Unique Experiences on Your Oahu Honeymoon
Polynesian Cultural Center- a fun Historical Hawaii Honeymoon Activity
To discover the rich culture behind the beautiful landscapes of Hawaii, pay a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center. The top paid attraction in Hawaii, the Polynesian Cultural Center introduces visitors to local customs and history through canoe pageants, traditional lu’aus, and seven authentic villages, each of which represents a distinctive South Pacific culture. Enjoy the rare chance to experience Hawaii’s most authentic luau and the world’s largest Polynesian night show.
Pearl Harbor- Arizona Memorial
Dec. 7, 1941 lives in infamy as the day Japan bombed Pearl Harbor – the final trigger that brought the United States into World War II. The memorial, built in 1964, straddles the sunken battleship and includes a marble wall bearing the names of all 1,177 sailors and marines who were killed. Prior to a boat ride to the memorial, you can watch a documentary about the Pearl Harbor attack. Millions of people visit the site each year, as has every US President since Franklin D Roosevelt, and Japanese Emperors Hirohito and Akihito
‘Iolani Palace’
America’s only royal residence was built in 1882 on the site of the earlier palace. It contains the thrones of King Kalakaua and his successor (and sister) Queen Lili’uokalani. The guided tour includes a showcase of the royal jewelry and a glimpse behind the scenes at the palace kitchen and the offices of the monarchy. Reservations required.
Bishop Museum Collection
This 8,000 square-foot branch of Hawaii’s premier cultural archive illuminates life in Waikiki through the years. Founded in 1889 by Charles R. Bishop as a memorial to his wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, the museum began as a repository for the royal possessions of this last direct descendant of King Kamehameha the Great.
Diamond Head
The summit of this 760-foot extinct volcanic peak offers 360 degree views of Oahu. Once used as a military fortification – the views extend from Waikiki and Honolulu in one direction and out to Koko Head in the other. On a clear day, you can even see the outlines of Maui and Molokai from this vantage point. There is a ¾ mile trail to hike to the summit.
Waikiki Aquarium
If you love sea dwellers – this is the place to visit. Over 2,500 organisms and 420 species of Hawaiian and South Pacific marine life are protected and nurtured here. Endangered Hawaiian monk seals, sharks, and the only chambered nautilus living in captivity are just some of the denizens of the deep you’ll encounter. The Edge of the Reef exhibit showcases five different types of reef environments found along Hawaiian shorelines.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve- Best Snorkeling on your Oahu Hawaii Honeymoon
The exterior wall of a volcanic crater collapsed, opening it to the sea, which gave birth to Oahu’s most famous snorkeling destination. The picturesque bay is horseshoe shaped and the aqua blue water is so clear you can easily see the coral reefs. To preserve the area, visitors are required to go through the Bay’s Education Center before trekking down to the Bay.
Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
You’ll get a panoramic view of the windward side of Oahu from this perch. Which is probably why this is the site of a historic battle between King Kamehameha I and Kalanikupule, chief of Maui and Oahu. In 1795, Kamehameha’s men drove Kalanikupule’s forces over the edges of the 1,000-foot-high cliffs, and won the decisive battle for control of Oahu.
Honolulu zoo
Animal lovers will no doubt venture over to the Honolulu Zoo, between Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. Here, you’ll find 42 acres (17ha) home to more than 900 different animals from the tropics, including some rare ones: komodo dragons, giraffes and many different types of turtles and tortoises. Animals aren’t the only draw here, because the lush gardens feature an array of plants and flowers, many of which are indigenous to Hawaii.