Begin at sunrise as you head out to re-live a striking historical moment in time at the World War II Valor in the Pacific Monument and Uss arizona memorial. In this quietly moving place, you experience the history, tragedy, and heroism of the attack that propelled the U.S. into World War II. Take a boat ride out to the 184 USS Arizona Memorial structure that actually spans the mid-portion of the battleship itself as it rests on the harbor floor.
The days journey begins in earnest. After passing through the center of Oahu and alongside Wheeler Airfield, one of the first targeted objectives of the Japanese naval attack, you head toward the North Shore. The famous Dole plantation provides a refreshing stop. Feed the koi fish in the plantation fish pond or grab a sweet frozen pineapple DoleWhip .
Catch the laid-back local rhythm of the North Shore as you pass through the small towns with just the right mix of surfing culture and country island-style. Sunset Beach. Banzai Pipeline. Waimea bay. The shorelines famous names come to life as your guide shares fascinating local facts and tales.
Time to stretch your legs and discover where old Laie comes to life! The Hukilau Marketplace is a vintage throwback to 1950s Hawaii where nostalgic foods, handmade goods and friendly locals give you a taste of the North Shores good oldays. Enjoy a COMPLIMENTARY LUNCH BUFFET on us at the Hale Aloha OR wander the Marketplace and make your own choices amongst the varied island delights.
Turning towards the majestic power of the islands lush and rugged mountain range, you rise up to the final battlefield where King Kamehameha fought to unify the Hawaiian Islands. Standing high on the windswept Nuuanu pali cliffs, you can feel its wild and tragic history, an ancient parallel to the mornings Pearl Harbor stories of bravery in the face of conflict.
Waimanalo. Sherwood Forest. Makapuu. Sandy beach. These are the bodysurfing playgrounds that draw locals from all around the island.Beware. It is not as easy as it looks! Seabirds soar above the islands windswept coastline where ancient lava fields descend into the sea. Halona blowhole, a natural underground lava tube, funnels plumes of ocean water into the sky in syncopation with the sea. Hanauma bay hovers on the eastern tip of the island-home to a living coral reef and safe haven for fish and marine animals.
Early afternoon will find you turning back towards Honolulu, cruising around the slopes of Diamond head, Hawaiis most famous landmark.
Dont forget your camera for photo opportunities galore. The young and young-at-heart will be entertained by island folklore and history shared by your guide throughout the day. It is the complete island experience for the whole family.
