Tourist Attractions
How to Get There
Coming from Honolulu, you can drive to Kaneohe via several routes: the Pali Highway, the Likelike Highway, the H-3 freeway, and Kalanianaole Hwy via Hawaii Kai and Waimanalo. The first three routes are all accessible via H-1, the major freeway that passes through the Honolulu metropolitan area. The Kalanianaole route, the longest and most time-consuming access, is also the most scenic. The route that is the most direct is Likelike (pronounced lee-kee lee-kee), taking you right into Kaneohe proper. Consider your time schedule and other wants when making a decision how to get there.
Oahu's excellent bus system is also a good option. Costing only $2 for a one-way fare, the bus can deliver you from downtown Honolulu to Kaneohe in half an hour. Hop on the Kaneohe Circle-Island or Kaneohe-Kahalu'u buses from Ala Moana Center. A great and inexpensive option.
Fun in Nature (and free too!)
For those into the outdoors, the beauty of nature, hiking, or just sightseeing, I recommend several places.
Hoomaluhia Gardens: Accessed at the end of Luluku Road, Hoomaluhia (which means "tranquil place") occupies 400 acres of land nestled against the base of the majestic and green Ko'olau Mountain Range. You can drive through Hoomaluhia and park at several places within. A recommended stop is the visitor's center, where you can park and stroll down to a large lake and feed ducks. From there, you can walk on trails and footpaths through the park for an hour or more. Tent camping on weekends is available. Inquire at the visitor's center for permits and information.
Likeke Falls: Access to the falls begins at the end Kionaole Road (which goes to Ko'olau Golf Course); Kionaole dead ends at a gate across the Old Pali Road. Duck thru a hole in a gate and follow Old Pali Road until it makes a sharp curve to the left. Look for the trail on the right. Follow the trail up a few switchbacks. After about 20 minutes, look for a wide side trail on right-- this leads you to Likeke Falls. It's not a huge waterfall but it is pleasant and peaceful nonetheless. About 2 miles roundtrip.
Friendship Gardens: A very quaint and peaceful half-mile loop trail cut into a hillside near Kaneohe Bay. Access is via Kaneohe Bay Drive and Kokokahi Place (turn right immediately after a pedestrian walkway over the highway). Drive up Kokokahi Place and park along the street near the trailhead (parking is limited).
Other Informations
