Monday

Oahu Maps






I bought a map for each of our guests but I wanted to share the details before hand so everyone could see..lots of cool information. Don't Print one out I will have one in everyones bag.




Franko's Oahu Guide Map
Franko's Oahu Guide Map, With Things to See and Do is a guide and a map of the island of Oahu all in one! Side two features Waikiki and the Oahu South Shore. The guide map contains loads of information telling you what there is to see and do on Oahu and in Waikiki.
SIDE ONE of Franko's Oahu Guide Map With a view of the whole island, it's mountain ranges shown in beautiful green shaded relief, as well as it's freeways and major roads, plus creeks, trails and things to see or places to go, this map captures the very essence of Oahu. If you love Oahu, eant to go there or want the best souvenir, you have to have this map! The colors are absolutely inspiring! Beyond the greens of the Island of Oahu, the ocean waters are shown in beautiful shades of tropical ocean blue, indicating ocean depth contours. All around the island there are descriptions of wonderful things to see and do. This includes Oahu's fabulous ocean sports, especially its world famous surfing spots. Favorite places to visit include Hanauma Bay, possibly the most snorkeled spot on earth, and also Magic Island right next to Waikiki, where one of America's best fireworks shows happen on July 4th, and all of the great places to stop all around the island of Oahu. The map will call your attention to fine details, such as Laniakea on the north shore. When you stop and park across the highway, go to the beach there and check out the old, 300-pound green sea turtles grazing on the algae right at the beach, or even resting on the beach there, as they have for thousands of years. When you go to the windward side of Oahu, or the East Shore, Franko's Oahu guide map will guide you to the Polynesian Cultural Center (the PCC to the locals) and the Mormon Hawaii Temple, which is probably the most beautiful edifice in the State of Hawaii. To the southeast corner of the island, near Hanauma Bay, the map student will find Sandy Beach, famous for it's body-whomping heavy shorebreak, which commonly ruins a few unwary tourists' vacations, as they find out just how powerful the beautiful ocean can be. That's right, even though the map shows this attractive Oahu beach, you might want to stay out of the water! Around the map there are several photos showing the beauty that is Oahu. My favorite is the Waimea Bay surf photo, but I also like the view of Waikiki from atop Diamond Head. You've seen a thousand pictures of Diamond Head. It must be the most photographed mountain this side of Mt. Fuji. However, when have you seen a picture of Waikiki from the top of Diamond Head? I took this photo right after sunrise. There is also a photo of Yokohama Bay at the very end of the road on the Waianae side of Oahu. This area is seldom visited by tourists. Question: Why is Yokohama Bay referred top by the locals as “Pray for Sex Beach?” Oahu has so much to offer. It is like a whole country on one little island. It took 8380 words to fully describe everything on Oahu on Franko's Guide Map of Oahu! On side one the detailed descriptions are as follows:
FAVORITE OAHU HIKINGDIAMOND HEAD: Steep, but short hike up the inner wall of Diamond Head Crater, through a dark tunnel, and out to a postcard-pretty view of Waikiki's skyline, the ocean below.MANOA FALLS: Starting at the top of Manoa Drive, this trail winds far above the Waikiki skyline and Diamond Head through a lush rain forest amid tropical flora and birds. 1.5 mi. ahead is a waterfall and a pond to put your feet in.MAKAPU'U LOOKOUT: Where the windward side of Oahu begins, you will find the Makapu'u Lighthouse. A trail leads up to the top of a 750 ft. (229m) volcanic peak withviews up the windward coast and to distant outer islands.TANTALUS and ROUNDTOP TRAILS: The drive around Tantalus and Roundtop goes to a dozen or more trails above Makiki Valley overlooking Waikiki, Honolulu, and DiamondHead. The views are unbelievable and the feel and fragrance of the rain forest is unforgettable.KA'ENA POINT: Far from civilization, the Ka'ena Trail begins at the end of Farrington Hwy. beyond Yokohama Bay, as well as at the end of Farrington Hwy. in Mokule'ia. Fromeither trailhead to the point is a round trip of 5 miles (8.1 km).GUIDED HIKES: For professional insight into Hawaiian nature and history, tour companies and nature clubs offer guided hikes in the diverse trails of Oahu.
