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Ko Olina Ocean Adventures Blog

Planning Your Vacation: How Long is the Flight to Hawaii?

If you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway, then Hawaii should be the first travel destination on your list! With its picturesque beaches, vibrant underwater landscape, and tropical mountains…well, it really is a paradise. But there is one factor that can seem intimidating in traveling to Hawaii, and that’s the distance. Hawaii is far from pretty…

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October 27, 2023

Discover the Mermaid Caves of Oahu

Are you visiting the island of Oahu and looking to discover a little Hawaii magic? Well, maybe you’ve heard of the famous-secret Mermaid Caves of Oahu, maybe not, but either way, you won’t regret experiencing this unique and stunning slice of paradise. What are the Mermaid Caves of Oahu? Otherwise known as “The Tunnels”, the Mermaid Cave is a stretch of ancient coral reef which, after years of pounding surf, has developed a cave you are able to hop into and explore! Nestled on Oahu’s west coast, this cave is like nature’s little secret—a hideaway of complete wonder. Carved by the hands of Mother Nature herself, the caves are primarily limestone. The play of sunlight filtering in creates a surreal blue hue that dances on the walls.  Making Your Way to the Mermaid Caves To get the gorgeous Mermaid Caves…

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October 18, 2023

Exploring the Magic of the Ko Olina Lagoons

The Ko Olina Lagoons: More than Just a Beach When most people think of Hawaii, their minds go straight to Waikiki, Hula dancers, and the pounding waves of the North Shore. While the Ko Olina Lagoons may not be the first thing you imagine when you picture “Hawaii”, they are the absolute epitome of a…

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October 18, 2023

5 Reasons for Visiting Hawaii in January

If you’re planning on visiting Hawaii in January, be sure to include a stop on the island of Oahu. Much like North America, January is the winter season on Oahu, but compared to many other places, the weather is still quite warm and pleasant. With temperatures averaging between the mid-60°s and low-80°s Fahrenheit, there can…

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September 20, 2023

The 6 Best Places to Visit on Oahu

There are so many amazing places to visit on the beautiful island of Oahu in Hawaii. If you’re planning your Oahu trip and you want to venture beyond the beaches of Waikiki and immerse yourself in culture and nature, the activities and attractions to choose from abound. Here are 6 of some of the best…

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September 15, 2023

Where to See Turtles on Oahu

The crystal blue ocean surrounding the tropical island of Oahu is home to fascinating marine life that you can often spot just by walking down one of the island’s pristine beaches. But catching a glimpse of a green sea turtle (honu) might require a bit more effort. If you’re interested in observing the gentle honu…

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September 12, 2023

Top 3 Secret Things to Do On Oahu

Every year, Oahu attracts millions of visitors, many of whom frequent  the same sites and attractions. If you’re planning an Oahu vacation and you want to escape to r  serenity, you’re in the right place! From eclectic beaches to mermaid-inspired libations, here are 3 of Western Oahu’s hidden gems that are sure to make your…

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September 5, 2023

Oahu Whale Watching Tours

Known for their long-distance migration, the North Pacific humpback whales can be found enjoying the warm waters off the coast of Oahu during the fall and winter months. Whale-watching season occurs between November to May, with activity peaking between January and March. If you’re visiting Oahu during these months, Ko Olina Ocean Adventures invites you…

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September 1, 2023

Ko Olina Ocean Adventures Mermaid Splash!

Every pirate searches the seas for his dream girl, chasing pirate booty, or a fabled treasure.  Our Naked Pirate that has been sailing the western coastline of O’ahu is no different than any scallywag or buccaneer in this manner, but atlas he has finally found his partner!  She has eluded him for years.  Sometimes, she…

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July 5, 2023

What Lies Beneath: Coral Reef and Sunscreen

As a snorkel and sailing company that loves to explore and enjoy the beauty of our oceans and its ecosystems, we believe it is our responsibility to use products that help protect and preserve the environment.  With that in mind, we highly recommend using reef safe sunscreen to minimize the negative impact on our coral…

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March 7, 2023

Ko Olina Ocean Adventures – Whale Watching Season

Every year, Humpback whales migrate 3,000 miles from Alaska to the warm waters of Hawaii to mate or give birth to their calves.  When they come up to take a breath, tail slap, fin slap, or breach, it’s a stunning and unforgettable sight to see!  We always allow plenty of room for these majestic mammals…

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January 25, 2023

Ko Olina Ocean Adventures 25th Year Anniversary!

Over two and a half decades ago, Todd Pickering and Mick Riegel took their love of the ocean to the ultimate test of sharing their passion with visitors from across the globe.  Todd was a sailor at heart, and Mick a diver by nature.  The two friends created a passive dolphin swim in the wild, shared SNUBA, and now raise sails on their beautiful 53′ sailing Catamaran, the Holole’akai. Holole’a kai means to sail freely with the ocean, as the two founders have done, moving with the ebb and flows of the market, federal permissions, and global challenges.  As we stand proudly at this milestone, we sincerely and humbly thank each of you, for your professional help, friendship and seat within our ‘ohana.

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January 5, 2023