Best Things To Do On Molokai
15. Visit the Leper Colony Kalaupapa National Historic Site
One epic Hawaiian adventure that should be on everyones bucket list is a trip to the Kalaupapa National Historic Site.
This special place was once a leper colony for victims of Hansens Disease .
For more than a century, between 1865 and 1966, sufferers of the disease we forcibly taken from their homes on other islands and shipped off on a cattle boat to the remote peninsula of Kalaupapa on the island of Molokai, where they would live out their days until death.
There are still survivors on the colony today. Even though the disease has been eradicated, and a cure found, many of the residents chose to stay.
Today, Kalaupapa is no longer a prison, but a place where you can go to learn about this sad part of the history of Hawaii and to remember those who were affected by it. It is no longer a leper colony, but a sanctuary and National Historic Site.
Visiting Kalaupapa is not the easiest thing you will do. You must first acquire a permit to visit, book a tour and figure out how you will make it to the town.
You have two options for getting to Kalaupapa: hiking 3.5 miles down 2,000-foot cliffs and 26 switchbacks or flying in on a tiny plane.
Either one promises to be an adventure. Learn more about booking permits and tours for the Molokai leper colony tour.
Where to stay on Molokai: Yes, you can spend the night on Molokai!
Why Travel To Hawaii In Fall
Traveling to Hawaii in October does have some pretty cool perks. Some claim it is one of the cheapest times to visit as there are no major holidays. Beaches are typically less crowded as well.
Along with that, you can experience lots of the same fall things you would normally do, but in the sunshine and with a fun Hawaiian twist! Because it isnt so hot at night, the Hawaii fall weather is another bonus for an October vacation.
Fall starts the seasonal blues for some people as the weather cools down and things begin to die. During October, traveling to Hawaii may help you rest, relax, and reset to have a smoother and happier cold season!
See Famous Artists Work At The Honolulu Museum Of Art
Originally founded way back in 1922, the crowd-favorite Honolulu Museum of Art houses the largest art collection in the state, with a vast collection that highlights the spectacular works of renowned artists from near and far with a few names you might just recognize: Hokusai, van Gogh, Gauguin, Monet, Picasso, and Warhol, to name a few.
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North Shore Beach Tour Oahu
The wonderful North Shore Beach Tour breaks travelers out of Waikiki and up to Haleiwa on the north coast of Oahu for an all-day sun and surf adventure. Learn about the history of surfing among Hawaiian royalty, and visit the most famous surf spots in the world, Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay, with water clear enough to see the bottom and a huge rock for cliff jumping. Guests are invited to swim, surf, snorkel, canoe, or scuba here. At Puaena Point, snorkel with sea turtles, before moving on the Wailua River for standup paddleboarding and shave ice. Finish with a trip to the Dole Plantation for pineapple ice cream. Lunch at Tsues Farm is included. All ages welcome.
Running On Koko Head Stairs
Who needs the gym when you have a natural stairmaster with an awesome view that takes you up more than 1,000 steps? Located on Oahus South Shore, Koko Head Stairs is located within Koko Head Park. The trail was originally a railroad that was built decades ago to help bring military supplies to bunkers up top. If you are driving towards Haunama Bay, you will be able to see the skinny Koko Head trail ascend into the moutains. Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, water, sunscreen and a hat. The suggested times to go are around sunrise and sunset in order to avoid the peak of Hawaii’s daytime heat. The 360-degree view of the mountains and sea will leave you feeling accomplished, empowered and lucky you are in Hawaii.What’s cool: From Waimanalo to the edge of Diamond Head, you are able to see a 360-degree view of Oahu’s East side.
10. Drive Around the Island
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See The Pineapple Fields At The Dole Plantation
Transforming from a roadside pineapple stand to one of Hawaiis top attractions, the Dole Plantation is a fun excursion for the entire family. In addition to pineapple treats, it features fascinating tours, kid-friendly train rides, and the worlds largest maze.
Families will love riding on the narrated Pineapple Express train, which offers beautiful North Shore views as well as the story of how James Drummond Dole founded his world-famous agricultural empire. You can also opt for a self-guided Plantation Garden Tour and stroll through the beautiful landscape of the sites ripening tropical fruit.
The Dole Plantation is also home to the worlds largest maze, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Stretching over three acres, it includes 2.5 miles of paths created from over 14,000 Hawaiian plants. There are eight secret stations along the way, and the fastest finishers win a prize!
After touring the attraction, fuel up with island favorites at the on-site Plantation Grille. Its menu not only features the famous Dole Whip soft-serve dessert, but it also includes traditional fare such as teriyaki chicken, kale pork, and loco moco. Of course, you can also purchase fresh pineapple to take home.
Best Things To Do In Oahu Hi Top Activities & Places To Go
- Emily Appelbaum
Oahu, a lovely island in Hawaii, is home to many iconic beaches and breathtaking landscapes.
