3 Islands - Just Back
Jan 27th, 2001, 06:37 AM
#21
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Laurie,
Thanks so much for the info! We are planning to spend four nights in Kona so we look forward to those sunsets you describe! Regarding Waipio - would you recommend the motorized tour into the valley? Is it still possible to take horses into the Valley? And finally, what do you think about hiking down? We are from Colorado so we hike alot - but if it is really extreme we should probably think about it some more.
Also, if you have any tips on visiting Pearl Harbor, I'd love to hear about them! Thanks!
Thanks so much for the info! We are planning to spend four nights in Kona so we look forward to those sunsets you describe! Regarding Waipio - would you recommend the motorized tour into the valley? Is it still possible to take horses into the Valley? And finally, what do you think about hiking down? We are from Colorado so we hike alot - but if it is really extreme we should probably think about it some more.
Also, if you have any tips on visiting Pearl Harbor, I'd love to hear about them! Thanks!
Jan 27th, 2001, 07:01 AM
#22
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Hi Laurie,
Thank you for responding to other posts. I found your advice very helpful and are so full of information.
We will visit BI in May and eventhough have been there twice,we never saw Lava Tree park. We would like to go to the thermal springs near Pahoe(?). It is the area where the water is naturally heated. I've read a few posts months ago that people's belongings were stolen when they were in the water. Do you think it is safe there?
If you know the direction, can you tell us?
Mahalo,
Cathy
Thank you for responding to other posts. I found your advice very helpful and are so full of information.
We will visit BI in May and eventhough have been there twice,we never saw Lava Tree park. We would like to go to the thermal springs near Pahoe(?). It is the area where the water is naturally heated. I've read a few posts months ago that people's belongings were stolen when they were in the water. Do you think it is safe there?
If you know the direction, can you tell us?
Mahalo,
Cathy
Jan 27th, 2001, 03:50 PM
#23
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Glad to hear you are going to Kona...where are you staying? Have you selected your driving route yet?
Physically I'm sure you'd be fine walking into Waipio Valley, just check ahead to be sure it is allowed. It is a narrow (one vehicle at a time), paved, steep but relatively short road. The valley still has a few residents but there used to be more. School children walked up and down the road as the school bus left them off at the top. When it rained they used the large "elephant ear" leaves as umbrellas as they walked. It is a stunning valley, high waterfall, streams, fruit, etc. I am sorry that I do not remember the name of the tour company we used to get into the valley, I know he was out of Honokaa. Once in the valley we were met by the driver's relative, cousin I think, named Duane. He lived in the valley and guided my husband and I on horseback picking guava and banana along the way. At the time access was more limited. Now you can tour the valley in jeeps, horse drawn carriages, etc.I don't know if Duane is still there but you might check the phonebook for Waipio tours out of Honokaa, someone might know him!
Now that the USS Missouri is part of Pearl Harbor civilians are able to actually get onto Ford Island. It is possible to visit the Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri and USS Bowfin in one day but get there early. You will be given a timed ticket for the official tour of the Arizona and the time slots fill up fast. It opens at 7:30am. Arriving at 9am could get you a noon tour! While you are waiting for your tour there is a very interesting museum, book store, and volunteer speakers. Snacks and shade are available. If you have a long wait you could walk next door to the USS Bowfin or the Submarine Memorial/Museum.
The tour isn't really a tour but a way of limiting the number of people allowed on the memorial. You begin under the direction of the Park Service by seeing a short film of what happened there. You are then transferred to the charge of the Navy and will board a launch and taken to the actual Memorial. You will be allowed to visit for a reasonable amount of time, about 20-30 mins I believe, then will reboard the launch and return to the park.
The USS Missouri tour begins across the parking lot from the USS Arizona park. You will board a trolly and be taken across a new bridge to Ford Island. I really encourage you to purchase the VIP tour. It takes you places on the ship otherwise not available to the general public. You will also be guided by a docent rather than go it alone. The stories and facts they provide enhance the experience tremendously.You can go back and see anything you want on your own once the tour is done. You can arrange for this tour in advance if you want then you won't have to wait in any lines once you arrive. It's quite an experience, big band music playing from the shore, etc.
