Back to the Island

Staying back on O'ahu, we explored more of the island this time, jumping in the car and driving around the island to take in as much as we could. From the local area of Kahala, to the North Shore, the scenic drives around the island were incredible. Along the way, we stopped at colourful smoothie shacks, beaches full of sea turtles and even some beautiful waterfalls.

We drove to Haleiwa Old Town first, to see the vintage clothes shops, handmade crafts and gifts and the beautiful buildings full of history. This colourful town was one of the first Hawaiian settlements on the island, and the landscape itself is breathtaking! Here you can find everything from handmade clothing and gifts, to a Patagonia shop. Haleiwa is a must see if you are visiting North Shore, and are looking for a glimpse at what the town may have looked like years ago.

One of the highlights from North Shore for us was going to see Waimea Falls and the walk through the gardens leading up to the waterfall. This area is stunning, and has so much to take in from unique flowers to towering trees, and then of course, the 45 ft waterfall and valley. You can actually swim in the water here and hire swimming equipment, but just taking in the view is also a must see. Waimea Valley was definitely my favourite part of this trip.

During our time on the island, we also visited Waikiki Beach to stroll through the market and stalls, getting some incredible gifts and souvenirs which were handmade on the island. The market is a bustling strip in the main city, full of food, gifts and clothes, and has something for everyone. It does get busy, so arrive early!

Hiking Diamond Head State Monument was also incredible, as the views over the crater are unlike anything else. With one side the glistening blue of the Pacific Ocean, and the other the high-rise buildings of Honolulu, it truly gives a view of the whole of the island and the old and the new coming together.

We also attended a Lei Po'o making class, to learn how to make the traditional floral head pieces worn by Hawaiian leaders and now locals. This tradition has been passed down for centuries, and it was so interesting to find out more about the meaning behind them and the techniques in how to make them for ourselves. Lei Po'o means 'head lei' - the crown version of the floral necklaces also often worn in Hawaii.

The island has so much to offer, and the culture and history is rich everywhere you go. There is always something to learn and amazing places to experience, which is why Hawaii is one of my favourite spots to travel to.