Spirit of Aloha | Explore the islands | O'ahu

Exploring O'ahu

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O‘ahu has plenty to see and do year-round, but it’s during the winter season, which lasts through April, that O‘ahu gives some of its best. It all hap- pens on the North Shore, where the laidback country lifestyle of Old Hawai‘i harmonizes with snappy surf shops, extreme sports and artful cafés.

In summer, North Shore beaches such as Waimea can be gentle as a kitten; but in winter, powerful waves between 6 and 40 feet or more in height roll in, and with them come surfers from all over the world. (Before you “pooh-pooh” a 6-foot wave, note that in Ha­wai‘i waves are measured up the back rather than the face, which can make a molehill out of a mountain!) If conditions are right, you may be lucky enough to catch the granddaddy of surfing competitions, the Big Wave Invitational in Memory of Eddie Aikau. The last time the waves were “right” enough to hold the event was in 2004, when surfing star Bruce Irons won the title on monsters reaching 50 feet. But on any day, the North Shore’s most famous spots—Waimea Bay, Pipe­line and Sunset Beach—can give you a taste of the action.

Don’t miss other great winter opportunities on the North Shore, such as whale-watch­­ing. The endangered humpbacks, one of the world’s largest whales, travel from Alaska each year to spend the season in our warmer clime. From coastal vantage points such as at Turtle Bay, or on a boat tour, you might see them spouting, arching or even leaping right out of the waves.

So go beyond Honolulu for the day and head for the North Shore, where winter brings some of O‘ahu’s most exciting ex­periences.

O‘ahu’s North Shore is at its peak in the winter season

 


Life's an Adventure: Explore it

Island Dream Catamaran
is the most photographed boat in Hawai‘i. Enjoy fun and exciting sailing, snorkeling and whale-watching tours that explore unseen views of Waikïkï’s famous coastline from the beautiful 37-foot catamaran. Call 450-2866 or visit islanddreamcatamaran.com


Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor
occupies hangars that still bear the scars of our nation’s first aviation battlefield. Presenting aircraft such as a Japanese Zero and its opponent, the Wildcat, in diorama exhibits. Air conditioned, movie, café, gift shop, flight simulators. Hangar 37, Ford Island. Call and experience history today. Call 441-1000 or visit www.pacificaviationmuseum.org


Polynesian Cultural Center
The native lifestyles, history and hospitality of seven Pacific cultures come alive at the Polynesian Cultural Center, Hawai‘i’s No. 1 paid visitor attraction. Call 293-3333 or visit www.polynesia.com


Snorkel Bob
Brand™ masks include the Seamo Betta™ and Li’l Mo Betta™ if you need Rx lenses. Snor­kel Bob’s Compleat Reef Video is the what-for and where-from of snorkeling, and it’s free over­night when you get gear from Snor­kel Bob. Open on all islands from
8 to 5 every day. Call 735-7944 or visitwww.snorkelbob.com


Society of Seven
Whether you see the original Society of Seven or the new SOS LV, get ready for a spectacular night of entertainment that will leave a lasting impression.
Call 923-7469.

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Shopping is Heaven on O'ahu

Ala Moana Center
is Hawai‘i’s largest shopping destination with 260 stores including 70 restaurants, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom (Spring 2008), and the islands’ largest collection of luxury boutiques. For more information call 955-9517 or visit www.AlaMoanaCenter.com

CaboandCoral.com
Capture the aloha spirit with Cabo & Coral Go Surfing! Inspirational and educational, it teaches about sharing waves, surfing etiquette, living in harmony with our environment and respecting the beach. Partial proceeds go to Surfrider Foundation. Visit CaboandCoral.com


Crazy Shirts
is a brand of top-quality T-shirts and apparel made from the finest materials available and decorated with original, fun art. There are 37 retail stores in Hawai‘i, Guam, California, Nevada and Florida. Call the catalog store at 800-771-2720 or visit crazyshirts.com


Dole
Share Hawaiian heritage and culture with family and friends by giving freshly harvested juicy and delicious tropical gold pineapple from Dole. Dole pineapples are grown in rich volcanic soil with warm tropical rainfall and kissed with Hawaiian sunshine. Order online at dolefruithawaii.com


Fabric Mart
Shas Hawaiian fabrics at wholesale prices, with more than 3,000 designs. Located at 1631 Kaläkaua Ave. (947-4666), Käne‘ohe (234-6604) and ‘Aiea (488-8882). Visit fmart.com


