If you decide to visit or reside in Hawaii, you have to indulge in the local favorite fast food of the Hawaiian islands at least once. Saimin in Hawaii is considered by some to be the national dish of Hawaii, and it can be found almost anywhere and at any time of the day from snack bars, coffee shops, diner style restaurants, resorts, and even McDonald’s.
There’s a bit of uncertainty around the history of this fast and delicious dish, the Japanese people would consider it a Chinese dish because of the noodles, and the Chinese people would consider it a Japanese dish because of the broth, but it is actually Hawaii’s own mixture of a number of different cultural foods. The most notable influences seem to come from Chinese mein, Japanese ramen, and Filipino pancit. The Hawaiian people have definitely adapted and made this dish their own.
Saimin was developed by the various immigrant groups to adapt to the ingredients available on the islands. Basic saimin is often eaten as a snack, while more substantial versions can be made to make it a full meal. The noodles are thin and white and usually a softer texture than that found in ramen. The broth is typically clear and made with a light dashi (or Japanese) stock. Often included are green onions, fish cakes, ham, or char siu (a sweet spiced roast pork). Just like ramen, other ingredients can also be added depending on the person and on how much they want to get out of the meal. People often add eggs, chicken, shrimp, greens, or bean sprouts.
The biggest comparison of Hawaiian saimin is to Japanese ramen, which also has its own history of mixing cultural dishes when immigrants arrived in Japan from China. Ramen quickly became a popular sensation, spreading through the years and over borders until it is now popular to college students everywhere. Before it became instant, ramen was directed at middle class parents with children as whole nutritious meals. Even traditional ramen has a wide number of variations on how it can be made, but the basics will almost always be the same: noodles, broth, seasonings, and toppings. The noodles are thin and light, while the broth is rich and usually chicken based. The toppings can range from fish, to pork, to dried seaweed, and hard boiled eggs.
Though similar, both saimin and ramen come from distinct cultures, people, and ingredients, but you won’t want to miss the various styles of traditional saimin while spending time on the Hawaiian islands.
For information on beautiful places to stay while vacationing and the Saimin in Hawaii, visit our vacation rental page or call us at (888) 737-4188 or (808) 726-2878.
When you hear “shave ice” the image of a snow cone may pop into your mind, with a typical course ice texture and fruity flavors. Although shave ice and snow cones are both two yummy icy treats, there is a difference. Shave ice has a softer consistency, ironically giving it a more snowy texture than a snow cone. Shave ice also comes in more flavors than we usually see in snow cones, flavors can range from sweet, to savory, to sour and everything in between! The various options that exist when customizing the perfect shave ice to settle your cravings is one of the reasons why the dessert is such a popular item in Hawaii. Oahu offers a great selection of shave ice hot spots, so the next time you come to Oahu, try out these establishments for the best shave ice on the island:
Established before Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States, Matsumoto Shave Ice has been serving Oahu’s north shore since 1951. Today, Matsumoto has over 35 shave ice flavors to choose from, including classics like strawberry and lemon. For those looking for a break from the ordinary, try their more adventurous flavors like white cake, pickled mango, and cotton candy. Customers can choose up to 3 flavors for their shave ice, but if you’re looking to let the experts decide for you, consider trying one of their combination shave ice cups for the perfect mix.
Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha is the place to go if you’re looking for quality fresh, homemade shave ice. Local and hand-crafted is their motto as they mix their syrups in-house and only use real fruits and other natural ingredients for shave ice free of artificial flavors and colors. Top off your shave ice, which you can order in sizes tiny, small, and regular, with one of their delicious toppings, including their Tropical Dreams Ice Cream flavors.
This colorful little shop will have you smiling as soon as you walk in. Offering a multitude of flavors of shave ice, as well as tea, bubble smoothies, and coffee, Waialae Shave Ice and Bubble Tea is a one-stop shop for all your flavor needs. This is a great place to go for shave ice if you’re bringing children along, as they make shapes like snowmen out of the shave ice for kid size portions.
Come try a Hawaiian staple dessert the next time you come to Oahu at one of these establishments and see what flavors you can create!
For information on beautiful places to stay while vacationing and the best shave ice in Oahu, visit our vacation rental page or call us at (888) 737-4188 or (808) 726-2878.
For generations food trucks have been a part of life in Hawaii. Both locals and tourists flock to food trucks not just for the delicious bites but also for the convenience. As time has passed, some of these nomadic crowd pleasers have become so well established that they set up shop permanently. Although there are just too many to list, we did gather up the five best food trucks found in North Shore Oahu.