Be sure you take the USS Arizona tour through the park service. There are other tour companies that advertise the Arizona but you will only be allowed to board the memorial if you go through the park serice the others take you past it in a boat!
Take water, although it is available for purchase there, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. We take the bands we use around our heads/neck when hiking, wet them down and put them on when we're out there. It can get hot!
There are amny companies that provide a "Day at Pearl" type tour. They pick you up at your hotel early in the morning and depart Pearl throughout the day, last one leaving around 3 or 4pm. It's a good way to go if you don't want to drive. You can arrange the same type of transportation in conjunction with the VIP USS Missouri tour by calling the USS Missouri information number listed in the Oahu phonebook. A days notice should be adequate.
Physically I'm sure you'd be fine walking into Waipio Valley, just check ahead to be sure it is allowed. It is a narrow (one vehicle at a time), paved, steep but relatively short road. The valley still has a few residents but there used to be more. School children walked up and down the road as the school bus left them off at the top. When it rained they used the large "elephant ear" leaves as umbrellas as they walked. It is a stunning valley, high waterfall, streams, fruit, etc. I am sorry that I do not remember the name of the tour company we used to get into the valley, I know he was out of Honokaa. Once in the valley we were met by the driver's relative, cousin I think, named Duane. He lived in the valley and guided my husband and I on horseback picking guava and banana along the way. At the time access was more limited. Now you can tour the valley in jeeps, horse drawn carriages, etc.I don't know if Duane is still there but you might check the phonebook for Waipio tours out of Honokaa, someone might know him!
Now that the USS Missouri is part of Pearl Harbor civilians are able to actually get onto Ford Island. It is possible to visit the Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri and USS Bowfin in one day but get there early. You will be given a timed ticket for the official tour of the Arizona and the time slots fill up fast. It opens at 7:30am. Arriving at 9am could get you a noon tour! While you are waiting for your tour there is a very interesting museum, book store, and volunteer speakers. Snacks and shade are available. If you have a long wait you could walk next door to the USS Bowfin or the Submarine Memorial/Museum.
The tour isn't really a tour but a way of limiting the number of people allowed on the memorial. You begin under the direction of the Park Service by seeing a short film of what happened there. You are then transferred to the charge of the Navy and will board a launch and taken to the actual Memorial. You will be allowed to visit for a reasonable amount of time, about 20-30 mins I believe, then will reboard the launch and return to the park.
The USS Missouri tour begins across the parking lot from the USS Arizona park. You will board a trolly and be taken across a new bridge to Ford Island. I really encourage you to purchase the VIP tour. It takes you places on the ship otherwise not available to the general public. You will also be guided by a docent rather than go it alone. The stories and facts they provide enhance the experience tremendously.You can go back and see anything you want on your own once the tour is done. You can arrange for this tour in advance if you want then you won't have to wait in any lines once you arrive. It's quite an experience, big band music playing from the shore, etc.
Be sure you take the USS Arizona tour through the park service. There are other tour companies that advertise the Arizona but you will only be allowed to board the memorial if you go through the park serice the others take you past it in a boat!
Take water, although it is available for purchase there, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. We take the bands we use around our heads/neck when hiking, wet them down and put them on when we're out there. It can get hot!
There are amny companies that provide a "Day at Pearl" type tour. They pick you up at your hotel early in the morning and depart Pearl throughout the day, last one leaving around 3 or 4pm. It's a good way to go if you don't want to drive. You can arrange the same type of transportation in conjunction with the VIP USS Missouri tour by calling the USS Missouri information number listed in the Oahu phonebook. A days notice should be adequate.
