O ’ AHU
Surrounded by the emerald-green cliffs of the Ko ’ olau Mountains and the tranquil waters of Hanauma Bay , the island of O ’ ahu offers jaw-dropping natural beauty . It is also the historic seat of the Hawaiian monarchy and has a rich cultural history . O ’ ahu offers beaches , museums , marine parks , and gardens that are perfect for families to explore . Discover the island ’ s outdoor excursions and heritage highlights that will fascinate multiple generations .
Honu at Black Rock
Credit : Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
Covered with pristine beaches and lush valleys and surrounded by crystalline water , O ’ ahu ’ s natural environment demands discovery . Explore the island ’ s beauty by visiting its beaches , gardens , and parks .
WAIMEA VALLEY & BOTANICAL GARDEN
Stretching from the mountains to the sea , Waimea Valley is dedicated as a pu ’ uhonua or place of refuge . Filled with waterfalls , native Hawaiian birds and Hawaiian cultural sites , the park provides hours of enjoyment . The botanical garden boasts 52 different themed gardens and 5000 tropical plants . Visitors can book guided walking or shuttle tours of the botanical garden at the admission gate .
HE ’ EIA FISHPOND
Hawaiian fishponds are unique aquaculture sites found only in Hawaii . Walled coastal ponds herd fish and work with the natural environment to cultivate baby fish to maturity and provide fish for the local community when ocean fishing is not possible . He ’ eia fishpond dates back to the 1200s and is the only Hawaiian fishpond fully encircled by a wall . Learn what takes place in a traditional Hawaiian fish pond with a 60-minute guided tour . Reservations are required .
FAMILY FRIENDLY BEACHES
The iconic Waikiki Beach , blessed with pearly sand , gentle waves , and the dramatic backdrop of Diamond Head Crater is the first beach that comes to mind on O ’ ahu but it ’ s also the most crowded . Consider Kailua Beach , a beautiful stretch of sand with lots of shade , dunes , and a beachside restaurant without the large crowds . Other options are Ala Moana Beach Park which includes a protected lagoon called Magic Island , a large grassy area and concession stands , or Kualoa Regional Beach Park , which supplies calm water , picnic tables , and striking views . By Rosalind Cummins-Yeates
KAUAI
While the tourist hordes flock to its neighbors , Kauai has always been and still remains the hidden gem among the Hawaiian Islands .
Often referred to as the “ Garden Isle ,” Kauai may only be the fourth largest island in the chain of islands that comprise the state of Hawaii , but it is also the oldest and by far the most unspoiled , least commercialized of the lot . A veritable tropical paradise that has featured prominently in films ranging from Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean to Avatar and King Kong , Kauai is an island that entrances visitors with its lush landscapes , dramatic cliffs , and pristine beaches , among a plenitude of other assets .
One of the most iconic natural wonders of Kauai is the Na Pali Coast , where the memorably rugged coastline , with its towering sea cliffs , emerald valleys , and cascading waterfalls , offers views that are nothing short of breathtaking . Similarly , Waimea Canyon , often dubbed the “ Grand Canyon of the Pacific ,” stretches over 14 miles long and reaches depths of up to 3,600 feet , only adding to its majesty by showing off the vibrant red and green hues of the canyon walls , combined with the
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