Hawaii Vacation Destination
Oahu
Oahu, the third largest of the Hawaiian islands chain, is home to the state's capital, Honolulu, and features the majority of hotels in the islands. It is Hawaii's most popular island destination where visitors flock to the world famous Waikiki Beach resorts, surf the legendary North Shore, or explore the underwater worlds of exotic marine life and colorful fish.
Oahu is known as "The Gathering Place" and its population of close to 900,000 makes up more than three quarters of Hawaii's total population of 1.2 million inhabitants. The total land area of Oahu is approximately 600 square miles and the island is the result of two separate shield volcanoes: Waianae and Koolau, with the broad central Oahu Plain between them.
Honolulu, the center of business and industry in Hawaii, is the principal port linking the islands. With a population of about 370,000, Honolulu is the heart of Hawaiian commerce and the harbor is where the majority of food and manufactured goods are imported and distributed.
Waikiki is the resort destination for most visitors to Oahu, where one of the island's most notable geological features, Diamond Head Crater, lies at its eastern perimeter.
Oahu has an abundance of activities for the vacationer: Pearl Harbor and the Arizona Memorial, scenic Hanauma Bay, historical Iolani Palace, the Bishop Museum just to name a few. Visitors will also be treated to numerous festivals and celebrations throughout the year.
Oahu's Main Attractions
- Waikiki Beach
- Diamond Head Crater
- Hanauma Bay
- Pearl Harbor
- Arizona Memorial
- Punchbowl Crater
- North Shore
- Bishop Museum
- Iolani Palace
- Polynesian Cultural Center
- More Oahu Attractions
Island Facts
- Official Island Flower: Ilima
- Official Island Color: Yellow
- Highest Point: Mt. Kaala - 4,020 feet
- Average Temperatures Range: 68° to 85° Fahrenheit
- Rainfall Average: 23 inches per year