Planning for Sept.

Question

Flying in Sept on a Monday and out on a Friday. Main focus is Pearl Harbor my hubs wants to see it all.. Me .. I want to see the water. We are okies and well country folk so this kinda travel is new to us lol. I booked airport hotel it has an airport shuttle and not far from Pearl Harbor. and then was told by fb ppl not to. Can someone please help me plan. Thanks

Answer

It sounds like you're planning an exciting trip to Oahu, and I'm happy to help you figure things out! Since it's your first time traveling to Oahu, I’ll break down a few key aspects for you, focusing on your interests and helping you plan a smooth itinerary. Here's a detailed response to your questions:

Location of Your Hotel:

You mentioned that you've booked an airport hotel with an airport shuttle and proximity to Pearl Harbor. While this might seem convenient for your focus on Pearl Harbor, it's good to note that staying near the airport can be a bit less scenic and removed from the beachside experiences you might want. It’s also more urban and not quite the tropical paradise vibe that Oahu is known for.

While airport hotels are great for short stays and easy access to Pearl Harbor, they are not necessarily the best for easy beach access or the full Oahu experience, which might be important for you since you're looking forward to seeing the water.

Recommendations for Where to Stay:

Waikiki Beach Area: For a more scenic experience and easy beach access, consider staying in Waikiki. It's a vibrant area with lots of beach activities, restaurants, and shops. You'll be able to enjoy the water, sunsets, and walk along the iconic Waikiki Beach while still being only a short drive from Pearl Harbor. This way, you can balance your desire to be near the water and your husband's interest in seeing Pearl Harbor.
Ala Moana Area: If you want a slightly quieter and more local feel, you could look into staying near Ala Moana, which is close to both beaches and Pearl Harbor. It's more laid-back than Waikiki, but still close to shops and the ocean.
North Shore: If you're looking for something quieter and more nature-oriented, you could stay on Oahu’s North Shore. This area is famous for its stunning beaches, surf culture, and scenic beauty, but it’s about an hour’s drive from Pearl Harbor, so it may not be the most convenient for your visit to the memorial.

Day 1 - Monday: Arrival and Exploring Pearl Harbor

Since you arrive on Monday, I suggest using the day to get settled, explore Pearl Harbor, and start your journey from there.

Pearl Harbor: You’ll want to dedicate a half day to Pearl Harbor. The Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum are all worth seeing. You can book tickets in advance, as they can fill up quickly. The USS Arizona Memorial is one of the most poignant experiences, and the museum exhibits give a comprehensive view of the events of World War II.
Evening Relaxation by the Water: After a day of history, head to Waikiki Beach for a relaxing evening. You can stroll along the beach, watch the sunset, and maybe even dip your toes in the ocean.

Day 2 - Tuesday: Beach Day and Exploration

For your second day, focus on exploring the beautiful beaches of Oahu!

Waikiki Beach: Spend the morning on Waikiki Beach, where you can rent a paddleboard, take a surf lesson, or simply relax by the water.
Diamond Head Hike: If you’re up for a short hike with beautiful views, consider hiking to the top of Diamond Head. It’s an iconic spot and offers panoramic views of the island, including Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean.
Sunset at Ala Moana Beach Park: In the evening, head to Ala Moana Beach Park for a more peaceful experience and stunning sunset views.

Day 3 - Wednesday: North Shore and Waterfalls

Wednesday is a great day to explore the North Shore of Oahu, known for its big waves, natural beauty, and charming small towns.

Waimea Bay and Sharks Cove: Start by visiting the famous Waimea Bay for beach activities, followed by a trip to Sharks Cove, which has great spots for snorkeling and swimming (if you're comfortable). You could also stop at the Waimea Valley for a short walk to a beautiful waterfall.
Lunch in Haleiwa: Enjoy lunch in the historic town of Haleiwa, where you can find great local food and small shops. You might want to try some famous shrimp trucks here!
Return via the Windward Coast: On your way back, take the scenic route along the Windward Coast for views of lush valleys, beaches, and mountains. You could also stop at Lanikai Beach, which is often considered one of the best beaches on the island.

Day 4 - Thursday: Honolulu and Culture

On your last full day in Oahu, immerse yourself in the culture of Honolulu.

Iolani Palace: Visit Iolani Palace, the former royal residence of Hawaiian monarchs. The palace is located in downtown Honolulu and is rich in history.
Honolulu Museum of Art: If you're interested in art, the Honolulu Museum of Art is a great option. It houses a fantastic collection of Asian art and contemporary exhibits.
Beach Time: End the day by relaxing at your hotel or a nearby beach before your flight the next day.

Day 5 - Friday: Departure

On your departure day, you can relax, grab some souvenirs, and enjoy the morning before your flight back. If you have time, visit the Ala Moana Center for some last-minute shopping or take a final stroll along the beach.

Additional Tips:

Rental Car: A rental car will be useful for getting around the island, especially to visit Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, and other sites. Parking in Honolulu and Waikiki can be challenging at times, so make sure your hotel offers parking, or look for public lots nearby.
Public Transit: If you don’t want to drive, public buses (TheBus) are an affordable option for getting around Honolulu, but they may take longer than driving yourself.

Hopefully, this gives you a better idea of how to balance your husband’s interest in history with your love for the beach and water. I hope you have a fantastic time in Oahu—enjoy your trip!

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