Hawaii : Oahu overview

I love Hawaii; it’s my happy place. I am excited to share my love of our 50th state. I hope to inspire you to fully learn about and enjoy this Pacific paradise.
Oahu is the most populated island of Hawaii and the location of the state capitol, Honolulu. The island has various regions to visit: Honolulu (which has many varying districts of its own); the east or Windward side; the North Shore; the west or Leeward side; and the central part of the island.

Honolulu is a large, modern, multicultural city. It has an active port, lots of banking and international businesses, universities, and a beautiful beach in Waikiki. We stay in Honolulu as part of any trip to Hawaii. We love visiting a vibrant and historic city while listening to the ocean at night and looking up to mountains so close you feel like you could touch them.

City of Honolulu from Top of Waikiki

The Windward side has the country charm of Waimanalo, the relaxed beach town of Kailua, Kaneohe and its lovely bay, and the spectacular mountain beauty of the Kualoa Ranch. The North Shore has the famed surfing beaches near Waimea Bay, the best shrimp trucks, and laid-back Haleiwa for local flavors of surf shops, shave ice, local food, and ukulele makers.

Waimea Valley, North Shore

The Leeward side includes Ko Olina, a beautiful cove with several resorts and golf course. A newcomer there is Aulani, the Disney resort. Central Oahu is the lush agricultural center of the island with pineapples, sugarcane, coffee, and cocoa and spectacular views of the mountain ranges. At the south end of this region is Pearl Harbor, home to five historic sites including the Arizona and Missouri memorials.

Ford Island control tower, Pearl Harbor

What is your favorite part of Oahu? Are you planning a visit?

Affiliate links: if you make a purchase using these links, I’ll receive a small compensation towards maintaining this blog, at no extra cost to you.

Share this post: