[Rich Moran]

I know we are not a large geographical area out here in the middle of the Pacific, but with 4 islands that offer roadways to ride, bikes to rent on each of the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the big island of Hawaii (sorry Molokai and Lanai, you are part of the chain too, but no rentals and limited roadways leave not much to say other than "the real old-Hawaii is on your islands") would make a good winter retreat for those stuck in the white stuff.

Any Hawaii V-Rod riders who are lurking, join the Forum, as this is the best place for the latest info on your ride, and network with the friendliest group of riders on the net.

 

[Elgavilan]

Another in Hawaii

Hey Rich,

Here's another in Hawaii, I am on Kauai and although we don't have a lot of roads, what we have is really fun and scenic. It is surprising to see all the bikes on this island. It does rain here a lot but the sun is always out somewhere too, so we just get on the bike and go find it. :jeannie:

 

[Rich Moran]

Welcome to the forum. Regardless of what Island your on, you'll find this place very informative, as well as entertaining in different ways.

What year V-Rod do you own? Is is stock or do you have mods done to it?

There are several V-Rods on Oahu as you probablly know.

I have tried to get people to sign up for the forum, but, I think because of the weather, everyone spends their waking hours either riding, surfing, fishing or just being outside. Notice I left out work, cause that always gets in the way with living life the way it is supposed to be lived.

Thanks for signing on.

When you make Oahu, let me know, maybe we can have a cold one or 2 together!

 

[Elgavilan]

V Rod'in on Kauai

Rich, I am running a black 03 with polished aluminum flames, K&N filter, Supertrapp V-5 with open end cap, powercommander III usb, and some chrome goodies. Just got it last week and will be sorting out the tune up with the power commander. At present I don't think there is a dyno on Kauai, but one of the shops is putting one in for autos. I will have to tune by the old butt dyno I guess.

Mike

 

[Rosario]

I will be in Oahu by May 2005!

 

[Rich Moran]

I will be in Oahu by May 2005!

WIll be here, advise when time gets closer.

 

[ihringert]

Aloha,

I will be in Honolulu Nov 5th - 12th and am renting an Electra-glide on the 9th - 11th. Does anyone have recommendations on rides/routes to take and must see attractions or places to go? The wife loves the beach so any secluded beaches would be a +. I've never been to Hawaii so any advice would be helpfull.

Thanks
Ted

 

[Rich Moran]

Ted,

You'll have plenty of time to see Oahu over the 7 days you've indicated.

Unfortunatley, my wife and I will be in Australia during your stay, and returning on the day you depart.

There is plenty to see and do, and here is a list of some of them:

1. Arizona Memorial: Be there before 7:00 AM if you can. Tickets to the show they present go quick, its a first come first serve, no charge.They do a movie and then ride on the boat to the Arizona Memorial. It is a must do, as 7 December 41 was a world changing event.

2. If you get done early from the Arizona, which you shoul go the the USS Missouri, as the bookends display of where WWII started, and then finished on the deck of the Missouri present what the famous battleship is all about. Entry to the Missiouri is not inexpensive, its something like 35.00 if I am not mistaken, but well worht the $ to see. If you've never been on a battleship of the class, or only seen the pics, you will be astounded at the size of this ship. To gain entry to the Missouri, you will go to Ford Island, which was strafed and bombed by the Japanese on 7 Dec 41.

Both locations, the Arizona and Missouri will be almost a complete day. There will be time left over in the afternoon, so head to the beach, any beach, they are all darn nice.

Next to the Arizona is the USS Bowfin, a highly decorated combat vessel, a diesel powered sub that was based at Pearl. She has sunk tons of shipping, and they have an eexcellent museum to see too. You may wish to include this also, as it is just steps from the Arizona, and tells much of our WWII Sailors efforts to get the enemy. I am not sure if the Bowfin will be opened for visiting, as she is just returning from drydock (I do biz with the people who maintain her, and they just spend 1.5 million for hull and deckwork). This visit is well worth the time if you've not visited a WWII sub. An eye opener.

3. Hike Diamond Head: You'll have to pay to enter the park, it is a quick hike to the top, and the emplacements built during WWII. The US feared an invaison, the Oahu was the base of the Pacific for the US militey then. There are many emplacements still about Oahu, but Diamond Head is the most famous. This is easy to get to, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring something to drink, and maybe a sack lunch to enjoy the View of Waikiki, Honolulu and beyond, along with the Pacific. This takes about 2 to 3 hours, if you stretch it out. And alos, don't forget the film and the camera too.

4. Iolani Palace, the only place in the US of A, where a king and queen sat on a throne to govern. Beautiful place, decorated with koa wood. You will need to phone to discover time and days open. Maybe a 2hour visit.

5. Bishop Museum. The museum of the Pacific. Disp[lays includeanciemt Hawaiian and Pacific islanders artifacts, to include crowns from the kingdom, and the clothes the royalty wore. You can do this in 2 - 3 hours. if your a history buff, longer.

