu, but most of the
population is around Honolulu, with the
rest of the island almost untouched.
The city may be bustling, but it is
exciting – and noted for its cleanliness,
beauty and the friendly people.
What to do
Apart from all the water and land sports
that you will enjoy, take time for a few
other activities.
Walk up the rim of the Punchbowl
where a spectacular view of Honolulu
is laid out before you. Visit Ala Moana
Beach Park and walk around adjacent
Magic Island for a view of the harbour
and skyline. Take a cocktail cruise and
see Waikiki while you dine.
Check out the glider rides at
Dillingham Airfield and stay aloft for half
an hour.
Where to eat
There is no shortage of places to eat.
House Without a Key for a romantic
ambience, Hawaiian music and hula
dancers.
La Mer is the city’s five-diamond
restaurant. Choose the five-course
Menu du Soir.
The Hau Tree Lanai is on the
waterfront. Enjoy the sunset while you
dine on great fish.
Where to stay
Budget: Waikiki Prince, Coconut
Waikiki and Royal Grove are often
recommended.
Romance: We suggest the Outrigger
Waikiki on the Beach, Kahala Hotel &
Resort and Renew. These tend to have
good reviews.
Luxury: This would include Trump
International, the Halekulani and the
Royal Hawaiian.
Travel tips:
- Honolulu is in the tropics and
the heat attracts insects. Bring
travel size insect repellent. - Leave the jeans and long pants
at home. Pack tropical wear, such
as shorts, wrap skirts and lightweight
tops. - The sun is very strong in Oahu.
Cover up on day one, tan
gradually and bring a hat for your
head because your scalp will
burn. - There is a special festival
almost every month, so check
their calendar for events such as
Chopsticks and Wine, World Hula
Festival, Turkey Trot, City Lights
Festival, Annual Marathon and
many more.
Originally published in Today’s Bride magazine, Spring/Summer 2013.
