ABOUT HAWAII & O’AHU
Welcome to Paradise
The Hawaiian Islands provide a unique paradise blessed with excellent weather, breathtaking beauty, cultural diversity and, of course, the Aloha Spirit. Each Island’s unique geography provides awe-inspiring natural wonders – from the active volcano, Kilauea, on Hawaii’s Big Island to the waterfalls cascading from the sea cliffs on Molokai’s North Coast.
For rugby players looking for beautiful and warm crystal water (between matches), Hawaii is the perfect destination. Swimming, surfing, bodysurfing, body boarding, windsurfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, Kayaking, fishing charters, whale watching and submarine cruises are just some of the water activity choices. Or venture on a short flight to one of Hawaii’s six beautiful islands, each with their own unique and contrasting experiences. Explore the lush, laid-back beauty of Kauai; recharge the batteries on Maui; or marvel over the dramatic lava landscapes of Hawaii Island.
Hawaii has it all and it’s just waiting for Vintage Rugby teams to explore.
O’ahu – the heart of Hawaii
The 2012 Carnival will be based on the Island of O’ahu. Of all the Hawaiian islands, O’ahu may be the most diverse, providing an eclectic mixture of activities and attractions. Honolulu offers the big-city charm of entertainment, fine dining and culture. Nearby Waikiki (where the games will be played) is the heart of Honolulu’s visitor experience. Known for its world-class hotels, vibrant nightlife, great shopping and dining, Waikiki continues to be steeped in history and its cultural roots. Live Hawaiian entertainment, Hawaii regional cuisine, oceanfront fine dining, surf lessons and of course the famous sands of Waikiki Beach – look for the Waikiki Beach Boys and experience the thrill of surfing as you join them for a surfing lesson or outrigger canoe ride.
Waikiki is also the gateway to the island of Oahu including the rustic surf towns and famous beaches of the North Shore – Waimea Bay, the Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach.
O’ahu is a destination of contrasts, variety and abundance: an Island of traditional culture and modern history, of luxurious resorts and manincured pineapple fields, of world-class dining and sensational surfing. O’ahu offers the best of many worlds. Here you’ll find a sophisticated town vibe, with entertainment, festivals and shopping and you’ll also find the relaxed and rejuvenating appeal of the beach and countryside. With the warmth of Aloha and the unique beauty of Island scenary, O’ahu is an Island to explore and discover, a place to play and indulge. Let O’ahu’s magic work on you during the 2012 World Vintage Rugby Carnival. Whether you are 35 or 80+ Vintage Rugby players will soon understand why O’ahu is the heart of Hawaii and the perfect venue for the 5th Carnival.
15 OF THE MANY THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN O’AHU:-
Battleship Missouri Memorial
Take a special tour of the Battleship Missouri, the last battleship ever built and now newly refurbished! Stand on the Surrender Deck, the official site of the end of World War II.
Diamond Head Crater Hike (with Shuttle Service)
The most famous volcanic crater in the world is Mt. Leahi, better known as Diamond Head, and is located along the southeast coast of Oahu, at the end of Waikiki.
Dole Plantation: Pineapple Express and Plantation Garden Tour
A visit to the Dole Plantation is a must for visitors to Oahu, and the Dole Plantation Pineapple Express train tour is a great way to hear the history of the pineapple and the story of James Dole.
Grand Circle Island Tour
The Grand Circle Island Tour is Oahu's most popular narrated tour, and a great way to get oriented to the island if it's your first visit.
Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Adventures
Hanauma Bay, located along the East Oahu coastline, was declared a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park in 1967.
Hawaii Heritage Center and Chinatown Walking Tour
Join a walking tour through Chinatown, Honolulu's exciting and mysterious neighborhood. Located in downtown Honolulu, this historic neighborhood has long been a popular gathering place.
Hawaiian Oceans Beach Gear
Get a tan or take a break. Feel like spending some time people watching or relaxing next to the tranquil ocean? Hawaiian Ocean's has all that and more.
Hawaiian Oceans Outrigger Canoe Ride
Enjoy an outrigger canoe ride surfing the waves off the shores of Waikiki Beach with Diamond Head on one side.
Iolani Palace
A designated national historic landmark and the only official state residence of royalty in the United States, Iolani Palace was home to the Hawaiian Kingdom's last two monarch.
Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks Half Day Snorkel
Get out and enjoy one of the best beaches in Hawaii for snorkeling. Kailua, meaning "Two Seas," is a laidback beach town on Oahu's southeastern shore.
Pacific Aviation Museum
The Pacific Aviation Museum occupies WWII Hangars in Pearl Harbor that still bear the scars of the USA’s first aviation battlefield. The museum presents aircraft such as a 1942 Japanese Zero.
Pearl Harbor & Honolulu City Tour
Take a special look at Honolulu's history on the Pearl Harbor & Honolulu City Tour, one of the most popular things to do in Oahu.
Sea Life Park
At Sea Life Park, Hawaii's marine life comes alive in a dazzling display that will entertain and delight. Located just fifteen miles from Waikiki on Oahu's beautiful and scenic Makapuu Point.
USS Arizona Memorial Audio Tour
To better understand and appreciate the events of December 7, 1941, take an audio tour of the USS Arizona Memorial Centre.
Wet'n'Wild Hawaii
Wet 'n' Wild Hawaii is one of the world's biggest and best water park brands, offering more than 25 awesome slides and attractions.
Oahu Map (PDF)
LOG ONTO VINTAGE RUGBY AND HAWAII
We strongly recommend a visit to the following web sites:
www.goHawaii.com
www.gohawaii.com/bigisland
www.gohawaii.com/kauai
www.gohawaii.com/maui
www.gohawaii.com/molokai
www.gohawaii.com/lanai
www.gohawaii.com/oahu