Page 6 - Flipbook

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SHOP
Oahu provides some of Hawaii’s best shopping opportunities, from the air- conditioned malls of Waikiki to smaller independent boutiques in out of the way towns, selling traditional crafts and original artworks.
Ala Moana shopping centre in Honolulu is one for the serious shopaholic. You’ll need all day to visit its 290-plus stores and restaurants. If luxury is what you’re after then Luxury Row is for those with a limitless credit card. Here you’ll find Chanel, Gucci, Coach and Tiffany all vying for shoppers’ attentions.
At the other end of the spectrum, Aloha Stadium Swap Meet is a colourful and bustling bazaar where hundreds of stallholders set up every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, selling everything from collectibles and antiques to plants and souvenirs.
On the waterfront, and slightly more upmarket, Aloha Tower Marketplace is another outdoor market, this one with distinctly Hawaiian appeal thanks to its speciality boutiques. It’s a great place to eat or just to hang out, watching the ships sail past or enjoying the free entertainment on the waterfront stage.
If it’s art you’re after then The Kahakii Gallery showcases original contemporary works by Hawaiian artists.
RELAX
Think Hawaii and automatically images of white sand beaches are conjured, and Kailua Beach doesn’t disappoint. It’s the ideal spot for families as the waves are gentle and calm. Those of a more active disposition won’t be disappointed however, as there are plenty of water sports offered along this stretch of sand, including snorkeling through stunning coral gardens just offshore. Less relaxing perhaps, but no less enjoyable, two islands lying 800m offshore provide a destination for adventurous kayakers or keen swimmers.
Away from the beach lies lush tropical rainforest and perhaps the best place to explore this untouched wilderness is the Lyon Arboretum. Follow one of the many tracks that lead to the magnificent waterfall. An alternative for those who prefer horses to hiking is to join an escorted ride through rainforest, valleys and orchards, enjoying mountain views along the trails.
PLAY
Not for the amateur, but rather for those who like to play a serious game of golf, the Ko’olau Golf Course is touted as the most demanding golf course in the world and is definitely the place to work on improving your handicap.
EAT
Hawaii benefits from its centuries of immigrant history. Local food is rich in the flavours of Polynesia but Filipino, Japanese, Korean and Portuguese influences all contribute to the eclectic food scene that’s arisen.
Don’t leave without trying some of the specialities for which Hawaii is known, such as Lau Lau, a traditional entrée made with either pork or chicken, wrapped in a type of spinach leaf and steamed.
Sample these and other Asian delicacies with the locals at the Makai Market, the largest international food court in Hawaii, seating 1500 people and serving food from across the globe.
If battling through food stalls is not your thing and you like your Lau Lau
served with a bit more flair, try the elegant A Closer Look, an award-winning restaurant serving Hawaiian cuisine.
It’s always good to follow the locals’ advice when it comes to eating out and Le Bistro has developed a loyal clientele serving local cuisine with a French twist.
Tita’s on the north shore is a casual roadside café with bundles of charm. Run by a husband and wife team, it’s famed for its shrimp and freshly baked bread.
06 May 2012
Spicy Hawaiian shrimp and rice