What to do on Oahu

Some friends who will be visiting the islands in May 2012 have asked me for a quick list of things to do while on Oahu. My brother-in-law Dennis started the list and I've expanded on it.

HONOLULU
Climb Diamond Head - Info
Climb Koko Head (Rail Track) - Koko Head Crater Trail
Koko Head Shooting Range - Info

Fish Auction Tour from cousin Robin Leong:
It starts at 7 AM every Saturday at pier 38. You need to bring something warm (like a wind breaker or sweatshirt as it is cold in there, and you need to bring closed toe shoes as you walk through a disinfectant bath for your shoes.) You should probably call Mike Buck to see if he is running it and if so make a reservation. He is a radio announcer on KHVH, and an attendee of Kalani '63. His phone ((808) 521-8585. Mike likes to help out his friend that owns Nico's so he encourages folks to eat at that place before going on the tour. (I can't remember if you go earlier to eat at 6:30 or eat at 7). You can go by yourself no later than 7 (because the auction can be closed if there is only one boat in), but you probably won't know any of the names of the fish or what is happening, but you can see it.

Nico's is an island favorite that usually wins every for a local restaurant having great plate lunchs especially fresh fish. I usually have the catch of the day with eggs and a scoop of rice and coffee for breakfast. http://www.nicospier38.com/ You can also see the reviews from Yelp. Right next door is the restaurant Uncle's They serve local stuff too, with more of a Hawaiian bent.

PEARL HARBOR:
1. Visit "New" Arizona Memorial
2. Visit Missouri
3. Visit Air Museum on Ford Island
4. Visit USS Bowfin
5. Website: http://gohawaii.about.com/cs/pearlharbor/a/pearl_harbor.htm

CHINA TOWN - Info
Being part Chinese, a visit to Chinatown with my mother is always a must. Here she leads to purchases of salmon bones and lotus seeds and fresh vegetables and of course dim sum!

KAPIOLANI COMMUNITY COLLEGE Map
1.  Enjoy a dinner at Kapiolani Community College's Ka'Ikena Restaurant. The restaurant is actually a culinary school that has a beautiful view of the ocean near Diamond Head. They do not have a liquor license, but you are welcomed to bring your own wine and they will be happy to provide the wine glasses and open the bottles for you. Be sure to make reservations as the restaurant only operates while school is in session. Reviews of the restaurant are available on Yelp.

Pan Seared Bubu Arare Crusted Sea Scallops - Shichimi Spiced Linguine with Julienne of Vegetables & Edamame, Steamed Choi Sum & Tahi Sweet Chili Drizzle

2.  Farmers Market - Go to this market early on Saturday morning as it is a very popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

FORT DE RUSSEY - Map
Visit Tank Museum


IN WAIKIKI
Learn to Surf Info
Learn Stand Up Paddling Info
Archery: Finer Points Info
Honolulu Zoo- Located near the Waikiki Aquarium and Waikiki Beach. Info
Waikiki Aquarium - Located in Waikiki near the Honolulu Zoo. Info

DORIS DUKE ESTATE - Shangrila Tour
During the time I lived in Honolulu, I never knew this estate existed. Two years ago I booked a tour to her Shangrila home which is located very near to where I lived and "hung out". You can book tours to this estate through the Honolulu Academy of Arts.

Entrance to "Shangrila"

Shangrila: This window raised and lowered courtesy of Otis Elevator

HONOLULU ACADEMY OF ARTS - Info
Displays various art pieces from the many cultures that live in Hawaii. You will need to be here to begin your tour to the Doris Duke Estate called Shangrila. They also have a wonderful open air restaurant where you can eat before or after your tour. Map and getting there.

POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER in Laie - video
This is a must see for anyone visiting Hawaii to learn about the Polynesian culture and local native food and agriculture. You will need transportation to Laie and there are many touring companies than can take you there. For more information visit their main website here.

BISHOP MUSEUM
The Bishop Museum was originally designed to house the extensive collection of Hawaiian artifacts and royal family heirlooms of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop. The Museum has since expanded to include millions of artifacts, documents and photos about Haaii and other Pacific cultures.

HANAUMA BAY - Info
We use to go here often on the weekends as it was near where I lived. Today it is a fish preserve and sanctuary.