Travel Guides > Honolulu, HI

Honolulu Travel

The most-visited city in the Hawaiian Islands, Honolulu is what most people think of when they think about Hawaii. Honolulu is sunny beaches, friendly locals, delicious fresh foods, excellent accommodations, and enough activities to keep visitors busy for weeks.

This large city, located on the island of Oahu, is often the first stop on a Hawaiian vacation and for many, the only stop. Here, visitors can get a real taste of island culture, from wonderful historic sights and cultural exhibits that provide an excellent view of the island life of long ago to rugged and pristine beaches that beckon visitors to stay and relax in the island sun.

Many make a trip to the Polynesian Cultural Center their first order of business when they arrive in Honolulu. An easy and picturesque drive from downtown Honolulu, the Polynesian Cultural Center provides visitors with a look at seven different Hawaiian Islands, all in one location. Guests will learn a little about each island, enjoy local music, and even participant in fun activities, like hula dancing or drumming.

It's easy to catch a tour to the cultural center from most Honolulu hotels and this is a great place for families or individuals to spend the day. You can even catch the onsite luau at the end of a long day of sightseeing, where guests enjoy traditional Polynesian cuisine and dazzling live entertainment.

Most Americans, or those with a keen interest in World War II, will make a stop at the sight of the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. Here, guests can visit the USS Arizona, USS Bowfin, and USS Missouri Memorials and take a moment to remember those who perished on the "Day that will live in infamy." (Franklin D. Roosevelt)

For those who love plants and flowers, the Honolulu Botanical Garden is a must-see. The tropical plants and displays at the garden are breathtaking and you'll want to be sure to bring your camera.

The Waikiki Aquarium is the third oldest public aquarium in the United States, having been established in 1904. The aquarium focuses on the aquatic life of Hawaii and the South Pacific and houses about 400 species of aquatic animals and plants.

When it's time to settle down and relax, millions of visitors head to famous Waikiki Beach. This two mile stretch of beach is a tourist mecca, lined with high-end hotels, and often quite crowded. Guests can swim, surf, or snorkel at Waikiki or just sit back and watch the beautiful people and amazing sites. The sunsets are exquisite!

Families with children, however, may prefer the East Shore's Kailua Beach Park, which is perfect for swimming.

Those who surf or just love to watch others tackle the sport should make a trip to Ehukai Beach Park, home of the infamous Banzai Pipeline, or Waimea Bay Beach Park, touted as home to the "largest, dangerous, most-spectacular ride-able surf in the world."