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ALOHA FROM OAHU!


Flying from Austin, Texas, to Oahu, Hawaii, you have several airline options that offer direct flights from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) to Honolulu International Airport (HNL). To my knowledge, the airlines offering direct flights from Austin to Honolulu are Southwest Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. However, airline routes and schedules can change over time, so it’s always best to check with the airlines or travel websites for the most up-to-date information regarding direct flights.

In terms of airlines that fly to Hawaii in general, some of the major carriers include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue Airways. These airlines offer various routes and options for traveling to the Hawaii.

Points of Interest and Beaches:

  1. Waikiki Beach: Located in Honolulu, Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular and iconic beaches in Hawaii. It offers beautiful white sand, clear turquoise waters, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s known for its high-rise hotels, luxury resorts, world-class shopping, and vibrant nightlife.


2. Kailua Beach: Situated on the eastern coast of Oahu, Kailua Beach is renowned for its picturesque beauty and calm waters. It offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling Waikiki Beach. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and windsurfing in its crystal-clear waters. The nearby town of Kailua offers charming local boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.

3. Ko’olina Beach: Located on the western coast of Oahu, Ko’olina Beach is a tranquil and luxurious destination. It features a series of man-made lagoons with pristine white sand and calm waters, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Ko’olina is home to several high-end resorts, golf courses, and a marina.



Best Sushi and Thai Food:

When it comes to sushi and Thai food in Oahu, you’ll find a range of excellent options. Some popular choices for sushi include: ~Nobu Honolulu: Located in Waikiki, this upscale restaurant offers a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, including exquisite sushi dishes. ~Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar: With locations in Waikiki and Kapolei, Sansei is known for its innovative sushi creations and vibrant atmosphere. ~Mitch’s Fish Market & Sushi Bar: Situated in Honolulu, this local favorite serves fresh seafood and delectable sushi rolls. ~One of my personal favorites is Wasabi Bistro located in the Breakers Hotel in Waikiki. Wasabi is a small understated space but the food and service were phenomenal! The Hamachi and crab bake were mouth watering.

For Thai cuisine, consider these recommended restaurants: ~Noi Thai Cuisine: Situated in Waikiki, Noi Thai Cuisine presents a modern twist on traditional Thai flavors, serving up delicious and beautifully presented dishes. ~Thai Lao is another small understated space that is in the middle of a strip mall. Nothing fancy about it, but the food is delicious! Green papaya salad and Panang Curry with sticky rice are a must.

Local Hawaiian Favorite Foods: When visiting Oahu, you should try some of the local Hawaiian favorite foods, such as: ~Plate Lunch: A popular local dish consisting of a meat (such as teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, or loco moco) served with rice and macaroni salad. ~Poke: A traditional Hawaiian dish made with marinated raw fish, typically served over rice or salad. ~Shave Ice: A refreshing treat made by shaving ice and topping it with flavored syrups, condensed milk, and various toppings. ~Lomi Lomi Salmon: A traditional Hawaiian salad made with diced salmon, tomatoes, onions, and seasonings.

On Oahu, you’ll find a variety of resorts in different areas, each with its own charm and attractions. Here are some of the best and most popular resorts on Oahu, including those in Waikiki, Kailua, and Ko’olina:

  1. Waikiki: ~ The Royal Hawaiian: Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this historic luxury resort offers stunning beachfront views and a timeless ambiance.

~Halekulani: A luxurious oceanfront hotel with impeccable service, Halekulani offers elegant accommodations and breathtaking views of Diamond Head. ~Moana Surfrider: This iconic resort combines Victorian elegance with modern amenities and boasts a prime location on Waikiki Beach.

~ Hilton Hawaiian Village: A family friendly resort property located at the tip of Waikiki beach at its widest spot. The resort has numerous shops and restaurants on property, so if you don’t want to leave you don’t have to. It features multiple pools and a salt water lagoon where you can swim or rent water toys like paddle boards, kayaks, and water bikes.

  1. Kailua: ~The Kahala Hotel & Resort: Nestled on a secluded beach, this resort offers a peaceful retreat with luxurious accommodations, a private lagoon, and a dolphin encounter program. ~Paradise Bay Resort: Located in Kaneohe Bay, this boutique resort provides a tranquil setting with stunning views and easy access to water activities like kayaking and paddle-boarding.

  2. Ko’olina: ~Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa: Ideal for families, Aulani offers a magical experience with its Hawaiian-themed rooms, water park, lazy river, and various activities for children and adults alike. ~Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina: This luxurious resort features spacious rooms, a private beach, multiple pools, and a renowned spa, providing an indulgent getaway.

In addition to these resorts, Oahu offers numerous attractions and activities to explore:

  1. Pearl Harbor: Visit the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri Memorial to learn about the history of Pearl Harbor and pay tribute to those who lost their lives.

  2. Diamond Head: Hike to the top of this iconic volcanic crater for panoramic views of Honolulu and the surrounding coastline.

  3. North Shore: Known for its world-famous surf breaks, the North Shore is a must-visit for surfing enthusiasts. During the winter months, watch professional surfers tackle massive waves at spots like Pipeline and Sunset Beach.

  4. Hanauma Bay: Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of this nature preserve, home to a vibrant coral reef and an abundance of marine life.

  5. Kualoa Ranch: Take a tour of this scenic ranch, where you can explore beautiful valleys, ride ATVs, go horseback riding, or even visit filming locations from popular movies.

  6. Manoa Falls: Embark on a hike through a lush rainforest to reach the stunning 150-foot Manoa Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by tropical vegetation. Oahu stands out from the other Hawaiian islands in several ways:

  7. Urban Vibe: Oahu is home to the capital city of Honolulu and the vibrant neighborhood of Waikiki, offering a unique blend of urban amenities, shopping, and dining alongside beautiful beaches.

  8. Historical Significance: Oahu is rich in historical and cultural landmarks, such as Pearl Harbor and the Iolani Palace, allowing visitors to delve into the island’s past.

  9. Diverse Landscapes: From bustling cityscapes to pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and dramatic volcanic landscapes, Oahu showcases a diverse range of natural beauty in a relatively small area.

  10. Accessibility: Oahu is the most populated and developed island in Hawaii, with a well- connected transportation system, making it easily accessible for travelers and offering a wide range of accommodations, activities, and services.

  11. Entertainment and Events: Oahu hosts a variety of festivals, events, and entertainment options throughout the year, including the annual Honolulu Festival, hula performances, and live music, adding a vibrant energy to the island’s atmosphere. Already thinking about the next time I’ll be back….

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