Blowhole and other Hawaii (State of), HI Things to Do Tips

Just past Hanauma Bay in Honolulu, if you keep driving a few more minutes, you will come across Hawaii's famous BlowHole. This is a natural lava rock formation that spouts water when the waves come rolling in. Be prepared to stay a little while if you want that perfect picture, the spout is not always cooperative! A video camera is perfect for recording this event, but for still pictures, I would recommend a higher speed film.

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If you're feeling fit, I highly recommend a hike to the top of Diamond Head. The hike up is moderate, and the first 77 steps on the first set of stairs is easy, but it gets a little tough at second set of 99 steps ... bring a flashlight for the two "dark" areas, and be sure to come with water! Once you reach the summit, the view will take your breath away and make you forget all about those steps you had to climb. UPDATE: Parking is $5 per carload; pedestrians pay US $2.00; annual pass is $10, and I think a man on the top is asking for $2.00 donation for a certificate that says I hiked to the top of DH. If you go between January and April, you may be able to see humpback whales from the top of the summit.

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Address: Kapahulu, off of Monsarrat, follow signs
Directions: Right across from Kapiolani Comm College, left hand side
Website: http://www.backyardoahu.com/index.html
Other Contact: Select Diamond Head

If you have children, they will surely appreciate a trip to Sea Life Park on the east side of the island. The prices at the gate are $24 adult, $12 child, free 3years and under. Check around for discount tickets, or military can check with ITT or MWR. Feeding time is fun, you can feed the sea turtles (lettuce) and sea lions (fish $2) ... or if you are really happy to spend your $$, you can swim with the sea life in the big tank. There are a few shows throughout the day, and though as adults we may seem slightly unimpressed, the children will scream in excitement!

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Phone: (808) -259-7933
Address: 41-202 Kalanianaole Highway, Waimanalo
Directions: From Waikiki follow H1 till it merges with Kalanianaole Hwy, continue till you come to SLP on the left. SLP is just minutes past the BlowHole.
Website: http://www.hawaiiweb.com/html/sea_life_park.html

No trip to Hawaii is complete without first stopping by to see the Arizona Memorial. It brings about very sombre moments as you relive this event through film and narration. This is a free tour. First you'll see a 20 minute film on the history of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, then you'll be escorted to a boat that takes you to the actual memorial. Quiet! They're firm about their rules. Also, no offense intended but I'll tell you that I think it's cruel to bring younger children only because I've seen some unrelenting adults scoff and bicker about the young ones. Be prepared for a wait, and in all honesty, opening time is NOT the best time to go as the wait will be longer. Bring your blue PASSPORT to Your National Parks

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Phone: (808) 422-0561(visitor info)
Address: Pearl Harbor Hawaii
Directions: Past Pearl Harbor Naval Base, follow the park signs on Kamehameha Hwy.
Website: http://www.nps.gov/usar/

When you drive around the island, be sure to look for this famous "island" better known as Chinaman's Hat. When you look from the Pali Lookout, you can see Chinaman's hat in the distance.

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Address: On the eastern side of the Island of Oahu

There is so much history in the confines of this Palace. Fabulously restored Iolani Palace after the overthrow of the Hawaiian Monarchy. Most of what is in the palace are originals that have been tracked down by Friends of the Palace. You will get a room by room account of the palace, along with history of a few of our Kings. You will have to wear special palace slippers to go on the guided tour, and there is absolutely NO photography opportunities once you enter the palace.

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Phone: (808) 522-0832
Directions: Located at the corner of King and Richards streets, parking is available. The Palace is directly across from the Statue of King Kamehameha in the Capitol district of Honolulu.
Website: http://www.iolanipalace.org/
Other Contact: Reservations recommended