SCENIC DRIVES THROUGH KO'OLAU MOUNTAINS:Oahu has threespectacular drives, which go through tunnels in the mountains. The H-3 freeway is one of the most spectacular pieces of freeway on earth. It traverses the island by ascending through the rain forest, tunneling for a mile through the near vertical pali, then descending on amazing mountainside bridges into Kaneohe. Similarly, LIKELIKE HIGHWAY (Hwy. 63) also goes from Honolulu to Kaneohe. The PALI HIGHWAY (Hwy. 61) goes past the spectacular Nu'uanu Pali Lookout, through two Pali tunnels and then descends into Kailua. All three have to be seen from both directions. Make sure to stop at the Nu'uanu Pali Lookout off the PALI HIGHWAY
MOKU'AUIA Shallow snorkeling and scuba diving amongst small holes in lava with cowries, lobsters, crabs, octopuses, and all kinds of reef fish. Caution: N swell degrades conditions.
LA'IE POINT Unbelievable view point!
MORMON TEMPLE AT LA'IE Beautiful manicured gardens surround this striking coral-white temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which has been a La'ie landmark since 1919. Visitor center features a breathtaking replica of Thorvaldsen's "Christus" statue.
POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER Authentic Hawaiian lu'au with a spectacular Polynesian show. Explore genuine Polynesian villages from Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa, the Marquesas, New Zealand, and Hawaii. The Center has a marketplace with souvenirs, gifts and crafts, plus an IMAX theater. This is one of Oahu's top attractions. Closed Sundays. For reservations and infomation call: 293-3333
DOLE PLANTATION On Kamehameha Highway just 10 minutes from the North Shore. Wander through the "World's Largest Maze" as recognized by the 2001 Guinness Book of Records, take a ride on the Pineapple Express Train, stroll through the Plantation Garden, and then stop in the country store for a refreshing Pineapple Dole Whip or pick up a unique gift.
WAHIAWA BOTANICAL GARDEN Right in the middle of Oahu, these gardens have 26 acres of lovely ferns, trees and flowers.
KUALOA RANCH is a genuine working cattle ranch in an unbelievably beautiful setting. Enjoy horseback and ATV riding, mountain and ocean views, or tours through lush gardens, ancient fish ponds and a variety of movie sets. Kualoa is Oahu's "biggest" attraction, at 4000 acres. For information call 237-8515.
TROPICAL FARMS For a one-of-a-kind experience, visit Oahu's only macadamia nut farm outlet. Enjoy true Hawaiian hospitality with free samples of freshly roasted mac nuts, dried fruits, and Kona coffee from a deck overlooking an 800 year-old fish pond ina lush tropical setting.
VALLEY OF THE TEMPLES The Byodo-In Temple sits up against the steep and beautiful pali (vertical cliffs) of the Ko'olau Mountains. This replica of a 900 year-old Japanesetemple features a huge Buddha. Valley of the Temples Memorial Park has beautiful grounds and fish ponds with koi.
HE'EIA STATE PARK Coastal picnic and beach site. Party hall rentals.
TheBus: Information Line: 848-5555 See Oahu as a relaxed passenger instead of as a driver. Get around the island in a most economical way. Take TheBus. A quarter of a million riders use TheBus every day traveling to and from it's 4000 stops on almost 6dozen lines. To circumnavigate the island you can take off from Ala Moana Shopping Center and return after an all-day adventure. TheBus is so efficient that many tourists don't even bother to rent a car.
OAHU STATE PARKS WITH CAMPING Information: 587-0300KEA'IWA HEIAU STATE RECREATION AREA: Top of A'iea Heights Drive, Aiea. Forested camping, picnicking and hiking. Remains of Healing Temple, Heiau Ho'olo.KAHANA VALLEY STATE PARK: Off Kamehameha Highway in Kahana. Scenic wild valley, beach activities, picnicking, camping, hiking, and pig hunting.MALAEKAHANA STATE RECREATION AREA: At Kamehameha Highway north of La'ie. Wooded beach park, camping and lodging.SAND ISLAND STATE RECREATION AREA: At the end of Sand Island Access Road near Honolulu Harbor entrance. Beach park, camping and fishing.COUNTY PARKS: There are 15 County parks that allow camping with a permit. For permit information call: 523-4525.
HO'OMALUHIA PARK 400 acres of natural preserve on the windward side of Oahu. Worldwide collection of tropical trees and plants. Nature hikes and weekend-only camping.