Jan 27th, 2001, 04:21 PM
#24
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Hi Cathy,
Lava Tree State Monument, I think I referred to it as a State Park previously-sorry, is easy to find. As you head towards Volcanoes Park from Hilo on Hwy.11, turn onto to Hwy.130 @ Keaau...this is also the way to Pahoa. In Pahoa take 132,a road covered by a beautiful tree canopy. Lava Tree is just a short way. Pahoa is the home of a geo-thermal plant so you are on the right track re: naturally warmed water. A favorite of ours is what we refer to as "a jungle hot tub". Near Lava Tree you will see a sign for Pohoiki. Drive down to the small marina and park in the lot. Lock your belongings in the trunk just as a safety precaution, we've never had any trouble.As you face the ocean you will see a trail on your right, through the jungle. It is just a short walk to the tub. The water is pleasantly warm. Moments after you hear a wave hit the shore, ocean water dribbles through the rocks surrounding you to freshen and cool the water.
There ia another area that you might find interesting but it is difficult to give directions. You will have to rely on asking locals as you get close. It is referred to as "Secret Spot" in the area near MacKenzie State Recreation Area. There is a road known as "the Red Road" running along the ocean between 130 and 132. If you can find someone who will show you where to park, you walk through the trees and will come upon one of the most beautiful places I've seen. Cliffs, streams, trees, white sand and very peaceful. Take a picnic. Sorry I can't be more specific. Just a note of caution so you won't be got off guard.The East Rift zone is the home of volcanoes, beauty and the area some have chosen to cultivate illegal crops. I have NEVER run into anyone or anything but you might hear helicopters or get a curious look when you appear to be a tourist asking about the area.
Aloha! I wish I were on my way, too.
Lava Tree State Monument, I think I referred to it as a State Park previously-sorry, is easy to find. As you head towards Volcanoes Park from Hilo on Hwy.11, turn onto to Hwy.130 @ Keaau...this is also the way to Pahoa. In Pahoa take 132,a road covered by a beautiful tree canopy. Lava Tree is just a short way. Pahoa is the home of a geo-thermal plant so you are on the right track re: naturally warmed water. A favorite of ours is what we refer to as "a jungle hot tub". Near Lava Tree you will see a sign for Pohoiki. Drive down to the small marina and park in the lot. Lock your belongings in the trunk just as a safety precaution, we've never had any trouble.As you face the ocean you will see a trail on your right, through the jungle. It is just a short walk to the tub. The water is pleasantly warm. Moments after you hear a wave hit the shore, ocean water dribbles through the rocks surrounding you to freshen and cool the water.
There ia another area that you might find interesting but it is difficult to give directions. You will have to rely on asking locals as you get close. It is referred to as "Secret Spot" in the area near MacKenzie State Recreation Area. There is a road known as "the Red Road" running along the ocean between 130 and 132. If you can find someone who will show you where to park, you walk through the trees and will come upon one of the most beautiful places I've seen. Cliffs, streams, trees, white sand and very peaceful. Take a picnic. Sorry I can't be more specific. Just a note of caution so you won't be got off guard.The East Rift zone is the home of volcanoes, beauty and the area some have chosen to cultivate illegal crops. I have NEVER run into anyone or anything but you might hear helicopters or get a curious look when you appear to be a tourist asking about the area.
Aloha! I wish I were on my way, too.
Jan 29th, 2001, 08:37 AM
#25
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Posts: n/a
Laurie,
Do you know the name and phone numbers of any companies that provide a "Day at Pearl" type tour? I would like to arrange something before we fly to Honolulu (from Michigan), as we will only have one day to see Pearl Harbor.
If not, you also mentioned you can arange the same type of transportation in conjunction with the VIP USS Missouri tour by calling the USS Missouri information number listed in the Oahu phonebook. Being on the mainland, how would I get a hold of this number?
Thanks,
Chris
Do you know the name and phone numbers of any companies that provide a "Day at Pearl" type tour? I would like to arrange something before we fly to Honolulu (from Michigan), as we will only have one day to see Pearl Harbor.
