Walking out of the airport’s air conditioned cocoon into the thick heat, she connected the humid weight to her memory of peeling away layers of clothing when she first felt the dense warmth in her first trip to Maui as a teenager.  Years later, and in a different life, she returned with her own children.

The ability to travel is one of the most special parts of life.  Most of our greatest memories are located in places across the world, in spaces of awe, and with others who share our stories.  LEOLUNA takes you to the iconic state of Hawaii and gives you the island of Oahu.  

The stressful part about traveling is not the trip itself, but the planning and preparation that can sometimes stretch out from weeks to months before the trip.  Especially if you are traveling to a location for the first time, you have to rely on personal and online testimonials of experiences to build an understanding of the trip and plan your agenda. 

LEOLUNA reduces the pressure with a vetted itinerary that is perfect for families, couples, and singles enjoying the scenery, activities, and peace that Oahu, Hawaii offers.  

Oahu is the 3rd largest island in the collection of islands that make up the state of Hawaii.  Honolulu, the state capital, is housed on Oahu and offers a more urban experience for tourists of the island along with the busy city of Waikiki.  With 227 miles of coastline, the white sand beaches and world class surfing draw the attention of all kinds of travelers. 

Of course, if arriving on the island and spending your earned leisure time soaking up sun and salt at a chosen resort, bungalow, or hotel sounds ideal, then prioritize your time in such a way.  The activities suggested can inspire meaningful moments but are not meant to take away from what you know is best for you. 

With the island being a little under 600 square miles, renting a car and exploring the whole island within a week’s time is doable.  The span of activities that range from rural to urban listed below show that there is something for everyone in Oahu, Hawaii. Take what you need and want from LEOLUNA’ week in Oahu, Hawaii and enjoy the trip your way.    

Day 1: find your bearings 

Whether you have traveled from the US or internationally, flight days are exhausting.  Arriving at your final destination is relieving and invigorating until you get to your chosen place of stay and your body responds to safety with fatigue and hunger.  Accept this health response and get settled.  Familiarize yourself with the property you reserved for the trip, check in with the concierge for knowledge of events/activities taking place at the hotel, and request any specialty needs.  

Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club is a resort on the southwest part of the island with instant access to Nai’a Lagoon and Ko Olina Golf Club.  About half an hour from Honolulu’s airport, the resort has gorgeous views and is family oriented.  

Day 2: experience the culture 

Hawaii is rich in culture and celebration.  On the island of Oahu, The Polynesian Cultural Center first opened in 1963 and offers an immersive experience of 6 different island villages with exhibits, demonstrations, and activities.  Access to the space requires a purchased ticket of entry and the plethora of learning opportunities is a full day.    

Day 3: learn the history

Learning of the past shows importance through pain and triumph.  Pearl Harbor National Memorial Museum and Visitor Center in West Honolulu is a national park that educates on the timeline of events and offers memorabilia, artifacts, and exhibits to honor the lives lost and affected.  A mindful moment in the Remembrance Circle is recommended.  

Day 4: explore the land

Embrace nature in every trip and explore outside beyond city roads.  Hiking gives you access to spaces that most travelers miss so set intentions for an outdoor trek that suits your level of challenge and joy. 

• Waimano Falls 
  • 2.9 miles out and back- hard
  • Swimming hole and waterfall
  • Steep incline with views

• Pu’u o hulu Trail (Pink Pillbox Trail)
  • 1.3 miles out and back- moderate
  • stunning sunset views (bring headlamp for return navigation after sunset)
  • rocky trail with minimal shade
• Diamond Head Crater Tour
  • 4.1 loop- easy
  • mostly paved flat trail
  • scenic views of ocean and volcano with urban components

Day 5: beaches, beaches, beaches

Over 200 miles of pristine and jungle lined beaches encapsulate Oahu’s true meaning “the gathering place.”  Most likely you will pick one of the beaches below and not want to leave.  Choose what best fits for you.

• Waikiki Beach
  • lively and busy
  • surfing, canoeing, paddle boarding
  • views of Diamond Head
• Hanauma Bay State Park
  • snorkeling
  • requires reservations in advance and an entry fee of $25.00
  • abundant marine life
• Lanikai Beach
  • arrive early for parking
  • soft white sands 
  • clearest water on the island

Day 6: have a slow day

We all know the last day of the trip is a mix of emotions.  Slow down and soak up as much of the time left before the hustle of packing and plane rides take over.  Oahu has so much to offer and most resorts are set up to be as inclusive as possible.  

The lagoon and pools of the Ko Olina Beach Club were stocked with water slides, wading pools, and snorkeling equipment to swim alongside the reefs and sea turtles.  Time is saved and repurposed when you stay close and local.  

Traveling holds different intentions for each of us and it is a privilege to connect to experiences and stories around the world.  It stands as a vacation that gives a space of escape.  It holds a return to memory that restores feelings.  It gives new perspectives and bonds to learn from.  Arrive with a deep breath and fill your lungs with gratitude. We truly live in a beautiful world.  

Leoluna loves you~