What's New on Oahu

October 2019


OAHU – Often referred to as the Heart of Hawaii, Oahu is a fusion of East and West cultures rooted in the values and traditions of the native Hawaiian people. This cultural mix presents a unique contrast between the ancient and the modern that makes discovering Oahu — from bustling city life to laidback surf towns — so enjoyable. Below is a glimpse of many new and different options for exploring Oahu’s diverse regions, the island’s many activities, its eclectic restaurants, accommodations, shopping, and festivals and events.

Hotels & Resorts
The Island of Oahu has a variety of hotels and resorts for travelers of all ages with varying budgets, and a multitude of packages to make any trip unforgettable.
  • Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa has a variety of new activities for families to enjoy this fall—on dry land and in the water. Guests looking to relax and unwind can take part in Sparty Hour at Laniwai Spa or receive the new Luau-Bound makeover before heading to KA WAA – A Luau at Aulani. While in the water, Underwater Explorers provides guests aged 10 and up the chance to scuba dive in our man-made lagoon, and families can also get up close with the fish in the Rainbow Reef Fish Feeding Experience. DisneyAulani.com

  • Espacio The Jewel of Waikiki, Honolulu’s newest ultra-luxury hotel, debuts on September 7 and will unveil Japanese-French fine dining concept Mugen from Executive Chef Jason Yamaguchi in November. The nine-suite, $5,000-per-night hotel offers guests an exclusive wine collection valued at $10 million, as well as rare Japanese whiskies and high-end sakes. EspacioWaikiki.com

  • Exotic by Enterprise is now open at the new luxurious Alohilani Resort in Waikiki. For those looking to ride the island in style, Enterprise offers a selection ranging from Mustang GT Convertibles and Range Rover Sports to Maserati Gran Turismo and Platinum Edition Cadillac Escalades.EnterpriseHoldings.com

  • The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is introducing Spa Under the Stars. Offered at the resort’s Naupaka Spa & Wellness Centre, the program provides guests the opportunity to slip away to a sensual night spa retreat to enjoy exclusive access to the spa’s amenities and facilities, followed by a private stargazing experience. In partnership with Trident Adventures, the resort recently debuted a “Navy Seal for a Day” experience for guests. Owned by former Navy SEALs, Trident Adventures is a water adventure company primarily focusing on scuba diving. The luxury dive operation offers a variety of dive and aquatic programs for guests to choose from. FourSeasons.com/Oahu

  • Following a year-long renovation, the former Waikiki Parc will reopen on October 25, 2019 as the Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani. The new luxury boutique hotel will encompass 284 guest rooms; four suites; the first ever Halekulani Bakery & Restaurant, the hotel’s full-service, all-day casual dining concept; a dramatic eighth-floor pool deck and bar and fitness studio. Inspired by sister property Halekulani, the “House of Welcoming Waters” will mark the first upscale boutique hotel in Waikiki. Halepuna.com

  • Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort’s cultural surf program, “Surfers in Residence Series,” features professional surfers and their families who are “in residence” who will talk story, surf and kick back with a chosen few selected to participate in the series. Surfer in Residence Tom Pohaku Stone will talk story on Wednesday, Nov. 20. Stone is credited with single handedly revitalizing the sport of heeholua (Hawaiian mountain sledding), contributing to the history and knowledge of traditional wood surfboards and the art of surfing them, which was passed down through his ohana and interaction as a young boy with Duke Kahanamoku and the Beachboys of Waikiki. OutriggerWaikikiBeachResort.com


Activities & Entertainment
As the energizing island, it’s easy to feel Oahu come to life. Visitors can feel the energy of vibrant Oahu through a wide variety of different activities perfect for thrill-seekers, explorers, wayfinders, and more.
  • Bishop Museum will present its newest original exhibit, Mai Kinohi Mai: Surfing in Hawaii from Dec. 14, 2019 – May 3, 2020 in the Castle Memorial Building. Through the unique research and collections of Bishop Museum in partnership with the local surfing community, this exhibit will explore surfing’s connection with the past and its ongoing technical and cultural developments, which make the sport an international phenomenon today. Highlights will include the oldest traditional Hawaiian surfboards on display alongside surfboards belonging to legendary surfers like Duke Kahanamoku. Interactive displays will teach visitors about surf forecasting and archival photos and rare memorabilia will explore surfing’s roots in traditional Hawaiian culture through to its influence in Hawaii’s modern culture from the 20th century onwards. BishopMuseum.org