KAILUA BEACH & PARK One of the world's top-rated beaches. Sailboards and kayaks can be rented on the spot. Lessons available. Turquoise waters are protected from big waves by outer reef and shallow water. Trade winds prevail to make for perfect windsurfing as well as kite sailing. The beach is great for family fun.
ENCHANTED LAKE BIRD SANCTUARY One of Oahu's best places to enjoy birdwatching. Includes red-footed boobies, great frigate birds, red-tailed tropic birds, hawaiian duck, and plover.
NU'UANU PALI LOOKOUT The views of Oahu's windward side and the spectacular Pali (near-vertical cliffs) are absolutely breathtaking. The lookout is the site where King Kamehameha defeated Oahu Chief Kalanikupule by forcing his opponents off the cliff. This battle was pivotal in uniting the Hawaiian Islands under Kamehameha. Nu'uanu Pali State Wayside has a dense rain forest.
WAIMANALO BAY Oahu's longest sandy beach. Snorkeling amongst tropical fish and colorful corals in a shallow, reef-protected bay.
SEA LIFE PARK Dolphin shows, sea lions that like to ham it up for the audience, penquins, a huge reef tank full of fish, and learning programs. Various marine animal encounters available. Phone 259-7933 Dedicated to marine preservation and education.
HANAUMA BAY STATE UNDERWATER PARK Fabulously beautiful beach with a calm inner reef and tame tropical fish. The outer reef has coral gardens, green sea turtles, and reef fish. The bluff above the bay has a great new visitor center which educates visitors about reef life. Closed Tuesdays.
AERIAL TOUR Thrilling and beautiful tours via HELICOPTER, BIPLANE, and SEAPLANE are available. Contact: Makani Kai Helicopters at 834-5813; Stearman Biplanes Rides at 637-4461; Island Seaplane Service at 836-6273. Or ask a tour coordinator at any activity center.
WATER SPORTS Jetskiing, parasailing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, banana boats and bumper tubes, glass bottom & scuba dive boats are all available at Koko Marina.
LYON ARBORETUM At the end of Manoa Road above Waikiki, on 194 acres is a world-famous collection of over 5000 species of tropical plants. This academic resource conducts regular classes.
UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII The Manoa Campus is the flagship of the UH System. It is the home of the Rainbow Warriors and the East-West Center, and is famous for marine biology.
PUNCHBOWL CRATER The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific is the resting place for over 38,000 casualties from WWII, the Korean and Vietnam Wars. A shrine commemorates the missing-in-action. The rim of this crater provides an incredible view of the city of Honolulu. For further information call: 532-3720.
QUEEN EMMA SUMMER PALACE Formerly a summer retreat for Hawaiian royalty in the cool, rainy hills of Nu'uanu Valley. The palace has King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma's family belongings. Managed by the daughters of Hawaii. For info. call: 595-3167.
BISHOP MUSEUM The premier exhibitor and guardian over the natural and cultural history of Hawaii and the Pacific Islands. Artifacts of Hawaiian culture on display include royal clothing, weapons, and much more. There is also a Planetarium. A "Must See" for museum buffs. For information call: 847-3511.
ALOHA STADIUM Home of the University of Hawaii Rainbow Warriors, the annual NFL Pro Bowl, and Oahu's largest swap meet (6a.m. - 3p.m. Wed., Sat., Sun.).
PEARL HARBOR, a naturally formed safe haven, is the home of the U.S. Navy in Hawaii. The USS ARIZONA MEMORIAL honors the more than 1100 men who died aboard the ship in the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. This attack drew the United States into the conflict of World War II. The memorial spans like a bridge across the mid-section of the sunken battleship. For info call: 422-2771. The battleship USS MISSOURI, also known as "THE MIGHTY MO", is now a museum and memorial berthed at Ford Island. It was right here upon the decks of the Mighty Mo that the WWII surrender was signed in 1945. Reservations: Tel. 973-2494. Next to the U.S.S. Arizona Visitor Center and theater, be sure to visit the USS BOWFIN SUBMARINE MUSEUM and PARK, which is a tribute to its service distinction and to submariners. For info call: 423-1341.
