94 Degrees Travel

Oahu is only the third largest of the inhabited Hawaiian Islands, but it is home to nearly three-quarters of the state's residents, most of them living in the ultra-modern capital city, Honolulu, and its adjacent beach resort suburb of Waikiki, on the south coast of the island. It is the most commercial of the islands, but do not let that fool you.

Oahu mesmerizes visitors with rainforests, mountains, valleys, and spectacular ocean waves. Beyond the urban bustle of the south, Oahu is quiet and enchanting; flaunting 23 state parks and punctuated by ancient stone heiau (temples).

The island's most recognizable landmark is the 761ft (232m) tall Diamond Head to the east of Waikiki. This mountain is a 'tuff cone' formed 100,000 years ago when an eruption of volcanic ash hardened into solid rock. The extinct volcano is traditionally believed to be the home of Pele, the fire goddess.

Oahu means 'gathering place', and the island certainly lives up to its name in its ethnic diversity. Waikiki is famous the world over, where urban culture and the distinct Polynesian flavor of Hawaii co-exist in perfect harmony.

It is no secret that the North Shore has become the center point of surfing. During the winter months (approximately November to February) the North Shore produces monstrous waves reaching heights of 25 feet and higher making these beaches definitely off limits to casual swimmers. But then, you can always watch the big wave riders.

Oahu's major surf spots known as the "7 Mile Miracle" stretch from Sunset Beach to Haleiwa, beaches include Rocky Point, Ehukai Beach Park, Banzai Pipeline, Pupukea and Waimea Bay. The North Shore is home to world class surfing competitions, beginning in mid November the "Reef Hawaiian Pro" in Haleiwa, followed by the "O'Neill World Cup of Surfing" at Sunset beach from late November to early December, finishing with the "Billabong Pipeline Masters" at the Banzai Pipeline from early to mid December. The three competitions are also know as the "Vans Triple Crown of Surfing".