Oahu Travel Planner 2008 - (Page 38) WALKING & HIKING Whether you prefer a vigorous hike or a leisurely stroll, exploring on foot is a great way to see the sights. From a walk in the park to a climb up Diamond Head, discover for yourself all the incredible sights and scenery that Oahu has to offer around her island. THE GREAT OUTDOORS Team up with a naturalist/guide for an introduction to O‘ahu’s rugged and wild interior, with over 35 trails to choose from. Here you’ll find lush tropical rainforest foliage, winding streams, cascading waterfalls, and spectacular scenic views. You’ll learn to identify some of the local plants as well as the offshore islands visible from the trail. You’ll also see – and hear – the industrious activity of Hawai‘i’s birds. Even if you’re not an experienced birder, a bird walk is a great way to learn about the unique evolution of island species. You’ll soon recognize the raucous call of the mynah and be dazzled by the brilliance of the red-crested cardinal. Coastal trails, mountain valleys, stream beds, and precipitous ridges present challenges to more experienced hikers, but O‘ahu welcomes foot travelers of every skill level. To learn more about island flora, take a stroll through one of our exquisite gardens or arboretums. The 20-acre Foster Botanical Garden is just minutes from downtown, while the 124-acre Lyon Arboretum is nearby in Manoa Valley. Here you’ll see flowering plants, mature palms, and an abundance of other lush foliage. STROLLING THE CITY’S NEIGHBORHOODS AND PARKS Whatever you choose to do on O‘ahu, you’ll see more if you walk. In addition to O‘ahu’s many parks, gardens, museums, bustling Chinatown, Pearl Harbor and other historic sites, you can also wander through the island’s residential neighborhoods, where you’ll find manicured gardens and an intriguing variety of architectural influences. Discover more about O‘ahu’s unique geography and geology on guided walking tours on various themes: archeology, history, mythology, night scenery, and even ghosts! If you prefer, you can set out on your own with a guidebook and map. You set the pace. You can walk through shopping malls, along sidewalks, on the beach, or you can stroll through acres of botanical gardens. MEMORABLE HIKES One of the island’s most rewarding hikes is the trek to the crest of Diamond Head. You’ll pass through World War II fortifications before reaching the 763-foot summit and a breathtaking view of Waikıkı, Honolulu, the ¯¯ southern coast and the blue Pacific. Bring water and don’t forget your camera! Close to Waikıkı you’ll also find Manoa ¯¯ Falls, Waikahulu Falls, and Round Top Forest Reserve. Or venture further afield to Makapu’u Head or the Aiea Loop Trail. If you’re ready for a fairly easy three-mile hike and some solitude, set your sights on Ka‘ena, O‘ahu’s northwestern most point. Instead of highways and traffic, you’ll find boulders and lava cliffs. And at trail’s end, it’s just you and the ocean. FAMILY AFOOT The whole family will enjoy being on foot on O‘ahu. Pack a picnic and explore one of the island’s many public beaches. Watch (or join!) the surfing lessons within steps of your Waikıkı hotel. ¯¯ Or lose yourself in the amazing Dole pineapple maze, a wonderful 1.7 mile walk along manicured paths. 38 THE ISLAND OF O‘AHU
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