OAHU GOLF:There are about 36 golf courses on the beautiful island of Oahu. The following are open to the public:Ala Wai Golf Course 18 holes, municipal course right next to Waikiki 293-2000Bayview Golf Park, 18 holes, par 60, in Kaneohe 247-0451Coral Creek Golf Course 18 holes, public course in Ewa Beach 441-4653Ewa Village Golf Course 18 holes, par 73, municipal course 293-2000Hawaii Country Club short 18 holes, public course in Kunia 621-5654Hawaii Kai Golf Course 18 holes, plus executive (short) course 395-2358Hawaii Prince Golf Club 27 holes in Ewa Beach, designed by Arnold Palmer 944-4567Kahuku Golf Course 9 holes, municipal course on the North Shore 293-2000Kapolei Golf Course 18 holes, public course in Kapolei 674-2227Ko 'Olina Golf Club 18 holes, resort course at Kapolei 676-5300Ko'olau Golf Club 18 holes, public championship course in Kaneohe 236-4653Luana Hills Country Club 18 holes, championship course in Kailua 262-2139Makaha Resort Golf Club 18 holes, resort course 695-7519Makaha Valley Country Club 18 holes, public course 695-9578Mililani Golf Club 18 holes, public course 623-2222Moana Lua Golf Club 9 holes, open to public after 1 p.m. 839-2411New 'Ewa Beach Golf Club 18 holes, semi-private course 689-8351Olomana Golf Links 18 holes, public course, just past Sea Life Park 259-7926Pali Golf Course 18 holes, municipal course in Kaneohe 293-2000Pearl Country Club 18 holes, public course with Pearl Harbor overlook 487-3802Royal Kunia Country Club 18 holes, semi-private course 688-9222Ted Makalena Golf Course 18 holes, municipal course in Waipahu 293-2000Turtle Bay Resort Golf Club Resort on the North Shore with two courses:"The Palmer Course", 18 holes; "The Fazio Course", 9 holes 293-8574Waikele Golf Club 18 holes, public course in Waipahu 676-9000West Loch Golf Course 18 holes, muncipal course at Ewa Beach 293-2000
HAWAIIAN RAILWAY SOCIETY Educational operating railway museum. Sunday train rides Tel. 681-5461
KO 'OLINA RESORT 640 acre all-inclusive resort. Beautiful blue lagoons, catamaran rides, snorkeling, golf, wedding chapel, swimming, and dining around a master-planned community. Marriott Hotel, marina, time share condos, shopping center, and more.
PARADISE COVE ("Luau Village") Home of the Paradise Cove Luau features a private beach setting with "backyard-style" all-you-can-eat luau, Polynesian pageantry and show with song and dance from Hawaii, Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, and New Zealand. Tel. 842-5911
HAWAIIAN WATERS ADVENTURE PARK 25 acres of water rides, slides and cool fun. For information call: 674-9283
ELECTRIC BEACH (KAHE PT.) Beach park entry for snorkeling and scuba diving to 30'deep in usually calm water. Patches of coral and an artificial reef fed by warm power plant discharge creates an aquarium-like home for green sea turtles, all kinds of tropical reef fish, eagle rays, and spinner dolphins.
HAWAII'S PLANTATION VILLAGE at WAIPAHU CULTURAL GARDEN Museum that preserves and interprets Hawaii's unique plantation history, architecture, and heritage. Tel. 677-0110
M/V MAHI Popular scuba dive on 165', 800-ton navy cable-layer sunken intact in 1982 at 90' (27m) depth. Sponges and corals encrust decaying wreck. Puffers, butterflyfish, moray eels, lionfish, turtles, humpback whales in season, and eagle rays "fly" past in clear water.
WAI'ANAE SCENERY: The Wai'anae side of Oahu is full of spectacular scenery. The turquoise ocean shimmers in offshore breezes while afternoon rains produce rainbows set against the green Wai'anae Range. This part of Oahu seems so distant from Waikiki that it is another world. There are numerous excellent scuba sites offshore, and great snorkeling along the shore. One of the world's premier surf spots is Makaha.
MAKAHA Fabulous advanced surfing on famous semi-reef point break. Variable surf lineup in swells which wrap around the island. Surfing is good anywhere from knee-high to 30' (1 - 9m) high. Giant bowl during big surf. Famous for longboarding surfing contests and brilliant sunsets.
MAKAHA CAVERNS Scuba diving and snorkeling amongst swim-through lava caves just beyond famous Makaha surf break. Dive over ledges and under overhangs surrounded bytropical fishes, moray eels, spinner dolphins, white-tip reef sharks, ”Tripod”, the 3-finned turtle and occasional manta rays.
YOKOHAMA BAY ("PRAY FOR SEX BEACH") Sandy beach with great scenery and superb snorkeling amongst coral formations, with plentiful reef fish in clear water. Caution: Strong currents offshore and high surf can pound shoreline. Good fishing from beach. End of the road here is the trailhead for hiking to Ka'ena Point. Warning: Very secluded.
