Things to do / Travel Guide
Oahu is by far the most populated of the Hawaiian Islands. It is also the center of government, housing the capital city of Honolulu as well as being the state's commercial and tourist center.
The island is very ethnically diverse, with only about 20% of the inhabitants being Caucasian. The rest of the population is made up of Japanese, Chinese, Hawaiians/Polynesians, Filipinos, and other Asian groups. These groups have made their mark on Oahu not only in their physical presence, but also in the realms of food, architecture, and various cultural attractions and activities.
Tourism is Oahu's major economic engine. In 2005, Oahu welcomed almost 5 million visitors, who collectively contributed almost $12 billion dollars to the local economy. Hawaii became famous as an “American paradise” after World War II, but only became a popular tourist destination after the advent of readily-accessible jet travel in the 1960s. A big draw of the Hawaiian islands for Americans is the allure of traveling to a truly exotic location while staying within the U.S. Japanese tourists, in particular, are drawn by the presence of a large local Japanese community, the fantastic weather, and the availability of golf, water sports, and other recreational activities. Oahu also has a very strong romantic dynamic, and thus draws newlyweds from all over the world.
Oahu offers the greatest variety and quantity of lodging, food, and shopping options of all the Hawaiian islands. Though Oahu is thought by many to be too built up and commercial to offer a true Hawaiian experience, there are still parts of the island that are not so commercialized. One such area is the northwest section of the island.
The most populated and tourist-oriented part of Oahu is the Waikiki area. Famous attractions like Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor are nearby, and so is Honolulu International Airport. Across the Koolau Mountain Range, which runs north-south along the middle of the island, you traverse the magnificent Pali lookout and then arrive at the windward coast, on the east side of the island. There you will find the bedroom communities of Kailua and Kaneohe, with nearby beautiful beaches that are much less crowded than in Waikiki. Along the North Shore, you will find the island's world-famous surfing beaches. The northwest coast offers a more rustic and rural atmosphere.
Time Zone
In the winter, Hawaiian Standard time (HST) is two hours behind Pacific Standard Time (PST) and five hours behind Eastern Standard Time (EST). In the summer, when the rest of the United States is on Daylight Saving Time, Hawaii is three and six hours behind, respectively.
Risks
Most risks that you'll face in Oahu are countered with good common sense and precaution. As it is hot and sunny almost all year round, you should take care to wear comfortable footwear, hats, and sunscreen, and to carry drinking water. The beautiful beaches can present a danger of riptides and strong surf, so you should only swim where there are lifeguards and heed warning signs.
When hiking or mountain biking, stay on well-established and well-marked trails. Take a knowledgeable guide along with you if you're planning to hike a long trail or through the wilderness.
Honolulu, like many other cities, has its criminal element. Protect your valuables when in crowded tourist spots, such as Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, or Chinatown, and be sure not to leave them in your car. Finally, take care not to trespass on private property or to disturb local plant growth, as there are serious penalties on Oahu for these actions.
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