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Exploring Beautiful Oahu

As you go for a close scrutiny of the Hawaii map, you will come across a cluster of islands that make the Hawaiian Islands as a whole. Among them Oahu is the most populated Hawaiian island. This island is home for two world famous tourist attractions: Honolulu- the biggest city in Hawaii and Waikiki beach- supposedly world’s best and most visited sea beach. The island has great historical significance too as it is the home of famous Pearl Harbor and its emotion evoking second world war history. That apart, in the north shores of the island you will get to see some of the world’s largest waves big enough to cause another tsunami. And above all the multi ethnic demography that exposes you to a unique culture and ways of life. Here are some quick facts about multi-faceted Oahu.

Remote interest arousing Oahu

Located near the center of Pacific Ocean, Oahu is considered one of the remotest spot in the world. The volcanic origin has rendered the island an interesting landscape; it is made from the lava flow from two volcanoes: the Waianae and the Koolau Mountains. Lush green rain forests add to the primitive appeal of the island, while the orange bloom of ilima flowers accentuates the drama of the place.

Oahu is rather small in size with a length of 44 miles and width of 30 miles, but it is extremely rich in tropical flora and fauna. Its colorful and diverse plant and animal life will stun any visitor. It is the home of some of the endangered species such as Nene Goose--the official state bird and the Humpback Whale- the official state marine mammal.

The island’s location just below the Tropic of Cancer, rules the climate here. Just like the other tropical zones of the world, Oahu also is characterized by two seasons: summer and winter. Average temperature in this island varies between 69.4 and 80.6 (°F). Rainfall is at per with any tropical region which keeps an annual average of 20 inches in the Waianae area to 158 inches in Upper Manoa Valley.

Exploring Oahu properly

Don’t go by the small size of the island; the exploration of this small island with stunning scenery may take months…even years. There are lots of things to do, lots of places to go in this island that is not bigger than 594 square miles. Nobody can ignore the glamorous charm of Waikiki beach, but don’t kill all your time by leisurely crowd watching there; climb the crater of Diamond Head to get a stunning view of Waikiki in the lap of pacific; or scale the heights of Koolau Mountain to get the breathtaking view of the entire island; watch the gigantic waves crushing down at your feet on the north shore of the island; watch the antics of tropical fishes and alluring architecture of the coral reefs in the crystal clear water in the Hanauma Bay---one of the most celebrated snorkeling spots in the world.

To get a glimpse of multi ethnic cultural mix of Oahu, visit the island during any of its colorful festivals. Consider hitting the island during any of the following events:

Getting around in Oahu is easy; avail the facility of its excellent bus system. Another alternative is car rental; you will find major car rental services right in the airport.

Taking a break from the madding crowd and hiding in this remote corner of the earth for a few days is a good idea. But beware of one risk factor; you will fall prey to the seductive charms of Oahu and return to this wonderful island over and over again.