Know Before You Go: Portuguese Man O War
Jellyfish that can be seen on Oahu are the Box Jellyfish, Moon Jellyfish, and Lagoon Jellyfish. However, another dangerous “jellyfish” found in Oahu’s oceans are the Portuguese Man O War. (Fun fact: they aren’t actually a jellyfish, but rather a colony of organisms working together). You may have seen them as blue polyps washed up on the shorelines, or you may have even seen them floating in the water. Regardless, when you get stung by one, this organism packs a mean punch. Information Appearance: Blue/purple polyp Size: They can grow up to 12 ft. long and 5 ft. wide. Their tentacles can grow up to 165 ft.! Deadly?: Rarely. Cardiac…
Eating on a Budget: Marukame Udon
Marukame Udon first opened its doors in 2011. Since then, they have become one of the most popular restaurants in Waikiki and on Fort Street Mall. The Waikiki location has an almost constant line from opening to closing! The Experience Upon arrival, you may need to wait in line, but don’t worry, the line moves fast. You can decide what you want to eat using the menus posted outside. Some menu items can be made either hot or cold. Be sure to specify when you order. When you get to the counter and place your order, the staff will make your bowl right in front of you using fresh noodles!…
Best Shave Ice Locations on Oahu
To visitors and locals alike, shave ice (not “shaved” ice) is a Hawaii staple. It is a cool, refreshing snack on those hot Hawaii days. All shops have a set of standard creations, but if you don’t want any of those, you have the option to create your own using the flavors they have available. Many shave ice shops offer a wide variety of flavors, whether it be vanilla to mango to root beer, you are sure to find a flavor combination you love! Here’s a few of the most popular locations. Waiola Shave Ice They have the finest ice shavings of all the shops, which has a very smooth…
3 Popular Oahu North Shore Shrimp Trucks
The North Shore has long been the center for aquaculture on Oahu. Even today you can see numerous fish and shrimp farms driving up Kamehameha Highway. As a result, many Oahu North Shore shrimp trucks have been established. Many of which offer a variety of menu options with mouthwatering flavors, but all offer the basic garlic & butter option as well as the hot & spicy shrimp. Since there are so many options, I will detail a few of the trucks I have tried. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck Giovanni’s began serving shrimp in 1993. Since then, it has become one of the most popular destinations for visitors. “Hawaii 2009 87: shrimp…
Off the Beaten Path: Makapu’u Tide Pools
A little known spot on the southeast coast of Oahu is the Makapu’u tide pools. It is one of the most beautiful spots only about 30 minutes down from the main Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail. The trail can be done in slippers, but I would highly recommend shoes, as there are some loose terrain. Check out the guide to the Lighthouse Trail here. About 2/3 of the way up the main Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, you will see a sign for whale watching. This is where you start climbing down. The trail looks more steep than it is. The trail down is a series of switchbacks and arrows that you can follow…
Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
Another one of the more popular hikes with visitors is the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail. Located just off Kalanianaole Highway, the Lighthouse Trail is offers stunning views of Oahu’s southeast shoreline. On very clear days you can even see Moloka’i and Lana’i. It does get very hot on this hike and little to no shade is available. Be sure to wear lots of sunscreen and bring plenty of water! There are also no bathrooms so be sure to go before! The journey begins when you turn off of Kalanianaole Highway into the hike’s parking area. Limited parking is available at the trailhead and on the street, but if you are patient, stalls…
Hiking Diamond Head
One of the most popular hikes on Oahu is the Diamond Head Crater Hike. Located in the Diamond Head State Monument in Kapahulu, this hike takes you from the inside of the extinct Diamond Head volcano to the top of the ridge where you will get exciting views of the Waikiki and the surrounding city. General Information The trail gets very crowded during peak hours between 10 AM and 2 PM, so it’s best to go as early as you can or later in the day. The trail offers multiple resting areas along the path, but it does get very hot and there is no shade. Come prepared with water…
Aloha!
Welcome to The Oahu Insider. I will be posting information on what to do, see, and try on Oahu from a local’s perspective. I’ve also posted a recipes tab so you can try your hand at some of my favorite local dishes! I hope you enjoy. Please feel free to leave comments or reach out to me if you want more recommendations.
