The palace of Hawaii's King Kalakuau and his successor, Queen Liliuokalani is located on Oahu. Guests tour stunning rooms that were once used for diplomatic events and entertainment, as well as the private home of the royal family. Audio tours tell the story of Queen Liliuokalani's overthrow and imprisonment in the palace. Palace galleries display the gems owned by the royal family.
Iolani Palace
364 South King St.
Honolulu, Hawaii 96804
808-522-0822
iolanipalace.org
Diamond Head State Monument is located on the island of Oahu. This volcano, one of the most famous Hawaiian locations and most popular tourist attractions, was named for the lava rock that appears to glimmer like diamonds in the sun. The extinct volcano measures 3,520 feet in diameter and has a 760-foot summit. Hiking Diamond Head requires moderate exertion and offers unmatched views of the west side of the island.
Diamond Head State Park
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
808-587-0285
hawaiistateparks.org
In World War II, Midway served a vital role as a refueling stop for military planes. In recent years, it has been set aside as an important wildlife refuge. Midway is home to the largest population of Laysan albatrosses, sometimes called gooney birds. Also seen here are green sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals and spinner dolphins. The site is a leader in wildlife conservation, and commercial fishing is not allowed in the area. Midway protects species of coral as well as marine life.
Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge
Box 50167
Honolulu, Hawaii 96850
808-954-4817
fws.gov/midway
The Honolulu Zoo houses more than a thousand animals and is the leading zoological institution and animal research center in the Hawaiian islands. The zoo features an African savanna, where visitors are actually part of the habitat. The Manyara bird sanctuary features scarlet ibis, golden conure and king vulture.
Honolulu Zoo
151 Kapahulu Ave.
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
808-971-7171
honoluluzoo.org
The Hawaii Children's Discovery Center is a favorite of Oahu residents and tourists alike. This center offers interactive learning environments where children and adults can explore the world around them. The Discovery Center provides workshops and camps throughout the year, tours and birthday party packages.
Hawaii Children's Discovery Center
111 Ohe St.
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
808-524-5437
discoverycenterhawaii.org
The Waikiki Aquarium is the third-oldest public aquarium in the United States. Focus of aquarium research centers around aquatic life of Hawaii and the Pacific. Hundreds of species of vegetation and marine life live here, and a living reef inhabits the shore adjacent to the aquarium.
Waikiki Aquarium
2777 Kalakaua Ave.
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
808-923-9741
waquarium.org
The Hawaii Maritime Center is a museum that houses collections highlighting the history of the Hawaiian islands as well as tales of voyagers, explorers and whalers who made their way to the area.
Hawaii Maritime Center
1525 Bernice St.
Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
808-847-3511
holoholo.org/maritime
