OAHU, HAWAII - AUG. 2002


the islands Sheraton Waikiki

The Sheraton Waikiki in Oahu has a bar right on the water with Hawaiian music poolside, so it's a good
place to stop by and watch the sunset when you first arrive. There's a lot to do on Oahu between the beaches,
Tantalus, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor and the Punchbowl. And that's just the southern part of the island.



USS Arizona  downtown Waikiki

Bus tours are available to the USS Arizona/downtown. On given days, there are veterans from that
fateful day, Sunday, December 7, 1941, who share their personal memories. Don't miss the chance
to speak to those who risked their lives for us.

Bicycle rentals are available throughout Waikiki, and a ride up to Diamond Head and the beaches
along the way is a part of your stay you won't forget. Plenty of nice beaches to cool off along the way,
but don't ignore the warnings, some of the surf is rough.



Tantalus from the Ambassador Diamond Head from Tantalus

Continuing up the east coast road from Diamond Head you pass Hanauma Bay, Rabbit Island, Kailua
Beach and Kualua Beach Park where Chinaman's Hat is located. Turtle Beach and Waimea Beach
Park to the north are stops not to be missed. Suffice it to say though, it's all good. If you like coffee, Hawaii
has the best. Which brings us to the source of that outstanding blend - Kona on the Big Island.




The Land of Refuge Land of Refuge

The Land of Refuge (Pu'uhonua o Honaunau) was a sanctuary for those too young, too old or unable
to fight. Defeated warriors also retreated here. This seaside national historic park preserves elements
of traditional Hawaiian life. Right next to the Refuge are where the chiefs (aku'i) lived.




Black Sand Beach Black Sand Beach

When molten lava hits the sea, it gets ground up in the ocean and sent back to shore in the form of
black sand. It is a rare and fascinating experience to see and to walk on. One black sand beach in the
Volcano National Park was completely overrun by lava some years ago and no longer exists. Need-
less to say, the Big Island is the fastest growing of the Hawaiian islands.




Big Island Tours Big Island Tours

Weather permitting, light planes make regular flights over the island, allowing for an exciting view of
many of the islands geographic and historic highlights. The white statue of Captain Cook is a monu-
ment that can be seen from the air with binoculars in the photo on the left.