Honolulu travel-guide

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ORIENTATION................................................................................................................................ 2
HISTORY......................................................................................................................................... 2
ACCOMMODATION........................................................................................................................ 2
HOTELS ........................................................................................................................................ 2
BUDGET HOSTELS ......................................................................................................................... 2
OTHER ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS................................................................................................. 3
THINGS TO DO............................................................................................................................... 3
ATTRACTIONS................................................................................................................................ 3
ACTIVITIES .................................................................................................................................... 6
TOURS .......................................................................................................................................... 8
ENTERTAINMENT.......................................................................................................................... 9
TOURIST INFORMATION ............................................................................................................ 10
GETTING HERE............................................................................................................................ 10
GETTING AROUND........................................................................................................................ 10
CAR FOR HIRE............................................................................................................................. 10
ESSENTIALS ................................................................................................................................ 10
RESTAURANTS ............................................................................................................................ 10
WEATHER ................................................................................................................................... 10

Orientation
ALOHA! Honolulu is the capital of the Hawaii, a state that is part of the United States of America.
Hawaii consists of a large number of group islands that were created due to volcanic activity in
the Pacific Ocean. Honolulu was created by two volcanoes and is presently the capital city as well
as the largest and most important gateway into Hawaii.
Products such as pineapples, sugar, macadamia nuts, nursery products such as exotic plants
and flowers as well as diary products are the major agricultural imports from the port of Honolulu.
These days, computer and electronic products, petroleum and coal products as well as
transportation equipment are also in the forefront of Hawaii’s exports.
Tourism is one of the most income generating businesses in Hawaii. Gigantic Cruise ships from
this port take travelers all around the group of Hawaiian Islands to see the fiery volcanoes,
majestic mountains, awesome beaches, lush tropical rainforests and gushing waterfalls. The
tourist attractions include the islands of Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Kona, Hilo, Maui and the Big
Island. Ships from all over the world come to Honolulu.
According to the US Coast Guard, over 70,000 boats or ships come into the Honolulu harbor
every year.
History
The name “Honolulu” means “The sheltered Harbor”. Polynesians (People who are believed to
have originated somewhere in Asia) settled in Hawaii about 2000 years ago. King Kamehameha I
was a conqueror who established his presence in Honolulu in 1809 after unifying all of the
Hawaiian Islands under one rule. After that, western seafarers discovered this paradise and
decided to colonize it as usual. It was the missionaries from New England who landed in Hawaii
in the 19th
century that led to the introduction of the Christian religion into Hawaii which
subsequently resulted in the annexation of Hawaii as the 50th
state of USA in 1898. As the only
group of islands in the Pacific Ocean close to the mainland, the United States of America had a
strategic and defensive reason for making it part of the USA. Asian immigrants who came into
Hawaii later influenced the cultural values and practices that shaped their unique culture.
Accommodation
Hotels
Since Hawaii is part of the USA, most hotel chains that operate in the mainland US have
locations in the islands too. In Honolulu, Hyatt, Sheraton, Ritz-Carlton, Embassy Suites, Hilton,
Royal Hawaiian, Ohana, Castle Resorts, etc. have several locations on multiple islands. Websites
such as Travelocity, PriceLine, Expedia and Orbitz can give you several options for staying near
the beaches, near famous attractions or on the several cruise ships that are looming around the
islands at all times. Other choices for accommodation are luxury hotels, cozy, romantic inns, bed
and breakfast places, vacation townhomes or timeshare properties or at special spiritual retreat
secluded places.
Budget Hostels
Youth hostels are located in all islands. For travelers going to Honolulu, there are many options:
Waikiki Beachside hostel is one place where eight person and four person rooms are available for
inexpensive rates as low as $22 per night. Some of these rates include free coffee and
continental breakfast. High speed internet is available and beach mats, surf boards, hair dryers,
boogie boards, snorkeling equipment, etc may be available free or for a small fee.
Seaside Hawaiian Hostel, Polynesian Hostel, Island Hostel, Pacific Ohana Hostel, etc. are also
wise options for low budget, single travelers.

