Hickam Housing, Hawaii
Aloha from Hickam Housing, Hawaii!
Welcome to the beautiful island of Oahu, where adventure, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture await you. Located on the island’s southwestern coast, Hickam Housing serves as the perfect home base for exploring the best that Oahu has to offer. Buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable three-day weekend trip filled with breathtaking sights, mouthwatering cuisine, and unforgettable experiences.
Day 1: Exploring the Jewel of the Pacific
Morning: Pearl Harbor Historic Sites
Start your day with a visit to the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, a place of great historical significance. Begin at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where you can learn about the events that unfolded on December 7, 1941. Take a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, a somber tribute to the lives lost during the attack. Make sure to reserve your tickets in advance as they tend to sell out quickly.
Lunch: Rainbow Drive-In
After a morning of exploring, treat yourself to a local favorite: the Rainbow Drive-In. This iconic eatery has been serving up plate lunches since 1961. Indulge in their famous mix plates, featuring a combination of mouthwatering meats, rice, and macaroni salad. Don’t miss their classic Loco Moco, a delicious concoction of rice, hamburger patty, gravy, and a fried egg.
Afternoon: Hike to Diamond Head
Work off your lunch with an invigorating hike to the top of Diamond Head, an ancient volcanic crater that offers panoramic views of the island. The trail takes you through tunnels and up steep stairs, rewarding you with breathtaking vistas from the summit. Don’t forget your camera to capture the mesmerizing beauty of the coastline.
Dinner: Duke’s Waikiki
As the sun begins to set, head to Duke’s Waikiki, a legendary beachfront restaurant named after the legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku. Enjoy a relaxed ambiance as you savor their delectable seafood dishes, including their famous Hula Pie—a heavenly ice cream dessert with a chocolate cookie crust, macadamia nut ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream, and more.
Day 2: Immersing in Island Charm
Morning: Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail
Start your day early and embark on a scenic hike along the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail. The trail offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, and if you’re lucky, you might spot whales during the winter months. The highlight of the hike is the iconic red-roofed Makapu’u Lighthouse, which has guided ships since 1909.
Brunch: Koko Head Café
Indulge in a delightful brunch at Koko Head Café, a local favorite known for its creative fusion of Hawaiian, Asian, and American flavors. Try their famous Cornflake French Toast or the Kimchi Bacon Cheddar Scone Sandwich—a true culinary delight that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Afternoon: Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Experience the wonders of the underwater world at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, a snorkeler’s paradise. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs, this protected marine sanctuary offers an incredible opportunity to observe a wide variety of tropical fish and other marine life. Remember to bring your snorkeling gear or rent it on-site.
Dinner: Helena’s Hawaiian Food
For an authentic taste of Hawaiian cuisine, head to Helena’s Hawaiian Food. This local institution has been serving traditional island dishes since 1946. Sample their Kalua Pig, Lomi Salmon, and Pipikaula Short Ribs, all prepared with love and showcasing the true flavors of Hawaii.
Day 3: Sun, Sand, and Swaying Palms
Morning: Lanikai Beach
Kick off your final day by visiting Lanikai Beach, often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With its powder-soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and picturesque offshore islands, Lanikai is a slice of paradise. Relax on the beach, take a refreshing swim, or rent a kayak to explore the nearby Mokulua Islands.
Lunch: Ono Seafood
After working up an appetite on the beach, satisfy your cravings with a visit to Ono Seafood. This unassuming seafood shack is famous for its mouthwatering poke bowls—a traditional Hawaiian dish consisting of marinated raw fish, rice, and a variety of delicious toppings. Don’t miss their spicy ahi poke—it’s a flavor explosion!
Afternoon: Waikiki Beach and Shopping
No trip to Oahu is complete without a visit to the iconic Waikiki Beach. Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun, frolicking in the gentle waves, or simply people-watching along the vibrant beachfront promenade. Indulge in some retail therapy at the luxurious Royal Hawaiian Center or the open-air International Market Place, where you can find everything from local crafts to high-end fashion.
Dinner: Alan Wong’s Honolulu
End your unforgettable weekend with a culinary masterpiece at Alan Wong’s Honolulu. This renowned restaurant is a pioneer of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, blending local flavors with contemporary techniques. Treat yourself to their famous Ginger-Crusted Onaga, followed by the decadent Lilikoi Crème Brûlée. With impeccable service and an elegant ambiance, Alan Wong’s is the perfect way to conclude your trip.
As you bid farewell to Hickam Housing and the enchanting island of Oahu, take with you memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in history, explore the island’s natural wonders, or indulge in its delectable cuisine, Oahu offers an experience like no other. Mahalo and safe travels!