  • Blue Hawaii Private Tours will be introducing Private Hiking Tours to Diamond Head. A trained nature guide will briefly share about the fascinating volcanic creation, Hawaiian history, European settling, and early cattle ranching, while being escorted on a 45-minute walk that ascends to the 763’ summit. The summit provides a 360-degree panoramic view of Waikiki Beach, the emerald green mountains and the sparkling aquamarine water of the Pacific Ocean below. After the hike, hikers will enjoy a fresh pineapple drink or shave ice before returning to Waikiki. BlueHawaiiPrivateTours.com

  • Blue Note Hawaii features sophisticated décor and a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system and is available for private buyouts. Their turnkey venue makes setup and hosting your group function a breeze for up to 326 attendees. Includes full use of our state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, plus a dedicated on-site technician to ensure your event runs smoothly. Newly revamped dining menus for all tastes and occasions, plus custom menus available from their in-house culinary team. The 6,000+ sq. ft. showroom features tiered seating with unobstructed sight lines throughout ensuring all 326 guest seats have great views of the stage and performances. For more information email events@bluenotehawaii.com. BlueNoteHawaii.com

  • Hawaii Forest & Trail launches its newest Oahu adventure, Oahu Sunset on the Ridge, a walk through a serene forest that culminates with a breathtaking sunset. At an elevation of 2,400 feet above sea level, the exclusive access to the area gives guests sweeping views of the west side of the island, while naturalist guide shares the legends of the land and history of Hawaii. Tour departs from Ko Olina resort. Hawaii-Forest.com

  • The Honolulu Museum of Art presents Steel and Concrete: The Modernization of Tokyo Architecture, on view from Nov. 23, 2019 – Jan. 26, 2020. During the 20th century, the pace of Tokyo’s urban renewal intensified, and new buildings and structures radiated a cosmopolitan sensibility. This exhibition showcases the depiction of new buildings and structures built during Tokyo’s urban renewal of the 20th century, portrayed in the traditional medium of woodblock prints. HonoluluMuseum.org

  • Beginning in September, Kayaks Hawaii will introduce a new activity called Kayak, Snorkel, Picnic – Mokolii Island - Kualoa Park FUN Day. Group sizes from 14 to 90 people can enjoy Oahu’s spectacular outdoor environment with a picnic, volleyball and croquet beside a pristine tropical beach. On this adventure, the group will kayak to an offshore island and do a short hike to the top to enjoy a stunning, world class view of pristine Kaneohe Bay and the Koolau Mountains. Twogoodkayaks.com

  • Take to the skies in Pearl Harbor Aviation’s Museum’s state-of-the-art, 360-degree flight simulators and experience aviation like you never have before. The brand-new Fighter Ace 360 Flight Simulators can roll, somersault, spin and loop as you take the controls. Choose from a heart-thumping dogfight in a P-38 over tropical waters in Thunder in the Pacific or take flight across the galaxy in a futuristic spaceship with Quantum Star Fighter. PearlHarborAviationMuseum.org

  • Polynesian Adventure Tours will operate a brand-new Premium Pearl Harbor and Oahu Circle Island Tour in fall 2019. Historic audio-video footage shown on tour vehicle monitors supplements the driver guide’s engaging live narration. Polyad.com/premium

  • The Polynesian Cultural Center will unveil an all new Alii Luau Show titled Onipaa (steadfast) that will pay tribute to Queen Liliuokalani in December. Guests will experience a truly authentic Hawaiian luau fit for a Queen from lei greeting to the unveiling of the imu and blessing of the food. Polynesia.com

  • Roberts Hawaii has launched a new guided tour on the island of Oahu, one that shares the remarkable story of a plant that has influenced Hawaii’s history from the arrival of early Polynesians to contemporary island society. The new Oahu Sugar Tour tells the story of sugar cane and Hawaii through a guided visit to Hawaii’s Plantation Village – an educational site dedicated to preserving Oahu’s multiethnic plantation history – and to Ko Hana Rum, a delightful farm-to-bottle distillery that uses locally grown single varietals of native Hawaiian sugar cane to craft one of the world’s finest pure cane rums. RobertsHawaii.com

  • Rock-A-Hula will offer exciting shows for the holiday season.

    • Thanksgiving Dinner & Show Nov. 28, 2019—Guests can choose from three exclusive dinner packages and two packages featuring just the live show.
    • Magical Christmas Dinner & Show Dec. 24 - 25, 2019—Guests can choose from three exclusive dinner packages and two packages featuring just the live show.
    • Midnight New Year’s Rockin’ Eve Countdown Show Dec. 31, 2019—Guests have the option to choose between two exclusive dinner packages, or opt for the Rockin’ Eve Premier Cocktail Show featuring just the live show. RockAHulaHawaii.com.