HILO HATTIE
is where you will discover the largest selection of Hawaiian fashions, gifts, souvenirs and jewelry. 700 Nimitz Highway (535-6500), Ala Moana Shopping Center (973-3266). Free transportation from Waikïkï every 20 minutes or visit HiloHattie.com


Indich Collection
specializes in unique hand-woven Hawaiian Rugs® in designs of plumeria, heliconia, bird of paradise and more. Wide range of sizes. At 550 Ward Ave. (596-7333) and 560 N. Nimitz Highway. Also located in Kona and on Maui (524-7769). Visit www.hawaiianrugs.com


Island Slipper
Good for your soul®. Find the largest selection of sandals, hats and backpacks. An Island tradition since 1946. Located at Ward Warehouse. Phone 593-8229.


Kawamata Farms LLC
is located in Kamuela on the Big Island and produces award-winning, vine-ripened Kamuela Tomatoes. Kawamata Farms is proud to be certified by PrimusLabs.com, ensuring the highest standards of food safety. Available at grocery stores throughout the Islands. Visit PrimusLabs.com

KOA COFFEE PLANTATION
produces 100 percent Kona coffee that is consistently smooth, with a rich, well-balanced flavor. Called the “Best Coffee in America” by Forbes magazine. A truly delicious cup of coffee! Call 866-562-5282 or visit koacoffee.com

Lappert’s Hawai‘i
handmakes all of its premium ice cream in small batches every day and meticulously roasts its savory coffees in the same careful fashion in sleepy Hanapëpë town on the island of Kaua‘i. Indulge yourself at several locations on O‘ahu, Maui and Kaua‘i throughout your vacation. Visit lappertshawaii.com

Louis Vuitton
has been synonymous with the history of travel since 1854 and this year will celebrate its 150th anniversary. Experience Louis Vuitton's fashion-from travel goods, handbags and accessories to the current season's men and women's shoe collection. Located at Gump Waikiki (971-6880); Ala Moana Center (973-0580); Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa (973-3388). www.louisvuitton.com

Maui Divers Jewelry Design Center
,Hawai'i's largest fine-jewelry showroom offers free behind-the-scenes tours and transportation from Waikiki. Ask to see the "Paradise Collection." Open daily at the Design Center (943-8383) and in Hilo Hattie Nimitz (566-5923). Visit www.mauidivers.com


Mauna Kea Galleries
is located in the historic McCully Chop Suey Building at 2005 S. King St. and is the only gallery in Hawai‘i that sells museum-quality artwork from Hawai‘i’s and Poly­nesia’s pasts. Call 941-4901 or visit www.Maunakeagalleries.com


Nā Hoku
captures the essence of Hawaiian lifestyle and tradition with its collection of fine jewelry. Created to accent the individuality, taste and style of the woman who wears it, Na Hoku's Hawaiian and island lifestyle jewelry features beautifully hand-engraved heirloom, floral and sea-life design. Located at Ala Moana Center, 946-2100; Hilton Hawaiian Village, 942-4858; Polynesian Cultural Center, 293-8742. Call 946-2100, 942-4858 or 293-8742. Visit www.NaHoku.com


Oils of Aloha
kukui nut oil is a natural moisturizer that relieves the symptoms of dry skin, eczema and psoriasis. Available in fine stores and pharmacies throughout the Islands. Call 637-5620 or 800-367-6010 or visit oilsofaloha.com


The Original Plumeria Lei" Collection
This is a stunning collection of 14K bracelets, earrings, pendants and rings by award-winning jewelry designer Denny Wong. Available on O‘ahu at Island Gold Collection (597-1199), Moana Jewelry (921-0888), Reflec­tions of the Heart (734-1200) and Dolphin Gallery (951-5000)


Paradise Collection
is located on the first level of Aloha Tower Market­place and is a one-stop shop for Hawaiian jewelry and gifts. Shop online from one of Hawai‘i’s largest selections of Ha­wai­ian jewelry, with more than 2,000 different designs, at www.paradisecollection.com


Pearl Factory
At the authentic Original Pearl Factory, you’ll discover some of the most beautiful, high-quality saltwalter cultured pearls in the Islands. Select your own oyster and, with the ring of a bell, your pearl treasure is unveiled. Once the pearl is cleaned and polished, you’re ready to pick the perfect setting for it. Hilton Hawaiian Village Rainbow Bazaar (942-2447); Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center (923-1780); Polynesian Cultural Center (293-0852); International Market Place (923-2544). Visit www.pearl-factory.com


