Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sugar, once the sole industry of this region, is gone. But
Kahuku,
the former sugar-planta-
tion town, has found new life as a small aquaculture community with prawn farms that sup-
ply island restaurants.
From here, continue along Kamehameha Highway (Hwy. 83) to the North Shore.
A craftsman whittles a sculpture on Kaaawa's main street.
HoomaluhiaBotanicalGardens
★
At the foot of the steepled Koolau Mountains, this 400-acre
botanical garden is the perfect place for a picnic. Its name means “a peaceful refuge,” and
that's exactly what the Army Corps of Engineers created when they installed a flood-control
project here, which resulted in a 32-acre freshwater lake and garden. Just unfold a beach mat,
lie back, and watch the clouds race across the rippled cliffs of the majestic Koolau Range. This
is one of Oahu's few public places that provides a close-up view of the steepled cliffs. The
park has hiking trails and—best of all—the island's only free inland campground. If you like
hiking and nature, plan to spend at least a half-day here.
Note:
Be prepared for rain, mud, and
mosquitoes.
