Going high was not reserved

Today, the program includes the Diamond Head Crater, Iolani Palace, and the statues of Kamehameha I (known from the opening credits of Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum).

The weather is cloudy today, so we're starting with the Diamond Head Crater.

Unfortunately, we didn't reserve a parking spot and there were no free ones available. What a bummer, okay, we'll have to do that tomorrow morning. Then off to Downtown.

to visit the king and his residence.

Facts

The statue of Kamehameha I, the first king of Hawaii (from 1785-1819), is an oversized bronze statue and the most photographed landmark in Hawaii. It is the 2nd cast, as the original statue disappeared on its way from the foundry (in Paris). In Hawaii, Kamehameha's statue is an important element for reflecting on Hawaiian culture and spirituality.

As king, he took several steps to ensure that the islands remained a united kingdom even after his death. After the wars, Kamehameha I was revered by the people as a kind and generous king.

Kamehameha unified the legal system and exported raw materials.

The Iolani Palace was the residence of the kings.

During World War II, it served as the seat of the military governor. After that, it was the state capitol until 1978. Since then, it has been open to the public.

Not for us, however, as it is closed on Sundays and Mondays - and today is Monday. And it's so hot, phew.

Time for a short break in the beautiful and shady park of the non-visitable residence. An ice cream would be great now, but apparently they only work and don't take breaks here in the government district.

After a short visit to an art exhibition

let's head to the most beautiful beach here on Oahu, Lanikai Beach.

Pleasant 26 degrees water temperature and finest sandy beach - what more could you want?

..... except for a cocktail and a beach umbrella.

Actually, we wanted to eat at Marukame Udon Waikiki, but waiting for 1 hour was a bit too long for us.

In the evening, we'll have a MaiTai to say goodbye, that was 5 days in Waikiki.