Other accommodation options
Camping is allowed in most of Hawaii’s nature parks. The tropical weather allows outdoor
activities and parks including Hanauma Bay Nature Park, Keehi Lagoon Park, Honolulu Paki
Community Park, Kapiolani Park, Salt Lake District Park, Kahala Community Park have camping
facilities for travelers. Campers need to take special precautions if they are staying at high
altitudes where nights can get very cold. Also, carry insect repellants and lot of sunscreen along
with water bottles and blankets.
Things to do
Attractions
Honolulu harbor has been a very busy port for the over a millennium. Gigantic Cruise ships
carry thousands of passengers every day to this busy port and visitors to this exotic city can
witness the busy activities at this harbor which is the main trading point for over 11 Million tons of
cargo daily. Hawaii imports over 80% of its commercial goods via this port. The Aloha tower
which was constructed in 1926 is a tourist attraction along with Aloha Market, the group of retail
and restaurant establishments that dot the Honolulu harbor. The entire Honolulu harbor is spread
out in its grandeur for a visitor casually looking from the top of the Aloha tower.
Pearl Harbor is the naval base where the Japanese attacked the Americans during World War II.
On December 7, 1941, the US battleship Arizona was destroyed by the Japanese, killing 1,100
sailors. This was the point at which America decided to enter the Second World War and for this
reason, this port is an important part of American and World history. A white monument was
erected above the midsection of the ship from which the deck of the USS Arizona could be seen.
Along with the Visitor’s center at Pearl Harbor and the Arizona Memorial, visitors can learn much
about this port’s past history and America’s final victory in World War II.
Diamond Head State Monument
This attraction got its name from the Calcite crystals in this park that looked like diamonds to the
earlier explorers. This site is a crater of an extinct volcano and the trail to its 761 feet summit
begins in the interior of this crater. Hikers to the top of this attraction can see the entire island of
Oahu (360 degree view). Admission is free to all visitors.
Hanauma Bay Marine Preserve
Turquoise waters and horseshoe-shaped sandy beaches provide a natural marine sanctuary for
thousands of colorful tropical species of marine life. Snorkeling is a popular sport because of the
waist high water inside the reef in which even kids can play. Expert snorkelers can go outside the
reef into the deeper waters to see mesmerizing marine life including sea turtles. Once the
exclusive retreat of Hawaiian royalty, this place is now enjoyed by people of all ages. Eagle rays,
octopi, crabs and lobsters are some of the other inhabitants of this extinct volcanic crater.
Waikiki Beach
This world famous beach in Hawaii was made popular by the sport of wave surfing which was
originally an entertainment reserved to the Hawaiian nobility called the Ali’i. In those days, any
person attempting to imitate the Ali’i and tried to surf on a board could be punished by death!
Many of the beaches in other islands such as Maui and the Big Island have been developed and
populated with large, luxurious hotels, but Waikiki also remains a famous and popular tourist
attraction.
Ioalani Palace
This palace was the residence of the last two rulers of the Hawaiian Kingdom before the
Westerners annexed it. This palatial mansion was buzzing with activity during the rule of King

