Honolulu Hawaii Travel Guide

The State of Hawaii is unique in that it is the only state to have had a ruling monarch. Vestiges of this monarchy remain throughout the islands and especially Oahu, with its state capital, Honolulu. In fact, Hawaii remains quite diverse in its population and the various ethnicities have retained much of their culture, evident in the decor of Honolulu, Hawaii hotels.

Traveling to this city is a breeze; Honolulu International Airport (HNL), with many Honolulu, Hawaii hotels nearby, is served by all major domestic and several international carriers. The weather is close to perfect year round, so any time of the year works for a visit. Visitors who stay in Waikiki do not necessarily need a car, as much of the city is accessible by foot. However, an exploration of the island is vital to appreciate its beauty and to escape the activity of the business district and tourist areas, so rent a car or take one of many available tours. Hotels are plentiful in Waikiki. Perhaps your visit is for a special wedding anniversary or romantic honeymoon – you have a selection of luxury hotels with some of the best spas in the world from which to choose. Views are spectacular! Of course, there are also more affordable digs available, easily found using our search for Honolulu Hotels.

In 1901, Waikiki’s first hotel was built, the Moana Surfrider. Smack dab on one of the most famous beaches in the world, a visit to famous Duke’s restaurant will put you in the island mood. Sunday afternoons are fun with live music right on the beach. Swimming, sunning and boogie boarding are activities you can enjoy, and an unforgettable sunset cruise on the Na Hoku catarmaran is just steps away. Close by are the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium for a break from the beach.

A beautiful drive to the North Shore will bring you to the Polynesian Cultural Center to explore the various Pacific Island populations and their customs, and to watch world-famous Pipeline surfing. Don’t miss the Pali Lookout on this drive for incredible views and photo opportunities. The opposite direction from Honolulu leads you to Pearl Harbor for an unforgettable World War II experience and also to the Dole Plantation for a tour.

There are many things to do which can make your visit memorable. Stop at a shrimp truck on the way to the North Shore for lunch. Try the original sweet treat shave ice. Visit Tropical Farms, the "gem in the middle of the jungle" for the freshest macadamia nuts and coffee and to watch a really cool Samoan show. Stroll the grounds of the Hilton Hawaiian Village to see the penguins and the daily evening sunset ceremony. Tour the Iolani Palace, residence of the monarchs. Walk through Chinatown to see unusual delicacies. Take a quick shuttle to one of the other Hawaiian islands for a couple days to see active volcanoes, drive the famous Road to Hana or take a helicopter ride along the Napali Coast.

A visit to Honolulu can be what you want it to be. You can completely relax on the beach, have a fine dining meal every night and escape the world. You might choose an active vacation, hiking Diamond Head and the numerous trails throughout the island in search of the perfect waterfall. Or you can play tourist and experience different attractions every day. All are amazing. Don’t wait to catch the Aloha Spirit – let the OneTravelSource City Guide help you plan your best vacation today!