Oahu Rental Guide

Oahu ("gathering place") is the sun and fun capital of the Hawaiian Islands with an array of sea, land and sporting activities from which to choose. The third largest Hawaiian Island, Oahu is the crossroads of the Pacific, the meeting place of East and West. Honolulu and the International Airport are both situated on the Island of Oahu and Oahu vacation rentals by owner offer tourists beach side luxury or amazing ocean view accommodation options.

The Pacific Ocean has played a long and valuable role in the history of the islands, bringing many people and cultures to its shores. Guests need only to look around them, whether in Waikiki or downtown Honolulu, to see glimpses of Hawaii's past that have helped to mold its present.

There are two massive extinct volcanoes on the island of Oahu. The Wai'anae shield volcano rises above the Leilehu Plateau. The highest peak on this volcano (4,003 foot Mount Kaala) is also the highest point on the island. Scientists estimate this 24 mile long volcano to be 3.7 million years old. The other volcano, Koolau, is a 37 mile long mountain rising 3,150 feet above Honolulu and is estimated to be 2.6 million years old.

Both of the shield volcanoes were formed 220 miles to the south over a stationary plume of lava rising from the center of the Earth known as the Hawaiian Hot Spot. The Pacific tectonic plate, moving three to four inches northwestward each year, has carried these massive volcanoes to their present location.

Outside the hustle and bustle of Honolulu, visitors will enjoy hiking through rain forests, biking along mountain ranges and swimming in the azure blue waters of the Pacific. The more adventurous might like to try kite surfing, paragliding or the surfing which has made Hawaii famous all over the world. By renting Owner Direct accommodation Hawaii can showcase its unique appeal.

Oahu offers excellent shopping, dining and cultural events. You can attend a concert by Honolulu Symphony or take in some sporting events put on by the university. There are museums and historic sights which should not be missed including the National Memorial Cemetery and historic Pearl Harbor.

On the other side of Diamond Head is a different world. There is Koko Head Crater, Hanauma Bay, an underwater park, and Sea Life Park. Oahu's white sandy beaches and the warm crystal waters of the Pacific offer a wonderful opportunity to relax and get away from the stresses of modern living.