Kalakaua and his sister Queen Liliuokalani. This grand royal mansion was restored and
preserved since then and is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.
Dole Plantation
Dole is a company famous for its pineapples, bananas and canned fruits. The world’s largest
maze is located in the famous Dole Pineapple plantation in Honolulu. This maze is included in the
2001 Guinness Book of World Records and visitors can solve the maze by locating six secret
stations.
Byodo-In Temple
This temple is located in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park which was established in 1968
to celebrate the Japanese Immigrant population in Hawaii. The name of this temple means non-
discrimination”. A golden Buddha, towering more than 18 feet is housed in this temple. A large
garden, built in Japanese style decorates the outside of the temple with the majestic Koolau
Mountains as the backdrop of the temple.
This beautiful, exotic garden has several varieties of Japanese plants and trees decorating it.
Maritime Center
Even before the time the Hawaiian Islands were formed, seafaring had been a way of life for the
Polynesians who eventually inhabited there. The history of surfboarding as well as the record of
events of Hawaii’s maritime history is preserved in this location. Hawaii was also famous for its
whaling, canoe racing and other water sports and activities. There is an exhibit of a rare
Humpback Whale skeleton in this museum.
Plantation Village
This is an outdoor museum that records the life of Hawaii’s plantation workers. Antiques and old
relics of the Plantation era along with displays of original architecture, structures and replicas of
old homes provide a lot of history for students and others who are interested in Hawaiian history.
There are also various photos and artifacts on the multi-ethnic groups who worked hard on the
plantations in the mid 1800s and in the 1940s.
Queen Emma Summer Palace
Located in the beautiful Nu’uanu Valley, this former New England styled home of “Queen Emma”
was transported by ship from the place where it was constructed elsewhere in Hawaii. Queen
Emma was the consort of King Kamehameha IV. This palace also contains a beautiful garden
with trees that were brought to Hawaii from distant lands. Many of Queen Emma’s personal items
and furnishings, along with royal artifacts are on display for tourists.
Sea Life Park
Located in Waimanalo, Hawaii, this park is a world-class marine center situated between the
Ko’olau mountain range and Makapuu Beach. Here you and your family will be entertained by
dancing dolphins, singing sea lions and performing penguins. This magical place by the sea is a
delight to the kids of all ages.
Senator Fong’ Gardens
This is a gigantic 725 acre botanical garden which provides an amazing 360 degree view from the
Ko’olau Mountains. A guided tour takes visitors through palm gardens, lily ponds, and valleys of
fruit orchards, tropical flowers and canopies of ornamental trees. Senator Fong was a US senator
who served with five presidents. This garden is divided into five areas, each named for one of the
five presidents.

Ko’olau Ranch Tours
Remember Jurassic Park? Well, this movie was shot in various locations including Hawaii’s
pristine natural surroundings. The Ko’olau Ranch is a 4,000 acre working cattle ranch that was
established in 1850. There are five choices among the tours in this ranch. The Jurassic park site
and Godzilla’s footprints as well as current movie filming activities may be seen on the Movie
Sites and Ranch Tour. On the Jungle Expedition tour, you board a rugged 6-wheel drive Swiss
Pinzauer and move along jungle trails with fantastic views of the ocean and the mountain ranges.
The Ocean voyaging tour will connect you to the ancient Hawaiians bravely navigated the oceans
and its rough waters. The Hawaiian Fishpond and Garden Tours expose the visitors to its ancient
fishing cultures. The Paliku Exploration tour enables the traveler to learn the history of Ko’olau
and also enjoy the 360 degree views from the top of a ridge.
Maui Diver’s Jewelry Design Center
This jewelry manufacturer is the largest in Hawaii. They offer a 20 minute behind the scenes tour
of jewelry making including how a black coral is transformed from a raw state into a beautiful
ornament that can be worn by royalty. Black coral is Hawaii’s state gemstone.
Maita’i Catamarans
This 44 foot catamaran seats 47 passengers and is regularly inspected and certified by the US
coast guard. Seated in this ancient boat, a family can enjoy time in the sun, fun in the water or
just sitting around to enjoy each other’s company far out in the ocean with only seagulls and fish
for company.
Oahu Adventure Eco-Tour
An eco-tour is the best way to teach present and future generations the importance of
conservations, preservation and continuation of our life and eco systems around the world. In this
tour, families are exposed to the Paiko Lagoon wildlife Sanctuary, Halona Blowhole, Makapuu
Lookout, Kaupo Lava flow and tide pools, Waimanalo Bay, Enchanted Lake Bird refuge, ancient
Ulupou Heiau temple, Pali Lookout (which was described by Mark Twain as one of the most
beautiful sights on earth).
North Shore Eco-Tour
The first stop on this tour is the Valley of the Temples where visitors can see the Byodo temple at
the base of 2000 foot cliffs. Then the tour takes the passengers along the Kahana Bay to the Laie
Point. Shrimp Farms, Endangered bird populations, ancient temples, Hawaii’s Stonehenge, the
Dole Plantation and Pearl Harbor will be seen as part of this tour.
Honolulu Horse and Carriage Tour
For those who prefer old fashioned horse and carriage rides through town, Honolulu offers a 30
minute rid through the city with the driver gently pointing out interesting targets. This promises to
be a leisurely ride through a fascinating country with picturesque beauty everywhere you look.
Dinosaur Exhibit
For those who are interested in our ancient Dinosaurs, the Honolulu Community College has a
permanent exhibit of dinosaur fossils on display for people of all ages.
Helicopter tours
The amazing beauty and rich diversity of the vast number of Hawaiian Islands may be seen from
a helicopter. In a scene that reminds us of Jurassic Park, we can see the valuable rainforests
and volcanic lava and craters from the top of the islands.