Possibly the crown jewel of all food trucks in Hawaii, Giovanni’s is the original white shrimp truck. Mentioned in multiple guidebooks, Giovanni’s vintage truck with unique graffiti (you can even sign your name on it) serves up all things shrimp. Whether you are craving scampi, hot and spicy, or lemon butter, this sensational seafood is fresh and delicious. You can also grab a jumbo garlic dog and rice if shrimp isn’t your thing. Giovanni’s has been around since 1993 and has two trucks: one in North Shore and in Kahuku.
Seen on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, Elena’s bright orange lunch truck is easy to find. Serving up Filipino cuisine like pork adobo fried rice omelets and tightly wrapped lumpias, Elena’s has various locations in addition to the food truck offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. To find dates and locations of Elena’s “Super Friends” truck, visit her Facebook page.
From fish and shrimp to pork, chicken or beef, this tasty taco truck is sure satisfy any craving. North Shore Tacos offers different taco plates that locals and tourists alike stand in line for. Every day the menu features a different locally caught fish. Be sure to call in your order, or go during non-peak hours to avoid long wait times.
Did someone say pizza? Yes, this is the only pizza truck in Haleiwa serving up both traditional and non-traditional pizzas. This famous food truck moves along Kamehameha Highway and stands by its name. Because of its popularity, Impossible’s Pizza often runs out or takes long vacations, so if you see it be sure to stop and experience the Impossible. Generally this popular pizza truck is open Thursdays through Saturdays from 3 pm to 8 pm.
With a vibrant red and white horizontal striped truck, Leonard’s knows malasada. This famous desert of Hawaii is found anywhere form the North to the South Shore. Traditionally, a little bakery in Kaimuki, Leonard’s took malasada mobile delivering different island-inspired fillings like Haupia, which is the most popular choice. For locations and times check here.
Contact us for information on beautiful places to stay while vacationing and the best food trucks found in North Shore Oahu.
When you’re on Oahu and it’s time to eat, you have so many delicious choices. You’ll want to enjoy a traditional Hawaiian meal, seafood, and the multicultural dishes that give the island such a rich and diverse culinary heritage. These specialties are made by some of the country’s best chefs — and not all of them are in restaurants. The food trucks on Oahu serve up amazing meals and treats that you’ll want to try, too.
You owe it to yourself to check out Kapolei food trucks. Here are some of the best food trucks on Oahu’s Leeward side:
Local Stop food trucks feature a Korean/Puerto Rican fusion style with Malasada burgers, kalua pig, and the local favorite pastele.
Check out Grinds 2 Da Max for large lunch plates full of katsu (a breaded cutlet of meat or chicken), ahi, salmon, ribeye, crab salad, kimchi, noodles, and more.
Popular with locals, TeppanLegend also serves katsu with fried noodles or rice, plus seafood specialties. Visit their Instagram account for their rotating location schedule.
Legacy Grindz prepares shrimp, chicken, ahi, pork chops, burgers, and fries with island flair.
At Laverne’s food truck, get a taste of squid luau, kalua pig, chicken, beef stew, mahi mahi, and more Hawaiian specialties.
Then there’s our favorite, Jed’s Lunchwagon.
This is a no frills food truck located in Kapolei that specializes in early breakfast including local hawaiian favorites like the loco moco and omelette with portuguese sausage.
Since 2009, Jed’s Lunchwagon has been supplying the hardworking people of Hawaii with delicious breakfasts and local-style plate lunches.
Jed’s is located in Campbell Industrial Area from Monday through Friday, 5 am to 1 pm.
For authentic Texas-style barbecue, the Sunset Smokehouse is the place to go. Try smoked brisket or spareribs with some cole slaw and sweet tea. Open weekends only.
Smoked ribs and barbecued chicken with fries are on the menu at Bozie’s. It’s Chicago-style Tennessee barbecue “with Aloha spirit.”
Get your morning joe at Aloha Brew Coffee Bar, which crafts lattes, chai drinks, hot chocolate, and tea. Check their Instagram for locations.
You don’t always see a Volkswagen bus turned into a food truck, but that’s what Rocket Coffee uses to deliver organic cold brew coffee, açaí bowls, tea, and more.
El Jalisciense brings out enchiladas, tacos, rice and beans, and other Mexican dishes to Waikele Premium Outlets in Waipahu.
Shaka Bowls is the place to go for made-to-order açaí bowls, poke bowls, and gelato.