Sandal Tree
has an outstanding selection of footwear for men and women for every occasion and a great line of accessories. At the Hyatt Regency Waikïkï (921-9936) and Ala Moana Center (957-0300). Visit sandaltree.com


Santa’s Pen HawaI‘i
designs, manufactures and distributes a custom line of personalizable Ha­waiian Christmas ornaments. Visit the kiosk locations at Pearl Har­bor Navy Exhange Rotunda or Pearl­ridge Shopping Center, Uptown. Call 800-459-XMAS or visit www.santaspenhawaii.com


Tiffany & Co.
Since 1837, Tiffany & Co. has captivated the world with elegant design and remarkable craftsmanship. Here you will find the timeless creations that have made Tiffany the world’s premier jeweler and America’s house of design. Visit locations at 2100 Kalākaua Ave. in Waikīkī (926-2600) and Ala Moana Shopping Center (943-6670).


TOMMY BAHAMA
retail emporiums offer a broad range of refined men’s and women’s collections of sportswear, swimwear, footwear, home décor and accessories. Tommy Bahama ompounds, consisting of a retail emporium and Tropical Café, offer the complete lifestyle environment that takes you to a unique destination with the full flavor of the Islands. Tommy Bahama emporiums are located in Honolulu, Kïhei, the Kohala Coast, Lahaina and Waikoloa (opening in Spring 2008). Tommy Bahama compounds are located in Kïhei and the Kohala Coast. Visit www.tommybahama.com


O'ahu: It's Oh, So "Ono"

ALi LŪ'AU AT Polynesian Cultural Center:
Against a backdrop of waterfalls and lush gardens, the award-winning Ali‘i Lü‘au awaits you with melt-in-your-mouth pork, authentic dancers, Island musicians, performances and flower lei. Let the evening absorb you into the island’s most authentic Hawaiian lü‘au. Call 293-3333 or visit www.polynesia.com

Cheeseburger in Paradise, Waikıkı
across from Waikīkī Beach at 2500 Kalākaua Ave. serves up cheeseburgers, mai tais and rock ’n’ roll. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. (923-3731). Also try the new Cheeseburger Waikīkī at 1945 Kalākaua Ave. (941-2400). Visit
www.cheeseburgerland.com

Cholo’s Homestyle Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar
offers some of the best Mexi­can food in the Islands, in­cluding fajitas and fresh fish tacos. Lunch and dinner. Major credit cards ac­cepted. Open daily 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. In Hale‘iwa (637-3059).

Hakone
invites you to enjoy its extensive menu of traditional and authentic Japanese delicacies. Exquisite presentation and brilliant flavors are combined to create cutting-edge cuisine with a tropical flair. Located at Hawai‘i Prince Hotel Waikīkī. For reservations, call 944-4494.www.princeresortshawaii.com

Jameson’s By The Sea
is famous for its fresh Island fish and ocean views. Open weekdays for lunch, Saturdays and Sundays for brunch and daily for dinner. Meals are prepared from the freshest ingredients available, including fresh fish—‘öpakapaka, mahimahi, ‘ahi and ono—plus baked stuffed shrimp, scallops, lobster tails, New York steak and filet mignon. In Hale‘iwa (637-4336).


Kona Brewing Co.
This waterfront restaurant serves innovative entrées, featuring local beef and fish, gourmet pizzas and handcrafted beers. Koko Marina Shopping Center 394-KONA (5662) Monday through Satur­day 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Live music Sundays, Wednes­­days, Fridays, Saturdays. Visit Konabrewingco.com

Lappert’s Hawai‘i
hand makes all of its premium ice cream in small batches every day and meticulously roasts its savory coffees in the same careful fashion in sleepy Hanapēpē town on the island of Kaua‘i. Indulge yourself at several locations on O‘ahu, Maui or Kaua‘i throughout your vacation. Visit lappertshawaii.com

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
Home of the original Hawaiian barbecue, L&L features a fusion of American, Hawaiian and Asian entrées known as the Hawai­ian plate lunch, cooked fresh and made to order, with large portions at low prices. More than 170 locations and growing throughout the United States (50 in Hawai‘i). Call 866-951-9888 or visit hawaiianbarbecue.com

Ocean Vodka
is an organic, ultra-premium vodka made on Maui using Hawai‘i deep-sea water. For product information, availability, signature recipes or to purchase online, please visit www.oceanvodka.com Now served on Aloha Airlines.

Outback Steakhouse
offers Aus­tralian-themed casual dining, featuring steaks, fresh fish, chicken, shrimp, ribs and lamb. Open daily for dinner and takeaway. Call-ahead seating available. Lo­cated at Kahana Gateway Center (665-1822) and Pi‘ilani Shopping Center (879-8400).