6. Since November is still a swing month, and many surfers are still waiting the big waves, chances are 50/50 that the north shore can be up, and large. A word of caution, never turn your back on the ocean when you are at the beaches, the waves a powerful and dangerous. if you've not swam in heavy surf, be very aware of your sorroundings, as 1 mistake might not be forgiving.

The beaches to go to for watching the big wave action are, Waimea Bay, Pipeline and Sunset Beach. These areas are within about 5 miles of each other, and all the maps will show you where they are. To make it easier, stop in at my friends surf shop, STRONG CURRENT, in Haleiwa, say hellow to John and his wife Bonnie, let them know Rich, the sunblock guy sent you. Ask them for a map of the named beach areas, as the directions will be on that.

While in Haleiwa, stop by Matsumotos Shve Ice, get yourself and your wife a shave ice each. Sit on the bench in front of the store, and go for it. It is a really refreshing treat. Maybe when you are done, stroll across the street and into the cemetary to read some of the headstones, dates and ages of the people buried there.

If you are hungry, Haleiwa Joes is good for lunch, overpriced for dinner, as is Jamesons just over the famous little coathanger bridge in Haleiwa. The best priced lunch is at Teds Bakery, just beyond Sunset beach, about a half mile or so. Try their MahiMahi snadwhich plate lunch, and for desert, their Haupia Pie is superb. Any of their bakery is well worth the try. If you are that way in the morning, Teds als makes an excellent breakfast, and the price just can't be beat. My wife and I usually make teds on the weekend. It is a nice ride to get there, and the price and food can't be beat.

Riding opn oahu, you can see the whole island easily in the 3 days rental time you've booked. One day, circle the island, from Honolulu, head east, towards Hawaii Kai. Get out of Waikiki early, to do this. There are restaurants in Hawaii Kai, where you can grab a quick breakfast if you wish, or catch it in Waikiki, either or, go east. Once past the Foodland in Hawaii Kai, you'll begin to climb the saddle road between KoKo Crater and KoKo Head. As you get to the top, on the left, there is a pull off that looks back towards Diamond Head and where you've just ridden from. Its nice to see sunsets from this vantage point too. Just a couple hundred feet up the hill, and to the left is Haunama Bay, a snorkelers Paradise. If your into snorkelein, this is the palce to go. This can be an all day affair, but if this is what you want to do, get there early to beat the crowd. Be sure to eithr bring gear, or rent it before getting there. You can rent there, but, you cna only snorkel there with their gear, as the rental is for use there only. If you rent from SNORKEL BOB or one of the other dive shops, you can getr daily rates, and go where you please. The gear will fit in the saddle bag, along with the towels, soft pack cooler...for drinks and sandwhiches if you desire..

If you do Haunama (how - na-ma) be sure to use plenty sunblock, and maybe wear a t-shirt too, so your back does not get burned. Be sure to put enough block on the back of the legs too, as you'll be face down in the water looking at the fish looking at you.

Just down from Haunama Bay, is a switchback road along the ocean. Ride it first, before taking time to look around at the ocean, or ride it slow enough so you can do both, but whatever, DONT HIT THE GUARDRAIL! iTS A GOOD HUNDRED FEET DOWN TO THE OCEAN!!

As you round the last bend, and the road opens up, on the right is Halona Blowhole, stop to see the ocean spout. A couple years back, a teenager climbed down here, got blown into the air by the water, then fell back down and got sucked into the hole and died.

The next beach is Sandy Beach. This is one of th emost dangerous beaches on the Island, if not the whole state. Don't go into the water here, but watch and see what the people do here. If you are an accomplished waterman, this place is a blast for bodysurfing, bodyboarding, surfing and skim boarding. If the surf is really small, its okay to go in, if it is large, beware. The waves will stand up to 10 feet, and drop you onto the sand. if you go headfirst, you'll be added to the hundreds who have broken their neck here.

Movin on down the road, on the right will be various beach areas, not so good for swimming, unless you really like a challenge. There are no life guards in this area, so you best know what you are doing. Down the road, you'll pass on the left Hawaii Kai Golf Course (1 of about 75 on the island, so if you golf, take your pick) and further up the road, it begins to climb. You'll see cars parked on both sides of the road. There is a gate on the right half way or so up the road. You can climb this, and hike up the road to the Makapu'u (Mock a pu u )If you are to do the hike, wear comfortable shoes, sunblock, cap of some sort, plenty of drinks and maybe food too. The place has one of the best views in the iuslands of the windward side of oahu. This hike can take up to 4 hours if you decide to be adventurious and see more than just the lighthouse. Beware, the cliffs are about 500 - 600 feet down to the ocean, so don't go too close.

The next beach is Makapu'u of course, one of my favorites (Along with Sandies) for catching waves and getting thrashed in the surf). If the surf is small, it is a fun place, if the waves are big, you cna try tohe right side of the beach, as the ocean is calmer there. If the rocks in the center show a lot of exposure, and the surf is up, its best not to go in here.