For more food trucks on the leeward coast, you can usually find them gathered at Campbell Industrial Park (1001 Kamokila Boulevard in Kapolei) and Mililani Technology Park (100 Kahelu Avenue in Mililani).
Many food trucks close when they sell out of food, so check their schedule first and arrive on the early side to make sure you have the chance to sample their ono specialties.
Contact us for information on beautiful places to stay while vacationing and the best Kapolei food trucks.
Ola Properties is proud to again be a housing provider and sponsor of the LPGA Lotte Championship at the Ko Olina Golf Club. This is the seventh annual, Lotte Championship in Ko Olina and will be the eighth event on the 2018 LPGA Tour and their only stop in the Hawaiian Islands. It’s a busy time in the resort, with the golfers, their support staffs, TV crews, LPGA staff, the Lotte people and of course spectators. This year’s event will run from April 11, through the 14th with a Pro-Am on Wednesday. If you would like to visit Ko Olina for the tournament, book early as our units are filling up quickly!
In preparation for the event, Ko Olina Golf Club recently completed a three-month renovation of its greenside and select fairway bunkers. The project included reshaping the bunkers and the addition of new silica sand providing optimum playing conditions for players of all abilities. The highlight of the project was the dedication and grand opening of a new Mickey Mouse bunker on the 10th hole, which is just across the street from Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa at Ko Olina.
The dedication included an appearance by Mickey Mouse himself, as well as LPGA superstar and Hawaii native Michelle Wie.
“The Mickey bunker is all about having fun playing golf and we hope this new addition will help create memorable experiences for our guests for many years to come,” said Greg Nichols, PGA, Ko Olina Golf Club’s general manager and director of golf. “It was an honor having Michelle join Mickey to celebrate the opening. This refurbishment is just one of several projects in progress that ensures Ko Olina Golf Club remains top of mind as the premier golf destination in the state of Hawaii.”
Contact us for information on beautiful places to stay while vacationing and the LPGA Lotte Championship.
Hawaii is rich in history and offers many sites and memorials to commemorate past events. Perhaps the most well-known historical occurrence in Hawaii happened on the island of Oahu: the surprise attack of the U.S. military base led by the Japanese forces in 1941, known as the Attack on Pearl Harbor. The attack has gone down in history as one of the most devastating and deadly attacks in American history. Guests interested in learning more about the event and engulfing themselves in the rich history of it can visit Pearl Harbor for a chance to experience one or more of the five memorial sites located on Pearl Harbor, including the site of the USS Arizona Memorial and the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park.
Oahu is the perfect vacation spot for those who love to get out and explore. For those who enjoy being in touch with nature, a hike on the Diamond Head volcano is a must-go for your next vacation. The extinct volcano offers amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu during the estimated 1.5-2 hour round trip hike around the crater. The trail is short but if you’re seeking a challenge, Diamond Head is great for a hike with parts of it are steep and rocky, so make sure to bring the correct gear and a few water bottles so you’ll be all set for your adventure.
The beach and Oahu are practically synonymous. With so many beaches located on the island, Oahu is the ideal place for anyone who likes to snorkel, surf, or simply swim and soak up the sun. A stay at Ko Olina combines all the fun of a beach vacation minus the overcrowding. Choose one or more from the four beautiful man-made lagoons found at Ko Olina for a day of surfing, snorkeling, dolphin watching, and more while enjoying the comforts of a clean, luxurious atmosphere. For added serenity, each lagoon includes a restroom and shower for your convenience and a walk path that connects all of the lagoons. If you find yourself exploring outside of the resort, consider bumming it on Makaha Beach. Also located on Oahu’s west coast, you won’t have to travel far to enjoy a good time at this beach known for its perfect surfing conditions and as one of the top spots on Oahu to watch the sunset.
With so many things to do on Oahu, you’ll never get bored. Continue to check out our “Gotta Do” list for more must-do Ko Olina activities, and browse over to our Vacation Rental Page to book your next stay on the island.
Oahu has plenty to offer, especially if you love being active. With options like surfing, volcano hikes, and historical sites to explore, the options are endless. Lush vegetation and steep climbs fill the island, making it the perfect place for those who love going hiking and burn off all those extra calories from the excellent food. What is a hike without a destination at the end, though? Well, we’ve got three great waterfall hikes on Oahu of varying lengths that all end with breathtaking waterfalls where you could enjoy a perfect picnic lunch and maybe even go for a swim.
Length: 1.6 miles
Manoa Falls Trail is the perfect pick for families with small children or hiking beginners. It’s short distance, beautiful scenery, and gorgeous waterfall at the end make it worth the hour long round trip.
