Oahu - Festival Island

Hawaii, an archipelago of several islands off the south west coast of mainland United States, is perhaps best known as a surfers paradise of the Polynesian kind where the hula reigns and beaches are endless. Yet there's a whole world of cultural and natural experiences to discover on these islands, the newest state in the US, but which have a long a rich cultural history. It brings tourists of all ages and interests to Hawaii. The activities and events such as the Made In Hawaii festival are intended to enrich and enthral visitors to the islands all year round.

Aside from the Made In Hawaii festival, Oahu has more festivals than any other island in the state, ranging from parades and cultural celebrations to sporting events. Whether you want to immerse yourself in Oahus unique arts scene, watch authentic hula, or sample the tastes of Hawaii, there is something for everyone on Oahu in the islands festivals.

Just before the summer, the June Pan Pacific festival, takes place across the Honolulu in Oahu. Bringing together the diverse cultures of the Pacific, the 31st anniversary of this special three-day celebration begins with Hawaiian festivities on the evening of Friday 11 June, including a block party where visitors can enjoy spectacular entertainment and traditional food. The celebration includes a hula festival held at Ala Moana Center, where spectators have the rare opportunity to see hula groups from Japan perform with Hawaiian hula halau (troupes). The event culminates with a grand parade along Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki.

In August, the Made In Hawaii festival celebrates all things made on the islands of Aloha. The festival has a spirit of entrepreneurship as much as aloha. It celebrates modern Hawaii as well as the islands rich heritage.

From Friday 20 August, visitors can celebrate, alongside Hawaiians, the heritage and pride of their unique culture. More than 400 Made In Hawaii festival exhibitors offer creations from Hawaii, including art, clothing, food, home furnishings, jewellery, toys, fresh produce, plants, and authentic Hawaiian handicrafts. There are also live food demonstrations and entertainment. This Made In Hawaii festival, which takes place in Honolulu, attracts 35,000 visitors over three days, and is not to be missed.

Further festivals include the Honolulu festival in March, a three-day celebration of art, music and dance culminating in a vibrant parade through Waikiki; Oahusi Lei Day Celebration (May 1) at the beautiful Kapiolani Park, including lei making competitions and live music; the King Kamehameha Floral Parade in June, featuring brightly decorated floats and traditional pau riders (female riders in ornate dresses and lei) on horseback, representing the Hawaiian royal court. And, for those who want to sample a variety of local flavors, there's May's Hawaii Food and Wine Paradise, a four-day gourmet getaway including romantic luncheons and beach-side barbeques, the Wahiawa Pineapple festival (mid-May) and Downtown Honolulu and Chinatown's Taste of the Arts in mid-September, showcasing local restaurants. However, this is just a sample of the special festivals and events, including the Made In Hawaii festival that you'll discover on Oahu.

Oahu Hawaii - A Must See For Everyone!

Holidays in USA do include the sun, sand and surf of Oahu, Hawaii.

Aloha!
Oahu, Hawaii... also known as "The Gathering Place." Welcome to the island of Oahu in the U.S. state of Hawaii. This island is 3rd largest of the Hawaiian island chain, but also has the greatest population of close to one million people. The largest City of the islands is on located on Oahu and is Honolulu. Over 75% of the islands inhabitants reside within the city limits.

As well, one of the most visited and popular tourist destinations in the world is within the city limits. Undoubtedly, because of its popularity and exposure, most of us have heard of - "Waikiki". Most visitors planning their holidays here end up staying in Waikiki. It's where most major hotels are situated and where all the dining, shopping and entertainment takes places.

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki beach is simply beautiful and stretches for approximately 2 miles. It's a perfect place to take that morning jog, walk, bike or swim. There's a beautiful 500 acre park (Kapiolani) at the far end towards Diamond Head, making Waikiki a wonderful family holiday destination.

Surfing While Visiting Oahu, Hawaii - A Must Try!

Of course, when taking your Holidays in USA to the island of Hawaii, you must surfing! Waikiki beach is perfect for the beginner surfer with gentle waves to accommodate the most timid. There are booths set up on the beach with qualified instructors just waiting to 'Hang 10' with you!

Why do most people want to visit Hawaii?

Well, warm weather, hot sun and beautiful beaches in a tropical climate for starters. Who could ask for anything better!

The climate, well it's pretty much perfect all year-round. It has some the most favourable weather you will come across. There really no extremes and it pretty much stays constant throughout the year. Temperatures average at 75°F and 85°F with light winds. The ocean temperature is comfortable ranging from 76°F during the winter months to around 82°F in the summer. Just lovely!

Oahu, Hawaii - Places to See and Things to Do

It is impossible to mention everything there is to do while staying on the island, but I will try to give you a quick run-down on the major attractions, suggestions and basically things our family have taken part in during our last few visits to the island.

Waikiki Beach Surfing - a must do for family members of all ages.
Diamond Head Crater - hiking trail to the lookout 760 ft. summit with spectacular views.
Pearl Harbour - USS Arizona Memorial
Atlantis Submarine - experience the thrill and sites in a real submarine!
International Market Places - an island tradition shopping market in Waikiki for over 50 years.
Aloha Tower Marketplace - famous landmark, cruise terminal, shopping, entertainment and more.
Ala Moana Shopping Center - a shopper's paradise!
Hanauma Bay - protected Marine Park, beautiful for family snorkelling.
North Shore - experience the north shore, catch the world surfing championships!

As you can see, there is so much to see and do making it a perfect - Holidays in USA destination for the whole family. Why not start planning a holiday to Oahu,Hawaii! It's never been so affordable!