After endless research and planning, reading blogs and watching videos, you’re probably ready for your trip to just get here already. There is so much anticipation leading up to a vacation, and when it’s a tropical destination like the Hawaiian Islands, the excitement is usually too much to handle. If you’re anything like us, you’ve encountered some lingo that you don’t understand, so your Internet browser becomes a nightmare, with more tabs that you know what to do with, looking up different things about Hawaii, playing Hawaiian music to get you in the mood and ready for your trip.
Hawaiian words are often a little confusing, and to properly understand them, you’ll need to understand that makeup of the islands. Two of the most important words for you to know are “Windward” and “Leeward.” These are common terms used for an island, and simply notate the location on the island. Sure, there are many more words that convey a location, but windward and leeward are commonly used terms and help a great deal in knowing which side of the island you are on. For locals and residents, these words are second nature and are so commonly used that we often give driving directions that include the terms.
As you’re researching, you’ve no doubt seen something like “windward Oahu” or “heading Leeward”; while this does not convey a specific spot, it lets you know that a location is either on the east side of the island (windward) or the west side (leeward). Simply put, “windward” is the side of the island that faces the wind. When speaking about windward Oahu, it is referencing the side that encompasses Kailua, Kaneohe, and Waimanalo. The entire Windward portion of Oahu can be seen from the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout, which offers an incredible panoramic view.
When it comes to the leeward side of the island, not only are you on a completely different side of the island, the landscape is drastically different. The Leeward Coast is on the northwestern part of the island, and receives far less rain, making it very dry and arid. Windward coasts receive an abundance of rainfall, creating a lush environment. The leeward coasts tend to be a bit less populated and are where some of the best beaches on any Hawaiian Island can be found.
Now that you have a better understanding of these Hawaiian terms, you are even more prepared for your trip. If you are stuck and asking for directions, you will easily be able to communicate about the windward and leeward sides, and have a clear understanding of where you are, or where you are heading.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Hawaii tours and activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance. 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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