Secrets of Hawaii : Waikiki |
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Honolulu Zoo |
A typical urban zoo with Lions, Tigers, Elephants, Turtles and other
animals, but with a large dose of local and tropical animals thrown in
for good measure. Makes for an interesting zoo experience with lush
grounds and maundering paths to explore. All with Diamond Head as a back
drop and tropical Hawaii as the setting. Much to see and enjoy here. A
must do while on vacation in Hawaii. |
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Honolulu Zoo |
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Waikiki Aquarium |
Exotic tropical fish await you at the Waikiki
Aquarium. The aquarium is operated by the University of Hawaii and it's the
oldest aquarium in the U.S. west of the Mississippi. You will find
colorful coral, vibrant fish and unique crustaceans. |
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Waikiki
Aquarium
Photo courtesy of
Aukipa |
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Diamond Head
Crater |
Enjoy an invigorating hike up Diamond Head Crater and then feast
our eyes on the wonderful Panoramic views of Waikiki and
Honolulu from a top Diamond Head crater. |
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View from
atop Diamond Head Crater |
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Other
places to see or things to do while in Waikiki |
Duke Kahanamoku's
Statue -
Famous statue of Hawaiian Olympian Duke Kananamoku (The
Father of Surfing) in Waikiki. |
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Statue of Duke Kahanamoku |
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Royal
Hawaiian Hotel |
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Royal Hawaiian
Hotel
Royal Hawaiian Hotel was
the first hotel in Waikiki, late circa 1800. This hotel has
distinctive colors and lush surrounding of tropical floral
brings the history of the royal families to life.
Royal Hawaiian
Hotel is located on Kalakaua St, behind the Royal Hawaiian
Shopping Center. |
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Diamond Head
Lighthouse On the down slope of Diamond Head
Road toward Waikiki, you'll see the lighthouse by the ocean.
Diamond Head Lighthouse serves a security for the island to give
landmark for passing ships. |
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Diamond
Head Lighthouse at Sunset |
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Watch
the boogie boarders at The Wall in Waikiki |
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Boogie boarding is fun for all ages and with a little effort you can
be out there surfing with the best. Best of all, the boards are not
expensive and priced at around $30 to 50 for a good board. For the
best price, buy at local sporting goods store outside of Waikiki or
Kmart. Now, The Wall in Waikiki is the favorite spot for local
boogie boarders. Normally, there are great wave actions and the
water is not to deep. You will see many of the local youths diving
off the end of the pier. But, if you are not familiar with the area,
do not attempt to dive from the pier for some parts are shallow.
If you do not want to take the
time to learn how to Boogie Board, you can always purchase an
inflatable float. Drifting with the ocean waves is a favorite pastime
of mine, while still basking in the Hawaiian sun.
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See
the nightly torch lighting ceremony and Hula Show |
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Hula
Kahiko - Traditional Form of Hula Dance |
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Every night there are torch lighting ceremony and hula show in
Waikiki at the Waikiki Mound near the
Duke Kahanamoku Statue. You never know what
to expect. The performers range from keiki (children) to the
seasoned hula dancer. Yet, you will always be entertained by
live music and a great show.
You can bring a straw mat (available at any ABC Stores) for
sitting on
the grass. And, arrive early for a good spot. During the summer,
the show normally starts at 6:30pm. |
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