This major tourist destination draws in guests from all over the continent with its delicious food, grand museums, beautiful parks, bustling shopping malls, pristine beaches, and plenty more.
The possibilities when traveling to Oahu are limitless, and youll surely find attractions that are perfect for all ages.
Below is a list of some of the best things to do in Oahu, HI, so that you can better plan the ideal getaway.
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Snorkel At Electric Beach
Kahe Point Beach Park, also known as Electric Beach by locals, is one of the best spots on Oahu for snorkeling. Thanks to a nearby power plant, the warm, crystal-clear water in this area attracts an abundance of sea life.
On your snorkeling adventure, you can get up close to turtles and dolphins, colorful fish and eagle rays, as well as white-tip sharks and octopuses. Once in the water, youre surrounded by reefs teeming with underwater life!
For a unique experience, swim in front of the power plant and follow it to the two pipes pushing out warm water. The area attracts a lot of sea life and youll be swimming in school after school of tropical fish. Less of a beach area, if you want to laze on the shoreline after your snorkel, head to nearby Makaha Beach or Yokohama Bay.
Kahe Point is located on the west side of the island, about a 45-minute drive from Waikiki. Entry is free, and it requires about an intermediate level of swimming to snorkel in this area.
The waves can break right where you enter and there are no lifeguards stationed at Electric Beach. May to October is the best time for calm waters.
Hawaii Food & Wine Festival Oct 1st
This years Hawaii Food & Wine Festival will feature over 150 internationally chefs, winemakers and mixologists in differentvenues on Oahu through out October. There are somefun venues including a Localicious Recipe Contest, Life’s a Beach, Pasta la Vista, and Crazy Rich Cocktails. Walk and or dance yourself around the evening,enjoying a beautiful setting with entertainment and sampling lots offun creations.
- Location Various Locations
- Learn more – www.Hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com
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Honolulu Haunts Guided Ghost Tour
Consider a guided ghost tour if youre looking for real haunts and a darker side of the island. First, explore downtown Honolulu in a guided group as you hear horrifying tales. Then, venture through historic buildings and learn about unsolved mysteries. You dont have to have people jumping out at you to be scared out of your mind. Simply travel through dark streets as you listen to horrifying tales of terror. The Honolulu Haunts Guided Ghost Tour is perfect for those who like to learn history while also hearing real-life tales of hauntings.
What To Pack For Hawaii In October
You should pack what you normally would for any vacation in Hawaii! Ive got a Maui packing list and Kauai packing list that will get you started. And you can read about the top things people always forget on their Hawaii packing list HERE.
However, you may want to add a pair of pants and a very thin sweatshirt just in case you get cold at night. A rash guard swimsuit will also help you stay warm out on the ocean if you plan to swim at night.
Along with those, dont forget to bring:
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Sandals
However, if you do forget something off your list of what to pack for Hawaii in October, dont worry. Head to a local Walmart or Target to find lower prices and grab what you forgot.
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Parasail Over The Brilliant Shoreline
With hundreds of miles of sparkling coastline and a topography covering everything from towering volcanoes to seemingly neverending Forrest, Oahu is undoubtedly best viewed from above.
Even if youve never parasailed before, dont fret with an experienced instructor riding tandem, all youll have to do is relax and enjoy the panoramic views!
Try Windsurfing Or Kitesurfing At Kailua Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in Oahu, Kailua Beach features turquoise blue waters and white powder sand. Stretching for 2.5 miles, it sits conveniently next to another one of Oahus famous beaches, Lanikai Beach.
With its strong winds, this is the top spot in Oahu to try thrilling water sports activities such as kitesurfing and windsurfing. Strong and steady breezes are frequent at the beach due to its location on the islands windward side. If you want to add this activity to your itinerary, Hawaiian Watersports rents out equipment and offers lessons for beginners.
Unlike Lanikai Beach, this Oahu destination has bathroom facilities, beach showers, and picnic tables, making it a popular getaway for families. Kids can swim in the calm waters, make a splash in the waves with their boogie boards, or try body surfing.
The long, gentle bay is also ideal for beach strolling. The sun also rises offshore, making it a popular spot to admire one of Hawaiis beautiful sunrises. Afterward, you can explore downtown Kailua, which is just a five-minute walk from here.
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Best Things To Do On Oahu Hawaii
October 19, 2020 By Loretta Berry
Vacationers visiting Oahu, Hawaii seem to be of two kinds. There are the thrill-seeking, rowdy, night-life vacationers. Then there are those seeking relaxation, a more chilled vacation experience. Luckily, Oahu has plenty of exciting, blood-pumping activities and lots of fun, relaxing things to do as well.
Oahu boasts almost three-fourths of the state of Hawaiis population, and 60 percent of the islands residents live in Honolulu. Thats a lot of people in one small space. There are certain things a visitor must do, like visit Waikiki Beach, remember history and the fallen at Pearl Harbor, and see Diamond Head.
