Waipahu, HI

Waipahu earned its name from native Hawaiians who flocked to the land for its clear water. "Wai" means water and "pahu" means burst. The town was once the capital of Oahu, when the upper-class royals in the Kingdom of Hawaii indulged in the spring water of Waipahu. Things shifted a bit with the incorporation of the Oahu Sugar Company in 1897, when the area became home to plantation and field workers.

Visitors can experience plantation life by attending Hawaii's Plantation Village. This outdoor museum displays original constructions and replica homes of the many plantation workers who inhabited the area from the mid-1800s through the 1940s. Celebrate the rich tradition of this fine land with guided tours held Monday through Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. All locals celebrate the arts scene and special culture of the land at the annual Taste of Waipahu.

Waipahu brings a variety of dining options for those looking for a nice meal.

Thelma's Restaurant is a casual spot where you can find traditional-style Filipino cuisine. Owned and operated by Larry and Thelma Torres, elementary school sweethearts who are native to the west-central Philippines, this restaurant prepares meals with a lot of heart. Portions are heaping, and prices are unbeatable, but the flavor is what keeps locals coming back for more. Try out Thelma's Special for a locally recommended favorite that features savory, chopped lechon kawali with tomato, onion and soy sauce.

Another local favorite, Thai Village is the perfect spot for those in search of authentic Thai food. Order the panang curry, which consists of a peanut curry with just the right amount of spice. The cashew chicken and pad Thai also make delectable meals.

When you're looking for some authentic Hawaiian food, head to the Highway Inn and experience what Hawaiian cuisine has to offer. Order the combo platter to sample the rice or poi, lomi salmon, dry pipikaula and haupia. The teriyaki-grilled squid certainly satisfies everyone who indulges in it. Join the frequent diners' club, and receive rewards toward future meals.

Dive bars make the best nightlife spots in Waipahu. Locals hang out at Ting's Place to relax and enjoy time with friends. Sing some karaoke, or play a game of darts while sipping on an affordable cocktail. Bring cash, as Ting's Place does not accept credit or debit cards.

Another great location for a night out, G's Bar Grill provides a relaxing venue to enjoy some cheap drinks. Karaoke, darts and pool keep customers entertained. Come out and watch your favorite sports team play while you slug down a cold brew.

Interstate H-1 and Farrington Highway, also known as Hawaii Route 90, provide easy access to neighboring towns. Travelers move about the area via car, cab, moped and motorcycle. Uber also provides service to Waipahu. If you prefer to ditch the car and use public transportation, the bus service, called TheBus, has several routes to and from the city center and other destinations.

Residents enjoy walking and biking when possible. Streets are narrow, but drivers make room for the many cyclists who pedal about the neighborhood.

Those who live in Hawaii often spend a lot of time outdoors, and many locals frequent the neighborhood parks that lie throughout Waipahu. Locals love Patsy T Mink Central Oahu Regional Park. Home to a swimming pool, archery range, baseball fields and 20 tennis courts, people of all ages enjoy free recreational fun. Those looking to take a walk or go for a run hit the paved pathways on the grounds. Bring the pooch out for some exercise, too. The park also hosts swim meets throughout the year.

Crestview Community Park includes two fields with plenty of room to run, jog or walk with the family and the dog. Also home to two basketball courts, two volleyball courts, a baseball field and a playground, the entire family finds entertainment at this well-maintained park. The park hosts annual running events for those who enjoy a friendly competition.

When living in paradise, expect to pay more than average prices on housing and amenities. The cost of living in Waipahu is 2 percent less than Honolulu's average, though 70 percent greater than the national average. Plan on spending $1,200 a month to rent a one-bedroom residence. A beer at a local bar sets you back $9.50, but hit a dive bar and pay half the price. A one-way bus fare costs $2.50 for adults to take public transportation to the city center of Honolulu while gas costs 18 percent higher than the national average.

Waikele Premium Outlets serves as the shopping hub in Waipahu. From high-end stores such as Coach, Michael Kors, Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren. Additional stores include the Gap, BeBe, Nine West, and the Children's Place, which provides shoppers with a multitude of options in one location.

For stylish women's clothing, check out F.M. Boutique. The store has a youthful vibe and the clothes come at reasonable prices. F.M. Boutiqu stocks shoes, hats and accessories. Jeans Warehouse has awesome outfits at low prices. Beyond their selection of jeans, check out the fashionable shorts and tank tops.

For those who love to shop in bulk, Costco is the perfect place. Selling groceries, clothing, toys and home goods, this one-stop wonder appeals to all. Locals love the Waipahu Festival Marketplace, which sells more than fresh produce, including fresh fish, chicken and beef. Swing by the Thai stand for a papaya salad, and head to the back of the market for some ikon tea. Hawaii Farmer's Produce also makes for a great farmers market. Residents find all the fruits and vegetables they need here, including tomatoes, apples, bananas, papaya and more. Purchase a selection of noodles, curry pastes, herbs and sweets as well.