What used to be a muddy mess has now been modernized with a gravel trail leading all the way to the waterfall itself. Hiking this trail is by far one of the easiest, and while it’s waterfall may not hold a candle to Niagara Falls, it’s still breathtaking. Bring along a picnic lunch, or snack by the water while you listen to the cascading falls and relax.
Length: approximately 3 miles
For a bit more of a challenge, take on Maunawili Falls Trail. While this trail is also maintained in a similar fashion as Manoa Falls, you’ll still be hopping stones to cross streams or dodging tree roots to avoid being tripped. However, it’s worth the hike once you make it to the end.
The wide, cool pool at the bottom of the waterfall is the perfect place to take a dip and wash away sweat from the hike. If going for a swim doesn’t seem appealing to you, there are plenty of large rocks surrounding the pool where you can perch to snap a few photos or enjoy a bite to eat.
Length: 4 miles
Kalauao Trail is categorized as an intermediate trail. It’s length, muddiness, and steep decline into the valley can make it a bit tiresome. However, despite the longer more arduous hike, the trail is located off of ‘Aiea Loop Trail which takes you within viewing distance of several key places on Oahu like Pearl Harbor, and the Ko’olau Mountains. It also boasts one of the most secluded and gorgeous waterfalls on all of Oahu.
Dive into the water at the base of the fall or enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the many benches along the side of the trail. For those who love photography and the outdoors, this trail is perfect. Just be sure your feet are well protected, and you come prepared for a regular “Lost Boys” adventure.
No matter how you want to spend your vacation, Hawaii’s Oahu has something for you. From amazing food and shows to breathtaking views and hikes, Oahu has it all covered. Join the fun and contact us for deals you simply can’t pass up on vacation rentals or properties in Ko Olina and on Oahu.
Contact us for information on beautiful places to stay while vacationing and the best waterfall hikes on Oahu.
If your idea of an amazing Oahu vacation includes exploration, adventure, and a bit of an adrenaline rush, a zip line tour might be just the thing to try. Whether you’ve done it before or you’ve only thought about it, these top Oahu zip line tours offer amazing views and tons of fun.
Coral Crater Adventure Park – Kapolei, HI
Coral Crater is the newest zip line hot spot in Oahu, located only about 15 minutes from Ko Olina Resort.
Guests can choose to go on the full zip line tour, which takes you through six zip lines of differing lengths from 300 to 900 feet. This signature tour lasts about 2 hours, but if you’re a little more apprehensive, you can opt for the half zip line tour, which lasts about 75 minutes and guides you through 3 zip lines.
All zip line tours at Coral Crater are available for anyone ages 6 and up. You can even choose to add another activity to your zip line tour, such as the Adventure Tower or a Sunset Snorkel & Dinner Cruise.
Bay View Mini-Putt and Zipline – Kaneohe, HI
Just a bit further out is a zip line experience that also offers 2 tropical miniature golf courses. Bay View Mini-Putt and Zipline is located about 30 minutes away from Ko Olina Resort and is a great option for families.
The zip line track is only 400 feet long, but it has a dual track that allows two guests to ride side-by-side at the same time. It also provides a lovely view of Kaneohe Bay.
Kualoa Ranch & Zipline – Kaneohe, HI
Kualoa Ranch is almost an hour away from Ko Olina Resort, but for those looking for a more nature-focused, intense zip line experience, it might be worth the trip.
The zip line tours take place in Ka’a’awa Valley, which has been featured in films like Jurassic World and is a part of the Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve. Naturally, the views are spectacular and the zip lines range from 200 feet to a quarter of a mile in length. The complete experience lasts about 3 hours, including a 45 minute drive to the Zip Tour Base Camp. There is no age restriction for the zip line tour, but guests do have to fit into the safety harness.
Kualoa Ranch also offers activities like ATV and horseback riding tours, so you’ll be able to have a full day of fun. However, you’ll want to make reservations in advance.
CLIMB Works Keana Farms – Kahuku, HI
If you’re serious about zip lining, CLIMB Works Keana Farms boasts Oahu’s longest zip lines, though it’s just over an hour away from Ko Olina Resort.
Located on Oahu’s North Shore, the zip lines at Keana Farms range from 500 feet to about a half a mile long and tours last for 3 hours. Riders can travel side-by-side at the same time thanks to their dual lines and you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the North Shore. Tours are available for anyone ages 7 and up and reservations are encouraged.