Trips to other islands
There are many boat tours and cruises that visitors can take part in which allows them to visit
extinct volcanoes, lush waterfalls, amazing eco-systems and varied cultures. The major islands
that are worth seeing are the Big Island where the world’s most active volcano Kilauea is located,
Maui, with its rainforest hikes and amazing beaches, Kona, Hilo and Kauai for their awe-inspiring
beauty and marine life.
Activities
Beach Activities
Swimming is enjoyed by almost all the tourists that flock to Honolulu year round. The beaches are
amazingly white and the people are very friendly. Hotels are very close to the beaches and it is
very convenient for families to spend the entire day on the beach, playing volleyball, sunbathing,
making sand castles, collecting sea shells or just playing in the water.
Kayak Racing is a popular sport in Hawaii. It is easy to rent all the equipment needed and with
the beautiful waters just inviting everyone to join in the fun, it is very easy to build up teams to
compete against.
Canoe Racing is another popular pastime for youngsters. Canoes are a little more unstable on
choppy waters and high waves and so a lot more dexterity is required to control the movement of
the canoes. However, this is a fun activity as well as a healthy way of spending the time during
our vacation.
Surf Boarding
Especially on Waikiki beach, where Surf boarding was first practiced, this sport encourages
people of all ages to try to get into the water and ride the waves. Lessons are available in schools
near the beach for those new to the sport. Also, surfing equipment is available for rent.
Sand Badminton Tournaments
This sport is a favorite pastime of many visitors to Hawaii. This is a bit harder than regular
badminton because of the windy conditions as well as the unstable sand on the beach. However,
people have a lot of fun trying to beat the opposing teams while running after flying shuttles.
Sand Volleyball Tournament
This sport is popular with the younger and teenage crowds. The aggressive and agile teams try to
win while enjoying the sun and the sand in some of the most popular spaces on the beach.
ABCRI Box Car Track
Sports enthusiasts can enjoy auto racing at Oahu’s Car Track under the supervision of ABCRI
instructors. The tracks were designed by auto racing champions and three drivers simultaneously
zoom around 12 turn tracks that are about 500 feet long. Helmets, long pants and tennis shoes
are required.
3D Glow Golf
Big Kahuna’s Glow-in-the-dark Golf is suitable for people of all ages. The fun starts when we put
on 3D glasses and watch almost real waterfalls gush over cliffs, octopuses that “dance” while lava
oozes beneath our feet. Oh, while you try to putt a hole-in-one, the sound of drums and rumbling
earthquakes, active volcanoes and tiki statues are just a few of the distractions that boggle our
mind and could make us miss our shot!

