Honolulu Vibes

Oahu Cultural Visit: A Guide to Cultural Experiences on the Island

Oahu Cultural Visit: A Guide to Cultural Experiences on the Island
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Experience the Aloha Spirit on Oahu

  • Visit the Iolani Palace. Iolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States. It was built in the late 19th century and was the home of the Hawaiian monarchy until it was overthrown in 1893. Today, the palace is a museum that tells the story of the Hawaiian monarchy and the history of Hawaii.
Iolani Palace, Honolulu, Hawaii. Honolulu Vibes Photo – Ronen Zilberman
  • Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center. The Polynesian Cultural Center is a living museum that celebrates the cultures of Polynesia. Visitors can learn about the history, culture, and traditions of Polynesia through interactive exhibits, performances, and demonstrations.
polynesian cultural center dance
Performers dancing and singing traditional island dance at the Polynesian Cultural Center. The Polynesian Cultural Center is found in the small town of Laie on the windward side of Oahu, Hawaii and treats visitors to an inside look at the music, dances, lifestyles, and history of the many Polynesian cultures. (photo by Ronen Zilberman)
  • Visit the Bishop Museum. The Bishop Museum is the largest museum in Hawaii and is dedicated to the natural and cultural history of Hawaii. The museum has a collection of over 24 million objects, including Hawaiian artifacts, art, and natural history specimens.
kahili-room-bishop-museum
The Kahili Room at the Bishop Museum features the history of members in the Hawaiian Royal family. (Ronen Zilberman photo HonoluluVibes.com)
  • Take a hula lesson. Hula is a traditional Hawaiian dance that is both a form of art and a way of life. There are many places on Oahu where you can take a hula lesson, from small studios to large resorts.
hula on the beach in Waikiki, Hawaii. Photo Ronen Zilberman.
hula on the beach in Waikiki, Hawaii. Photo Ronen Zilberman.
  • Attend a luau. A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast that includes food, music, and dancing. There are many luaus on Oahu, from small, family-run luaus to large, resort-style luaus.
  • Go on a cultural tour. There are many cultural tours available on Oahu that will take you to see some of the island’s most important cultural sites. These tours can be a great way to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii.
Volunteers dig out invasive plants growing around young koa trees during the Hanai Aina Coverservation Workday at Waimea Valley. (Ronen Zilberman photo Honolulu Vibes)
  • Eat at local restaurants. One of the best ways to experience a culture is through its food. There are many great local restaurants on Oahu that serve traditional Hawaiian cuisine.
Honolulu VibesPhoto Ronen Zilberman
  • Shop at local markets. Local markets are a great place to find souvenirs and gifts, as well as fresh produce and other local products.
  • Learn some Hawaiian language. Hawaiian is the official language of Hawaii, and learning a few phrases can be a great way to show respect for the culture.
  • Be respectful of the local culture. When visiting a new place, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture. This means being aware of your surroundings and behaving in a way that is considered appropriate

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