If not, you also mentioned you can arange the same type of transportation in conjunction with the VIP USS Missouri tour by calling the USS Missouri information number listed in the Oahu phonebook. Being on the mainland, how would I get a hold of this number?
Thanks,
Chris
Jan 29th, 2001, 03:50 PM
#26
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Okay - sounds like a lotta Hawaiian knowledge here! My husband and I our 16 year old daughter and her friend - 8 days based on Oahu, first week in April. Best beaches for the girls? (that I will feel comfortable with - can they safely go alone?) Where to stay - inexpensive, with pool, close to beach,that we'll all like? We plan to do the hiking stuff, PH, etc., I like museums and shopping, but I know the girls want beach! Lodging seems to be my biggest quandry. Thanks!
Jan 30th, 2001, 07:14 PM
#27
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Chris,
Info for the USS Missouri is available at their website-www.ussmissouri.com. The VIP Package which includes the transportation, tour etc. is not mentioned but you may be able to find out more about it by calling 1-888-ussmissouri or the Oahu #1-808-423-2263. Your hotel will probably be able to suggest tour companies that will provide transportation. You can purchase the guided tour @ the ship. The real advantage of doing the VIP trip is that there is only one call, one charge and no waiting in line once you arrive at the ship. Beyond that, your actual tour would be the same.I really recommend the guided tour versus solo or audio.You are wise to handle the transportation this way. Driving in the area can be tough if you are unfamiliar with the area. Lots of traffic like any big city. Public buses, while less expensive, can be crowded, SRO, and make alot of stops. It's really only a few extra $ doing it this way and saves lots of frustration!
tmf-
Not knowing where you are from makes it a little hard for me to suggest how you might feel about sending the girls to the beach alone. I also have a 16 year old daughter. We usually spend most of our time on the other islands as Honolulu is a large city with all the problems that go along with a city of that size.We are from the San Francisco area. Honolulu reminds me very much of San Francisco, except the weather of course,when it comes to safety, traffic, costs, etc.
Without going into the "everyone does things different, different values, etc." thing, I honestly would only let my daughter go to the beach with a friend or two if we were staying very nearby and even then I would feel more comfortable if we were also parked somewhere on the same beach.Most of the more affordable hotels are not right on the beach. Before making a selection, look closely at a locator map. For the most part Waikiki is "the" beach in Honolulu, especially if you are thinking of a central location. Diamond Head is much less crowded but is set apart from the Waikiki activity. Waikiki Beach is also narrow in places and can be "beach towel to beach towel". The area by the Hilton Hawaiian Village is substanially wider and has a more open feel to it. If you can find an acceptable price, HHV might be a good choice. The pool is large and considering you want to please the teens as well as yourselves it might be an acceptable balance.
Just keep in mind that this is a large, tourist filled city. Hope you have a wonderful trip, whatever you decide. The islands are beautiful! Aloha!
Info for the USS Missouri is available at their website-www.ussmissouri.com. The VIP Package which includes the transportation, tour etc. is not mentioned but you may be able to find out more about it by calling 1-888-ussmissouri or the Oahu #1-808-423-2263. Your hotel will probably be able to suggest tour companies that will provide transportation. You can purchase the guided tour @ the ship. The real advantage of doing the VIP trip is that there is only one call, one charge and no waiting in line once you arrive at the ship. Beyond that, your actual tour would be the same.I really recommend the guided tour versus solo or audio.You are wise to handle the transportation this way. Driving in the area can be tough if you are unfamiliar with the area. Lots of traffic like any big city. Public buses, while less expensive, can be crowded, SRO, and make alot of stops. It's really only a few extra $ doing it this way and saves lots of frustration!
tmf-
Not knowing where you are from makes it a little hard for me to suggest how you might feel about sending the girls to the beach alone. I also have a 16 year old daughter. We usually spend most of our time on the other islands as Honolulu is a large city with all the problems that go along with a city of that size.We are from the San Francisco area. Honolulu reminds me very much of San Francisco, except the weather of course,when it comes to safety, traffic, costs, etc.