From Makapu'u down though, the beaches are wonderful for swimming. Be aware that the bluebottle jellyfish can be around if the wind is strong. These are also Portagee man -of-war. The sting hurts, if you've nothing to use, and have been stung, pee on yourself, as that works to lessen the pain. Otherwise, visit a lifeguard tower for help. If you are allergic to stings, be sure to be aware, that their stingers could cause breathing problems.

Will continue on another post.

 

[Rich Moran]

Across from Makapu'u is Sea Life Park, they have a pretty good killer whale show, and dolphin show. If you are into that stuff, go for it.

On down the road, you'll pass a pier on the right, and up a short hill. You are entering Waimanalo, and from this area all the way to the North Shore a really good swimming beaches. There is Waimanalo Beach Park, Bellows Beach Park (both, watch out for the stingers), Kailua Beach Park. None are secluded, not good for nude sunbathing either. You can, but are taking chances to get busted.

Once past Bellows, you will be headed for Kailua, Go on the 2 lane highway, until it turns to 4 lanes. Continue on to the T in the road. Right, takes ypou into kailua town, left, towards the Pali Highway, and downtown Honolulu. If you go right, stay on the raod until it ends in another T. Take a left. About a half mile up, next to the Kalapawai Market, take a left to Kailua Beach Park, or continue on the road, and around the bend and the beach park is on the left. Good place to swim and relax.Going straight, this road takes you into an exclusive ly rich area, about a 15 minute ride. Check it out to see how they live.

If you stop at any beach parks with the bike, theivery is in high gear here. Including stealing rentals themselves, so keep an eye on your ride and what your carrying.

Ice use has pushed the low lifes into an aggresive mode, so be cautious of anyone engaging you in conversation to divert attention away from your ride or things you have with you. It is not overwhelming mind you, but the low lifes know that you think it is paradise and everything is a dream. They will take advantage if you let them.

A few weeks back, one of my customers who rents bikes lost a Fat Boy on rental at Kailua Beach Park.

Okay back on the road. You can head the other way from the beach park, when you leave, go right, stay on the 2 lane road. You will be headed towards Marine Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay. If you've an ID to gain entry, go for it, and ride the post. Pyramid Rock Beach is out on the point, be aware of surg and rip current, but this is a get away beach. Usually no one here during the week. To gain entry on a bike, long sleeve shirt, pants, orange or green safety vest, gloves, helmet, and boots that cover tha ankles. Tell them you are going golfing to see if you can gain entry. If not, continue up the road, under the freeway viaduct. If you choose to take the freeway, the outcome will be close to the same. Be aware, if you stay on the freeway you could end up back by Pearl Harbor or Downtown Honolulu.

Otherwise, stay on the road, and head towards the mountains. Look for Kamehameha Highway. Take a right (you can't get lost on this island, its tiny, either head to the ocean or mountains to find roads) and stay on Kam highway headed North. This round will take you up to the North Shore, and before the North Shore there are many fine beaches to swim on and in. Just beware of the ocean, don't turn your back on it if in the water or close to it.

If you go the Windward side to the North Shore, you will pass the Polynesian Cultural Center, and there, there are many fine performances of the Pacific Islanders dances and dress. they serve a luau as well. The Center is not opened on Sundays, so plan accordingly. Go early to get down early. Go late to watch the fire dancers. To be sure they are dancing, call to find out the hours they perform.

So, you can circle the most part of the island heading east, but can do the same but in reverse, heading west on the H1 freeway. Stay northbound, and follow the signs to the North Shore. Another trip is to head west, towards Waianae. This ride is a good ride to watch the sunset, and see the milky way after sunset from Yokohama Bay. Not many tourists make it on the side. It is desert like, hot, not much in the way of tourisyt things to see or do (golf at Makaha Resort, east and west course).

However if the surf is up on the west side (call 596-SURF for the surf report) and Makaha is running, it is something to see. Most of the surf beaches put the surfers almost in your lap (Pipeline is actually the best, just accross the Street from Sunset Elementary School, on Ke-Waena Road next to Kam Highway, runs beside it inside some trees and brush).

As suggested, if the surf is up, and when in doubt, don't go out. Ask the lifeguards if the obvious sign of high surf is going on. They will advise height, hi/lo tide and ask if a swell is on the way and projected date if none is seen. They are wired in and will advise you. I have many lifeguard friends from our sunblock biz, they are all kind and respected people.

If you do the west side of the island (Makaha) head west on the freeway. You will pass Waikele discount outlet stores, the Japanese love it here, and continue on past makakilo. This area has some quick food places, and a couple nice restaurents as well. Pass Ko-Olina (golf course again, has ROYS Rest. at the club house, reservations please, as well as Hawaii Kai, and is a good dinining place for top flight food) continue west past Hawaiian Electric generation plant, electric beach on the left, and straight down the 4 laner. Watch for speed traps. The locals go 50 to 60 thorugh here but beware. Will list more on this later.

You'll be entering the low rent district as you get to Waianae. This area is impoversihed, but yet, along the beaches you will see million $ properties.

