Head to Waikiki Beach, Honolulu's most popular beach, for the quintessential Hawaiian experience. Welcoming about five million visitors each year, this beach is known for surfing and a vibrant party atmosphere. Nearby is the Waikiki Aquarium (waquarium.org), where the whole family can come face-to-face with thousands of underwater creatures that live in the clear blue waters of the Pacific. Adventurous types can take surfing and snorkeling lessons or go kayaking, windsurfing or kiteboarding along Honolulu's pristine coastline.
Diamond Head State Monument, a 760-foot crater, offers breathtaking views of Honolulu and Waikiki. Although you need to hike about 560 feet to get to the top, the photo opportunities will make up for the long climb. Drive about five miles out of downtown Honolulu to discover Nu'uanu Pali State Wayside. This heritage site is located along the Pali Highway about one thousand feet up, and the views along the steep cliffs include lush mountains and the expansive coast below.
The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center (nps.gov/valr) allows visitors to learn more about this devastating World War II attack through exhibits, interpretive programs and a film about the events of Dec. 7, 1941. The historic sites of Pearl Harbor include the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, Battleship Missouri Memorial, USS Oklahoma Memorial and the Pacific Aviation Museum. Tours are given daily, and with an average of 4,500 visitors every day, visitors are encouraged to arrive early.
The city's downtown area offers an array of shopping, dining and nightlife experiences. Hit the Aloha Tower Marketplace (alohatower.com) to pick up traditional Hawaiian wear, grab a bite or relax with a Mai Tai while watching the sunset over the water. The marketplace also offers hula lessons weekly, as well as music and other live entertainment. Honolulu's Chinatown features outdoor markets, authentic cuisine and impressive temples. Catch a show at the Hawaii Theatre (hawaiitheatre.com), recognized as one of the country's most outstanding historic theaters by the League of Historic American Theaters.
