The USS Arizona memorial honors and remembers the soldiers who died when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. This tragic event thrust the United States into World War II, and remains one of the most significant episodes in American history. The memorial offers students an opportunity to learn about the events leading up to and surrounding the assault from an educational video and listening to survivor accounts of the day. In the monument, students stand above the sunken skeleton of the USS Arizona battleship, bleeding oil to this day. The memorial opens daily from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Timed programs begin at 8:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m. The memorial is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day. Come early, as daily visitors can reach as many as 4,000.
Visit the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary to give students an excellent opportunity to learn about the vast scientific and cultural significance of humpback whales. The center provides an interactive learning experience for children. Learn the facts about the whales while learning the tales and legends the Hawaiian people traditionally told about them. Come during the winter months, and top the whale lesson with a chance to see real humpback whales from the sanctuary's observation deck. The education center opens from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The presence of surf towns worldwide speaks to the infectious nature of this sport born in the Hawaiian islands. The Honolulu Surf Museum boasts a vast array of artifacts spanning the broad scope of surf culture. The appeal of surfing to young people offers a unique window to teach them about the influence of cultures on one another. As they explore the museum, the children are exposed to the way Hawaiian surfing has impacted the rest of the world, and how the rest of the world's fascination with the sport has impacted Hawaii over the years. The museum opens every day at 11:00 a.m. and remains open until they decide to close.
The Hawaiian Islands boast many locations for free, offshore snorkeling. Honolua Bay on Maui and Hanauma Bay on Oahu are two prime examples. Snorkeling gives children a unique way to learn about underwater environments while having a great time. If the children need gear, rental establishments are plentiful throughout the islands and provide the proper equipment at little cost. If you do take the kids snorkeling, however, bring enough chaperons to keep an adequate eye on them. Having at least one chaperon with first aid and CPR knowledge is a good idea, too. Finally, as the children snorkel, remind them to take good care of the beautiful environment they're exploring; don't step on the coral, don't remove sea animals from the sea, don't leave trash.
