What not to miss in Hawaii

It depends on what you like, but a trip out to Pearl Harbour is a must. The boat ride to the memorial is pretty special in itself, but the atmosphere of the memorial is something not to miss. I did an Island tour which included Pearl Harbour and I highly recommend that, it took us up to the north coast where they hold the surfing competition every year (although wrong time of year for us), and back around to Waikiki via Diamond Head and some very stunning coastline. The tour guide was a wealth of knowledge and made the tour very entertaining with his humour.

If you like shopping, the markets at the Aloha Stadium are huge. Also, check out the Ala Moana Shopping centre, it’s the largest open-air shopping centre in the USA, and well worth a visit.

You must stay in Waikiki, don’t stay anywhere else on Oahu unless you wish to be away from it all. From your hotel, you will be able to wander the streets of Waikiki at all times of the day and night, visiting the International Market Place, ABC stores which sell anything you may need and of course the famous Waikiki Beach. I would take in one of the many Polynesian shows on offer; you have to see a Hula dance while you are there.

Take a stroll through the gardens of the Pink Palace, AKA The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, then park yourself in the Mai Tai Bar on the edge of the Pacific Ocean with fantastic views of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach. This is a fantastic place to people watch, and to enjoy the sunset.

Kona coffee is some of the best coffee in the world, and if you partake in the drinking of the bean, you simply have to try a cup.

You can hire a car if you wish, however it isn’t necessary, a taxi from the airport is as cheap as chips and there are limos that can take you to your hotel for the same price as a regular cab. Last time I flew in, I shared a limo with another couple going in the same direction. The bus routes are easy to navigate and you can get anywhere you want to go. Any of the tour companies will collect you from the front of your hotel. Hawaii has the perfect weather conditions for long walks, and there are plenty in and around Waikiki including the hour long round trip to the crater of Diamond Head.