Whether you choose to try just one of these great zip line tours or end up visiting all four, you’ll definitely leave with high spirits and even better pictures.
Contact us for information on beautiful places to stay while vacationing and the best Oahu zip line tours.
From sunsets to oceans, Hawaii is a paradise like no other. The islands are home to some of the best microbrews in the world. Enjoy life on island time with these four amazing Hawaii breweries.
Ever wondered what would happen if mad genius met microbrew? Wonder no longer! The Beer Lab is a small batch brewery based around the idea of experimentation. Every day on the island is a unique adventure. Your beer should be just as special. Beer Lab utilizes a 7 bbl system to create endless possibilities with a variety of malt bills, hop profiles, and specialty ingredients. Beer Lab’s got the drinks covered — BOYF and bring your own food from one of the many local food trucks nearby.
Tours and workshops are available upon reservation. Book early as they fill up fast! Each tour ends with a tasting flight for guests 21+.
With three locations across Oahu, Beer Lab’s menu of specialty craft brews in constantly changing. Follow the lab’s Instagram to stay up to date on their latest creations.
A classic, neighborhood brewpub, Honolulu BeerWorks uses a custom built 7 barrel system to produce 1500 barrels per year. Locally sourced ingredients are used to produce Oahu’s finest microbrews. The Kewalos Cream Ale and the South Shore Stout are two of the best brews on the menu.
Unfortunately, this brewery does not offer tours, but keep an eye on their events page for local happenings, live music, and happy hour deals.
This historic brewpub is by far the most unique microbrew destination on our list. This family-owned museum and pub serves up a variety of microbrews on tap, with bottles available for purchase. Don’t forget to try the signature Pilot Pale Ale. Friday Night Flights are also a must, offering the option to sample a variety of craft brews while enjoying the beauty of the Hawaiian sunset.
From military history to a taste of the 1940’s, this unique brewery has it all. Don’t forget to visit the Wiki Waki Woo Speakeasy/Tiki Bar on the second level. This 40’s themed bar has been ranked as one of the best tiki bars in the U.S. Self guided tours of the museum are always welcome, group tours of the brewery available upon request.
The Waikiki Brewing Company offers a variety of locally sourced microbrews with a kicked back island flair. With names like the Skinny Jeans IPA, you’ll want to embrace your inner hipster and sample the extensive drink menu. While Waikiki Brewing does not offer regularly scheduled tours, the brewing operations are in full view of the bar and their friendly, beer-loving brewers are always happy to chat or offer a closer look at the process as time allows.
Contact us for information on beautiful places to stay while vacationing and the best Hawaii breweries.
Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and rich cultural traditions. This includes the famous Hawaiian luau, an exciting event consisting of a traditional feast, music, and dancing. Thanks to their immense popularity, luaus are easy to find throughout the island of Oahu. However, three specific luaus on Oahu best illustrate the culture and spirit of the Hawaiian islands.
The Paradise Cove Luau is known across Oahu for being one of the best in the state. The luau’s beachfront location in the Ko Olina area makes it extremely convenient for resort guests. Great for all ages, this luau allows participants to partake in demonstrations of traditional Hawaiian crafts prior to dinner and entertainment. A few lucky visitors will even participate in Hawaiian dancing during the show! Paradise Cove offers the convenience and ease of a resort stay with the excitement of island traditions.
Germaine’s Luau is another convenient option for visitors to West Oahu, located near Barber’s Point. While it is slightly off the beaten path, visitors can drive or opt to take free transportation from Ko Olina (Saturday and Sunday only). Set in a beautiful beachfront locale, Germaine’s “backyard-style luau” boasts a low-key and highly relaxed vibe. Visitors will not be disappointed as they enjoy a multitude of island traditions before, during, and after dinner. Germaine’s fun luau on Oahu allows its guests to enjoy the traditional luau in a laid-back and comfortable setting.
Often touted as the most authentic luau, the Ali’i Luau is just a small part of the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) experience. Guests receive admission to the Center with their luau ticket purchase, allowing them to delve into a variety of exhibits on the history and culture of the Polynesian islands. After they are complete with their exploration, the luau takes them on an exciting journey through Polynesian culture through food and entertainment. While it is located a one-hour drive from West Oahu, those who choose to make the trek will thoroughly enjoy their immersive experience!
All three luaus have great attributes that will give you an amazing opportunity to become fully immersed in the culture of Hawaii. Each luau website listed above provides specific details on various price packages and amenities that are tailored specifically to your desired experience. No matter which luau you choose, you will undoubtedly leave filled with the spirit of Aloha!