Restaurants, Cuisine & Chefs
Oahu is known for its diverse culture, which is exhibited by the assortment of cuisine found throughout the island. With wonderful choices and an array of culinary options, there’s a restaurant fit for everyone.
  • Enjoy “37 Vines” a seasonally curated food- and wine- pairing dinner with breathtaking views of Waikiki’s skyline and Pacific Ocean at ALTITUDE@37, a social event space with a glass wall located on the 37th floor of Hilton Waikiki Beach. “37 Vines” is scheduled for two nights, Oct. 15 and 16 from 6 to 9 p.m., featuring five courses and six wines. For full menu and pricing, visit HiltonWaikikiBeach.com/37-vines/

  • The grand opening of La Vie, a modern French cuisine restaurant, will take place on August 1, 2019 at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach. The restaurant headed by General Manager Dusty Grable and Executive Chef Shaymus Alwin will feature a unique dining concept where guests may select any combination of items from the modern French menu to create their own unique coursed dinner menu. LavieWaikiki.com

  • La Hiki Steak, located inside the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina with award winning Chef Simeon Hall Jr. at the helm, recently opened for dinner in July. Enjoy La Hiki Steak’s open-air Hawaiian setting while exciting table-side preparations unfold artfully onto each plate. This premium West Oahu steak experience features prime cuts, classic cocktails, and locally inspired cuisine with Four Seasons’ elevated and personalized service. FourSeasons.com/Oahu

  • STRIPSTEAK Waikiki, Michael Mina’s elevated steakhouse establishment, is pleased to announce the appointment of Wesley Pumphrey as the restaurant’s new executive chef. Pumphrey began his culinary career by working at various operations in California, such as La Folie in San Francisco and The Montage Hotel Parq Restaurant in Beverly Hills. Following these endeavors, he further improved his skills by joining Think Food Group in 2014. At Think Food Group, Pumphrey developed his proficiency in modern cooking techniques, as well as mastered classical Spanish flavors. STRIPSTEAKWaikiki.com


Shopping
Oahu is home to hundreds of high-end designer stores, as well as local boutiques carrying locally-made products.
  • Enjoy “37 Vines” a seasonally curated food- and wine- pairing dinner with breathtaking views of Waikiki’s skyline and Pacific Ocean at ALTITUDE@37, a social event space with a glass wall located on the 37th floor of Hilton Waikiki Beach. “37 Vines” is scheduled for two nights, Oct. 15 and 16 from 6 to 9 p.m., featuring five courses and six wines. For full menu and pricing, visit HiltonWaikikiBeach.com/37-vines/

  • The grand opening of La Vie, a modern French cuisine restaurant, will take place on August 1, 2019 at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach. The restaurant headed by General Manager Dusty Grable and Executive Chef Shaymus Alwin will feature a unique dining concept where guests may select any combination of items from the modern French menu to create their own unique coursed dinner menu. LavieWaikiki.com

  • La Hiki Steak, located inside the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina with award winning Chef Simeon Hall Jr. at the helm, recently opened for dinner in July. Enjoy La Hiki Steak’s open-air Hawaiian setting while exciting table-side preparations unfold artfully onto each plate. This premium West Oahu steak experience features prime cuts, classic cocktails, and locally inspired cuisine with Four Seasons’ elevated and personalized service. FourSeasons.com/Oahu

  • STRIPSTEAK Waikiki, Michael Mina’s elevated steakhouse establishment, is pleased to announce the appointment of Wesley Pumphrey as the restaurant’s new executive chef. Pumphrey began his culinary career by working at various operations in California, such as La Folie in San Francisco and The Montage Hotel Parq Restaurant in Beverly Hills. Following these endeavors, he further improved his skills by joining Think Food Group in 2014. At Think Food Group, Pumphrey developed his proficiency in modern cooking techniques, as well as mastered classical Spanish flavors. STRIPSTEAKWaikiki.com


Festivals & Events
Oahu is known for its diverse culture, which is exhibited by the assortment of cuisine found throughout the island. With wonderful choices and an array of culinary options, there’s a restaurant fit for everyone.
  • The Honolulu Japanese Chamber of Commerce presents their 18th Annual Chopsticks & Wine festival. The festival is held annually at the Hawaii Convention Center attracting an estimated 1,000 attendees. Featured at the event are Honolulu’s top restaurants, chefs and fine wines & spirits. Please join us for an evening of delicious foods, exquisite wines, and exciting giveaways on Oct. 10, 2019 from 6–8:30 p.m. ChopsticksAndWine.com

  • The 9th Annual Hawaii Food & Wine Festival (HFWF) will take place Oct. 5– 27, 2019 across the Island of Hawaii, Maui and Oahu. Featuring a roster of over 150 internationally-renowned master chefs, culinary personalities, and winemakers and mixologists, the Festival will highlight Hawaii as a culinary destination with 20 events over three weekends. HFWF is a nonprofit with the mission of supporting culinary education and agriculture and farmers in Hawaii. HFWF.me

