Five Awesome Artistic Experiences in Oahu, Hawaii
For many travelers, the Hawaiian Islands are the epitome of heaven on earth. And for good reason! There’s sun, sand, and surf but so much more awaits visitors, including a bevy of art, history, and culture. When it comes time to scratch Oahu and Honolulu off your bucket list, make your stay in paradise more memorable with these five ideas for spending a few art-filled vacation days on the island of Oahu.
The Island of Oahu (Source: Wikipedia Commons)
1). Kaka’ako
Kaka’ako Wall Art (Source: Flickr)
A walkable, sustainable, and pet-friendly neighborhood encompassing nine city blocks, Kaka’ako is a thriving community that embraces creativity and innovation. This progressive urban area in Honolulu is the beating heart of the art world in Hawaii. Kaka’ako is truly the epicenter of an exciting explosion of contemporary public art, with vibrant murals by global artists waiting to be discovered around every corner. The colors and energy of this art has transformed the magnificent neighborhood into a living gallery, and no visit to Oahu would be complete without a visit to, a stroll around, and a meal in this thrilling home of artists, entrepreneurs, chefs, and innovators.
2). Park West Fine Art Museum & Gallery
The Park West Fine Art Museum and Gallery located in the Waikiki Beach Walk
Located at the Waikiki Beach Walk, Park West’s major new museum and art gallery has amplified the art scene in Honolulu. Not only will you see colorful, imaginative works by some of today’s hottest artists, but you’ll also find paintings, ceramics, and sculptures by some of the most recognizable names in the history of art, from Picasso to Rembrandt and beyond! And when you make Park West Hawaii a part of your artful Honolulu vacation, you’ll be rewarded handsomely! Anyone who visits the gallery or attends a tour will receive a free unframed artwork, a complimentary cocktail (21 and over only), and a $500 credit that can be used at the gallery! Terms & conditions do apply, so read more about our Hawaii Museum and Gallery and discover the exclusive benefits of popping inside for a tour!
3). The Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum in Honolulu (Source: Flickr)
Inside the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, also known as the Hawaii State Museum of Natural and Cultural History, you can find millions of artifacts, documents, photographs and fabulous exhibits that are beautifully designed to showcase the culture and lasting legacy of Hawaii’s first people. When you choose to spend a part of your Oahu vacation inside the museum, you’ll learn about Polynesian cultures and the Hawaiian royal family through many cherished, priceless heirlooms. Established in 1888 in memory of the late Princess Bernice, the last member of the Kamehameha dynasty, the impressive building feels like an old-world library with evocative dark wood and timeless wrought iron accents. Outside, the grounds are a wonderland of artistic landscape design featuring native Hawaiian plants. You’ll come away understanding more about this special island and its people, and appreciate the art and culture of Oahu after an afternoon at the Bishop Museum.
4). Polynesian Cultural Center
Oahu Polynesian Cultural Center (Source: Wikipedia Commons)
This marvelous center is consistently ranked as the number one paid attraction in all of Hawaii, and it’s easy to understand why. Situated on Oahu’s North Shore, the cultural center offers access to six Pacific Island villages, each showcasing a different island nation. In this way, the center serves as a sort of Polynesian World Expo, giving guests unique and authentic insights into the history, art, culture, and people of Tonga, Tahiti, Samoa, Aotearoa, Fiji, and Hawaii. Additionally, the cultural center features the state’s most glorious luau experience along with the award-winning show, “Hā: Breath of Life.” Because Polynesian culture and food have been intertwined for thousands of years, your art-filled Hawaiian getaway must include a taste of the golden age of island life!
5). The Hawaiian Theatre
The Hawaiian Theater (Source: Flickr)
From Beethoven piano concertos with the Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra to The Moth spoken-word performances and stand-up comedy, if live arts and culture is your cup of tea, your cup will be overflowing at this stunning theater that turns 100 years old in 2022! After you have soaked up the food, history, visual arts, and culture of Oahu during the day, take a plush seat inside this oasis of musical and theatrical arts and put a bow on your heavenly Hawaiian holiday.
https://www.hawaiitheatre.com/
Looking to experience art while in Hawaii? Don’t miss visiting the Park West Fine Art Museum & Gallery in Honolulu! We are open seven days a week for browsing and offer free tours. Our gallery assistants can’t wait to meet you and help you start or add to your collection with a free artwork!