DILLINGHAM AIRFIELD This airfield is the home of some of Oahu's most extreme adventures: Tandem skydiving from 13,000 feet (4000m) above the North Shore with 50 seconds of freefall. Call Skydive Hawaii at 637-9700; Soaring in a glider for unsurpassed views of the North Shore, valleys, mountains and passing humpback whales in season. Call Mr. Bill at 677-3404. Ask for pilot "Tall Don"; Scenic aerobatic rides in an open-cockpit biplane. Call Mr. Bill at 677-3404.
NORTH SHORE SURF and CULTURAL MUSEUM In the North Shore Market Place in Hale'iwa.
HALE'IWA Ali'i Beach Park features world class surfing on hollow waves in winter swells. This is also a perfect surf lessons spot. Ask any local at Ali'i Beach Park to introduce you to Oahu's best surf teacher, known as "Hawaiian". Tell him that Peter Papaya sent you!
SHAVE ICE When in Oahu's North Shore, you must have a cold, delicious Shave Ice - one of Hawaii's favorite treats!
HISTORIC HALE'IWA TOWN The real "Surf City U.S.A." is a century-old plantation town full of interesting tourist shops, surf shops, scuba dive shops, galleries, fantasticfood, the North Shore Surf and Cultural Museum and wonderful beaches. Visit the North Shore Market Place and enjoy a meal at "Cholos", the best fresh homestyle Mexican food outside of Mexico. Hale'iwa is a must see destination for any visitor who leaves Waikiki.
WAIMEA BAY World's most famous big-wave break for advanced and expert surfers only. Winter waves to 30' (9m) high. Waimea's heavy shorebreak is especially wicked and dangerous. Summertime conditions are often flat and suitable for snorkeling and kayaking.
WAIMEA VALLEY 1800 acres of tropical rainforest, botanical garden, arboretum and ancient Hawaiian sites. Walking tours to Waimea Falls, a lush nature park with bird and wildlife habitat. Kayaking on the estruary.
SHARK'S COVE Part of marine life conservation district. One of the best North Shore summer snorkeling and scuba spots with caves, colorful corals, reef fish, and invertebrates. Notable for night diving. Children can snorkel in the tide pools.
BANZAI PIPELINE Unforgiving waves in winter swell. One of world's greatest left breaks. There is a shallow and creviced bottom. Outside reefs create a fast, hollow break when big. Advanced surfers only! Easy viewing access from Ehukai Beach Park.
SUNSET BEACH Great surfing on winter swells. Personality changes with swell. Great rights, but point closes out at head-high, then shifts to middle reef. Dangerous rip handy for getting out when big. Advanced surfers only. Great viewing.
THE NORTH SHORE World's most famous winter surfing spots, summer snorkeling, fabulous rural scenery, ranches, flower farms, banana plantations, amazing sunsets, and sandy beaches. Home of Hale'iwa, "Surf City, U.S.A."
SURFING & BODY BOARDINGNORTH SHORE: The the world-renowned North Shore deserves a map all by itself. That's why you should own a copy of Franko's Map of Oahu Surfing. For SURF LESSONS, check with the North Shore Surf and Cultural Museum in Hale'iwa's North Shore Marketplace Tel. 637-8888.SOUTH SHORE: Waikiki is famous for it's surfing and the South Shore is full of good surf spots. To take surf lessons, inquire at any surf rental spot on Waikiki Beach. The local beach boys will set you up.
SNORKELING & SCUBA DIVINGSNORKELING: Hanauma Bay is one of the most snorkeled place on earth for good reason. It is spectacular in or out of the water. It is easy to get to via bus or rental car. Snorkeling gear is available to rent right on the beach. If you are experienced, get out beyond the Inner Reef where it is not crowded. Lots of of good snorkeling can also be found on the North Shore, but not during the winter surf! For tours with snorkeling adventures check with activities centers or dive shops. Waikiki itself and Magic Island can have surprisingly good snorkeling too.SCUBA DIVING: There are dozens of fantastic places to enjoy the underwater scenery of Oahu. For details, you should own a copy of Franko's Dive Map of Oahu. There are reefs, wrecks, caverns, walls, overhangs, and every kind of diving you could want in clear, warm, tropical waters. Check dive shops and activity centers for boat and beach dives.
WINDSURFING, OCEAN KAYAKING, JETSKIINGLESSONS & RENTALS: The hottest spot for windsurfing is Kailua Beach, right where the sport was invented. Hale'iwa, Waikiki and other spots offer lessons and rentals as well. Sit-on-top ocean kayaking is growing in popularity so fast that it has become available all around Oahu. Guided tours are available via activities centers. Jetskis are available in Koko Marina.
