Sea Life Park

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.