Hawaii
Aloha From Oahu
June 15-30, 2022
View from top of Diamond Head pictured above
China Walls pictured above
My dad and I at Pearl Harbor pictured above
Byodo-In Temple pictured above
Hawaii is a paradise made up of islands, each offering its own unique blend of beauty, adventure, and culture. Two of the most captivating islands that I had the pleasure of exploring are Oahu and Kauai, both of which provide visitors with unforgettable experiences, yet in entirely different ways.
Oahu, often known as "The Gathering Place", is the energetic pulse of Hawaii. Home to the capital city of Honolulu and the famous beaches of Waikiki, Oahu offers a vibrant mix of urban culture and stunning natural beauty. Some of the highlights of my trip included hiking Diamond Head, catching the sunset at Waikiki Beach, experiencing Pearl Harbor, marveling at Manoa Falls, wandering through Ho'omaluhia Botanical Gardens, visiting the Byodo-In Temple and Gardens, catching a sunset at China Walls, and snorkeling off of a catamaran.
Diamond Head offers not only breathtaking views but also a rewarding hiking experience. This ancient volcanic crater, known as Lē'ahii in Hawaiiian, towers over Waikiki and provides panoramic views of Honolulu, the Pacific Ocean, and the island's lush landscape. The hike to the summit is a moderate 1.6-mile round trip that winds through tunnels, staircases, and switchbacks. As you ascend, the trail takes you past historical military bunkers before revealing the sweeping vistas that await at the top. The reward is a 360-degree view that stretches from the city skyline to the turquiose waters below.
Tucked away in Hawaii Kai, China Walls is a hidden gem known for its dramatic oceanfront cliffs and stunning sunset views. The flat lava rock ledges provide the perfect spot to relax, watch surfers take on the waves, and take in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean crashing against the cliffs. The cliffs can be very dangerous during high surf so caution is key. I chose not to swim at the cliffs.
Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden pictured above
Pearl Harbor, one of the most significant historical sites in the United States, offers a moving tribute to those who lost their lives during the events of December 7, 1941. Located on Oahu, this landmark provides the chance to reflect on the attack that led the U.S. into World War II. The USS Arizona Memorial is the most visited site in Pearl Harbor, where you can stand above the sunken battleship and honor the sailors who perished. It was extra special to experience this with my dad, a retired Navy sailor.
Tucked away in the lush Manoa Valley, Manoa Falls is one of Oahu's most accessible and scenic hikes. The trail leads you through a vibrant rainforest filled with towering bamboo and tropical plants, culminating at the stunning 150-foot waterfall. The hike is about 1.6 miles round trip, and while the trail can get muddy, the reward is worth it. Surrounded by greenery, the cascading waterfall makes for a breathtaking view and a perfect photo spot. If you're as lucky as I was, you may even see adventure enthusiasts repelling down the waterfall!
Manoa Falls pictured above
Nestled on Oahu's lush windward side, Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden is a serene escape offering 400 acres of stunning tropical beauty. The garden's name, meaning "to make a place of peace," perfectly describes the peaceful atmosphere, where you can wander through collections of plants from Hawaii, Polynesia, and around the world. With it's breathtaking views of the Ko'olau Mountain Range, peaceful walking paths, and calm lake, Ho'omaluhia is a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or a scenic picnic. The garden's natural beauty and variety of plant life make it a hidden gem on Oahu that you don't want to miss. I could have spent the entire day wandering around this peaceful retreat.
Located at the foot of the Ko'olau Mountains in Kaneohe, the Byodo-In Temple is a replica of a 900-year-old temple in Japan, offering a peaceful retreat steeped in cultural beauty. Surrounded by lush gardens, koi ponds, and perfectly manicured landscapes, this temple provides a serene atmosphere for reflection and relaxation. The temple's Amida Buddha statue and beautifully crafted architecture are stunning examples of Japanese design. You can also explore the tranquil gardens, ring the sacred bon-sho (bell) for good luck, or simply enjoy the calm surroundings. The gardens were my personal favorite part and was, in my opinion, one of the best views in all of Hawaii.
Aloha from Kauai
For those seeking a more tranquil and nature-filled escape, Kauai, known as "The Garden Isle", is a haven of lush rainforests, towering waterfalls, and emerald valleys. Kauai's landscape is the most rugged and untouched of all the Hawaiian islands, offering a slower pace that invites you to truly immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The highlights of my time on Kauai included a sunset cruise to see the Napali Coast, a dip in Queen's Bath, a misty mountain hike in Koke'e State Park with views of Waimea Canyon, jumping off the dock at Hanalei Bay, a sunset campfire on Anini Beach, and snorkeling at Napali Coast State Park. This island is perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature and find peace in paradise.
The sunset dinner cruise along the Napali Coast was one of my favorite parts of the entire trip. Departing from Port Allen around 3pm, the ocean grew greener and clearer the further we sailed from the port. We passed several stunning beaches, many of which are only accessible by boat, adding to the sense of adventure. One memorable sight was Manawaiopuna Falls, famously featured in Jurassic Park. Dinner was served just before sunset and included appetizers, dessert, and an open bar. But the best part? A pod of dolphins playfully swam alongside the boat while we ate, making the experience even more magical.
Tucked away on the north shore of Kauai, Queen's Bath is a hidden gem that offers a unique and adventurous experience. This natural tide pool, carved into lava rock, is filled with crystal-clear ocean water and provides a perfect spot for swimming when conditions are calm. Surrounded by rugged coastline and stunning views, Queen's Bath feels like nature's own infinity pool. Reaching Queen's bath takes a little bit of effort - the short but sometimes muddy hike to the pool involves a descent over rocky terrain, and the trail becomes slippery, especially after rain. Once you arrive, the beauty of the pool and dramatic ocean scenery make it worth the trek. I highly recommend wearing sturdy hiking shoes such as Chacos or Tevas. Be sure to check conditions before heading out - Queen's Bath can be dangerous during high surf or rough seas.
Perched above the stunning Napali Coast, Koke'e State Park is a lush haven for hikers, birdwatchers, and anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Kauai. Located in the mountains above Waimea Canyon, this park offers breathtaking views of deep valleys, mist-covered cliffs, and sweeping vistas of the island's rugged terrain. One of the highlights of Koke'e is the awe-inspiring view from Kalalau Lookout, which provides a panoramic glimpse into the Kalalau Valley, one of the most picturesque spots on the island.
Located on Kauai's north shore, Hanalei Bay is a gorgeous crescent-shaped beach surrounded by lush mountains and waterfalls. With its two-mile stretch of golden sand and calm turquoise waters, Hanalei Bay is the perfect spot for swimming and relaxing by the ocean. The pier at the bay's eastern end offers a scenic spot to take in the landscape and a popular spot to jump into the water. My brother and I enjoyed jumping off the pier into the crystal waters - just beware, the water is very shallow so no diving.
Anini Beach, which is also on the north shore, is known for its calm, crystal-clear waters and serene atmosphere. Protected by one of Hawaii's largest coral reefs, this beach offers excellent conditions for snorkeling, swimming, and stand-up paddle boarding. My family and I enjoyed a picnic and campfire on the beach at sunset.
Napali Coast State Park is on the northwest coast of Kauai and is framed for its dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls. We enjoyed snorkeling in some of the crystal clear waters where we swam among the sea turtles - truly a magical experience.
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