We're sorry, there are currently no scheduled group events for this destination.

Oahu and Maui: A Powerful Hawaiian Punch! - Travel Leaders Travel Column October 2009

Among the islands of Hawaii, Oahu and Maui are the most visited, according to Travel Leaders’ 2008 Fall Travel Trends Survey.  What are some of the features that attract visitors to these gorgeous islands?

Oahu, known as “The Gathering Place,” is the most developed Hawaiian island and is home of the city of Honolulu.  Oahu has an abundance of things to see and do.  Here are a few top choices:

Tour historic Honolulu.  The city holds many of Hawaii’s most historic buildings.  A walking tour can include the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on U.S. soil, the Hawaii State Capitol, and Kawaiahao Church and Mission Houses.

See the North Shore.  Oahu’s beautiful North Shore has 125 miles of beach and some of the world’s best surf.

Visit Pearl Harbor.  A visit to the USS Arizona and the USS Missouri Memorials, honoring those who died during the World War II attack on Pearl Harbor, is a solemn and moving experience. It’s also a short ride from the Honolulu Airport for those with long layovers en route to other islands.

Trek to the top of Diamond Head.  The impressive volcanic cone of Diamond Head presides over Waikiki Beach.  A 1.1-mile path will take you to the rim of the crater and a spectacular 360-degree view.
Maui, the “Valley Isle,” is known world-wide for its beauty.  Many of the popular activities on this island celebrate is natural attributes:

Visit Iao Valley State Park.  The Iao Valley is a lush, stream-cut valley surrounded by the West Maui Mountains.  Its most famous landmark is the Iao Needle, a slim volcanic remnant.

Drive the Road to Hana.  The winding, fabled coastal road opens up to one stunning vista after another.

Go beyond Hana to Kipahulu.  The Kipahulu district includes part of Haleakala National Park.  Visitors can hike in Oheo Gulch, said to contain the Seven Sacred Pools – a misleading name, as there are actually dozens of beautiful pools and waterfalls to see.

Watch the sun rise or set on Haleakala.  The top of Haleakala, an ancient volcano, is the highest point on Maui and a perfect place to view a memorable sunrise or sunset.

To make your plans to enjoy all of this and more on Oahu, Maui and the other Hawaiian Islands, contact us.