In Honolulu, the bustling state's capitol, you'll find glamorous Waikiki Beach - the famed resort area that is a magnet for vacationers from around the world, making Oahu the most visited of the Hawaiian Islands.
Waikiki has expanded its beachfront, put the restored Kapiolani Bandstand into use for weekend concerts, and reinstituted sunset torch-lighting ceremonies and free hula performances at the ocean's edge. Away from the city, you can hike majestic Diamond Head for panoramic views and experience for yourself, the beauty of Waikiki. Diamond Head is one of the most famous crescents of sand on the planet, capped by an equally famous volcano.
Cosmopolitan Honolulu features outstanding dining and world-class shopping. In fact, on Oahu there are more restaurants, shops, and nightlife than on all the other Hawaiian Islands combined. Oahu also boasts an abundance of water and beach activities, golf, tennis, museums, and historic sites which include the Bishop Museum. For a touch of Hawaiian royalty, visit the nearby Iolani Palace. Completed by Kind David Kalakua in 1882, the artfully restored Italian Victorian gem is rich with royalist history. Also close to Waikiki is the USS Arizona Memorial which commemorates the servicemen and women who died on December 7, 1941 during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The USS Missouri battleship which houses a museum also resides here.
On the more pastoral North Shore you can visit the Polynesian Cultural Center, an oasis of Polynesian culture and learning set in a 42-acre lagoon park. In winter, you can watch daredevil surfers ride the legendary blue crush at Turtle Bay, Sunset Beach and the Banzai Pipeline.
Destination Weddings: Oahu weddings may be pre-arranged through TWG Travel.
Attractions & Activities
- Explore by Kayak
- The Hawaiian Luau
- Take a ride to the North Shore
- Polynesian Cultural Center
- Iolani: Hawaii's Royal Palace
- Pick a Golf Course
- Dolphin Discovery Center
- Island Hopping
- Art Galleries & Exhibits
- USS Arizona Memorial; Battleship Missouri Memorial
- Water Sports (Surfing Lessons)