Horseback Riding on Oahu’s North Shore
The Stables at Turtle Bay Resort encourage all visitors to experience the beautiful stretches of
white, sandy, beaches, ironwood forests and the undisturbed country side on horseback. The
majestic beauty of Hawaii can only be savored slowly by riding on the saddle of a beautiful horse
through the tropical countryside.
Loco Boyz Surf School
For those visitors who would like to become surfboarding champions on Waikiki beach, it is a
good idea to learn some of the basic lessons in surfing before you venture out into the ocean to
ride the majestic waves. In two hours, the instructor provides an understanding of the ocean
tides, breaks and channels and the dos and don’ts of surfboarding. If you are not surfing in two
hours, you actually get your money back, the good old American promise.
Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park
This is a typical American water park with just one difference. It covers about 25 acres and has a
six-story tall speed slides that takes the breath out of you. Splashing rapids, mega-wave pool,
triple-tube mammoth slides, body surfing, etc are just a few of the many things that visitors to this
family park can attempt to enjoy. Water enthusiasts can relax after a day’s fun by leisurely going
in inner-tubes for the long, slow, drift down the river.
Jungle River Mini Golf
Ok, this is no jungle, but children can have more fun that when they visit a real jungle. An
outdoor, 18-hole mini golf course, this park has a natural setting that resembles a tropical
rainforest. A fountain bridge, a tar pit of animals with bones, monkey pod trees, hibiscus flowers,
palm trees, crotons, and banana plants create a jungle atmosphere for the fun loving crowds.
What more can a kid ask for? Oh, there are also sound effects to boot; bird calls, running streams
and other jungle sounds to thrill the tiny tots and parents alike.
Boogie Boarding on Kailua Beach
Boogies boarding is the junior version of surf boarding. This sport is becoming more popular with
the younger (8 – 12yrs). Kailua Beach is known for its large ocean swells that break over the
outer reefs in the island of Oahu, where Honolulu is located. This allows the smaller waves to
break over the soft white beach giving the amateur boogie boarders an excellent chance to
practice the sport without the danger of being carried away by the bigger, more powerful waves.
Get the thrill on the waves before you are big enough to enjoy riding over the giant waves on your
surf board!
Kayaking on Kailua Bay
Kayaks are more stable than canoes in high wind and waves. For a half day rental, a person can
paddle some of the most beautiful, pristine beaches of Hawaiian paradise. All kayakers will get a
safely briefing a map of the bay and some words of advise. Then you are on your own to explore
the marine life of Kailua Bay, its sea turtles, fish, octopi, and birds. One kayak can usually seat
two people. It is an exhilarating experience just being out there away from the noise and crowds,
with the turquoise blue waters and the sky stretching out in front of you for miles and only sea
creatures and birds for company. Canoes are also available for rent. However, canoes are not as
sturdy on the waves as kayaks are.
Aqua Zone Scuba Diving Center
Free Scuba lessons are offered at this diving and water sports center. After the gear is put on,
people are taken for a boat ride for a memorable diving experience. While under water, you can
see a WWII fighter plane, reefs, shipwrecks and underwater world creatures such as moray eels,
stingrays, sea turtles, many species of fish and other fascinating marine creatures ogling at you
too!