HORSEBACK RIDINGRENTALS: Several great places to ride with a rented equine friend including the beach at the Hotel at Turtle Bay, tel. 293-8811; Kualoa Ranch Horses, tel. 237-7321; and Happy Trails Hawaii in Pupukea, tel. 638-7433.
MOUNTAIN BIKING & CRUISING BIKESRENTALS & TOURS: There are many places in Waikiki and around Oahu to rent mountain bikes or to go with guided tours into the island interior. There are numerous beach cruisers and road bikes for rent for those who would like to simply cruise around Waikiki or down the coast past Diamond Head.
SIDE 2 of Franko's Guide Map of OahuSide 2 is actually the original side 1 of this map, because Waikiki, which is mapped and detailed here, is such an important and huge part of Oahu tourism and activity. This side of the map includes Franko's Map of Waikiki and Oahu South Shore Details. The entire South Shore from Honolulu to Makapu'u Head, Oahu's easternmost point, is shown so that the viewer can get a close-up view of the island topography, including Diamond Head Crater. The highlight of this side of the map is the superbly detailed map of Waikiki, which shows where everything is, including most of the hotels, Kapiolani Park, Ala Moana Beach Park, Waikiki Beach, the Ala Moana Shopping Center, the International Market Place, over 200 buildings, the DFS Galleria, the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, Ala Wai Harbor, Ala Wai Canal, Ala Wai Golf Course, and much more. This map of Waikiki is the very best there is. On the Oahu South Shore detail there is a needed bonus - exactly how to get to Waikiki from the freeway. Just in case the picture does not suffice, beneath the side 2 title block is the caption “Directions In & Out of Waikiki.” That ought to help! If you look closely, you will also find that the South Shore of Oahu has a number of trails for the hikers. This is true with side 1 of the map as well. There are something like 5 dozen captions informing you about what there is to see and do in Waikiki and on Oahu's South Shore on side 2 of this map. There are about that many again on side 1 of the map. With all of this information, and with such a fabulous island to explore, the map reader may find it necessary to book a very, very long trip to Oahu - like a year! Oahu is so wonderful that is was not that hard to find a lot to put on this map. Refining is and narrowing it down was the hard part. In the end, it appears that I've written a book on things to see and do in Oahu. But it is still a map, the best that I know of for Oahu or perhaps any island. I love Oahu and I think this map is fantastic for exploring Oahu. Below are the captions for side 2 of the map. Get a map asap so you can follow the captions along.
OAHU SOUTH SHORE
DIAMOND HEAD STATE MONUMENT "Le'ahi" in Hawaiian is Hawaii's most famous landmark. It is a100,000 year-old volcanic tuff cone. A steep trail up the inside wall of crater leads to spectacular view of Waikiki and outer islands from it's summit on a clear day.
ATLANTIS SUBMARINE TOUR View coral reefs, marine life and sunken wrecks aboard a real submarine that descends up to 100 feet (30m) deep in Waikiki waters near a popular scuba diving area. For reservations call 973-9811.
WAIKIKI BEACH The most famous beach in the world. Wonderful place for vacationers from everywhere. Shows, restaurants, shops, activities, and a mile of people watching and relaxing along the spectacular beach.
KEWALO BASIN For a big game fishing charter, "Walk the dock" in the evening hours or call Sport Fishing Hawaii at 396-2607.
MISSION HOUSES MUSEUM Oldest frame house in Hawaii (1821). Home of Hawaii's first Christian missionaries. Open Tues. thru Sat.
KAKA'AKO WATERFRONT PARK World class bodysurfing site, promenade, picnicking, and amphitheater.
HONOLULU HARBOR Cruise ship terminal for all passenger lines at piers 10 & 11 by Aloha Tower. Catamaran & dinner cruises at pier 8.
ALOHA TOWER MARKETPLACE Landmark at pier 9 with waterfront shopping, outdoor dining, enter- tainment, and Honolulu Harbor views.
HAWAII MARITIME CENTER Ancient & modern Hawaiian maritime and surfing history. Features the ocean canoe "Hokulea", & the 4-masted schooner "Falls of Clyde". Site was once Kamehameha IV's boathouse.
'IOLANI PALACE The Royal Palace of Hawaii's Monarchy. This is the only royal palace in the United States. Royal Hawaiian Band free concerts every Fri. at noon. Guided tours available Tues.-Sat. Reservations recommended - tel. 522-0832
CHINATOWN Lei shops, open air markets, "pake" stores, fish auction, Chinese culture.
