History
Royalty, wars, agricultural and cultural transformations comprise Oahu's history.

King Kamehameha and his troops fought the Battle of Nuuanu, near the Nuuanu Pali Lookout. His descendants made Oahu a majestic summer home and enjoyed many years of reign until 1893. Christian missionaries played a significant role in Hawaii's history, with plenty of churches still standing today that were once the site of worship for Hawaiian royalty.

Several industries were growing simultaneously and the need for labor for sugar, pineapple and whaling industries yielded Japanese, Chinese, Puerto Rican, Portuguese, Korean, Russian and Philippino immigrants.

The attack on Pearl Harbor that prompted America's entry into World II is now the site of three historic, significant landmarks. Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States in 1959 and a decade later, Hawaii's Capitol was built in downtown Honolulu.

Things To Do
Often the first visited of the Hawaiian islands, Oahu is a dynamic and vibrant island, with its share of cityscapes and pastoral countryside.

Waikiki and Honolulu are home to a majority of sights, including Iolani Palace, Aloha Tower, Kapiolani Park, Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Shell (open-air concerts), Waikiki Aquarium and Diamond Head (Leahi). Pearl Harbor and the landmark historic sites, including the USS Arizona Memorial is a must-see.

The beaches are numerous and will not disappoint for wading, swimming, sunning, snorkeling and surfing (participating or as a spectator). Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, the famed North Shore and a number of beaches in between are also worthy of whale watching, catching the sunrise or sunset and enjoying morning hikes or moonlight strolls.

A departure from city life is found in the many gardens and plantations, such as Dole Plantation (families love this place, for the maze and the Dole whip treats), Senator Fong's Plantation and Koko Crater Botanical Gardens. Soak up the culture with a day at the Polynesian Cultural Center, Shangri La and Bishop Museum and Planetarium.

Nifty towns, scenic drives and offbeat sights will amaze. Haleiwa, Waialua Sugar Mill and a lively arts scene in Chinatown add flavor to Oahu's diverse profile. The golf courses are naturally scenic a few deemed the most challenging in the U. S.

Eat and Shop
Take advantage of all the fine dining, fresh fare and seafood available on Oahu. Multiple cuisines and tropical fruit are refreshing; most likely, it will be difficult to narrow down where to go. Farmers' markets and gourmet foods, plus conventional grocery stores are also a source for enjoying a great meal in your vacation rental, for a picnic at the beach or snacks for strenuous hikes (including one to the Makapuu Lighthouse). Make sure to try the shave ice, plate lunches and seafood dishes from the shrimp trucks too. Luaus are a great place to indulge in pork, poi and pu pu.

Oahu has shopping for every budget, from frugal to upscale. The shopping centers, upscale malls and outlet malls include Ala Moana Center, Royal Hawaiian Center and Waikiki Beach Walk. They may be conventional and mainstream as far as offering lots of shops and eateries, but the informal performances and events add an Oahu flair to every shopping excursion. Fine jewelry including pearls, handbags and designer apparel and lavish gifts are all readily available to take home and enjoy. It's the locally handcrafted items and foods that are the true gems to consider as souvenirs.

Packing
Apparel, toiletries and some electronic essentials (digital camera, battery charger, cell phone charger, etc. ) are the main items to pack for a trip to Oahu. Anything forgotten is always available on the island, but to be prepared to land and head directly to one of the beaches, bring your swimsuit, sunglasses, sunscreen and sandals. If you're planning on hiking, bring good shoes. It's always good to pack primarily casual clothing plus a few nice outfits, at least one, for a fancy night on the town.

Your vacation rental will have some of the basic utensils and kitchen items.