Diamond Head Aerial View. CC Image by Eric Tessmer (Flickr).
Doesn’t matter where you’re coming from; when you’ve made it to Oahu, and you stare out at the endless stretches of crisp Pacific blue, it will feel as if you’re standing at the edge of the world. As you’ll quickly find out, the sun has found a place to demonstrate its true might on the horizon line of this magical place. The sunrise and sunset are arresting sights that you’ll want to take advantage of as often as possible while you’re there. While it is easy to take them in from the comfort of your Honolulu hotels, here are a couple of vantage points that will help you make the most of your excursion.
Diamond Head Crater
Dominating the landscape of beautiful Waikiki means one thing for this dormant Honolulu tuff cone volcano: perfect views from the summit. If you’re hoping to go for a walk in the afternoon, but don’t want to travel far from the Aqua Waikiki Pearl and other hotels, taking a quick jaunt up Diamond Head will provide you with an ideal spot to watch the sun call it a day.
Mount Tantalus
Hawaii Sunset. CC Image by Justin Ornellas (Flickr).
Overlooking Honolulu further inland is Mount Tantalus, one of Oahu’s most celebrated lookout spots. With its panoramic views of the island, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better place to take in a sunrise or sunset. Rather than hike, you can drive up to a spot that suits your fancy; just make sure that when the time is right, you have your camera poised and ready!
Kualoa State Park
Chinamans Hat. CC Image by Timm Suess (Flickr).
For a simple, yet elegant shot at the sunrise, take a spin out to Kualoa Beach Park on the eastern side of the island. With its horizon line disturbed by only Chinaman’s Hat (a beautiful sight unto itself), you’re sure to marvel at the coming signs of daylight from the comfort of the sand. Behind you will be the Ko’olau Mountain Range, which you may recognize from several famous Hollywood films.
Whether you’re traveling alone on a budget or taking your family on their first trip to the Islands, watching the sun work its magic is something you’ll never forget!