Hidden Oahu: Including Waikiki, Honolulu, and Pearl Harbor

This book is smaller than some but packed with information. If you are interested in exploring Oahu you will find great information on beaches, lodging restaurants and attractions. The layout is very logical with straight-forward descriptions and explanations. Whether it's surfing or shopping that interests you this book is a great guide!

These books by Riegert are great; I have used them for 20 years. I would not dream of going to the islands without them. But you have to be adventurous, if you are not going to go past the NO TRESPASSING sign, you probably should not buy this book. (I only do it when Ray says it's OK). Stick to something more sedate. But if you will follow advice these books will show you da kine parts of Hawai'i you will not hear about anywhere else. My tip: Buy this book months before your trip. Plan to stay at least one night in one of the funky hotels he finds in the backcountry. You won't regret it! Most of our favorite Hawaii moments have been due to this book.Buy this book and go to the islands while they are still no ka oi!

This book should be extremely helpful to anyone who, like myself, is planning a first trip to Oahu. Hidden Oahu is packed with information, in a highly readable, highly usable format. I like the way it lists attractions off the beaten path (hence the "Hidden" Oahu of the title), as well as the usual well-trod tourist attractions. Travelers who are adventurous and love to explore their destinations should love this book. I also like the way the author highlights the attractions you won't want to miss (in shaded boxes entitled "Check These Out"): the best of Oahu's restaurants, shopping (including specialty shops, such as local craft shops), museums and tourist attractions, resorts, beaches, etc. Most of all, I like the easy-to-use format of this book. Rather than lumping each type of attraction together ("beaches," "museums," "botanical gardens," etc.), this book sets out directions for a variety of driving tours and describes the attractions you will find along each route. Thus, you can easily preplan your driving adventures and make certain not to miss any of the island's attractions that fall along your way. I might add that this book contains all the usual "before you go" warnings and advice that is standard fare in travel guides, as well as information on the history and culture of the island and some very useful information on Oahu's many outdoor sports and activities.