Hawaii’s Hidden Attractions & Cultural Treasures

An island of mystery and magic, Oahu, Hawaii offers many hidden attractions, fascinating historic sights and natural wonders that will enchant and delight.

Explore beautiful botanical gardens, majestic waterfalls, spectacular landmarks, and magnificent architectural masterpieces that reveal the sublime beauty and spirit of Oahu.

Pali Lookout. Overlooking the 985 foot cliffs of the Koolau Mountain Range, Nuuanu Pali Lookout - "Cool Height Cliff"- offers fantastic panoramic views of the Windward coast of Oahu, including Kaneohe Bay and Chinaman's Hat. Hike the trail at the lower end of the lookout to enjoy different vantage points and see the wide variety of plants. In 1795, King Kamehameha and his warriors defeated the Oahu armies by sending them over these steep, forested cliffs claiming victory and uniting the Hawaiian Islands. The breathtaking sights, history and the incredible winds that pass through the Pali will sweep you away. [Top]

Iolani Palace. A Hawaiian treasure, Iolani Palace was the official residence of the Hawaiian Kingdom's last two monarchs - King Kalakaua, who built the Palace in 1882, and his sister and successor, Queen Lili`uokalani8. During the monarchy period, the Palace was the center of social and political activity in the Kingdom. Enjoy a fascinating tour of this National Historic Landmark in downtown Honolulu and learn about the grandeur, history and heritage of this magnificent landmark. Iolani Palace Galleries feature the Hawaiian crown jewels and ancient Hawaiian regalia, portraits and historic photographs. With its coral block limestone, crenulated parapets and towers built in the architecture of medieval European castles, Iolani Palace is an amazing venue for events, weddings, receptions, and wine tastings. The stunning courtyard is spectacular at night under the Hawaiian sky. The Royal Hawaiian Band presents free concerts every Friday on the outdoor grounds. Visit www.iolanipalace.org. [Top]

Shangri-La. Honolulu home of Doris Duke, Shangri La houses an impressive collection of Islamic art and is considered one of Hawaii’s most architecturally significant homes. Shangri La offers a magnificent environment for the study of Islamic art, artifacts and culture, housing 3,500 objects, many embedded into the structure of the estate. Experience the beauty and grandeur of Shangri La on tours departing from the Honolulu Academy of Arts. Duke’s collection also encompasses art and objects from diverse cultures around the globe. The Arabic inscription from the Quran on the front door - “Enter therein in Peace and Security” - echoes her aspirations in creating Shangri La. www.shangrilahawaii.org. [Top]

Punchbowl/National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. The extinct volcanic Punchbowl Crater - known in ancient days as Puowaina, which means "Consecrated Hill" or "Hill of Sacrifice" - was the site of many secret Alii (royal) burials and a place where offenders of taboos were sacrificed. Located above Honolulu, the Hill of Sacrifice is the site of the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific where 33,230 service men and women from four wars are buried and honored. [Top]

Byodo-In Temple. Located in the peaceful Valley of the Temples in Oahu, Byodo-In Temple is a beautiful Buddhist temple visited by worshippers from around the world. A replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist place of worship at Uji, Japan, Byodo-In Temple features a nine-foot Lotus Buddha, the largest wooden Buddha carved in over 900 years, covered in gold and lacquer. Surrounding the temple are a three-ton, brass peace bell, two-acres of koi ponds, and lush Japanese gardens set against the towering cliffs of the Koolau Mountains. The deep tone of the bell sounds a message of calm and peace. Sparrows flutter in garden trees and peacocks display their beautiful feathers, creating a natural paradise of tranquility. [Top]

Chinaman’s Hat. This cone-shaped outcropping of lava off Kualoa Point - Chinaman’s Hat - resembles the peasant's chapeau worn by rural Chinese. The reef surrounding one of the Oahu’s most interesting offshore islands is the habitat for an abundance of marine life. While you can view Chinaman's Hat from numerous vantage points along the coast, you can kayak or walk there during low tide to enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Koolau Mountains, Mokapuu Peninsula, Kahaluu, Kaneohe, and Kailua. Explore the little island beach nestled in a secluded cove or the small cave that is carved out of lava and a steep volcanic cone. [Top]