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too. If it's Hula you prefer, the Waikiki Shopping Plaza offers beginning classes for free each day at 10 a.m. on the third floor. Free ukulele lessons are found in the same spot Monday through Friday. If you'd like to watch these shows, nightly performance can be seen on Waikiki Beach and the Waikiki Shopping Plaza (main level) at 7 p.m. Really, there is no better way to learn the island than just "talking story" with a local. Most locals are very welcoming and enjoy teaching tourists their way of life.

Chinatown is another cultural experience, located in Downtown Honolulu (near Aloha Tower). It's the smallest and oldest Chinatown in the United States. Each month, Chinatown hosts "First Friday," where locals and tourists alike flock to the area to enjoy art exhibits, great food and other entertainment. If you're making a night of it, make sure to stop by Bar 35, Magoo's (Irish bar) and Indigo for exciting nightlife. (If BIG crowds aren't for you, visit Chinatown when it's not the first Friday of the month).
Chinatown isn't the only place for electrifying nightlife. Waikiki hosts several bars and clubs for those who want to dance and kick back with a drink. The Waikiki Trade Center is home to Zanzabar and Fashion 45, both with a "club" atmosphere and usually a $10 cover. These bars also hold 18+ nights (check local listing upon arrival). While those two clubs don't usually offer drink specials, other bars in town do. Monday nights are popular at the Red Lion on Kalakaua Avenue, serving 50 cent drafts and $3 pitchers (among other specials). Tuesdays are primarily taken over by Moose McGillycuddy's on Lewers Street, where you can get $1, $2 and $3 drinks. Wednesday is $1 drink night at Scruples on Kuhio Ave (make sure to return to Scruples on Thursday for their bikini contest). Several places hold live Reggae on Thursday nights (Lulu's, Fisherman's Wharf and Pipeline Cafe). Of course, on the weekends, practically every bar in town advertises specials (Moose's, Senor Frogs and Kelley O'Neils are my picks).
What better way to boost your energy after a night at these places than enjoying Oahu's natural beauty. The Honolulu area is home to several beautiful hikes with breathtaking views. While Diamond Head Crater is a quick and easy hike with a nice view overlooking the city, I suggest some less-known trails. Manoa Falls is a short drive from Waikiki and is a rather easy hike with a gorgeous waterfall at the end (not a swimming hole). Be sure to knock down an apple

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