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Aloha Oahu

Waikiki Artfest

Experience the Waikiki Artfest on Saturday and Sunday, February 15 and 16, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Kapiolani Park Bandstand in Honolulu. This event features local artists showcasing handmade crafts, jewelry, and art pieces.

Admission is free, and it’s a great opportunity to support local artisans and find unique, Hawaii-made products.

  • Art
  • Free
  • Shopping
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Forever Summer

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Aloha Oahu

Haleiwa Town

Haleʻiwa, located on Oʻahu’s North Shore, is a charming and historic town known for its laid-back vibe, surf culture, and vibrant arts scene. This picturesque town is a gateway to some of the best beaches and activities on the island, making it a must-visit destination.

History and Culture

  • Plantation Roots: Haleʻiwa’s history dates back to the late 19th century when it was a hub for sugar plantations. Its name means “house of the frigatebird” in Hawaiian.
  • Historic Architecture: Many of the town’s buildings retain their plantation-era charm, blending rustic architecture with tropical flair.
  • Cultural Hub: Haleʻiwa is home to art galleries, surf shops, and local boutiques that showcase the creativity and spirit of the North Shore community.

Things to Do

  • Surfing: Known as the Surfing Capital of the World, Haleʻiwa offers access to iconic beaches like Waimea Bay, Pipeline, and Sunset Beach. Surf lessons and board rentals are available for beginners.
  • Food and Treats: Indulge in local delicacies such as garlic shrimp from food trucks, fresh poke bowls, and famous shave ice at Matsumoto’s Shave Ice.
  • Shopping: Explore an array of shops offering handmade jewelry, island-inspired clothing, and unique souvenirs.
  • Art and History: Visit the Haleʻiwa Art Gallery and learn about the area’s history at the North Shore Marketplace.

Visitor Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: Late morning or early afternoon is perfect for strolling the town and enjoying lunch.
  • Parking: Free parking is available throughout the town, but it can fill up quickly during peak times.
  • Laid-back Atmosphere: Embrace the relaxed pace of life—Haleʻiwa embodies the aloha spirit.

Haleʻiwa Town is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering something for everyone, from adventurous surfers to curious travelers.

  • Art
  • Family-Friendly
  • Food & Drink
  • History
  • Shopping
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Aloha Oahu

Queen Emma Summer Palace

The Queen Emma Summer Palace, also known as Hānaiakamalama, is a historical museum located in the Nuʻuanu Valley of Oahu, Hawaii. It served as a retreat for Queen Emma, the wife of King Kamehameha IV, and their son, Prince Albert, during the mid-19th century. The palace is a beautifully preserved example of Hawaiian royal heritage and offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Hawaiian monarchy.

Key Features:

  • Historical Significance: The palace was originally built in 1848 and became Queen Emma’s summer residence. It provided a peaceful escape from the heat of Honolulu for the royal family.
  • Museum: The site now serves as a museum operated by the Daughters of Hawaiʻi, showcasing artifacts and memorabilia from the Hawaiian monarchy, including furniture, clothing, and personal items belonging to Queen Emma and her family.
  • Architectural Charm: The house features a mix of Hawaiian and Victorian design elements, reflecting the blend of cultures during Queen Emma’s time.
  • Scenic Grounds: The palace is set on beautifully landscaped grounds surrounded by lush tropical greenery, offering a serene environment for visitors.
  • Cultural Preservation: The Daughters of Hawaiʻi have maintained the palace as a space for education and cultural appreciation, preserving it as a testament to Hawaii’s royal history.

Visitor Information:

  • Location: The palace is situated just a short drive from downtown Honolulu in Nuʻuanu Valley.
  • Admission: There is a small entrance fee to help support the maintenance and preservation of the museum.
  • Guided Tours: Docent-led tours provide in-depth information about Queen Emma’s life, the Hawaiian monarchy, and the history of the palace.
  • Hours: Typically open daily, but it’s recommended to check current hours before visiting.

