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Central and West Oahu
Map of Central and West Oahu
Oahu's central plain is a patchwork of old towns and new residential developments, military bases, farms, ranches, and shopping malls, with a few visit-worthy attractions and historic sites scattered about. Central Oahu encompasses the Moanalua Valley, residential Pearl City, and the old plantation town of Wahiawa, on the uplands half-way to the North Shore. Sights are reached by the H1 and H2 freeways.
West (or Leeward) Oahu has the island's fledgling "second city" -- the planned community of Kapolei, where the government hopes to attract enough jobs to lighten inbound traffic to downtown Honolulu -- then continues on past a far-flung resort to the Hawaiian communities of Nanakuli and Waianae, to the beach and the end of the road at Keaweula, a.k.a. Yokohama Bay. West Oahu begins at folksy Waipahu and continues past Makakilo and Kapolei on H1 and Highway 93, Farrington Highway.
A couple of cautions as you head to the leeward side: Highway 93 is a narrow, winding two-lane notorious for accidents. There's an abrupt transition from freeway to highway at Kapolei, and by the time you reach Nanakuli, it's a country road, so slow down. Car break-ins and beach thefts are common so have a care.
At a Glance
SIGHTS
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1.
Aloha Stadium Swap Meet
If it's a bargain you're looking for, look no farther than this thrice-weekly bazaar.
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2.
Dole Plantation
Hop aboard the Pineapple Express and learn about life on the plantation.
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3.
Hawaii's Plantation Village
A former sugar plantation is now a living museum offering a window on the past.
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4.
Ko Olina
The quiet lagoons here are perfect for children not yet ready for big-time surf.
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5.
White Plains
Bask in the sun, ride the waves, and take in the stunning views of Diamond Head.
PLACES TO EXPLORE
- Family friendly restaurant on Oahu?
9 responses; most recent on 08/20/2008, 02:36 pm - The Willows - Honolulu
12 responses; most recent on 08/20/2008, 02:29 pm
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