Coral Creek Golf Course
For serious Golf enthusiasts, the world-class experience of this golf course will add to an
unforgettable vacation in the Hawaiian Islands. The Coral Creek Golf course is a Par 72, 6,870
yard championship golf course designed around natural coral formations. Complete with
Seashore Paspalum turf, driving range, locker rooms, practice greens and bunkers, Pro shop,
restaurant and bar, this experience will remain a favorite of most people who visit this exotic Golf
Course.
Parasailing in Honolulu
World class parasailing is available for tourists to Honolulu in a safe, easy and exciting manner.
Travelers interested in this sport have the choice of single or tandem flights and dry take off or
boat take off. This version of parasailing takes you around the beautiful Waikiki coast to an
altitude of about 500 feet. It is so much fun that the whole family can participate in this safe, thrill
ride over the waters. All boat captains and crew are licensed by the International Parasail Boating
Association and they have to get their license renewed periodically to show proof that they are
capable of guiding people on the boat as well as while parasailing over the oceans. If any
unexpected mishap occurs, the boat crew should be able to handle it.
Hiking in Hawaii
Travelers can hike to Makapuu point, a 2.5 mile roundtrip hike, which is mostly uphill and takes
about one hour each way. From Makapuu Point, the views of Sandy Beach and Koko Head to
the Southwest and Waimanalo Bay to the north are breathtaking. From December to May,
tourists can also do whale watching from this site.
Shopping in Hawaii
Prominent and high-end retailers such as Tiffany & Co, Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, etc are
present in Honolulu’s International Market Place shopping center. This center contains about 150
stores located on four levels. Restaurants are also part of the mix. Tourists can enjoy duty-free
savings at the DFS Galleria Center.
Hawaii is a shopper’s paradise! It has the advantage of being part of the United States of America
as well as a place which has a long history of art and culture. The black coral is Hawaii’s natural
gemstone and many of the Jewelry stores carry various exotic designs showcasing this stone.
Also, designs with pearls, corals and other precious stones may be found at great discounts in
the various stores in Hawaii. Shell based jewelry designs and flower based perfumes are also
very popular with the tourists.
Flowers, garlands called Leis, colorful Hawaiian shirts decorated with brightly colored flowers and
leaves are very attractive and are in constant popular demand. Hawaiian shorts and flip-flops are
famous around the world and Hawaiian style Luau fun parties are celebrated in many parts of the
world.
In addition to colorful clothes, Hawaii is the place for water sports equipment, Sunglasses, Hats,
sports equipment etc.
Tours
Tour of Mount Tantalus and Round Top Drive
This tour takes visitors in Honolulu on a drive to the top of Mount Tantalus and Round Top Drive
to see the captivating views of Diamond Head monument, Waikiki beach and surrounding areas
as well as the Punchbowl Crater.

Ali’i Tour of Honolulu
The people called the Ali’i were the nobility who ruled the islands long before it was annexed by
the Americans. This tour starts with a bus ride through tropical gardens filled with palm trees,
fruits and flowers. Then the passengers are taken in a boat ride across ancient waters where the
Hawaiians protected and harvested fish in the now 800 year old aquaculture pond. Lastly, the
visitors are entertained by Music, Fire and a song and dance routine. This tour is meant to impart
some of Hawaii’s natural history, culture and secrets to the rest of the world.
Atlantis Submarine
Seeing underwater creatures close-up from a submarine is one of the most exciting experiences.
This tour takes you down into the coral reefs teeming with marine life such as sea turtles, crabs,
lobsters, shrimp and many varieties of fish that come and exchange Hellos with you through the
submarine’s glass windows. Children love this tour as the submarine displays you how deep we
are in the ocean at any time and also moves past sunken ships and airliners while fish swim
alongside us!
Mauka Makai Eco-tour and Mythology Excursions
This tour combines cultural and archeological story telling while visiting ancient sacred sites.
Visitors learn about the history and traditions, the religions and the myths of the ancient
Hawaiians who lived there as well as the natural history of the area. Experts guide this eco-tour
and point out the native plants that are used as medicine even now. The pace is that of a nature
walk or similar to short hiking expeditions.
Entertainment
Cirque Hawaii
Awe-inspiring acrobats in colorful costumes twirl and whirl above us performing aerial calisthenics
and dance routines choreographed to soulful music. These performers come from all over the
world to showcase their humor, balance, strength and agility in beautiful surroundings to tourists
in Honolulu who also arrive from different parts of the world. Clowns, contortionists, incredible
dancers and trapeze artists complete the ensemble.
Germaine’s Luaus
Luaus are Hawaiian feasts where pigs are roasted and the locals dance and sing to entertain
honored guests. Luaus are conducted regularly in many of the islands and beaches in Hawaii, but
the most famous one in Honolulu is Germaine’s Luau in Waikiki.
In a secluded part of a private beach, tourists are first mesmerized by the sound of conch shells
and treated to a beautiful sunset. While the travelers revel in the hospitality of this paradise
island, beautiful performers including combinations of beautiful women, men and children display
the traditional dances to the accompaniment of drums and hand held torches. They also teach
the tourists how to sway in a sexy way wearing the hula skirts and flowers in their hair.
Polynesian dancers also perform on stage mesmerizing tourists with their quick agility. Ancient
legends are played out by various actors to the accompaniment of light and sound effects that
take us back to earlier times and cultures.
The entertaining Hawaiian drums and music adds a heightened sense of excitement to these
ceremonies. This program is also accompanied by a grand buffet of roasted pig, fish preparations
and many dishes of fresh salads and vegetables that grow amazingly well in Hawaiian soil.
Other Luaus include the Paradise Cove Luau which is held on a 12-acre beach close to Barber’s
Point and The Polynesian Cultural Center Ali’i Luau that is held on Oahu’s North Shore. Also, the
Royal Hawaiian Hotel on Waikiki beach holds a Royal Luau on Monday evenings.