  • Rainbows over Waikiki kicks off HONOLULU PRIDE with the hanging of 160 ten-foot-tall rainbow banners through Waikiki. Honolulu PRIDE takes place Oct. 11 – 20, 2019. Events include National Coming Out Day at the University of Phoenix Kapolei Campus, a month of artist recognition at Arts at Mark’s Garage, film screenings, fashion shows, theme parties, youth LGBTQ workshops, and trainings and tastings all leading up to a Parade on Kalakaua Avenue ending in a festival at the Waikiki Shell Diamond Head Greens. www.hawaiilgbtlegacyfoundation.com

  • The Honolulu Zoo will have different family fun events from Oct. to Dec., 2019.

    • Twilight Tours—Every evening, there will be a two-hour guided tour visiting species that are just waking up after resting all day in the hot Hawaii sun. Learn about the residents at the Zoo, their status in the wild and how you can help.
    • o Zoo Camp—Immerse your keiki in Zoo Camp to learn about native and global wildlife and the importance of conservation. The Zoo day camp will take place twice from Oct. 7-Nov. 2019 and Dec. 23, 2019- Jan. 3, 2020.
  • Pai Foundation

    • I Lea Ka Hula: Celebrating Culture, Preserving Traditions Nov. 19 – 24, 2019—This event will provide residents and visitors interested in hula and Hawaiian cultural practices opportunities to learn from some of Hawaii’s finest kumu hula and cultural practitioners; gain a better understanding of the mele (songs); connect the mele with the natural and cultural resources, people and places that inspire the compositions; increase their understanding and use of Hawaiian language; and support and value the kumu hula and master teachers that dedicate their lives to the preservation and perpetuation of these traditions for future generations.
    • MAMo Wearable Art Show Nov. 16—At Hilton Hawaiian Village in the Tapa Ballrooms, makeke, or the market, will feature the MAMo artists before the show at 3 p.m. and continue throughout the remainder of the night. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with the fashion show starting at 7 p.m. and trunk show to follow. Hosted by Vicky Holt Takamine and Robert Cazimero, this fashion show will feature native artists, cultural practitioners, and designers. PaiFoundation.org
  • The 31st Annual Talk Story Festivalis on Oct. 11, 2019, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Location to be announced. Free and open to the public. HonoluluParks.com

  • The Pearl Harbor National Memorial will host daily events leading up to the 78th Commemoration of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Starting Dec. 1, 2019, The Road to History will kick off with History Day; each day will encourage visitor’s appreciation for history through educational, interpretive and interactive activities. As always, entrance to the Park as well as event activities during each day are free. PacificHistoricParks.org

  • World Surf League

    • Vans Triple Crown Nov. 13 – Dec. 20—The Vans Triple Crown is a star-studded Hawaiian surfing series that crowns the undisputed World Champion after a year¬long tour, and the champion of Hawaii’s professional surf season at three storied venues: Haleiwa, Sunset and Pipeline. The trifecta is also highlighted by a variety of social community activations on the North Shore, spearheaded by longtime partner and surfing mainstay Vans.
    • Billabong Pipe Masters Dec. 8 – 20—The third and final stop of the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, the Billabong Pipe Masters determines the most highly-regarded titles known to professional surfing: The World Surf League (WSL) World Champion, Vans Triple Crown Champion and Billabong Pipe Masters event winner, and it all ensues at Mecca – the North Shore of Oahu and Banzai Pipeline. Fans can witness the power of Pipe right from the beach (or better yet, in the comfort of their own home via WSL’s broadcast and streaming channels!) at surfing’s Coliseum, where surfers are gladiators, waves are beasts and surfboards are swords. WorldSurfLeague.com

Miscellaneous
  • Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives has a new website with the option for pre-booking tours online and new specialty tours that cater to those looking for a deeper understanding of Hawaii in the 19th century. Through our Perspectives tours, visitors can delve into Hawaiian history through the lenses of architecture, primary documents and sources, and a Hawaiian perspective on the role of missionaries in 19th century Hawaii. You can now pre-book your tours through the Hawaiian Mission Houses website for both standard and specialty tours. MissionHouses.org

All information is subject to change without notice. For more information, please go to www.visit-oahu.com, follow OVB’s tweets at www.twitter.com/OahuVB, become a fan of Oahu on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/OahuHawaii, and follow @OahuVB on Instagram.

Upcoming Webinars
  • Title: Mailpound - Romance On Oahu
    Webinar Date: Thursday, November 21, 2019
    Webinar Time: 10:00am HST *
    *date/time subject to change
    Register HERE

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