With so much to do on Oahu, it is easy to overlook the important cultural sites around the island. Sure, you’ll definitely pay a visit to Pearl Harbor, and the famous North Shore Beaches, and the stunning beaches will be a frequent destinations that you check out, but there are a number of attractions that bring Hawaii’s unique culture front and center. Each will add so much to your vacation and make your love for Hawaii run even deeper.
Polynesian Cultural Center
Perhaps the most extensive look at Hawaii’s history and culture, the Polynesian Cultural Center takes you through the islands of Polynesia, and showcases the important traditions and customs that are still prevalent in Hawaii to this day. Complete with an evening luau and night show, the Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the island’s most notable attractions, and features fun games and activities for the entire family.
Byodo-In Temple
In the quaint Windward town of Kaneohe, you’ll find the Byodo-In Temple, tucked into the Valley of the Temples at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains. Constructed as a replica of the historic temple by the same name in Kyoto, Japan, the non-denominational temple was built as a shrine to honor the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii. The temple is a place of worship for all faiths and encourages visitors to take part in its traditions. Fans of the show Magnum P.I. may recognize the temple from various episodes.
Bishop Museum
Home to Hawaii’s most important artifacts, the Bishop Museum takes visitors to the island’s history, from early settlers to the modern way of life of the islands. Featured items include King Kamehameha’s cloak, fishing nets and hooks used in Ancient Hawaii, and Duke Kahanamoku’s surfboard. The history of Hawaii is front and center and the island’s long history and unique way of life is front and center.
Pali Lookout
Located a short drive from Waikiki in the Ko’olau Mountains, the Pali Lookout offers stunning views of Windward Oahu, Chinaman’s Hat Island, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The lookout is the site of the 1795 Battle of Nu’uanu, a key battle in King Kamehameha the Greats fight to unify the Hawaiian Islands. The history of the Pali is best told by an expert Tour Guide, and can be heard in full narration during a Circle Island Tour.
Queen Emma Summer Palace
As you make your way from Waikiki to the Pali Lookout on the Pali Highway, the Summer Palace of Queen Emma is seen just off the road. Queen Emma and her husband, King Kamehameha IV, used the house from 1857-1885, as a retreat to the cooler climates of the uplands near Punchbowl Crater. Today, the house and the grounds that it sits on is maintained as a museum, offering visitors a look at Queen Emma’s personal possessions and a variety of items that were passed onto the Queen by members of Hawaii’s royal family.
Be sure to soak in as much of Hawaii’s culture as you can. The importance of the unique way of life in the island and variety of cultures make Hawaii a place unlike any other. You’ll love the sites and stories that are told at each of these attractions, and will learn about the importance of each in Hawaiian history. Great cultural events are Oahu luaus, top island luaus are Aloha Kai Luau, Germaine's Luau , Ka Moana Luau and Experience Nutridge Luau.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Oahu tours sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance, especially our top seller Sea Life Park Luau. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.
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