The USS Missouri is where the Japanese officially surrendered to the United States in World War II to end the war. We had the opportunity to explore the memorial by ourselves after checking out the USS Arizona and USS Bowfin.
Random Adventures |
Exploring and learning about Pearl Harbor. Starting with the USS Arizona Memorial and USS Bowfin!
We spent over half the day at Pearl Harbor learning about the history and enjoying the sights of the memorials! Definitely an activity that should be on everyone’s bucket list. First couple of stops at Pearl Harbor were the USS Arizona Memorial and USS Bowfin Museum.
Kayaking to Popoia Island from Kailua Beach!
One of the last few activities we did before our vacation ended was kayaking to Popoia Island from Kailua Beach! Risky, but adventurous!
A historically significant cultural area for the Hawaiians, the Waimea Valley!
Getting in touch with a little bit of Ancient Hawaiian history at Waimea Valley! While there we took a leisurely hike through the botanical garden to be greeted by a waterfall and pool at the end!
Swimming with the sharks and Kuilima Cove snorkeling in the North Shore!
While in Oahu, we visited the North Shore a few times. One of those times was to swim with sharks! And another time was to hang out on the beach and snorkel at Kuilima Cove.
An afternoon at Kualoa Ranch and Park exploring Hollywood filming locations.
We booked a tour for the Kualoa Ranch where we viewed some scene locations from Hollywood films like Jurassic Park and World, and learned more about the background of the Kualoa Ranch. Also stopped by the Kualoa Park to checkout Chinaman’s Hat out in the waters.
Through the jungle to a waterfall, Manoa Falls!
To get to Manoa Falls, one moment you’re in the city, the next you’re in the jungle surrounded by mosquitoes and thick brush.
Pineapples at the Dole Plantation
Get a glimpse of how pineapples are grown at the Dole Plantation! You’ll definitely want to bring money for the cute, stuffed pineapple plushies, and the delicious Dole Whip.
Hitting up Electric Beach and a beautiful lu’au at Paradise Cove
We wanted to experience a lu’au at least once, so we chose Paradise Cove on the west coast of Oahu where we would be able to view a sunset also in the evening. Before the lu’au however, we stopped by Electric Beach, and drove up and down Highway 93.
Byodo-In Temple, a Japanese Buddhist temple located on Oahu in Hawaii
The Byodo-In Temple in Oahu is actually just a replica of the Byodoin in Japan. Situated in the Valley of Temples, it’s tucked in all the way near the back with the Ko’olau Range in the background.