Honolulu and O'Ahu

O’ahu is the most populous of the Hawaiian islands, and its conjoined hubs are the city of Honolulu and the world-famous Waikiki Beach. The vast majority of visitors make Waikiki their base, venturing out on day trips to take in Honolulu’s many cultural attractions, Pearl Harbor, and other parts of the island. The family-friendly beaches and parks of the South hore and Kane’ohe District are in striking distance of Honolulu, while diehard surfers head for the North Coast. The Polynesian Cultural Center is also an easy day trip from the city.

Top 10 Must-See Sights

1. Pearl Harbor
The World War II site draws 1.5 million visitors each year, including veterans and relatives of those who died. The warship USS Arizona is now a memorial.

2. Bishop Museum and Planetarium
This state museum in Honolulu offers a fascinating insight into Hawaiian culture. Its Science Garden represents the unique Hawaiian land divisions called ahupua’a.

3. Capitol District
Chinatown, the modern State Capitol, and an old mansion that was once the home of Queen Lili’uokalani are just some of the attractions of this historic district in Honolulu.

4. ’Iolani Palace
The palace was built for King Kala-kaua and Queen Kapi’olani in the 19th century and was later the seat of government. It is now restored and open to the public.

5. Hawai’i Maritime Center
Down by Honolulu Harbor are a number of fascinating exhibits about Hawai’i’s maritime history, as well as a great viewing point from the top of Aloha Tower.

6. Honolulu Academy of Arts
Arts of the Islamic and Oriental worlds are strong points of this museum, as well as 15,000 works by American and European artists. Polynesian works are displayed, too.

7. Kalakaua Avenue
Kalakaua is Waikiiki’s main thoroughfare, running along the ocean right up to the crater of Diamond Head. Halfway along the avenue are the “Pink Lady” and the “White Lady” – two landmark, oceanfront hotels with famous bars.

8. South Shore
The South Shore of O’ahu has among its attractions several popular beaches, walking trails over Koko Head, and an underwater park at Hanauma Bay.

9. Kane’ohe District
A stunning region northeast of Honolulu, Kane’ohe has a scenic coastline, lush gardens, state parks, and a Japanese-style temple to explore.

10. Polynesian Cultural Center
On the north shore of O’ahu, this center is the place to explore the rich traditions of Polynesia, such as the pageantry and cuisines of Hawai’i, Tahiti, Tonga, and other Pacific islands.

Discover more to see and do in Honolulu at www.traveldk.com/honolulu.

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