Day:  Hawaii                                             

If you have but 24 hours to spend in Hawaii, we assume you flew into Honolulu and plan on staying nearby, or somewhere in Oahu. If you don’t have access to a vehicle, it might be wise to find a visitor’s center and latch on to one of the many tours offered on the island. Not interested in a tour? How about taking a taxi or bus to Pearl Harbor, where you can visit the historical USS Arizona Memorial, as well as the USS Bowfin and USS Missouri battle ships. Or, you could just spend the day relaxing on Waikiki Beach and then hit the town at night for some cocktails and such. Waikiki has the biggest nightlife scene in all of Hawaii.

If you do have access to a vehicle, we suggest getting the most out of your 24 hours by visiting a couple of important attractions. The most rewarding way is by taking the easy drive around the entire island, stopping off at places and attractions you find interesting. Start your drive by heading east along Highway 1 and onto Hwy 72. You are going to encounter some of the most magnificent scenery on the island. Just stay on the Highway heading north to Kahekili Hwy, which will run into Kamehameha Hwy (83)—the island’s main road. Along the way you’ll encounter a swath of verdant homes, markets and tiny galleries filled with local art and complimented by languid fisherman along the shore casting their lines into a crystal sea as the younger natives glide and slice through breaking waves on their surfboards. Food stands line the single narrow highway as tawny mothers and daughters carry groceries home in their flip-flops and sarongs, smiling inwardly at the lush green flora that blankets the magnificent Koolau Mountain Range to the west. This is Hawaii! So be sure to stop off the side of the road once in a while to purchase some ice-cold coconuts or some refreshing pineapple and get as much out of these authentic areas as possible.

On your way around the island, stop at Sea Life Park, located at the southeast tip of Oahu. It can be a fun and rewarding break between driving. Another great destination at the northern end of the island is the Polynesian Cultural Center. This village/entertainment complex offers island entertainment for an entire day, with shows, shopping, eating and more. (NOTE: all of these attractions are located directly off the highway). Still heading in the same direction, you will come upon Oahu’s famous North Shore. Visit Pipeline and Sunset Beach, hopefully at sunset for a bit of serenity. These beaches are famous for their sand and surf, as many international surfing contests are held here, as well as for their scenery. But if you’re really looking for a great sunset view with a little Hawaiian history added, head up to Puu O Mahuka Heiau, located in the North Shore area off Kamehameha Hwy. This sacred, historical site is Oahu’s best-kept secret and sees very little tourism, but offers great views. These are just a few of the attractions located along the Kamehameha Hwy that characterize Hawaii. And don’t forget, Waikiki is happening at night!