Wellness, relaxation and exploration are often high on the lists of travelers seeking island escapes. The Hawaiian islands are more than just getaways; rather, most visitors are looking for sights and a genuine experience beyond the beach. Harried from work emails, meetings and crazy schedules, guests visiting Oahu will find those spiritual spots with calming effects that last more than a moment.
Much of Oahu is incredible beaches, surfing excellence, fine shopping, dining that ranges from local plate lunches to Pan-Asian upscale dishes and other island experiences. Spiritual Oahu exists, an opportunity to leave the frenetic exploring for some quiet time. The Valley of the Temples is a Japanese temple, Byodo-In, that is the key feature of a memorial park within the Koolau Valley. Tropical serenity exudes throughout, with native flowers, peacocks, koi and swan. A model of the original in Japan, the site is a favorite of visitors seeking peace and culture and worth the trip between other sightseeing and beach days.
Bay View Manor
Bay View Manor in Kaneohe, on Oahu’s Windward Side, is the vacation rental just five minutes from Kaneohe Bay, with plenty of places to find serenity within the home. An expansive lanai, with an ornate fence will evoke a regal sense as you spend time gazing over the waters to the Koolau mountain range. The home is comfortable for 10 or fewer guests and has a fully equipped kitchen, perfect for creating big dinners. Nearby shopping and dining and the great views throughout provide a sanctuary all your own.
Noela Estate
Noela Estate in the Diamond Head area on Oahu’s South East Side is a transforming vacation rental that will renew your spirits. Lovely furnishings, elegant living and places for intimate chats are part of the home’s atmosphere. Five bedrooms and seven baths equal several spots to soak in the tub, in addition to the private pool. Plenty of places to lounge, including a relaxing chair in the grand bathroom, gives couples a chance to relax with bath salts and get ready for an evening on the town.
Kalani Kai
Kalani Kai in Honolulu is in a great location with nearby shopping, water sports and the reef-protected Maunalua Bay. The places within this vacation rental to retreat are the Jacuzzi tub, private pool or lanai, plus the king canopy bed for adults and trundle bed for the kids. The home is spacious enough for eight guests or a haven for two, with two stories, a beachfront locale and the safety of a gated community. Escape or flock to the hubbub of Honolulu as often or as infrequently as you wish.