Continue on the road through Waianae Town. After exiting the town on the same road, you'll pass Waianae Small Boat Harbor (if your here around 3 or so, pull in to see what is being weighed in if any large catches) and then Waianae High School. There will be a light, a 7-11, and the last chance for gas for about 20 miles or so. go straight through the light, past a towering mountain in the water on the left, as you round the bend, the next beach about 2 miles down the road is Makaha. This palce takes huge waves to break. if there are no waves, it is a safe place to swim. If the surf is up, be really cautious if you enter the water, as the current is strong, and can pull you out in a heartbeat.

Continue down the road, and you will enter a wilderness area. There are a few homes along the way, but these come up less and less. Finally, it will be all beach on the left, and mountains and vallies on the right. These beaches are good places to walk, but beware of lowlifes too. Not much law enforcement around, so heightened awareness is good. Swimming? Verbotten, no guards, unless the surf is tiny. There have been shark attacks in this area too, infrequent as they are, its best to be aware of this.

As you head down the road, it will rise up a hill, maybe 500' long. Stop at the top, pull over on the left. The view is towards Kaena Point State Park, and is nice to take in. Accross the street from the turn off, is Makua Wet Cave. Go in, but if you hear growling once inside, these are wild dogs inside, and are advising to back off.

Continue down the road. On the right is a huge valley, this is Makua Training area for the military and home to many complaints of the local Hawaiians...burial grounds etc being disturbed by our military in training they say.

Accross the street is makua Beach park, a dirt road runs along the beach access area. it is a good place to take a dip. But again, watch the currents. If locals are there, and are not in the water, beware. if they are in the water, watch what they do. Usually, it is a safe place to swim, but the water gets deep quick. Many dolphin schools swim here, and where these arem, there are tiger sharks waiting for a meal too.

Continued

 

[Rich Moran]

Further down the road, about 3 miles, is Yokohama Bay, and the end of the road. You can hike to Kaena Point, a couple miles to the tip, and to the view of the North Shore, or while on the North Shore, you can ride almost to the tip of kaena Point too.

This area is not so safe for swimming. The bottom is A'a lava (like broken jagged bottles pointing upward) and if the surf is up, it is a good place to catch waves believe it or not. Usually surfers are out away dform shore doing this. Just accross the street from the guard shack at the observatory entrance (KaenaPoint SATCOM Station) there is a beach to swim and fool around in the water. if the surf is big, don't venture in for a swim, and again, don't turn your back to the ocean.

So for riding away from Honolulu, thats it. Around town, you'll want to ride Round Top. Head up Ward Avenue from either Ala Moana Avenue, or Kapolani Blvd. Follow ward till it ends, turn right, follow it around the mountain to Punchbowl, the military cemetary where Ernie Pyle, and many, many soldiers he befriened and wrote of from epic WWII Pacific Battles lie.

Punshbowl is worth the time of a half hour or more to see this sacred spot, as the cemetary lies in a dormant volcanic crater, and is completely filled with Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Air Men and women who gave their all for our nation.

When you exit Punchbowl, again head towards the mountains. I do not have a map in front of me, aquire one to lacate the best way up. This area is a mini Deals Gap, is in the cool mountain area, and is about 9 miles long. you'll have fun riding this road, and stopping to take in the views of Honolulu, Waikiki, Diamond Head and sweeping Pacific views. Bring a towel or 2, and on the way down/up, there is a little park just below the Round Top lookout that is good for an afternoon nap in the shade and cool trade winds.

Nudist beaches? Just outside Waikiki, on the way around Diamond head heading east, there is a road that slopes down towards the water. Its best to either walk there or park along the top. If your on the bike, its best not to leave it there, but, get transportation to the beach if possible. You can hike down one of the trails too. Its a steep climb, bring drinks, snacks, sunblock and towels. It is a safe palce to swim too.

Or, if you go Kaena Point bound while visiting the North Shore, just before the Polo Fields, on the right, you'll see cars parked next to a fence. Climb the fence, walk out about 100 yards to the beach. On the right is where the gay folks go, to the left the straight folks...or is it vice-versa? (hahahaha). Whichever, be aware that gawkers aplenty out here cause they know its the spot. There are not many others, if you happen accross a secluded spot, you can chance um if you like. Just be sure if you can't be seen, you can't see your bike, and whoever is around and looking for an opportunity will know that too.

Whne people come to Hawaii, they get spell bound by the beuty, the drinks, the smell fo the air. Its just like New York folks. It really is, theres a sucker born every minute, and a con artist looking how to take advantage of the sucker. Trunk thefts and beach thefts while your in the water happen all too frequently. Be aware of security, who is around you, who looks like a threat and someone that happens to close that is acting strange.

Speed traps are around too. The posted speed limits are 55 on most freeways, 60 in a couple of spots, and for a short distance. They run radar by the airport area, and heading to from Aiea/airport area. They also run radar on various other highways too. The HPD has POV's as well as crusiers, and yes, they ride bikes, horses and bicycles too.

