Oct 7

Oct 7 Military Traveling to Oahu

First and foremost, from my ohana (family) to yours - MAHALO for your service.

Mahalo for the sacrifices you have made, will make, or are willing to make.

The military takes up approximately 22% of the land on the island of O’ahu. If you are military, you have heard of some bases on the island - Kaneohe, Schofield Barracks, Pearl Harbor, Hickam, etc. I'm going to provide you with resources for discounts and events happening during your visit or maybe your stay on the island.

It is important to realize when traveling rank matters.

Rank can determine cost and priority.

Military members will have no problem finding things to do for a lower cost. From eating to sailing, you will be in a tropical heaven with some of the most beautiful people on Earth. I have listed my recommendations below on where to stay, activities, and more.

Accomodations

Hale Koa (Armed Forces Recreation Center)- Waikiki (South Shore)
- $102-$324 - click for price specifics
- Book early.
Hyatt (3 different hotels to choose from)- Waikiki (South Shore)
- I recommend registering for World of Hyatt Rewards.
- Check out their partners, so you can maximize your points.
- You can convert air miles into reward points.
- Call customer service to book and ask for military, Costco member, or Kama'aina discounts, aside from your World of Hyatt discounted rate.
Airbnb (North Shore)
- If you plan to stay on the North Shore, check Air B&B first. There are now 2 hotels and they aren't budget friendly.
- You can also check Air B&B for your Honolulu stay.
Pililaau Army Recreation Center (West Shore)
- Beach Front - awesome views!
- Studios, 2 and 3 bedrooms cabins - $77-$127/nt

Recommended Camping Site (East Shore)

Bellows AFB - Waimanalo, Oahu
- Camper Cabins (no water or electricity) - $33/nt
  - there are shower houses, shoppette, laundry mat, and more on-site.
- Campsites - $22/nt
- Apartments/Condos - $105-$132/nt

There are more bases to stay, but this is my favorite!

Rental Car Provider

Advantage Rent a Car
- Be sure to check for coupons!

Activities

Check the ITR Pricelist to get an overview of events offered and costs associated (this is for service members only).

My activity recommendations for service members (ITR Prices Listed):

Holokai Sunset Sail or Fireworks Sail (Friday Only) - $40-$44
Paradise Cove Luau - $62-$113
Stand-Up Paddle down the Anahulu River in Haleiwa. Perhaps you will see turtles swimming under you!
- Board Rentals available (on the river) at Tropical Rush - $15/1st hour.
  - an hour is all you need round trip.

Rank E1-E6 - Check out the Liberty Calendar for shows, hikes, ocean activities, and more at a HEFTY discount!

Restaurants

Oahu has a wide variety of foods. Go on a gastro-adventure around the island! Some of my favorites are:

Piggy Smalls , Vietnamese (Honolulu-South Shore)
Moku, Farm to Table Style (Honolulu)
Opal Thai , Thai (Chinatown)
Kalapawai Cafe , Locally Sourced (Kailua, East Side)
Haleiwa Joes, Fresh catch and locally grown produce(Kaneohe, East Side)
Cholos, Tex-Mex (North Shore)

Note:

Always double check the restaurant hours before going - this is Hawaii - it's unique.
Make reservations if you can.
Some places, like Opal Thai, are BYOB. *2 thumbs up!*