Waimea Valley Park is a must-see natural North Shore gem. The geographically diverse valley stretches all the way from mountains to the deep blue Pacific Ocean. Allow a few hours for a leisurely stroll through 35 distinct botanic gardens boasting 5,000 tropical plant varieties from Hawaii and other exotic locales. Considered a sacred place by local Hawaiians, Waimea Valley contains several archaeologic sites, including a 15th century heiau, a traditional place of worship. You can walk an easy paved trail to Waimea’s 45-foot-high waterfall (with life-guard protected swimming hole), or board a shuttle cart for a quick ride to the cascades. Remember to scan trees for brightly hued Hawaiian birds, and check the park’s schedule for hands-on activities like lei making and hula dancing lessons. Directly across the street at Waimea Beach Park, summer visitors like to swim or snorkel in gentle Pacific waters. Winter visitors can watch fearless surfers from around the world ride Waimea’s legendary waves. Dole Pineapple Plantation on the North Shore’s Kamehameha Highway started as a small roadside pineapple stand in 1950. Today you can still purchase fresh juicy Hawaiian pineapples grown in volcanic soil. You can also catch the Pineapple Express train for a 20-minute narrated ride past Dole’s agricultural fields. A self-guided Plantation Garden Tour focuses on Hawaiian farming and crafts, and a unique botanical Garden Maze (the world’s largest) stands ready for guests to ramble. Before you
Punchbowl mosaics depict American wartime achievements.
Oahu seascapes are unforgettable.
Supreme Court), at the corner of King and Milani Streets. Wearing a feathered gold-leaf helmet and flowing cloak, Kamehameha I projects a decidedly royal vibe. The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, better known as Punch Bowl, is another compelling spot to visit in Honolulu. Located inside an extinct volcanic crater, Punch Bowl is a reverent burial ground honoring military efforts and personal sacrifices in south and central Pacific zones during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Punch Bowl’s focal point is a majestic stone staircase leading to an imposing white Lady Columbia statue, representative of all grieving mothers. An open- air chapel and wall panels with intricate mosaic maps outlining American military achievements are set on shady walkways behind the memorial terrace. Lush green grounds with tropical plantings and a balcony overlooking downtown Honolulu are perfect complements to Punch- Bowl’s awe-inspiring presence. After touring downtown Honolulu with its quick pace and throngs of tourists, going natural on the North Shore is a refreshing change of pace. Oahu’s countryside, one hour from Honolulu in light traffic, is surprisingly green and relatively laid back. Keep in mind that traffic can also be heavy on the North Shore, especially during the peak winter surf season.
Dole Pineapple Plantation on the North Shore’s Kamehameha Highway.
THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
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