There is more to do here too, this is a few things that you mioght like to check out. Restaurents? John Dominus, great to go to Friday at about 5:30 or 6:00. Request a seat next to the window looking towards Waikiki. 6:30, the firworks show starts from the hilton Hawaiian Village. JD is on Auhi (a - wa - he) Street. There is also Ryans at Ward Center, really good cajun chicken fettucine, and if your into Korean food, theres KimChee. Try their Kalbe, it is meat strips marinated for days in Korean Style teriaki sauce. really good, and has won the Taste of Honolulu Award a few times. Up in Palolo Valley is Samiras Kitchen, it s ahusband wife team. They have 3 tables, the husband is CordonBleu trained and excellent crab cakes. Call for carry out of luch. They will explain how to get there. Take the luch up to the Park on St Louis Heights, just around the corner for a place in the cool shade and views of Manoa Valley and Honolulu.

There are tons of Chinese, Hawaiian, Japanese places to go to. I could go on and on about it, but am out of time!!

Well, with all that, enjoy your trip, hope its fun and safe.

 

[ihringert]

Rich,

Wow!! Very kool. I feel like I've been there already. Give me a little more time to read this over. Many thanks.

Ted

 

[Rich Moran]

Ted,

I am leaving for Oz on 20 Oct 04. You might want to use the net to discover if maps are shown for Oahu. If you plan on hiking, get the book "Hiking Oahu" as that shows many fine trails into Oahu's back country. One in particular, Kahana Valley has swallowed hikers, which means that the valley is one of the easier places to get lost in on foot. If you plan on hiking I would suggest a compass, signal mirror, space age blanket and flashlight and cell too for JIC (just in case). Don't forget the water food and mozzie repellant as well.

Sunrise is at about 6 AM, sunset at about 6:15, and it will be getting earlier for sunset. So its deceptive if you get a late start on a hike, and think you can be out by nighfall. It rains in the mountains everynight, and the mozzies (mosquitos) will carry you away. Don't forget it is always easier to plan these things for an earlier start, to get back and out of the jungle by the heat of the day and to the ocean for a cool dip. Around 11, it really starts to bake up.

If there are heavy rains and your up country, or in valley area, beware of how fast the streams will swell with runoff. Many people have lost their lives to follish ventures into deceptive looking mountain streams, only to get swept downward, and into many round and jagged lava rocks. If the stream is swollen, stay put, let the rain pass, and the water subside, even if it means getting out late, or worse, after dark. At least this way, you can live for another day. It takes minutes for these streams to rise, so be aware of that.

Forgot to mention, in Manoa Valley is Manoa falls. Its a quick hike in, there is a shallow pool below the falls for a dip.

A short paragraph on some local diseases:

There is a disease called lyptraosis (SP). It can kill the unwary. Any cuts or body openings the bug gets in. Its oaky to go in, as long as you don't pee or swallow or open eyes underwater.

Symtoms are flu like, take anywhere from 3 to 4 weeks to strike. If it happens, and you come home and get the bug while at home, let the doc know. Recently, a old from one of the states on the east coast got it, was not aware, was mis-diagnosed and finally died an agonizing death as the docs were puzzled. tHey are not trained to look for these troical maladays, and you have to advise them of where you were and what you did. There is also deungue fever, its mozzie carried. It causes swelling and high fever, usually the body can get over it, but you may need medical attention as well. Whatever, DON"T DRINK ANY MOUNTAIN WATER at all!!! Unless it is from a re-seller in the typical plastic botle, then you know its been purified.

There is also another place called JackAss ginger. Look on themap for the Old Pali Road in Nuuanu valley, its a nice short road for a cool ride too. Further up the mountain is the Pali lookout. If it is windy, you'll be blown all over. Many years ago there was a battle for the kingdom of hawaii here, and many warriors were pushed off the mountain to the valley about 600 feet below. Flip a penny out if it is windy, and it will fly backwards up and over your head.

On the way to this spot, if it has been raining, look at the left side of the Nuuanu valley wall. If the water fall is flowing, the water falls from the pali (cliff) and then flies back up the mountain. This is known as the upside down water falls.

While on the North Shore, there is a supermarket called Foodland Pupukea. There is a Starbucks there, it is the hang spot for the locals and surfers. Accross the street is a fire department, and to the right is Sharks Cove. If the surf is big, forget about going in there. If not, it is a good snorkle spot. To the left is a beach called 3 tables (for the rocks that stick up on the left side of the little bay). This is also another spot for swimming and snorkeling. Just around the corner, westbound is Waimea Bay. It takes huge surf to make the waves in this place, and is one of the more dangerous spots when surf is up. If no surf, that is one of the best places for a swim. There is a big rock on the left sde of the bay, people jump 20 feet into the water. Its funny, cause if you jump from the rock on the bayside, and tell your girl to watch, you can swim into a cave to the other side. They freak when you don't come up, all the while you climb the rock to tap them on the shoulder. I don't recommend it, unless someone shows you the hole and you watch what they do.