Tips for Visitors:

  • Cultural Respect: The site is a historical and cultural treasure, so visitors are encouraged to respect the artifacts and the grounds.
  • Photography: Limited photography may be allowed; inquire about specific policies upon arrival.
  • Combine Visits: The palace’s proximity to downtown Honolulu makes it an easy addition to a day exploring nearby attractions like Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout or ʻIolani Palace.

The Queen Emma Summer Palace is a must-visit for history buffs and those interested in learning about Hawaii’s royal past. It offers a peaceful and educational experience, connecting visitors with the legacy of Queen Emma and her significant contributions to Hawaiian history and culture.

  • Attraction
  • Family-Friendly
  • History
  • Museum
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Murphy Travels

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Aloha Oahu

Ka’au Crater Trail

The Ka’au Crater Trail, located in the lush Ko’olau Mountain Range on Oahu, Hawaii, is a challenging and adventurous hike offering a mix of breathtaking landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and stunning panoramic views. This trail is a favorite among experienced hikers seeking a unique and strenuous outdoor experience.

Highlights of the Trail:

  • Waterfalls: The hike features three picturesque waterfalls along the way, each more stunning than the last. You’ll have to climb alongside these waterfalls, using ropes in some sections for safety and support.
  • Ka’au Crater: The trail takes you around the rim of the Ka’au Crater, an ancient volcanic formation now overgrown with greenery. The views of the crater are both serene and dramatic, offering a glimpse into Hawaii’s volcanic past.
  • Panoramic Views: From the crater rim, hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of the Ko’olau Mountains, the Honolulu skyline, and the Pacific Ocean.
  • Jungle Terrain: The trail winds through dense tropical rainforest, adding to the sense of adventure. You’ll encounter lush greenery, bamboo groves, and muddy paths, so be prepared for some mess.

Key Details:

  • Difficulty: This is a challenging hike, requiring a good level of fitness, proper gear, and experience in navigating steep, slippery, and muddy terrain.
  • Length: The hike is approximately 7.5 miles round trip and can take 4-6 hours or more, depending on your pace and breaks.
  • Trailhead: The hike begins at Waiomao Road in Palolo Valley. Parking is limited, so plan accordingly.
  • Safety: Some sections, especially the waterfall climbs and the crater rim, are steep and can be dangerous in wet conditions. Hikers should be cautious and avoid the trail during or after heavy rain.

  • Hiking
  • Waterfall
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Aloha Oahu

Koko Crater Botanical Garden

Koko Crater Botanical Garden is a serene and unique destination for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers. Spanning approximately 60 acres, the garden is dedicated to the cultivation and preservation of dryland plants, thriving in the arid conditions provided by the crater’s natural bowl-like shape.

Features of the Garden:

  • Dryland Plants: The garden specializes in plants adapted to dry environments, including cacti and succulents, making it an excellent place to explore the diversity of xeriscaping flora.
  • Regional Collections: The plants are grouped by geographical regions, including Africa, the Americas, Hawaii, and Madagascar, showcasing species like baobab trees, plumerias, and various acacias.
  • Self-Guided Trails: A 2-mile loop trail winds through the garden, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty at their own pace. Informational signs provide insights into the plant species and their ecological importance.
  • Plumeria Grove: A standout feature is the plumeria collection, with trees in various shades of pink, white, and yellow that bloom year-round, releasing their sweet fragrance.

Visitor Tips:

  • Accessibility: The trails are unpaved, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Visitors should also bring water and sun protection as the area can get hot.
  • Admission: The garden is free and open to the public during daylight hours.
  • Quiet Escape: It’s less crowded than other Oahu attractions, making it a peaceful retreat for those looking to explore nature.

Koko Crater Botanical Garden combines the rugged beauty of Oahu’s volcanic landscape with a curated collection of fascinating plants, offering a tranquil and educational experience.

  • Accessible
  • Botanical Garden
  • Hiking

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