Find the Best Things to Do in East Oahu
By Jade Eckardt
About East Oahu
Oahu's East Side is understated paradise. Lacking in large hotels and malls but lines with great local food and shopping, water activities and long white sand beaches, is a peaceful getaway just a short drive from the street lights of bustling Honolulu where you can relax and enjoy nature.
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See & Do
Created from a collapsed volcano crater, Hanauma Bay is protected and calm, ideal for snorkeling, as you'll see from the crowds around you. The snorkeling is truly amazing, since the preserve protects the wildlife and creates a favorite place for the fish to come eat. It offers great opportunity for viewing marine life and also boasts a terrific beach and hiking trails.
Eat
The Heeia Pier General Store and Deli is a classic Kaneohe eatery enjoyed by dedicated locals for three decades as it served up local classic like plate lunches and loco mocos (beef patty, egg and gravy over rice). A modern sustainable and healthier take has bee applied, and all of the beef is from the Big Island and grass fed, the fish is caught nearby, and other vegetables are all grown locally - a locovore's dream. Located ocean front on the pier, diners can enjoy casual - but really good breakfast and lunch right on the water.
Party
Many say the Polynesian Cultural Center is hands down the best luau on Oahu and it's so entertaining it doubles as nightlife. They can feed up to 1,200 guests at one time, so get ready to party down! Except of course, since the Polynesian Cultural Center is part of the Mormon Church there's no alcohol in any drinks here. The dancing, fire acts, and other entertainment is fun and at times a little over the top.
Shop
At the Kailua Farmers Market, a flood of vendors selling locally made and grown arts, crafts, and food - both ready to eat meals and fresh produce. One of the rare farmers markets on the island that is actually open during the late afternoon (as opposed to the morning), Kailua Farmers Market is open every Thursday from 5 to 7:30 p.m.