By the Foodland Pupukea, if you take the road next to it up the mountain, drive until you get to the first right. This is a road to the Pupukea Heiau or the old Hawaiian temple of worship and sacrifice. Do not enter the stone area or remove anything from the area. Their is legend of strange things happening to people who do so. This place overlooks Waimea Bay and beyond to Kaena Point looking west. Straight off the tip of Kaena Point is Hong Kong, about 8,000 miles away.

There is a road that runs to Kaena Point. WHile driving through Haleiwa, look for Haleiwa Joes again. Tke the road that branches off to the west. Just past the boat harbor is Ali'i beach park. This is where Hawaii Baywatch was filmed. If no surf, its okay to swim, just watch for loose coral and rocks rolling around in the surf there, as that stuff tens to bang the ankles and toes and can hurt. Most beaches where there is surf has this problem. With exception is Waimea Bay.

Anyway, head down the road to the west, whichever branch in the road you take, keep heading west, as eventually you'll end up by Kaena Point. Just before kaena Point on the right is Dillingham airfield. Good for glider and bi-plane rides. Also there is parachuting if your into that adventure. Look for the road on the left side that enters each end of the runway area. You can drive along the runway, and once you are on this road, looking towards the mountain, there are many cutoffs. You can ride in the back area to check out whats left of the old WWII stuff that was there. Not much, but this was an active airfield in WWII.

The mountain you look up to, has some good hiking trails, as the views from the top will allow you to see the west side of the island, down onto Yokohama bay, as well as Makaha. In the Hiking Oahu book, look for the hike Peacock Flats. It is an all day affair

Back to the Pupukea heiau visit, when you come back out of the Heiau site to Pupukea road, turn right and head uphill.

Ride the upper roads to see how the country folk live, some beautiful and laid back homes in this area. There is one road in and out, so its hard to get lost there.

Wish we could be here during your trip, as there are other little tidbits to see too. If you arm yourself with enough info, you'll have a lot to see and do.

 

[ihringert]

Rich,

I tried to reply to your message a couple times but was promptly taken to Orbitz.com every time I hit post quick reply. Hope this isn't an omen or something.

It is too bad we couldn't hook up while I'm over there. Next time. I'll rent a VR.

Thanks for all the detail. I don't know how you remember all this. I can get lost a couple blocks from home. Thanks for the tips and warnings. Hopefully, we won't get mugged or swept out to sea and come home with only a slight sun burn at worst.

I've got a deep sea fishing (a first) trip lined up and possibly squeeze in a round of golf. R&R is the highest on my priority list.

Again thanks. The wife and I are going map out your route. Hope we can get back to you if we have questions.

Later
Ted

 

[Rich Moran]

Ted,

I wish too that your trip is as much fun as you plan it to be. The incidents of crime are not common, but do occur due to the fact that the environment seems to overwhelm some peoples sense of well being. It does not have to be that way if forwarned, so a safe trip can then probablly be the result.

The waves are a given, as today we have 15 to 20 foot surf forcasted for the North Shore. The season is almost on us!!

Which boat are you chartering?

I know some of the Captains. I hope you catch, and not to be a party pooper or anything, by the high fishing months are late April to Sept or so. With charters running upwards of 700.00 if you are doing the boat on your own, is a tidy bit of cash for a day on the water. With ocean conditions in November, and that period being a swingtime, that is, it could be blowing gale force or as gentle as a pool table top, anything can bust loose. When its blowing, you can expect 10 to 20 foot seas off the lee of the island, and on the windward side I have been out in 20 to 30 foot seas, and it is real work just to hold on.

With El Ninio in play, things have really changed too, and this might be in your favor, as we are expericing hot weather which may aid in keeping the fish around in the warmer water until later in the year. Its a crap shoot anyway you look at it.

Hopefully you'll have fair seas and following winds, I'll keep my fingers crossed for yoy.

The ride out south from oahu is following seas, coming back, if the trades are doing their thing is into the wind. If your Captain takes you east towards Penguin Banks off Molokai, which I would suspect the best fishing opportunity that time of year, it will be a rough go. That is into the channel between Oahu and Molokai. The banks are about 100 fathoms from the surface (sumbmerged island with pinnacles that the bait fish hang around at, and the edges, the larger game fish are cruising to catch a meal or 2 of the bait fish). Last time there we hooked plenty Aku and a 160 Lb Yellowfin tuna, or Ahi.

If he goes south, than heads west to run the shore off Ewa beach, he is after ono, and that is another thing to consider, these run usually year round. Around the point after this run is Waianae, where the biggest marlin in hawaii has been caught, 1750 lbs.

Hopefully your trip is not out from windward side at Kaneohe Bay. Shiver me timbers if it is.

A trick to hold the stomach together is to get some rice balls for your food while out on the water, nothing acidic in the morning like OJ or grapefruit juice or coffee, and that is if you are so inclinded to get seasick. Beer works well too, as it is carbonated, and helps settle the stomach due to the gas trying to escape. Darn, I am getting woozy thinking about it!!