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro
offers a unique dining experience combining Chinese cuisine from five major culinary regions of China, wines by the glass and tempting desserts served with local hospitality in a stylish, upbeat bistro setting. Call 596-4710 or visit pfchangshawaii.com

Prince Court, Coast Grille & Oyster
and The Pavilion at Manta Ray Point feature Hawai‘i regional cuisine, which blends the Islands’ most memorable dishes with distinctive ingredients, the perfect gathering of flavorful dishes to showcase Hawai‘i’s bounty. Located at the Maui Prince Hotel. For reservations, call 875-5888. Visit
www.princeresortshawaii.com

Roy’s
is where it all started. This is the very first Roy’s, home of Ha­wai­­ian Fusion cuisine. 6600 Kalani­ana­‘ole Highway (396-7697). Locations also at the new Waikïkï Beach Walk (923-7697) and Kö ‘Olina, 92-1220 Ali‘inui Drive (676-7697). Visit www.roysrestaurant.com

Ruth’s Chris Steak House
serves only the best steaks, selected from the top 2 percent of the country’s beef and served sizzling hot—with heaping sides of warm ambience and comfortable elegance. This New Orleans-inspired cuisine features the finest USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, an award-winning wine list and a wide variety of appetizers, side dishes and desserts, all served in a gracious environment with the warm hospitality you expect from Ruth’s Chris. To experience fine dining at its prime, just follow the sizzle to Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Located at Waikīkī Beach Walk, 226 Lewers St. (440-7910) and Restaurant Row, 500 Ala Moana Blvd. (599-3860). Visit www.ruthschris.com

THE YARD HOUSE
is an upscale-casual eatery known for its extensive menu, classic rock music and world’s largest selection of draft beer. From classic lagers to more obscure ales and stouts, there’s a draft beer flavor for everyone. The menu of American cuisine includes an impressive selection of appetizers, salads, pastas, sandwiches, individual-size pizzas, seafood, steaks, ribs and chops. Late-night dining is available, and each restaurant can accommodate groups for large parties. The kid’s klub includes a 12-page activity book, fresh-to-order menu items, kustom koolers and a fresh fruit strawberry bar. Located at 226 Lewers St., in Waikīkī. Call 923-YARD or visit yardhouse.com

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Your Piece of Paradise

THE BEACH VILLAS AT Kō‘olina
is a beachfront residence in O‘ahu’s prestigious Kö ‘Olina Resort & Marina with exemplary two- and three-bedrom whole ownership residences starting at the low $900,000s. Call 888-254-1161 or visitwww.KoOlinaBeachVillas.com


Farm Credit Services of Hawai‘i
Planning to buy open or improved land, construct a new project or purchase livestock or equipment? Need funds to operate your business or refinance an existing mortgage? Farmers, ranchers, fishermen, nursery owners and country homeowners can call Farm Credit Services of Hawai‘i for help. Toll free 800-894-4996. Visit www.KoOl HawaiiFarmCredit.com Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach CluB on O‘ahu’s sunny west shore offers the se­duc­tion of a private resort, with easy ac­cess to exciting Waikïkï. Call 877-229-4484.


Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach CluB
on O‘ahu’s sunny west shore offers the se­duc­tion of a private resort, with easy ac­cess to exciting Waikïkï. Call 877-229-4484.


TIMESHARE RESALES OF HAWAI‘I
specializes in timeshare resales at up to 50 percent off developer prices. “This is a timesharing sales presentation. Any purchaser has, under the law, a seven-day right of rescission of any timesharing sales contract.” Call 800-923-7700, ext. 1.

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Home Away from Home

Hawai‘i Prince Hotel Waikīkī
is the stan­dard for sophistication on O‘ahu. This relaxing oasis boasts luxurious ocean­front guest rooms with panoramic views of the Pacific blue. Just steps away from beaches, shopping and exciting attractions, it’s the only hotel in Waikīkī with its own golf course. Call 956-1111 or 866-PRINCE-6. For tee times, call 944-4567. Visit www.princeresortshawaii.com

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On the Road

Need to rent a car? Check out:
Alamo Rent-A-Car (800-GO-ALAMO); Avis Rent A Car (800-331-1212); Budget Rent A Car (800-527-7000); Dollar Rent A Car (800-800-4000); Enterprise Rent-A-Car (800-RENT-A-CAR); Hertz (800-654-3131); National Car Rental (800-CAR-RENT).
                                                                        

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