6 Reasons Why You Might Choose NOT to Visit Oahu

For those considering where to spend their hard-earned money on a vacation in paradise you may want to consider taking your money elsewhere. A destination dreamed about by the world-over for decades, Oahu may not be the paradise you’re expecting. Here’s a few reasons why you might choose to NOT visit Oahu.

1. Overcrowding: Oahu is a popular tourist destination, so it can be crowded, especially during peak season. Honolulu, attracts millions of tourists every year and this can lead to crowded beaches, attractions, and restaurants. Watching the sunset in Waikiki requires a ladder to see over the heads of those standing up with their phones to record the ball drop. Hiking trails into Oahu’s lush valleys and mountain tops are congested with groups of people waiting for a turn to swim in waterfall pools or to take selfies with the views. This can be frustrating for some travelers who are looking for a more peaceful and relaxing vacation experience.

2. High cost of living: Hawaii is known for being an expensive place to visit, and Oahu is no exception. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities can be quite high, which can be a barrier for budget-conscious travelers.

3. Traffic congestion: Honolulu has some of the worst traffic in the United States, and this can make getting around the island a frustrating experience. Visitors who are hoping to explore the island by car may find themselves spending a lot of time stuck in traffic.

4. Lack of natural beauty: While Oahu is home to some stunning beaches and natural landscapes, it is also a highly developed island with lots of urban areas. Some visitors may find that the island’s natural beauty is overshadowed by the urban sprawl which also contributes to a lot noise pollution. Don’t expect to see stars at night in Honolulu as most are blocked out by city lights. Oahu’s north shore is the only area where you can get a good view of the sky on a clear night.

5. Homelessness: Visitors to Honolulu are often surprised and dismayed to see the number of people living on the streets. Honolulu has the highest rate of homelessness in the state of Hawaii, and the third highest rate in the country. Most every city park has a homeless population with makeshift encampments in shaded areas or along sidewalks of city streets. This causes otherwise beautiful spaces to be unsightly with trash and bad smells. Due to the high amount of mental illness and drug addictions among homeless populations erratic behaviors, violence, and crime are an increasing problem in Honolulu.

6. Lack of privacy: Oahu is a small island, so it can be difficult to find privacy. Hotels in Waikiki are packed together so that most scenic views are looking into the rooms of neighboring buildings. Be prepared to pay a high price for the limited ocean views. Gone are the days of secret trails or secluded beaches. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a beach on Oahu that isn’t bustling with people and activities especially on the weekends and afternoon/sunset times when local residents are also spending time in the sand and surf.

There are a lot of other destinations outside of the states where your money will take you a lot further but if you’re planning to visit the Hawaiian islands, consider one of the outer-islands, over Oahu, for a more relaxing less-crowded vacation.

by Honolulu Vibes