If your not one to get seasick or motion sickness, eat whatever. But if you do, another thought is to take motion sickness pills the night before, otherwise, if you take em on the way to the boat, its too late to get into the system. Might want to see you Doc, cause they have patches for this too, and those are worn behind the ear. If you take the motion sickness pills the night before, be sure to follow up with another when you wake. They will wear off, and the second dose will kick in about 3 - 4 hours once you are out on the water. These pills do make you sleepy too, so understand that if your nodding off. Its okay, let the deckhand do hius work, that is what your paying him to do.

Bring a cap, baseball works fine. Tie a kite string to the strap on the back, and a loop for your neck. That way, when your into the wind and its blowin 15 to 20 knots, and the boat is doing 8 to 10 knots, you won't loose your shade.

If by chance you hook up, get up to the flybridge ASAP. If it is your turn at the fighting chair, the deckhand will advise what to do. It is like a fire drill, and they review this on the way out after getting the rods set up.

The flybridge is a good place to go if you feel seasick too, as it gets you into the fresh air, and watching the horizon for birds....birds tell you the bait fish is being pushed up by the bigger game fish, so watch for them. If you run into a pile of diving birds onto the water, usually Aku (skip jack tuna) is balling up due to Ahi or Marlin looking for a meal. They all up to protect one another. If you hook up to an Aku, don't pull too hard, their mouths are tender,m and you'll tear the hook out. Once landed, turn the fish upside down, they act like they are dead, and will let you do whatever to them. Usually, the deckhand will produce a lei needle with fishing line attaced. Punch it from the top of one eye to the other to rig it for live bait troll. They slow troll at 3 knots or so, don't want to drown the fish as this is highly unatural fposition for this fish to be in.

The fish acts injured, and due to this, the larger game fish zeros in on its movements for the kill....and hopefully the hook.

If its a A marlin, don't look up while fighting it, even if people on board go 'wow, lookedat!!" The fish will jump the hook, cause he feels the pause on you reeling and fighting it.

Its best to leave head down until you know the fish is in his last run, and you can sense that his fight is about up. If you drink beer before doing this, be sure to have plenty fresh water by your side, cause if the fish is big, your gonna need it. Even a 200 lb ahi (you'd have to really have lady luck and a 4 leaf clover on you to catch on in November) will beat the shit out of you. its like lifting all the weights in the gym at once cause these guys can smoke the clutches on a Penn International, and it is really exciting to see that go. I have seen Internationals explode from mystery hits....strips all the line, the lure and leader and just beats hell out of the gear. When the reel comes apart it is usually somewhere around the end of the spool, it stops, the line goes TWANG....and everybody goes AAAWWWW....The reels run 1500.00 or so, line is another 200.00, the lure with hooks about 65.00 if your connected to someone who can deal, leader and swivel another 10.00 or so. So it gets expensive.

Ask the deck hand if he's ever been deep sixed by a Marlin while having the wraps on his hand. If he has, you've got a good deck hand on board. He knows what not to do to keep everyone safe. If he has nopt, be sure if there is a hookup to clear the deck, head up the tower if there is space, and leave the deckhand and the designated combatant who is to do the fight on the deck with the fighting chair. Even when the fish is at the transom, unless the guy asks for any help, stay clear. its the most difficult time when your landing one of these big varmints, and it can male or break the day how the outcome is for getting the fish on board or not.

I have lost many fish due to deckhands and their habits, and can tell in 5 minutes what kind of crew the Captain has. Hopefully you'll get a good crew.

If its a mixed bag on the boat (charters run 6 people per charter, permitted by Hawaii law) and you don't know the other 4, presuming your wife is with you, the best way to figure who fights the fish is to get clothes pins. bring 6 and put each persons name on the close pin. if the Captain does not do this, talk with the deckhand about the "fair" way to fish. Then every hour or half hour, depending on how energetic you are, rotate the clothes pins.

When I go out, I just watch anymore, I ain't into getting beat up much anymore!!! I am however waiting for the grander, the elusive Marlin that tips the scale over 1,000 pounds. I will step up for that, cause that is all that is left for me to fight at this stage in my life.

Where you golfing? The courses sock it to the tourists with an elevated rate. They have what is called ka'amina (ka - a - my - na) rates, that knocks off up to 50% of the rate. The courses are anywhere from 65.00 to 150.00 for 18 holes, with cart. Beers are 4.50 - 5.00 along the same price for sandwhiches too.

Just a heads up so you know what to expect.

Have fun!!!

 

[ihringert]

Rich,

Some friends on the east coast arranged the fishing trip. They are big into fishing so I assume they made good arrangements. The cost was $250 so maybe they have connections. All I know is I have to get up pretty damn early on Monday. I was in the Navy for 4 years and never got sea sick so I hope 33 years (jeeze louise I'm old) hasn't changed my chemistry too much.

Met a guy on a poker run this weekend from Hawaii. Gave me a book all about Hawaii with lots of maps and things to do and see. Need to find time to look everything over very soon.