Without going into the "everyone does things different, different values, etc." thing, I honestly would only let my daughter go to the beach with a friend or two if we were staying very nearby and even then I would feel more comfortable if we were also parked somewhere on the same beach.Most of the more affordable hotels are not right on the beach. Before making a selection, look closely at a locator map. For the most part Waikiki is "the" beach in Honolulu, especially if you are thinking of a central location. Diamond Head is much less crowded but is set apart from the Waikiki activity. Waikiki Beach is also narrow in places and can be "beach towel to beach towel". The area by the Hilton Hawaiian Village is substanially wider and has a more open feel to it. If you can find an acceptable price, HHV might be a good choice. The pool is large and considering you want to please the teens as well as yourselves it might be an acceptable balance.
Just keep in mind that this is a large, tourist filled city. Hope you have a wonderful trip, whatever you decide. The islands are beautiful! Aloha!
Jan 30th, 2001, 08:16 PM
#28
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Lauri,
Had to chuckle at the pleasant memories your post reminded me of! In 1975, my mother took me with her to a convention at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. I'm not sure what she thought I would do while she was in meetings - but I did go to the Beach - alone - I was 17. I ended up meeting a nice young boy from PA - and we had a terrific time together. I finally told my mom just a few years ago, however, that she would not have been happy with all that we did!!
Anyway, one night the two of us disappeared and Our parents went nuts!! They developed quite a relationship while they searched for us and even now - 25 years later that share Christmas Cards. The boy and I ended up visiting each other several times - but our across country romance did not last forever. While I have very fond memories of that trip and my moments alone on the beach - I know too much - and I know I probaly wouldn't allow my own teenage daughter the same freedom!!
Sigh - what she might miss!!
Have a great trip and enjoy your kids - they are so soon grown up!!
Had to chuckle at the pleasant memories your post reminded me of! In 1975, my mother took me with her to a convention at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. I'm not sure what she thought I would do while she was in meetings - but I did go to the Beach - alone - I was 17. I ended up meeting a nice young boy from PA - and we had a terrific time together. I finally told my mom just a few years ago, however, that she would not have been happy with all that we did!!
Anyway, one night the two of us disappeared and Our parents went nuts!! They developed quite a relationship while they searched for us and even now - 25 years later that share Christmas Cards. The boy and I ended up visiting each other several times - but our across country romance did not last forever. While I have very fond memories of that trip and my moments alone on the beach - I know too much - and I know I probaly wouldn't allow my own teenage daughter the same freedom!!
Sigh - what she might miss!!
Have a great trip and enjoy your kids - they are so soon grown up!!
Feb 24th, 2001, 06:30 AM
#30
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Posts: n/a
Laurie and tmf,
Regarding which beaches are safe for teenage girls to go to alone, I lived in Hawaii for 5 years and know the beaches very well. I would say that almost any beach is safe for teenage girls to visit alone, except perhaps the beaches on the leeward side (around Makaha) which your daughters are unlikely to go to as they are a 1 hour drive from Honolulu. Hawaii is not a dangerous place! The only crime you need to worry about is petty theft. Of course, common sense would be useful. Your girls should not go to a completely deserted beach in the middle of nowhere. Again, your girls are unlikely to find such deserted beaches since they are far from Honolulu and the tourist areas.
Regarding which beaches are safe for teenage girls to go to alone, I lived in Hawaii for 5 years and know the beaches very well. I would say that almost any beach is safe for teenage girls to visit alone, except perhaps the beaches on the leeward side (around Makaha) which your daughters are unlikely to go to as they are a 1 hour drive from Honolulu. Hawaii is not a dangerous place! The only crime you need to worry about is petty theft. Of course, common sense would be useful. Your girls should not go to a completely deserted beach in the middle of nowhere. Again, your girls are unlikely to find such deserted beaches since they are far from Honolulu and the tourist areas.
