Honolulu, Oahu (February 3, 2020) Debra and I had an epic day on Oahu! We explored the beautiful botanical gardens at Lyon Arboretum, stretched our eyes across the panoramic views from Nu’uanu Pali Lookout Point, and stood in awe of the power of the ocean at Halona Blowhole.
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Our day started and ended at Pier 2, located adjacent to the cruise terminal in Honolulu Harbor. From this location, standing on the Sun deck of the Star Princess, I saw this city’s cosmopolitan skyline – skyscrapers and high-rise condominiums – set against the lush mountains to the north and the volcanic cone of Diamond Head to the east. Glorious!
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And as I looked to the west, I saw one of Hawaii’s most recognizable landmarks – the iconic Aloha Tower, which stood near Pier Nine.
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Aloha Tower, built in Hawaiian Gothic style (who even knew there was such a thing?!), was opened in 1926. It is 184 feet tall – 10 stories – excluding the 40-foot mast that tops the tower. Although now dwarfed by the many high-rise buildings that dot the city’s skyline, Aloha Tower was the tallest building on the islands for four decades, and its clock was one of the largest in the United States. The top-floor observatory offered panoramic views of the city, harbor, and mountains.
Originally, Aloha Tower was used as a lighthouse for ships and visitor center for newly arrived tourists who were welcomed with the Hula, leis, and the greeting “Aloha” etched on its walls. Now it was a mixed-use space owned by Hawaii Pacific University – student housing, meeting and community gathering rooms, government offices, restaurants, and more. Still, it remained a welcoming beacon for Debra and me (and 2,500 or so fellow passengers) when we arrived in Honolulu this morning. It WAS a striking sight to see! |
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