HILO HATTIE Flagship store. Largest retailer of Hawaiian and island lifestyle products. A "Fun-One-Stop-Hawaiian-Shopping-Experience".
PAIKO LAGOON STATE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY Ideal native wetland bird watching.
HANAUMA BAY STATE UNDERWATER PARK Beautiful crescent beach formed when the sea eroded one side of a volcanic tuff cone. Snorkeling in calm, shallow ”Inner Reef” with tame tropical reef fishes. ”Outer Reef” slopes to 70' (21m) depth with coral gardens & green sea turtles. Educational visitor center overlooks Hanauma Bay. Closed Tuesdays.
HALONA BLOW HOLE Ocean swells surge into lava tube & spout up 50 ft. (16 m) high.Whale watching in season. Next to "From Here to Eternity" Beach at Halona Cove.
SANDY BEACH PARK Bodysurfing, bodyboarding in neck-busting shore-break. Caution: Advanced surfers only. Tourists should stay out!
MAKAPU'U LIGHTHOUSE Great hiking trails to spectacular views, tide pools, Kaupo lava flow, Oahu's most recent (25,000 years new).
MAKAPU'U BEACH Good bodysurfing, popular fishing.
SEA LIFE PARK Dolphin shows, family fun. Dedicated to marine conservation.
Franko's Guide Map of WAIKIKI
ALA MOANA SHOPPING CENTER Largest open-air mall in America, with allkinds of great stores and a giant food court.
HONOLULU ACADEMY OF THE ARTS Italian Renaissance, Japanese, & AmericanArt exhibits. This is the center of fine arts in Hawaii.
MAUI DIVERS JEWELRY DESIGN CENTER Visit Hawaii's largest fine jewelry manufacturer. Educational tour with movie and priceless exhibits.
WARD SHOPPING AREA Stores, Books, Food and Souvenirs.
WAIKIKI'S BEST POLYNESIAN DINNER SHOW: Visit Kalo's South Seas Review in the Hawaiian Hut at the Ala Moana Hotel. Reservations: 941-5205
WAIKIKI TROLLEY - Fun & easy transportation in & around Waikiki & Honolulu. Main stop is at the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center.
Ala Wai Golf Course: The busiest golf course in the world. Over 180,000 rounds of golf per year!
HONOLULU ZOO Great zoo with fabulous botanical display. Special concerts & events.
WAIKIKI SHELL Acoustically great amphitheater for concerts.
KAPIOLANI PARK & BEACH A sandy beach with protective coral reef for snorkeling and swimming. Park has picnicking, softball, tennis, soccer, rugby, trails for jogging and bicycling.
WAIKIKI AQUARIUM Hawaii's tropical sea life in beautiful, natural settings. RareHawaiian monk seals, green sea turtles, sharks, and living corals are also on display.
KUHIO BEACH, WAIKIKI Swimming in warm, calm water. Excellent snorkeling for beginners, tourists & children. Tropical fish and moray eels in breakwater.
WAIKIKI BEACH CENTER Free evening Hawaiian concerts.
OCEANARIUM 280,000 gallons of seawater, 70 species.
CANOES Surf in an outrigger canoe at Waikiki's main surf break on easy, slow waves. Surfboard and bodyboard rentals and lessons available on Waikiki Beach. Best in Summer's southerly swells.
DUKE KAHANAMOKU STATUE Father of modern surfing, Ambassador of ALOHA.
KINGS GUARD RIFLE TEAM retires Hawaiian Colors at 6 p.m. daily at King's Village.
INTERNATIONAL MARKET PLACE Open air bazaar amongst tropical trees in heart of Waikiki. International food court.
ROYAL HAWAIIAN SHOPPING CENTER Great shopping, daily Polynesian music anddance events, fine dining and fast foods. Main stop for the WAIKIKI TROLLEY.
BEACH CAT Ride one of Waikiki's beach catamarans.
U.S. ARMY MUSEUM Coastal defense battery with military memorabilia from early Hawaiian period through Vietnam War.
HILTON PIER Atlantis Submarine tour departure. Catamaran sailing.
ALA MOANA BOWLS Famous hollow left surf break in Southerly swells knee todouble-overhead high.
FRIDAY NIGHT SAIL BOAT RACES HYC, 5:15 p.m. staggered start. Race fromAla Wai Harbor to Honolulu Harbor and back. Best viewed from Magic Island.
MAGIC ISLAND Easy entry at sheltered cove for snorkeling and scuba diving.Lots of tropical fish, rock bottom beyond breakwater with caves & corals. Watch out for surfers.
ALA MOANA BEACH PARK 1/2 mile of sandy beach with protective coral reef. Picnic areas, softball field, tennis courts, world class surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, and concessions.
SUNSET DINNER CRUISES See Waikiki from offshore. Plan a romantic evening adventure at any activities desk. Cruises leave from Kewalo Basin and Honolulu Harbor.
KEWALO BASIN Home of sunset dinner cruises, and big game fishing charters.
KEWALO BASIN PARK Promenade, trellised picnic area, & showers.

