When I joined Keawe Adventures, I knew that an exciting fast-paced work environment was ahead of me. I also knew that the company was a leader in personalized custom activity tours. What I didn’t know was that on my SECOND day on the job, I would have the most epic adventure day ever! Keawe Adventures was participating in a Yelp video shoot as well as creating new content for their website. We had the privilege to take out some guests on a full excursion tour of Oahu Island and I got to tag along. EEK! EPIC!
Check out the stops and some awesome shots from our adventure day below.
DIAMOND HEAD CRATER
Diamond Head, or as the locals call it Le’ahi, was once the first US Military base in Hawaii. The crater itself used to also be home to historical music festivals that featured the likes of Jimi Hendrix and Elvis. Now visitors and residents alike can enjoy a brief hike up the face of the mountain to its peak bunker which offers 360 degree views of Honolulu.
My suggestion is go in the morning, as there is not much shade or coverage on the trail. While the trail is MOSTLY moderate, there is definitely a steep bit of stairs at the end. The view is definitely work all the physical work to get there!
FRESH CATCH
Ok, so what do most people want after some physical activity?? FOOD!!! Luckily Makani Christensen, owner of Keawe Adventures, was keen on a great place to bring us. Poke Bowls have long been a favorite in the islands, but have steadily been gaining popularity all over the world. Fresh Catch hosts some of the best poke as well as variety on island. It was delicious.
PALI LOOKOUT
After a quick bite to eat, it was off to Pali Lookout, which boasts fantastic views of the windward side. As the name suggests, it is also a very windy spot on island! The Pali lookout is also home to a historical battle for the island of Oahu.
Did I mention that we were being carried around all day in a sweet ride? Our chariot awaits!
BYODO-IN TEMPLE
After a quick hop over the windward mountains, we headed towards the Northeast side of the island and to Byodo-In Temple. This temple was dedicated in August 1968 to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii. Here you can find a large brass peace bell and serene surroundings.
LAIE POINT & TURTLE BAY
After the Temple, we still headed towards our next adventure activity, but not without making two quick stops for some photos at Laie Point and Turtle Bay. Can you see our group on the point? HI MOM!
STAND UP PADDLE BOARD – HALEIWA NORTH SHORE
After some scenic stops, we finally made it to our next adventure activity – STAND UP PADDLE BOARD. We were taken out on Haleiwa River which provided the perfect calm water for experts to novice to enjoy! I have a weak ankle, however I was still able to go out with the group and enjoy the water. Score!
DINNER – Haleiwa Beach House Restaurant
Again, after any physical activity what does one want?? FOOD! AND NOW A COCKTAIL! So off we went to Haleiwa Beach House Restaurant for exquisite provisions. So exquisite that we ate it all before getting some proper photos. This restaurant boasts great service, a fantastic view across from Haleiwa beach (perfect for sunset) and amazing food. All in all it was the perfect ending to a perfect and wonderful day.
If you are interested in an action-filled day I would definitely recommend this tour to you! It certainly made for a memorable and epic second day on the job. Adventure awaits everyone…..now go find it.
Kalei Scoggins
Operations Manager