Kāne’ohe District
The area loosely known as Kāne’ohe is within commuting distance of Honolulu but feels a world away, the gateway to the North Shore and its countrystyle life. Many Native Hawaiians live here and the area is peppered with historic sites. You notice the difference at once – more pickup trucks, parked vehicles selling fresh fish and Hawaiian foods, and a slower pace.
1. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
The 400 fragrant acres of this park also function as a flood-control facility. The area takes in themed plantings, trails, camp sites, a visitor center, and a lake.
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden • 45-680 Luluku Rd, Kāne’ohe • 233 7323 • 9am–4pm daily; guided walks 10am Sat &1pm Sun
2. Ha’ikū Gardens
Planted by an Englishman, this park has a small lake, groves of ginger and bamboo, a well kept lawn, a gazebo, and a pavilion. It is a popular venue for wedding ceremonies.Ha’ikū Gardens • 46-336 Ha’ikū Rd., Kāne’ohe • 247 0605 • www.haikugardens.com
3. Valley of the Temples Memorial Park
Yes, it’s a cemetery but it’s also a place to take in the islands’ cultural diversity and the beauty of the Ko’olau mountains. It’s not uncommon to see entire families picnicking near the graves of loved ones; graves of Buddhists are equipped with food and incense to honor the spirits.Valley of the Temples • 47-200 Kahekili Hwy, Kāne’ohe • 8am–4pm daily • adm $2 ($1 for seniors and children)
4. Byodo-in Temple
At the rear of the memorial park, against the mountains, this other-worldly structure is worth the park admission alone. It’s a scale replica of the 900-year-old temple at Uji in Japan, watched over by an immense incense-wreathed Buddha. Enjoy feeding the swans and banging the deep-toned gong.
5. Mōkapu Peninsula
Visible throughout the district, this peninsula is, alas, out of bounds because it’s home to a military base. Despite the hum of aircraft, it’s a beautiful sight.
6. Moku O Lo’e (Coconut Island)
This islet has a varied history and is now the site of a biological research facility, famous for its study of marine life, especially coral.
7. He’eia State Park
Perched on a hillside, this interpretive park hosts educational activities aimed at explaining the area’s use as both an aquaculture center and a sacred site where spirits entered the afterlife.He’eia State Park • 46-465 Kamehameha Highway, Kāne’ohe • 247 3156
8. Kahalu’u Fishpond
The 80-acre Kahalu’u Fishpond is one of a handful of working ponds that date from a time when traditional Hawaiians farmed fish using rock walls fitted with mākaha – slatted gates that let fingerlings out but denied escape to larger fish.
9. Kahalu’u
Bordering Waihe’e Stream and straddling Kamehameha Highway, Kahalu’u Regional Park is something of a focus in the Kahalu’u area. Its many activities include ballfields, a gym and swimming pool, a beach park, boat launch, and canoe house.
10. Mokoli’i (Chinaman’s Hat)
A lopsided conical island, visible from He’eia to Kualoa, Mokoli’i is often visited by kayakers. It is said to be the remains of a giant mo’o (lizard god).
Marine Corps Base Hawai’i
Kāne’ohe Bay is home to more than 10,000 U.S. Navy and Marine Corps personnel. The base’s mid-Pacific location makes it ideal for deployment to the Far East. Historically, this same place – Moku-kapu to ancient Hawaiians – was called “sacred district” because Kamehameha I met his chiefs here.
Tip: The three most direct routes to Kāne’ohe from town offer beautiful views. On the Pali Highway (H61), stop at the lookout. Like Highway (H63) is the quickest route, with spectacular scenery as you emerge from the tunnel. From H3, the entire Kāne’ohe area is laid out before you.