Tourist Information
Getting Here
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) which is located in over 2000 acres of land is the most
popular gateway for people who are traveling to all of the islands that constitute the state of
Hawaii. It also functions as a military airport sharing airfields with the US Hickam Air Force Base.
Another option to reach Honolulu is by ship. The many cruise ships that circle the islands with
thousands of visitors usually pass through or start their journey at Honolulu port.
Visitors getting to Hawaii through the airport are usually welcomed at the airports by the Cruise
company representatives with orchid leis and smiles of welcome.
Getting around
Shuttle buses and shuttle boats transport tourists to their hotels or Cruise ships. Taxis are
available for nominal rates and may be called via the hotels or from the airport. Most ports have
free shuttles for the cruise ship travelers to go shopping. Shuttle boats, Catamarans, Bicycles,
horse drawn carriages, bikes, etc are also optional means of transport around Honolulu.
Car for Hire
Similar to the other cities in USA, taxis are also available in Honolulu and they may be called via
hotel addresses or other accommodation locations. Taxi companies will need to know where the
traveler is being picked up and where they will be dropped off. This is for the safety of the taxi
drivers and the passengers.
Essentials
Hawaii has gorgeous tropical weather year round. Although there are two seasons in Hawaii, the
average temperatures are barely ten degrees apart. When traveling to Hawaii, what we will need
to take are regular summer clothes and a few light sweaters or jackets for the evenings. Foreign
Exchange can be converted at the Travel Ex outlets throughout Hawaii. For people who are
interested in participating in the activities such as surfboarding, golf, snorkeling, scuba diving,
kayaking, etc. many of the props and tools required may be rented there for minimal fees.
Sun umbrellas, sun screen, beach towels, shoes required for the various sports, etc. are also
available at the Wal-Mart’s and Kmart’s in most of the islands. Medicines are also available at
these places. Most cruise ships also have their own medical clinics and they can assist with some
anti-nausea medication or cough syrups in an emergency.
Restaurants
Hawaii is an international hub for tourists from all part of the world. There are thousands of
restaurants catering to all kinds of customers: Fast Food, Carry Out, Japanese, Chinese and Thai
restaurants, American Steak Houses, Casual as well as family friendly restaurants.
Weather
High-pressure areas in the north Pacific create rain that gives Hawaii its lush, breathtakingly
beautiful, tropical environment. During the months of November to March, Hawaii gets a
moderate amount of rainfall. However, this is not so strong as to create problems for tourists.
Hawaii has sunshine all days of the year, and tourists can go from island to island and see
varying temperatures and conditions which are all in the tropical range, very comfortable and
conducive to outdoor sun and fun activities.
The beaches around the islands are usually at a comfortable range of temperatures throughout
the year. The average water temperature at the mid 70s to low 80s help beachgoers stay in the

water and enjoy water sports all day. However, the waves depend on the movement of the Pacific
Ocean and during storms, the waves rise to dangerous levels. Anyone participating in a beach
activity, especially those with families and little children should keep an eye out for warnings and
listen to the life guards and coast guards at all times.
The temperature over the mountains are naturally cooler than that of the beaches and people
should dress appropriately when going on tours and hiking. The summit of the Haleakala can be
as much as 30 degrees cooler than the coastal temperature.
Sunscreen, Hats, sun glasses, jackets, water bottles, etc are essential for travelers, and
everything is available in Hawaii at its many supermarkets.

Honolulu travel-guide

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