ʻBy Mac Smith| Staff Writer

As the college semester starts at University of Hawaiʻi’s campuses, students are getting acclimated to their new dorms, new classes, and for some new state or even country. Stress runs high as everyone has a million things on their to-do list. To alleviate some stress or to just take a break, here are 10 activities students in Hawai‘i must do on O‘ahu with a low budget.

1.Rent an aquacycle in Waikiki: $25 for 30 minutes

Along the beach, there are plenty of rental spots such as Koa Beach Service. It offers fun activities but the one that stands out the most is the aquacycle. It is like a tricycle but for water. For all of the military students, you can get a discounted price of $15 for 30 minutes. Just show your ID.  

2. Hike Diamond Head Crater: $1-$5

Chances are, if you are on Oʻahu, you have seen Diamond Head in all of its shining glory, but have you hiked to the lookout? The hike is a grueling 1.6 miles round trip and takes between an hour and a half to two hours but is worth it, so if you are interested in working out, like hikes or just want a picture of the beautiful island, this is the place to be.

3. Drink Wow Wow Lemonade on North Shore: $15-$20

Lemonade on a hot summer day is a classic  Although a drive out to the North Shore can be long, if you make a day out of it, you will be sure to see some amazing sights. While you are out there do not forget to stop by Wow Wow Lemonade on Kamehameha Highway near Hale‘iwa Alii Beach Park. The public buses 52 and 55 go to the North Shore but always check TheBus website to be sure. 

4.Get Dole Whip from the Dole Plantation: $6

The Dole Plantation located in Wahiawā is a great place to go with your family or your friends. It is free to enter but activities such as The Pineapple Express and Pineapple Garden Maze will cost extra. Something you will need to try while on your Dole Plantation adventure is the Dole Whip.  Dole Whip is the perfect soft serve frozen dessert for a hot day in Hawaiʻi. For those with special dietary needs, you are in luck. It is vegan and gluten free 

5. Visit the USS Arizona: $1.50

To be clear, this is not Pearl Harbor, but if you feel the need to see the Pearl Harbor  Memorial there are tickets available on the Pearl Harbor Memorial website. http://tinyurl.com/y7ocxq73  If you are is a history type of person, then this might be the perfect activity for you. Located in Honolulu, you can take a 75-minute boat tour of the USS Arizona. Just remember to get your tickets online ahead of time or plan to show up early as they only give out 1,300 walk-in tickets each day. There is a $1.50 non-refundable convenience fee upon entry. 

6. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay: $7.50

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a sure hit for locals and tourists alike. Make sure you arrive early as it can get crowded fast. If you need to be picked up there are shuttles but beware those cost $25. Hanauma Bay does have snorkel sets for $15 as well, but you could also purchase your own at the ABC Store and bring it with you. Military or local residents get in free with proper ID.

7. Cool off with shave ice: $8

Island Vintage Shave Ice on Kalākaua Avenue is a popular spot to get a sweet treat. Using only natural flavors and fresh fruit, it is obvious why the line is stretched down the street. The wait is worth it. Eat it near the pond at Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center or take it to go. Either way, this is the best shave ice on the island.

8. Get local fruit from farmers’ markets: $5

The price for this one depends on you and your budget but it is a must do when on the windward side of the island. The family oriented, close-knit farmers market located next to Whole Foods will make you feel at home. Although it is a smaller market, the close proximity to the beach makes this market the best in town. Just check the website for dates and times of operation.http://hfbf.org  Shopping local is good for you, good for the farmers and good for the island.

9.Hold a hermit crab at the Waikīkī Aquarium: $12

Aquariums are always a classic when it comes to tourism or getting to know the new area you are in. It can teach so much about local wildlife and any conservation efforts that are in progress. At Waikīkī Aquarium there is a variety of local animals as big as the Hawaiian monk seal to as small as a hermit crab. At the touch pool, you can hold a hermit crab or touch the sea urchins. Just remember to wash your hands when you are done.

10. Watch the Hilton fireworks in Waikiki: FREE

End your Friday night with a big boom on the beach. The Hilton resort fireworks start promptly at 7:45 p.m. every Friday. There is no charge but be aware that it can get extremely crowded so you might want to show up early. If you are the surfer type, you could even go for a night surf and watch it from the middle of the ocean.