Honolulu is Hawaii’s iconic landmark and the capital of the island of Oahu. Billed as the vibrant, beating heart of Hawaii, Honolulu has an electric blend of diverse culture and effervescent nightlife with all the impressive facets of a tropical island getaway.
While still an island in America, the deep-seated Polynesian cultural influences throughout make this island the most enchanting journey between past and present, while looking nothing like modern America.
Honolulu’s spectacular skyline has nearly 500 skyscrapers dominating the skyline, set against an elegant backdrop of the Diamond Head volcanic cone. Almost as iconic as Hawaii itself, Diamond Head is part of the intricate web that forms the Honolulu Volcanic Series and is a United States National Monument.
Honolulu is an exciting and dynamic region of Hawaii. With a plethora of national and historic landmarks, secluded snorkeling spots, a vibrant shopping and dining district, a laid-back suburban region, and a pulsating beachfront beach resort area, there’s something for everyone.
One of the most exciting things to do on Oahu is climb Diamond Head Tuff. The 2-hour hike, while not arduous, is challenging and takes intrepid hikers to the edge of the volcanic crater. However, the crater basin is not open to the public and belongs to the United States government.
First-time visitors to Oahu will love the diversity of the city of Honolulu. This is a city where visitors can party the night away and experience the magic of downtown Honolulu, before retiring to the secluded and picturesque region of Waikiki’s waterfront and beyond.
The Aloha Tower is a landmark not to be missed when visiting Honolulu. Located in downtown Honolulu on the waterfront, Aloha Tower is just minutes from the glorious surroundings of Waikiki. Built in the 1920s, the Tower was originally a welcoming beacon for visitors entering Honolulu Harbor. These days, the area has transformed into a lively and festive district, and is home to many great restaurants, waterfront cafes, chic boutiques, live music showcases, and the perfect place to find that one-of-a-kind souvenir.
A stone’s throw from the exotic Chinatown region, the best place to relax and party the night away, Aloha Tower Market is one of the fun and historic places to visit in Honolulu.
The trendy and artsy Chinatown district is without a doubt one of the most fascinating regions of Honolulu to explore. Small shops, restaurants, herbalists, open-air holiday markets and cafes that offer an authentic Polynesian experience like no other are just a few of the amazing facets of the bustling Honolulu Chinatown region. Explore traditional temples, eat Cuban, French and Malaysian dishes, straight from the grill in the market, park at a sidewalk noodle bar and experience some of the best dim sum in the world.
Honolulu is the cultural capital of Hawaii, as well as the economic and commercial center. There are museums, galleries, theaters and cinemas to explore, as well as happenings on the streets of the city. The Honolulu Academy of Arts houses a collection of Western and Asian art and is an interesting visit.
Historic Honolulu, once known as the crossroads of the Pacific, is a delight to explore on a walking tour or guided bus tour.