Hawaii is a place that should be visited at least once in a lifetime. It is a tourist magnet when it comes to pristine beaches, bays, volcanoes and resorts, making it the ideal destination for a seaside escape. No great state is complete without a unique and interesting capital, and the city of Honolulu certainly fulfils this position.
Honolulu is not only the capital of the U.S. state of Hawaii; it is also the most populous city of the island. In the Hawaiian language, Honolulu translates into "the sheltered bay" or the "place of shelter". This couldn't be more accurate, as this haven is the perfect destination to enjoy the best that Hawaii has to offer.
The city's position on the south east coast of the island of Oahu, between Makapuu and Halawa, means that it is close to beautiful beaches such as Waikiki and natural structures such as Diamond Head. This central position also means that it is close to multiple rental car depots, both in Honolulu and Waikiki, which means that you have a large choice of where you want to pick up your vehicle from. Once you are settled into your new car, it's time to head out and begin your exploration of Honolulu and the southern side of the island.
1. Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum in Honolulu is Hawaii's premier cultural destination and is a magnet for lovers of history, culture and the arts. As the largest museum in the city, the building hosts the state's largest collection of natural history specimens, making it the state's ultimate natural museum.
Bishop Museum is also home to the world's largest collection of Hawaiian and Pacific cultural artefacts, making it diverse it matters of history and science. Browse the displays and collections and you will also come across and extensive entomological collection of over 13.5 million specimens. The museum is easily accessible by car, so there really is no excuse not to pay a visit to this amazing institution.
2. Waikiki Beach and Aquarium
As mentioned before, Honolulu is ideally located right near the beautiful neighbourhood of Waikiki. Its position on the southern shores of Oahu means that is boasts stunning beaches and bays, the most prominent of these being Waikiki Beach.
Waikiki Beach is one of the best known beaches in the world and it is well noted for is magnificent views of the Diamond Head volcano, its warm climate, and its fantastic surf break. The beach plays host to numerous surf competitions, outdoor performances, hula dancing and outrigger canoe races, making it a hub of excitement and activity.
Waikiki is also home to the third oldest aquarium in the United States. The Waikiki Aquarium is one of the premier marine science institutions in the state and is home to countless displays of living coral and a colourful abundance of marine wildlife.
3. Hanauma Bay
A must-see while in the state of Hawaii, around the Honolulu area is Hanauma Bay. This marine embodiment is nestled within a volcanic cone and is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island. The bay is known as a Nature Preserve and Marine Life Conservation district and is home to a unique blend of marine life. An abundance of Green sea turtles call Hanauma Bay home, making it one of the most spectacular natural resources in Hawaii.
Hanauma Bay is perfect for swimming, relaxing by the water, exploring or snorkelling and scuba diving.
4. Diamond Head
One of the most prominent natural structures within the Honolulu area would have to be Diamond Head. This volcanic tuff cone is part of the Honolulu Volcanic Series, making it a United States state monument.
What makes this an ideal tourist attraction is the 1.1 kilometre track that leads up to the crater's rim. Along the walk you will come across a coastal artillery observation platform that was built a hundred years ago. Once you reach the top you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean; truly a sight to behold!
5. Aloha Tower
Every coastal city needs a lighthouse, and for Honolulu, this is Aloha Tower. This lighthouse is considered one of the premier landmarks of the state and is located on Pier 9 of Honolulu Harbour. This guiding beacon welcomes vessels to the city of Honolulu, and it is also something quite stunning to look at. The structure was built in Hawaiian Gothic architecture is for a long time, was one of the tallest structures in Hawaii. Today, it stands for a beacon of the past, present and future.
No trip to Hawaii is complete without a visit to the capital city of Honolulu. There is so much to see and do in and around the city that you will simply never want to leave!
Christine Barton
