Frankie in Waikiki

After a relaxing few days in the quiet shores of the north, coming into Waikiki for the first time felt like "whoah". As my friend aptly put it, it's like Gold Coast on steroids. Imagine big hotel chains, hordes of tourists, retail chains and ABC stores (like a fancier 7-eleven) on every corner. That said, it is a good base for exploring the rest of the island, and for enjoying a tropical cocktail by the beach for those lazy days :) I highly recommend hiring a car, otherwise you'll be at the mercy of public buses or tour operators. Besides that, driving with the top down (or more like riding shotgun) along the coast is one of the best ways of seeing Oahu. And consequently falling in love with it.

Cruisin' along the windward side

Sunset over Waikiki Beach

View at Nu'uanu Pali. This photo didn't do it justice.

Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay. There are definitely plenty of fishes in the sea ;)

Hiking the Koko Head. Suffer through literally a thousand steps and be rewarded with amazing views. 

Wreck Diving. Such a good visibility at 100 feet!

Waikiki from Diamond Head. It's a 15km return if you want a good workout.

More Hawaii photos here.