South and East Oahu Attractions

On Oahu's eastern tip at the foot of the impressive Makapuu Cliffs can be found the Sea Life Park - a favorite destination for outings. More than 2000 types of fish swim about in an enormous pool which can be viewed through a glass wall.Displays given by dolphins and sea lions are very popular and their feeding times are a major attraction. Particularly impressive are the tricks performed by dolphins. In the shark section visitors learn about sharks that can be found in the waters of the Pacific and, in particular, whether swimmers might encounter these predators.In the Pacific Whaling Museum the skeleton of an enormous whale is on display, as well as an extensive collection of objects carved from whales' teeth. A replica of a whaling ship from earlier times is anchored in the lagoon.From the Sea Life Park there is a fine view of the offshore island known as Rabbit Island or Manana Island. On this small volcanic needle of rock the odd rabbit, reared by a Hawaiian farmer, can still be seen hopping around. Today, the island is a protected bird sanctuary.These more than 985ft/300m-high rocky cliffs provide an ideal launching point for the many hang-gliders who dare to take a leap downward here. Some of the more courageous among them are supposed to have succeeded in gliding across the water to Rabbit Island.

Hanauma Bay is a scenic, sandy bay located in south-eastern Oahu. The Koko Head peninsula borders the bay on the west side.This area, a popular snorkeling and diving destination, was heavily impacted by visitors in the 1980s but efforts to revive the ecosystem have proved effective. The Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve restricted the number of visitors and changed the focus to restoring this natural area. Visitors can learn about Hanauma Bay at the Marine Education Center.Many people come here to enjoy the great snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Halona Blowhole is a famous spot beside the coastal road north of Hanauma Bay and south of Makapuu Point. The oddity is where the surf is diverted upward through a hole in the volcanic shelf on the shore. The blowhole works when the surf is up, but may be dormant if the sea is calm which is often the case in summer.Beside the blowhole parking lot, one also finds an attractive rocky point which juts into the sea.

Kualoa is a working ranch, established in 1850, and still operating with various activities for visitors including water sports, horseback riding, gardens and animal collections. One unique feature is the movie set tour including sets from Jurassic Park and Godzilla.

Hawaii's only waterpark, Hawaiian Adventures, has 25-acres of water slides, water falls, water cannons, bodyslides, a tube cruise, arcade, lagoon and interactive children's playground.

Makapu'u Beach, made famous by the movie "From Here to Eternity" is known as Hawaii's most popular body surfing beach. It is the easternmost head on the Island of Oahu.

Kailua Beach is a popular destination for picnics, swimming, surfing, snorkeling and other sports.

Lainikai Beach is popular for both swimming and windsurfing or sailing activities.

Sandy Beach is popular for swimming and body surfing.