While Oahu charms travelers year-round, the summer months on the island possess their own unique allure. From June through August, there’s little to no rain, and flowers and trees are in full blossom. The average temperature rises a few degrees, and people have extra daylight hours during which to enjoy it all. In addition, clients who visit Oahu during the summer can take advantage of special events appealing to a variety of visitors.
Following are five of the many great reasons to visit Oahu during the good old summertime.
Blooming Shower Trees
What is red, white, pink, yellow and orange all over? It’s the rainbow shower tree, Honolulu’s official city tree, which bursts into full bloom from April through November. Visitors can see the trees all around the island, but they can find them in particular abundance at Kapiolani Park in Waikiki, at Kapiolani Community College by Diamond Head and along Kalanianaole Highway to the east of Honolulu.
Bon Dances
Hanging lanterns encircle the celebrants of this important Japanese tradition, a folk dance honoring beloved ancestors. From June through August, visitors are invited to join in on the merriment at various Oahu temples, parks and gardens, where dancers in colorful yukata (summer kimono) keep the cherished custom alive. You don’t need to be Japanese to take part; just step into the circle and follow the moves of the dancers around you.
Calm North Shore Waters
The winter waves of this legendary destination attract the best surfers in the world, but come summer the seas are flat and gentle. That means the ocean is accessible to swimmers at such picturesque spots as Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach. Summertime’s calm conditions are also ideal for snorkeling at such popular north shore hangouts as Shark’s Cove and Three Tables, home to a vibrant variety of tropical sea creatures.
Duke’s OceanFest
Duke Kahanamoku was Hawaii’s ultimate waterman, and his legend lives on during this splashy nine-day event in Waikiki. From Aug. 17-25, clients can watch such exciting action as longboard and tandem surfing, surf polo, swimming, beach volleyball and stand-up paddling. The party starts on Aug. 17 with a lei-draping ceremony at the statue of Kahanamoku in Waikiki.
www.dukefoundation.org
Ukulele Festival Hawaii
No musical instrument says Hawaii quite like the ukulele, and this fun festival celebrates its special place in island music history. The largest of its kind in the world, the free five-hour concert lures thousands of people each year who hear the world’s finest pluckers and strummers. Joining them are national celebrities, Hawaii entertainers and a ukulele orchestra of more than 800 students, mostly children. Look and listen for it on July 21.
www.ukulelefestivalhawaii.org
