Oʻahu Hawaiʻi
Aerial view of Honolulu and Waikīkī Beach
A peaceful paddling excursion at Kualoa Ranch
Kohelepelepe (also known as Koko Crater) rises above the Kaiwi Coast
Waimea Bay on Oʻahu's North Shore
Panoramic views of the Windward Coast from the Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout
The USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, a popular spot for snorkeling
ʻIolani Palace State Monument in downtown Honolulu
Graceful dancers performing the traditional hula dance
Surfing the clear blue waters of Waikīkī Beach
- Major Airports:
- Daniel K. Inouye International (HNL)
- States:
- Hawaiʻi
A dynamic fusion of Eastern and Western cultures meets the traditions of the Native Hawaiian people
Must-See Scenery
Lēʻahi, sometimes referred to as Diamond Head, is an extinct volcano just southeast of Honolulu near the Kāhala and Kaimukī neighborhoods. Hike to the peak of the iconic cone for a view of the southern coast of Oʻahu. You’ll find the white sands and waterside resorts of Waikīkī Beach inviting. Leave behind the urban excitement of the South Shore as you drive over the sloping Pali Highway to the Windward Coast for emerald mountains and sweeping valleys. Oʻahu’s North Shore beckons experienced surfers from around the world with legendary swells, plus relaxed beach towns dotted with unique art galleries, local food trucks and cool surf shops. Head to Waimea Bay to spot daring master surfers as they conquer towering waves.
Local Flavors and Family Fun
The neighborhoods of Honolulu offer an array of experiences, from the beach resorts and tourist attractions of Waikīkī to the street art and hip eateries of Kakaʻako. Seek out markets serving fresh poke, a traditional Hawaiian dish consisting of cubes of seasoned raw fish served with pickled vegetables. Enjoy a variety of excursions for all ages across the island, from snorkeling outings at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve to high-flying Hawaiʻi helicopter tours. The Leeward Coast still offers a slower pace of life and relaxing leisure activities such as golfing and water sports.
Historic Landmarks
Plan to take a tour of ʻIolani Palace, the sole royal residence in the USA. The palace served as the home for Hawaiʻi’s last two monarchs. Cross the street to see the bronze statue of King Kamehameha I, which memorializes the monarch who unified the Hawaiian Islands.
Pearl Harbor National Historic Landmark, adjacent to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, is an emotional site and home to several other historic areas. Daily tours are given of the USS Arizona Memorial, a battleship sunk in the 1941 attack. The 10-story Aloha Tower was erected in 1926 to welcome passenger ships arriving at Honolulu Harbor. And greeting you with open arms at Waikīkī Beach, the Duke Kahanamoku statue pays homage to the Olympic medal-winning swimmer and surfer who popularized the sport worldwide.
Fun Fact
The Hawaiian Kingdom's last sovereign monarchs (David Kalākaua, Queen Kapiʻolani and Queen Liliʻuokalani) lived at ʻIolani Palace, the only royal palace in the USA.
Oʻahu is considered to be the birthplace of surfing. Haleʻiwa on Oʻahu's North Shore is often nicknamed the "Surf Capital of the World" due to its powerful waves.
Photo: Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation, HTA
Honolulu means "sheltered bay" in Hawaiian.
Photo: Tommy Pierucki, HTA