Our out of Town Bags



































































Since most of our guests will be coming from out of town- even us, we thought it would be nice to pacakage some little things in a welcome bag! I ordered these cute mini totes in hibiscus print and we plan on packing full of fun things.

I also ordered some personalized bags that are in aqua with our names, the date and Waikiki, Hawaii in pink to put a little care kit in, that includes sunscreen wipes, chapstick, pepto bismol and advil...the perfect cure for a great party. We then made a personalized pamplet for our guests with information about what to do on the island, maps of the island and a schedule for the day of the wedding. Also on the back of the pamplet is our contact information- cell phones, where we are staying at etc. In case a guest needs to contact us. Then I had made starfish and seashells soaps in aqua and pink in tropical smells to add to the bag. We also put in a beach ball, fresbe, hula boy/girls koozies and deck of cards for fun!! And to make sure all our guests are greeted true Hawaiian style we included a Hawaiian Floral Lei! I know it is kinda cheesy but it goes along great with our big fat Hawaiian Luau Wedding!!


Also since it is a destination wedding we decided we didn't want the traditional guest book. So we included a stack of hawaiian postcards for each guest to write something they enjoyed about their trip and mail it back to us. We also included enought that they could mail a couple to friends.



Then at the ceremony we decided to include personalized bottles of water and some hawaiian beer for guests to enjoy and we are going to be putting it in a inflatable baby pool (think Hawaii- everything has to be mailed there or packed there). And guests will be getting a palm fan to keep cool during the ceremony. (Pics posted above).



I hope everyone enjoys the bags and the little personal touches we have tried to incorporate into the wedding. I have had a ton of fun planning these little things like the out of town bags and putting them together..now just to get them to Hawaii.

Wednesday

Cake Topper- Kissing Hula Girl & Boy







So this weekend was great! Patrick & Daniel flew in from Illinois to visit us and we had a great time going to the Beach, visiting Dave & Busters, roosting Marshmellows and hanging out in the hot tub.
But to top it all off we got our wedding cake topper in yesterday!! So I posted the pictures above of the hula girl and hula boy and then below is the actual cake inspiration we are using. We will be having a 3-4 tier square cake off set with orchids streaming down the front. I am not sure if I want the hula girl and boy on the front or the top yet.. but I think they are absolutely adorable and really different.
So I found our Kissing Hula girl and Hula Boy on a website and ordered them. When they came in I discovered they are actually salt & pepper shakers also and to hold them togeather they have magnets in their mouths!! I liked the idea that it brings in the Hawaii feel and the originality of our cake topper.. I mean how many people will have kissing hula girls and boys! Nate just likes the idea that I found a cake topper that we can use later..men!
Well I just wanted to share with you our adorable cake toppers! We also paid in full for our Honeymoon cottage in Maui and our rental car for the week. I am so excited. We are staying for 6 days in Maui at The Royal Lahaina in a garden cottage with a private cabana on the beach. The grounds are absolutely stunning and I cant wait to enjoy the private beach!
To top it all off I just got in all the wedding weekend guest bags, seashells for the reception centerpieces and the palm fans for the ceremony! So things are coming along great!

Friday

The Sacred Name Change

First let me say Thank God it is Friday & Happy Birthday to my Mom!! I sure hope she is enjoying her birthday.

Well I was sitting at my computer and all of a sudden up pops an email with steps to change your name. I knew this was coming.. I mean sooner or later I am going to have to come to grips with this choice.

I have nothing against the Embley name..it is actually a much better name than Buckholtz and shorter. I also believe that I should have Embley as my last name because it symbolizes that we are a family- a unit- the start of our future. Plus in the future when we have children their last name will be Embley- I don't want to be the mother who gets calls from the school and they automatically assume I am a single mother or divorcee- not anything against single moms (nate and I both were raised by them). On top of that when you are growing up you know everyone as Mr & Mrs.. so & so. It was never Mr. Embley & Ms. Buckholtz. So I think I have grown accustomed to seeing married people as a unit. But the choice I am having the hard time with is not not taking Nate's last name.. it is what do I do with my last name. I refer to it as my last name because I hate that people call it your 'maiden' name..like all women were maidens waiting for their prince charming to come and change their whole name. I am not a maiden in distress.. much less a maiden.

I have an issue with what to do with my last name because well my whole life I have been a Buckholtz.. that is what linked me to my family unit and I know by getting married and changing my name it isn't taking away that family unit but I almost feel like it is erasing my bond to my family. My sisters are Buckholtz's and then now I will be an Embley- it is just weird for me. On top of that all my accomplishments up to this point are Tricia Buckholtz and then in one day it will be like I didn't even exist because I am now Tricia Embley. Both of my degrees will have my last name not Embley- so I feel like I have worked hard to establish a name for myself and in one day I wont be that person anymore. I know some of you think this is ridiculous that I would feel so attached to a name.

So my choices here are to drop my last name all together and just take Embley. Or I could take my last name and his and just hyphen. But that is one long last name Buckholtz-Embley. Or my last choice could be that I take my last name and use it as my middle name and his as my last name. Which right now I really don't want my middle name to be Buckholtz but I would much rather have my last name then not have it at all.

Any Suggestions?