Ted

 

[Rich Moran]

Ted,

Just heard yesterday (no print info to confirm) that Willie G is going to be in the islands around that time for a biker ebvent. maybe you guys will get lucky to hook up wityh that.

One thing I forgot to mention, as I was reminded yesterday, if you ride H3 to or from the windward side, beware of strong winds at both sides of the tunnel. It will push the bike around a few feet if youa re not prpared, as at the top of the mountain where the tunnel is, the wind goes from side to side of the roadway.

Alos, if you do H-3 to the windward side, or Kaneohe, when you come out of the tunnels, the view is one of th ebest on the island. The freeway takes you to the base fot eh Ko Olau mountain range, and runs for too short of miles, but is spectacular in the views.

I am not going to post much more here, cause you guys need to discover some of the other little tid bits I left out. Will add this tho, try to get to the sand bar at Kaneohe Bay, go to He'eia Kea pier to ask Ernie at the store if anyone can run you there and back, that is a good day for lounging on the sandbar,a nd when the tide comes up, youic an sit on your loung chairs as the water come up to your chest without fear of getting washed away, and then while enjoying the mountain views too.

Check the maps out for the pier location, or ride past Safeway in Kaneiohe about 2 miles west, and the pier will be just after a tight turn on the right.

Have fun!!

 

[Elgavilan]

Ted,

Also, don't forget to hit John Domini's for their Sunday brunch. It is expensive at $30.00 each but the food is outstanding and you can take your pick from any or all of the various bars, pasta bar, omlette bar, roast pig, sea food bar, dessert bar, and lots more. Whenever I am on Oahu on a Sunday I make a point of being there. :thumb:

Mike

 

[ihringert]

Rich,

Many thanks for all the info on Hawaii. Our trip was fantastic. I learned many things about a Hawaiian vacation I never knew.

According to my wife, a person must have a good tan before going to Hawaii. I was always under the impression people went to Hawaii to get a tan. Also, it is manditory to take a few days off before the trip to rest up. Again, I thought people went to Hawaii to rest up. I now stand corrected.

When we arrived on friday the 5th, it was raining cats and dogs. By saturday evening, the skies were clearing and the rest of the week was sunshine with a few sprinkles here and there. We stayed at the Hale Koa (11th floor) the first night. Had a great view of the beach and it is a great place to stay. The rest of the week was spent @ Bellows AF recreation base at a beach side cabin. Very nice beach but my 3 year old grand daughter was stung by a jellyfish. You warned me.

The fishing trip was so so. We went out on the Monkey Biz. Caught a 15 pound Mahi Mahi but that was pretty uneventfull due to the large tackle we were using. This was the only fish we caught. The beer was excellent!!!!

Rented the electra gluide on Tuesday and by the time we returned it, we toured all the island. We tried following your driving tips but eventually just went cruising and took whatever we came upon. This was definately the high point of the trip. Great way to see the island.

The Arizona tour was awesome... about the only free thing on the island. The Sea Park was a rip-off. Lots of great beaches. Did squeeze in a Luau and don't care for poi.

Thanks again for the info. If anyone goes to O'ahu, this is a great reference.

Mike, I didn't see your post until I got back home.

Ted

 

[Rich Moran]

Ted, First off, you survived riding our crazy traffic, and thats a congrats for that.

Sorry to hear bout the blue bottle (portagee man a war) sting. they can be pretty nasty, and with the little ones, it is really hard on them. Did not read about a hospital, so she has a blazing stining memory of how fierce the sting is, and how long they last. My wife has been nailed by them, and she reacts for up to a week afterward from the sting. Damn nasty creature those things are.

The Bellows cabins are a world away from Waikiki, and at night, the wind in the ironwoods sooths the soul into a blissful rest. Were you up to see the sunrise over the ocean?

Wish we could have been here to ride with you, as trying to read maps and directions while riding in such a small place, sometimes it all makes no sense, so just point the front wheel and go.

Will try to reorganize what i wrote at some point, using the start off point in Waikiki, and cutting up the tour to a 2 day trip.

Was the Arizona Memorial booked for the whole day by 9 AM? Ya gotta get there early to get in.

Poi, yea, at first I did not like it either, but mixing it in with the Lomi-Lomi helps. That is the tomato, onion salmon mix. Swill a beer or 2 with it, and real soon, you have an affinity for it. How'd you like the kalua pig?

 

[ihringert]

Rich,

Ya, it would have been nice to hook up. Maybe you are right, a v-rod wouldn't be so bad over there. There were many times I wish the Electra Gluide had just a little more umph.

We got into the Arizona Memorial without any probs. We arrived about 15 minutes before the tour. Got lucky. Get up when? You gotta be kidding. I did manage to get up at 4:30 AM for the fishing trip but it was well after 8 AM before I saw any daylight the rest of the week. Largely depended on the night before.

I did not make it to round top. It was high on our list of things to do but got side tracked like running out of gas. What a dummy and something I won't forget for awhile.

If you ever make it out this way, let us know.

Ted