What to See in Honolulu
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Honolulu is America’s paradise. Blessed with a temperate climate, miles of beach, and a carefree island lifestyle, the city is a favorite of honeymooners, families, and anyone looking for a island flair with American customs. The city is also a vibrant business center and home to a plethora of shopping and restaurants. Among the best of the things to see and do in Honolulu are:
Waikiki Beach – One of the most famous beaches in the world, just the name Waikiki evokes gentle breezes, exotic cuisine, and gracious Polynesian hospitality. This active public beach with lightly breaking waves extends for miles along Honolulu’s waterfront. Charter a catamaran here and view the concrete jungle of hotels, majestic Diamond Head, and the beach from her best angle. Surfboards, canoes, and jet skis are also available here. Take a surfing lesson or just relax on the beach with a steamy novel.
Diamond Head – The symbol of Honolulu, Diamond Head is first glimpsed from the plane as you approach Honolulu. Its chiseled face presides over Waikiki. The 760-foot high crater was named for the sparkling rocks early white settlers mistook for diamonds. Extinct for over 150,000 years, this volcanic crater is a scenic spot of a hike or drive up for a picnic lunch.
Pearl Harbor - Just outside of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor was the sight of the terrible, World War II attack on December 7, 1941 by the Japanese. Today, a Navy launch takes visitors to the Arizona Memorial, built atop the S.S. Arizona, which sank that infamous day entombing over 1100 officers and sailors. The Arizona Memorial is a solemn, quiet tribute to the lives lost there. A visitor’s center on the dock shows a somber, twenty-minute film of the actual attack for those too young to remember.
Polynesian Cultural Center – The Polynesian Cultural Center is about an hour’s drive from Honolulu, but well worth the trip. This 42-acre park celebrates the diverse island cultures that make up Hawaii. Seven architecturally accurate villages – Samoan, ancient Hawaiian, Tahitian, among them—house traditional artisans and performers. An IMAX theater and colorful and enjoyable Polynesian musical shows complete the experience. This is the most popular paid attraction in Hawaii for a good reason. It’s interesting, educational, and fun.
The Iolani Palace – Completed in 1882, the Iolani Palace is America’s only royal palace. Douglas fir wood floors, European-style, carved moldings, and French furniture harken back to the last days of the Hawaiian royalty. Although the Hawaiian monarchs’ obsession with things European helped bring about their downfall, today, the Iolani Palace is dedicated to preserving native Hawaiian heritage. Enjoy a free concert on the grounds. Take a Hawaiian quilting class held in one of these splendid rooms. Or, take a tour of the magnificent house and absorb the elegance of another time.