For those that worship the sun and adore fast-paced activities, downtown Honolulu and Waikiki Beach are for you. The high-end shopping, dining, and clubbing experience in this area are off the charts. For the chill crowd, there are out-of-the-way resorts, quiet beaches, and endless sightseeing.
Catch A Sunrise In Oahu
The warm sea kisses the soft sand surrounding the island’s coasts, and while its always great to take a dip in the ocean and bask in the sun, the beauty of the beaches also lies beyond the horizon. When the sun rises to greet the Windward side of the island, the best place to watch it ascend is toward the end of Kailua Beach. From there you will be able to have a panoramic view with the Moku Iki island in the foreground. To see the sunset, view it on the west or south shores of the island. Kahanamoku Beach lies right before Waikiki Beach and is a great place to bid the sun farewell. Take pictures near the boat docks or walk on the rock barrier near the beachs showers.Whats cool: If want to see the sunrise on the island’s Windward side but would like an aerial view of the event, you could hike Lanikai Pillboxes.
6. Learn to Surf
7. Go to the North Shore
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Kayak To The Beautiful Mokes
Sitting past the crystal clear waters of Lanikai Beach are two twin islands in the distance. Called the Mokulua Islands, they are known locally as The Mokes. Paddling to these picture-perfect islands is at the top of many travelers Oahu bucket lists, as the adventure offers a true Hawaiian experience.
Get up close to the open waters as you head to the larger island, named Moku Nui. Along the way, youll have the chance to soak up the beautiful views of Oahus eastern coast. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the island, and once you arrive, you can swim to shore and explore the island.
Bring your snorkel gear, as youll want to see the vibrant coral reefs and different species of aquatic life that live here, including Hawaiian sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals. You can also hike along the rocks or go for a swim in the Queens Bath tidal pool.
Kailua Beach Adventures offers guided tours to the Mokulua Islands and includes snorkeling and a free lunch. Youll depart from Lanikais white sand beach, then visit a seabird sanctuary and snorkel near Kailuas turtle feeding grounds. For experienced kayakers, theres also an option for a self-guided kayak rental.
Oahu Halloween Fun Guide Oct 1st 31st 2022
Check out a schedule of ongoing Halloween eventsthroughout the month of October. There will be lots of pumpkinpatch festivals, haunted houses, workshops, carnivals, spookystorytelling, running events, and special trick or treat events! Dont miss out on a month full of Halloween fun!
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Is October Crowded In Hawaii
No, its not. As we said above, October is the month of outrigger canoe races, or as is the case this year, the Ironman World Championship. Around 2,000-2,500 people come from all around the globe to participate in these events. But this crowd is pretty negligible compared to the tens of thousands of people who flock to the Hawaiian Islands during the summer vacation or winter holidays .
What Are The Worst Months To Visit Hawaii
Okay, first of all, theres no bad time to visit Hawaii!
That being said, if you hate crowds and/or overspending, December will be your least favorite month to plan a Hawaii vacation. In addition to the insane holiday crowds, theres also the fact that December is the wettest month of the year. Mother Nature cannot be predicted she does what she wants, when she wants.
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Stay Tuned For A Dining Feast
Now in its 10th year, the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival is always a highlight of a local foodies year. The team behind HFWF launched a virtual event series, Talk Story & Pau Hana with #HFWF, and invited renowned chefs to discuss their struggles, predictions and hopes during the pandemic, so we can guess they want to keep the momentum of supporting the industry going into the fall. This year the festival organizers plan to throw a multi-island extravaganza from Oct. 3 to Nov. 8 with quarantine-friendly ways to safely party .
hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com, hifoodwinefest
This story originally appeared as October Picks in the October 2020 issue of HONOLULU Magazine. Get your copy at shop.honolulumagazine.com and subscribe to the .
Is Hawaii Crowded In October
If youre looking for one of the least crowded times to visit Hawaii, October is an excellent month to consider.
The height of Hawaiis tourism occurs during the summer when children are out of school and families are more likely to schedule their yearly vacations. As a result, October sees fewer crowds in Hawaii as kids head back into the school year and await the winter holidays that are still several months away.
While Hawaii is plenty busy during this fall month, as it is year-round, you can expect the state to be slightly less busy compared to the summer.
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North Shore Beach Hop
Turtle Bay Resort is located at the end of the seven-mile miracle, a stretch of sand beginning in Haleiwa that’s famous for its legendary surf spots. During the summer, all those gorgeous beaches trade in their swells for tranquil waters, making it possible to explore the North Shore beach-by-beach. Make a day out of it, with notable stops at the legendary rock at Waimea Bay, Ehukai Beach , and Sharks Cove to snorkel with sea turtles.
Read on to explore our five favorite North Shore beaches.
Please note: Nature can be unpredictable, so check ocean conditions or speak with a lifeguard before heading out. There are occasional summer swells and a riptide at North Shore beaches, so always be on alert.
